Attractions and Places To See around Laragh - Top 9

Laragh is rich in history. You can explore the ancient Enniskillen Castle, a 16th-century site with a museum detailing Irish rebellions and sieges. Another significant historical location is the Glendalough Monastic Settlement, founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century, featuring a round tower, cathedral, and St. Kevin's Church. Additionally, Florence Court offers a magnificent 18th-century country estate with a rich past, and Castle Coole is a grand Neo-classical mansion from the same era.

Yes, several attractions cater to families. The Glendalough area, with its lakes and nature reserve, is ideal for walks and picnics. For a more active day, Clara Lara Funpark, located about 5 km from Laragh, offers a 100-acre outdoor adventure. Many of the historical sites like Enniskillen Castle, Florence Court, and Castle Coole are also marked as family-friendly, offering educational and engaging experiences.

The area around Laragh is renowned for its natural beauty. Glendalough, with its Upper and Lower Lakes, is a highlight, featuring breathtaking U-shaped valleys and semi-natural oak woods. You can also discover several waterfalls, including Poulanass Waterfall near Glendalough, Jacksons Falls, and Glenmacnass Waterfall. The Ancient Chestnut Tree forms a natural arch along the Beech Trail, showcasing some of the oldest trees in the region. The Wicklow Mountains National Park itself offers expansive natural landscapes.

Several beautiful waterfalls are accessible near Laragh. Poulanass Waterfall is a short walk from the Upper Lake in Glendalough. Jacksons Falls is located closer to Laragh village. Further north, Glenmacnass Waterfall can be seen from the Old Military Road. While a bit further afield, Powerscourt Waterfall is Ireland's highest, cascading 121 meters.

Laragh is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. The Wicklow Mountains National Park offers numerous trails for hiking and cycling, including sections of the Wicklow Way. You can find various cycling routes, from moderate to difficult, around the area, such as those detailed in the Cycling around Laragh guide. For runners, there are several running loops, including those around Lough Coole and Castle Coole, as highlighted in the Running Trails around Laragh guide. Hikers can explore trails like the Florence Court loop or routes around the Ancient Chestnut Tree, with options for various difficulty levels available in the Hiking around Laragh guide.

For those seeking a challenge, the Pollnagollum Cave and Waterfall offers an intermediate-level exploration. This natural monument features a complex cave system fed by a tumbling waterfall off a limestone cliff. Visitors should exercise caution due to potentially unstable and slippery rocks. The Wicklow Mountains National Park also provides numerous challenging hill walks for experienced hikers.

The Glendalough Monastic Settlement is one of Europe's most important early Christian sites, founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century. Visitors can explore the well-preserved remains of hand-built stone buildings, including a distinctive round tower, a cathedral, and St. Kevin's Church. Although sometimes referred to as the 'Seven Churches,' there are actually remains of eight churches within the area. The Glendalough Visitor Centre provides further information about its history.

Yes, there are several easy walking options. The Green Road in Glendalough is a pleasant woodland path that runs from the Glendalough Visitor Centre, past the Lower Lake, and reaches the Upper Lake, suitable for a leisurely stroll. Many trails within the Wicklow Mountains National Park also offer easier sections. For example, the Ancient Chestnut Tree loop from Castle Coole is an easy 4.6 km hike, and the Florence Court loop from Drumlaghy is another easy 4.9 km option.

The Old Military Road is a historic route built in the early 1800s. It was constructed to quell rebels in the Wicklow Mountains and passes directly through Laragh. This road is a significant part of the region's history, tracing Laragh's roots to the period after the 1798 Rebellion. Today, it offers scenic drives and access to various points of interest, including views of Glenmacnass Waterfall.

Laragh village itself provides essential amenities for visitors. You'll find a selection of local shops, cafes, and pubs, catering to both tourists and locals. These establishments offer places to eat, drink, and gather after exploring the surrounding attractions and trails.

Florence Court is a magnificent 18th-century country estate managed by the National Trust. It's known for its grand Georgian mansion nestled in the foothills of Cuilcagh Mountain, surrounded by lush parkland and thick woodland. The estate offers over 10 miles (16 km) of hiking and bike trails, a water-powered sawmill, a blacksmith's forge, and the famous Florence Court Yew, one of the original Irish Yew trees discovered in 1767. There is a small entrance fee for the gardens and forest.

When visiting Pollnagollum Cave and Waterfall, it's important to be aware that the rocks can be unstable and slippery, so watch your footing carefully. While fairly accessible, it is not wheelchair accessible, and caution is advised with small children. It's recommended to be well-equipped with a good light and helmet if you plan to explore the cave system.