Attractions and Places To See around The Municipal District of Arklow - Top 20

The region offers diverse natural beauty. You can visit the Boardwalk Path Through the Irish Forest, known for its non-slip planks, or the Glenmalure Boardwalk with its lush forest scenery. The Arklow Nature and Wildlife Reserve (The Duckpond) is a sanctuary for water birds with a 2km trail. Other options include the Avoca River Walk, Arklow Rock Cliff Walk with coastal views, and the scenic Meeting of the Waters where the Avonmore and Avonbeg rivers converge.

Yes, Arklow is rich in history. Explore the Arklow Maritime Museum to learn about the town's seafaring past. The iconic Nineteen Arches Bridge, built in 1759, is Ireland's longest handmade stone bridge. You can also find the ruins of Ormonde Castle, the historical Avoca Handweavers, and the Abbey of the Holy Cross. Other sites include the Fr. Murphy and 1798 Memorial, World War 1 Memorial Park, and the unique Howard Mausoleum Pyramid.

Families can enjoy several spots. The Boardwalk Path Through the Irish Forest and the Wicklow Mountains Wooden Boardwalk are both marked as family-friendly trails. The Arklow Nature and Wildlife Reserve (The Duckpond) features a playground and skatepark alongside its wildlife trail. Additionally, Clara Lara Funpark and Hidden Valley Resort are popular amusement and adventure parks in the wider area.

For easy walks, consider the Boardwalk Path Through the Irish Forest, which has a fantastic non-slip boardwalk system. The Glenmalure Boardwalk also offers a pleasant, accessible walk through lush forest. The Avoca River Walk is mostly paved and follows the river, forming an approximately 3km loop. The Arklow Nature and Wildlife Reserve also has a 2km trail suitable for walking, cycling, and scooting.

Yes, for more challenging options and rewarding views, you can head to Cloghernagh Summit, which offers great views down to Arts Lake and up the valley to Lugnaquillia. Mullacor Peak is another summit providing excellent viewpoints. The Arklow Rock Cliff Walk also offers spectacular coastal views from a dominant rocky headland.

Beyond exploring attractions, the area is great for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking opportunities, including challenging routes like the Lugnaquilla and Corrigasleggaun loop, or moderate options like the Avonmore Way loop. For cycling, there are gravel biking routes such as the Barranisky mountain loop. You can find more details on these activities in the Hiking around The Municipal District of Arklow and Gravel biking around The Municipal District of Arklow guides.

The Municipal District of Arklow boasts several coastal spots. You can enjoy walks, swimming, and beachcombing at Arklow Bay Beach, Arklow South Beach & The Cove, and The Nuns Beach. The Nuns Beach is particularly sheltered by Arklow Rock. The Arklow Rock Cliff Walk offers spectacular views of the coast and is a great spot to observe seabirds.

Visitors appreciate the diverse experiences available. The boardwalk trails, like the Boardwalk Path Through the Irish Forest and Glenmalure Boardwalk, are highly rated for their pleasant walking conditions and lush scenery. Summit views from places like Cloghernagh Summit are also a highlight, offering clear endpoints and stunning panoramas. The blend of historical sites, natural reserves, and coastal walks provides a rich experience.

The Municipal District of Arklow can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time often depends on your preferred activities. Summer months are ideal for beach activities and swimming. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring historical sites. Even in winter, there are options for walks, with some trails like the boardwalks being suitable even when wet.

Yes, after a day of exploration, you can find places to relax and refuel. The Glenmalure Inn is a popular spot, known for its warm fire, good food, and beer garden. The town of Arklow itself offers various cafes and restaurants. Additionally, the nearby settlement of Rathdrum also provides options for dining.

Many of the natural trails in The Municipal District of Arklow are suitable for dog walking, provided dogs are kept under control. The Arklow Nature and Wildlife Reserve (The Duckpond) trail and the Avoca River Walk are generally good options for walks with dogs. Always check local signage for specific restrictions in certain areas or nature reserves.

Yes, the region offers opportunities for cycling and mountain biking. You can explore various routes, including gravel biking trails like the Barranisky mountain loop or the Exploring Deputy Pass woods route. For more detailed information and specific routes, refer to the Gravel biking around The Municipal District of Arklow guide.

Arklow has a deep and proud maritime heritage, historically known for its boat building and fishing traditions. This rich history is prominently showcased at the Arklow Maritime Museum, which features exhibits on local vessels, navigational equipment, and the town's connection to the sea. A distinctive red sea-mine marks the museum's entrance, symbolizing this heritage.