Wicked Wicklow Mountains

At only one hour distance from Dublin, there is a whole new world to discover with hills and lakes and woodland. In total over 20,000 hectares make up the Wicklow Mountains National Park and apparently, the highest peak in the mountain range is the Lugnaquilla with 924 m. I went there on Sunday with some fellow adventurers and we just loved it! One good option is to go by bus (glendaloughbus.ie) to Roundwood and walk from there around the Vartry Reservoir.

I have to admit, I felt a bit like in an Irish fairy tale when I discovered a rainbow span over the lake. According to the Irish myths, little green creatures called 'Leprechauns' would show you eventually the way to the end of the rainbow where they have hidden their gold, deep down in the ground. One thing you gotta remember though is to never lose sight of the leprechaun on the way to the gold, since it will try everything to distract you and run away while you're not looking!

Oh yeah, I should mention one dangerous aspect of the Wicklow Mountains - its rivers. Especially for people a bit clumsy as I am watch out for these really slippery stones when crossing a river! I didn't and I spent a few hours afterwards in wet clothes - and I mean completely wet!! - because I had fallen into the river and it was deeper than expected (water reaching up to the shoulders). What an experience! I just feel like the country is welcoming me...