A “Certificate of Excellence” Award from Trip Advisor.

Pickup available from Enniskerry or the Ritz-Carlton Powerscourt Hotel.

The gallery's highlights include the Yeats Museum, and works by Vermeer, Caravaggio, Picasso, Van Gogh and Monet.  From here take a short stroll to the world famous Trinity College, home of the Book of Kells, the oldest manuscript in the world. After a spot of lunch why not explore Grafton Street, Dublin’s most famous shopping street. This is where you will find Brown Thomas, Ireland’s most prestigious department store.

If you would like to relax and refresh, please speak to us about a visit to Residence. Residence is a modern members club for men and women. The club is situated at number 41 St. Stephen’s Green, in a listed building dating back to the 1700´s. Still retaining its original period features and remaining true to its initial design, Residence upholds all the traditional values of a members club whilst adapting to the needs and requirements of contemporary society. Set over four floors and boasting a unique garden, Residence offers fantastic food, inspired cocktails and an extensive wine list in a relaxing yet luxurious environment.

If you would like to explore the famous Irish theatre we will be happy to recommend performances in either of the cities greats – The Abbey Theatre or The Gate Theatre. For dinner either pre- or post theatre, please ask our Concierge to assist you with a reservation at Town Bar & Grill. This popular restaurant is located in the old cellars of Mitchells Wine Merchants and opposite government buildings and is one of the best eateries in the city.

The Ritz-Carlton, Powerscourt offers guests the opportunity to see the breathtaking landscape around Powerscourt Estate and further a field by bicycle. This is the first hotel in Ireland to offer guests complimentary bicycles, allowing visitors to take in the scenery and enjoy an exquisite Ritz-Carlton picnic at their leisure.  Maps are offered to cyclists with 4 different routes, varying from easy to challenging. For the more experienced rider, arrangements can be made to secure our Exclusive Cycling Concierge who will guide you through the difficult terrain of the Wicklow Mountains, home to the start of the Tour de France in 1998 and the Tour of Ireland in 2009. 

Powerscourt Gardens, which cover 47 acres (19 hectares), were laid out in two main periods. When the house was rebuilt in the decade after 1731, the surrounding grounds were laid out in a series of formal rides and parkland to the North, with carefully planned gardens and terraces to the South. The design reflected the desire to create a garden which was part of the wider landscape.

A century later the 6th Viscount Powerscourt instructed his architect, Daniel Robertson, to draw up new schemes for the Gardens. Robertson was one of the leading proponents of Italianate garden design which was influenced by the terraces and formal features of Italian Renaissance villas and perfected in gardens in France and Germany. He is said to have suffered from gout and directed operations from a wheelbarrow, fortified by a bottle of sherry. When the sherry was finished, work ceased for the day!

With the death of the 6th Viscount in 1844, his son resumed the work in the late 1850s when enormous numbers of trees were planted and the grounds were adorned with an amazing collection of statuary, ironwork and other decorative items.

Further generations of the Wingfields maintained the grounds up until 1961, when the Estate passed to the Slazenger family, under whose aegis the Gardens received more care and attention.

The countryside of County Wicklow and the surrounds of The Ritz-Carlton, Powerscourt present some of the most beautiful scenery in Ireland. Ideal for gentle walkers and more energetic joggers, the routes have been designed and tested by a professional marathon runner, making them ideal for those who really want to push their fitness levels. If you prefer a more relaxed approach to life, why not enhance your stroll with a gourmet picnic basket prepared by our Executive Chef.

Hear stories of old as told by the Gaoler, Richard Hoey, the 19th century Gaul matron, Mary Morris and the ships Captain Luckyn Betts as they take you on an unforgettable journey through Irish history. Wander through the cells, explore the dungeon, meet the inmates and listen to their stories before you embark upon a journey to Botany Bay aboard the hell ship, The Hercules.

Located in the heart of the St. James Gate Brewery, The Guinness Storehouse is Ireland’s premier International visitor attraction. Take an incredible journey through the history and the making of Guinness and learn more about the illustrious story, spanning almost 250 years.

Originally built in 1780, The Old Jameson Distillery was once considered one of the largest and finest distilleries in the world. It has been recreated to its former glory and is now an award winning visitor center. Take a guided tour of the distillery and follow the path through malting, milling, mashing, fermenting, distilling and maturing. The journey is complete with a visit to the Jameson Bar where you can enjoy the ultimate whiskey tasting experience.

This tour is two hours long with entertainment featuring professional actors who perform extracts from the works of Ireland’s best known writers.

Brace Yourself for the adventure of your life. Nothing beats the excitement of this high powered trip around Dublin Bay on Marine Rescue Boats.

From the creators of Town Bar and Grill comes Bridge Bar and Grill, a modern brasserie steeped in charm and character. Nestled under the Grand Canal Railway, Bridge takes its name and distinctive shape from its surroundings.  Serving simple and delicious food in a stylish, laid back and friendly atmosphere, Bridge is now offering a new all day menu as well as serving breakfast and brunch.

Glendalough is where St. Kevin, descendent of one of the ruling families in Leinster, founded his monastery in the 6th century. Glendalough flourished under St. Kevin and many references in the Irish annals describe the activities of the monastery, which included numerous dwellings, workshops and areas for manuscript writing and copying. The buildings that survive today date from between the 8th and the 12th centuries. The Valley of Glendalough is famed for its natural beauty and for a series of carved plain stones and crosses, some of which mark stations on the pilgrims’ route.

Trinity College Dublin is located in the heart of the city of Dublin and houses the largest library in Ireland. Its collection of manuscripts and printed books has been built up since the end of the 16th century and includes The Book of Kells. This is one of the most famous books in the history of the world and was completed around 800 A.D. The vellum manuscript contains lavishly illustrated and ornamented transcriptions of the four Gospels.

Dublin Castle is situated in the very heart of historic Dublin. The city gets its name from the Dubh Linn or Black Pool (dubh = black), on the site of the present Castle Gardens and Coach House. The Castle stands on the high ridge, the highest ground in the locality, at the junction of the River Liffey and its tributary the (now underground) Poddle, which formed a natural boundary on two sides. It is very probable that the original fortification on this easily defended strategic site was a Gaelic Ringfort, which guarded the harbour, the adjacent Dubhlinn Ecclesiastical Centre and the four long distant roads that converged nearby.

Built in honour of Ireland’s patron saint, Saint Patrick’s Cathedral stands adjacent to the famous well where tradition has it Saint Patrick baptized converts on his visit to Dublin.  A church was built on this site in 1191 and in 1991 we celebrated 800 years of worship. The present building dates from 1220. The Cathedral is today the National Cathedral for the Church of Ireland (Anglican).

Today the Cathedral is open to everyone as both an architectural and historical site, but principally as a place of worship.

Built in 1796, Kilmainham Gaol is one of the largest unoccupied gaols in Europe, covering some of the most heroic and tragic events in Ireland's emergence as a modern nation from the 1780s to the 1920s. Attractions include a major exhibition detailing the political and penal history of the prison and its restoration. The tour of the prison includes an audio-visual show and tours may be arranged for visitors with special needs by prior arrangement.

Kilmainham Gaol played witness to Ireland's turbulent passage from the late eighteenth to early twentieth century. Prisoners from the United Irish Rebellion of 1796, the Emmet Rebellion of 1803, the Great Famine of 1845 to 1851, the Young Ireland Rebellion of 1848, the Fenian Rebellion of 1867, the Land War of the 1880s, the Easter Rising of 1916, the War of Independence and the Irish Civil War were held and often executed here. 

The locally known road, "The Twenty-One Bends" connects Enniskerry to the main road to Dublin. The mainly Protestant population of this village attended church in the grounds of the Powerscourt Demesne until 1859. At this time, Mervyn Wingfield, 7th Viscount Powerscourt built a new church, Saint Patrick's, in the village which was completed two years later in 1861.

This exquisite church and churchyard is situated at the top of Enniskerry and is definitely worth exploring. Delight too in inspecting the quaint antique shops and stylish boutiques or pay a visit to the Enniskerry Trading Company, which offers a veritable treasure trove of unique tableware, furniture and home accessories from around the world. For those interested in all things equine, Horse & Country is your one stop shop for all riding accessories.

For refreshments, investigate Poppy’s, a very popular and authentic Irish café which serves hearty hot and cold dishes, tea, coffee and pastries throughout the day. And if you wish to relax in true Irish style, the local pub Nancy Murphy’s serves casual food, a wonderful pint of creamy Guinness and a variety of other beverages.

Wicklow is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. It is one of Ireland’s favored areas for hiking, with magnificent routes available throughout the countyside, from the ancient monastic heritage site of Glendalough across to the rugged, largely unspoiled West Wicklow hills and the towns of Blessington and Baltinglass. The diverse landscapes of the stunning Wicklow county include idyllic blue flag beaches with hidden coves nestling near dramatic lakes and bustling towns and villages.

For the more energetic, why not try to climb the iconic Sugar Loaf Mountain which can be clearly seen from The Ritz-Carlton, Powerscourt. It is also only a 15 minute drive to the nearest car park at the base of the climb and is suitable for both children and adults alike as two routes are offered. The short route takes about one hour and the longer route takes two to three hours to complete. There is a great sense of achievement when climbers reach the top along with stunning views of the Wicklow countryside, also known as The Garden of Ireland.

Visitors to Powerscourt can take a short and leisurely stroll through the highlights of the area, which include The Italian Garden, The Walled Garden, The Dolphin Pond, The Pet Cemetery, The Japanese Gardens and Tower Valley. Those who have the luxury of time can take in The Exhibition at Powerscourt House followed by a longer walk through the gardens and all of its attractions. At the end of this journey through this botanic heaven, relax at The Ritz-Carlton Lobby Lounge where Traditional Afternoon Tea is served with a deliciously chilled glass of champagne.

The National Park which covers much of upland Wicklow, contains an area of approximately 20,000 hectares (49,421 acres). This includes large areas of mountain blanket bogs, including the Lugnaquilla and Liffey Head Bog complexes and Glendalough Wood Nature Reserve. The National Park provides protection for the landscape and the wildlife, from rare orchids to the wild and beautiful Peregrine Falcon. Wicklow Mountains National Park runs a wide variety of activities for groups and individuals of all ages. Activities are free of charge and include field trips, nature walks, lectures and workshops.

Russborough was built in 1741 by Joseph Leeson , the first Earl of Milltown, a brewer who was also a Member of Parliament. He chose the German architect Richard Cassells to design his new home. Russborough is not only regarded as one of Ireland’s most beautiful houses but it also has a spectacular setting with magnificent views of the Blessington lakes and the Wicklow mountains beyond. A parkland walk, with magnificent views of the house, has recently been opened to the public which takes up to one hour and is popular with both adults and children. A 2,000 square metre Beech Hedge Maze is also very popular with children who need to find their way to the statue of Cupid on a central pillar in the middle of the Maze. There is also a 200 year old ‘Hippodrome’ building used for training horses in past centuries which is interesting to visit.

Home to the Brabazon family (the Earls of Meath) since 1618 Killruddery House is the most successful Elizabethan-Revival mansion in Ireland and the most fashionable of its time. The 17th century Gardens survive in their original formal layout with some 18th & 19th century additions. The Long Ponds, The Angles and The Sylvan Theatre are features of this magnificent landscape.

Spanning 9 hectares, Mount Usher represents one of the best examples of the romantic Robinsonian garden, a paradise combining plantsmanship with layout. Trees and shrubs introduced from many parts of the world. Woodland and shade loving plants, millions of spring flowering bulbs spread throughout the meadows. Admission: Adults €7, OAPs €6, students and under 16 €3

Tinnahinch Fly Fishing Centre is located on the picturesque Dargle River Valley, one mile south of Enniskerry Village and 10 minutes from the hotel. This man-made lake is the ideal spot for Rainbow trout fishing. The lake comprises of 4 acres of water, 5 islands, peninsulas and coves. All equipment can be hired and the daily catch may be released or taken home for a delicious feast.

For more experienced anglers, The River Dargle rises in the Wicklow Mountains and flows in a north-easterly direction for 12 miles; passing through the beautiful Dargle Glen in a series of rapids and waterfalls before entering the Irish Sea at Bray. It is one of Ireland’s prime sea trout rivers and regularly produces excellent fishing for large sea-trout. The best of the sea-trout fishing is from May to September. This river also gets a small run of grilse in the summer months. Most of the fishing on the Dargle is controlled by the local Angling Club and private individuals. Fly fishing here can be arranged through the Hotel Concierge.

Visitors to Powerscourt can take a short and leisurely stroll through the highlights of the area, which include The Italian Garden, The Walled Garden, The Dolphin Pond, The Pet Cemetery, The Japanese Gardens and Tower Valley. Those who have the luxury of time can take in The Exhibition at Powerscourt House followed by a longer walk through the gardens and all of its attractions. At the end of this journey through this botanic heaven, relax at The Ritz-Carlton Lobby Lounge where Traditional Afternoon Tea is served with a deliciously chilled glass of champagne.

Brennanstown Riding School is a family run business started by former Three Day Event rider Jane Kennedy in the 1970's. Located only 10 minutes drive from The Ritz-Carlton, Powerscourt, the riding school started out with two ponies on loan and now has over seventy horses and ponies on site.

Brennanstown is a training centre for the world recognized British Horse Society qualifications and is also one of only a handful of Irish centers approved to hold BHS examinations up to a Stage IV and Intermediate Teaching Level (BHSII).

The centre is recognized both locally and nationally as one of Irelands' most professionally run equestrian centers.

Wicklow is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. It is one of Ireland’s favored areas for hiking, with magnificent routes available throughout the countyside, from the ancient monastic heritage site of Glendalough across to the rugged, largely unspoiled West Wicklow hills and the towns of Blessington and Baltinglass. The diverse landscapes of the stunning Wicklow county include idyllic blue flag beaches with hidden coves nestling near dramatic lakes and bustling towns and villages.

The River Walk, a private and hidden gem, deep within the walls of Powerscourt Estate is one of Ireland’s most charming and secluded places to explore. Its ancient and unspoiled beauty is carefully protected. Only a very select few are invited to enjoy the splendor that lies beyond the gates to this very charming and secret space. 

The heritage of The River Walk can be found in the ancient trees surrounding over 3 kilometers of winding walkways that meander through this secluded acreage. The River Walk’s main pathway was laid in 1868 by the Viscount of Powerscourt so that his family could enjoy the serenity of
The River Dargle.

Upon entering The River Walk, follow the main path which will lead you down towards the tranquil tune of the river and to where the pathway splits in two. To the left is almost 1 kilometer of
nature’s most precious woodlands and to the right, a 2 km walkway offers an array of river side picnic areas. The real beauty and essence of The River Walk is found in the many secret woodland trails that radiate from the main pathway and which are very safe and easy to explore.

Access to the River Walk can be arranged through the Hotel Concierge and guests can travel by foot, bicycle or golf buggy. Gourmet picnics can also be arranged.

Grafton Street, located between Trinity College and St Stephen's Green is the more smart shopping area with fashionable stores such as Brown Thomas who caters for many world renowned and Irish designers. Dublin's leading and most exclusive jewellers, Weirs, is also located on Grafton Street as well as the famous Bewley's Café.  The nearby Powerscourt Town centre is one of the nicer, albeit small, shopping centres in the city. Journey time to the city centre is 30 minutes drive.

Harvey Nichols Dublin is the centre piece of the Dundrum retail centre, just a few miles south of Dublin's city centre. With three floors filled with the top names in beauty and fashion, Harvey Nichols' famous Foodmarket and a deluxe restaurant called First Floor. The hotel can arrange a personal shopper who will look after your every need, will match the clothes that look best on you and advise on a style you feel comfortable in. Upon arrival you will receive a glass of champagne and a warm welcome from the Harvey Nichols staff and your personal shopper and will leave with a deluxe Harvey Nichols Goodie bag full of wonderful treats and gifts.

This village outlet has over 40 boutiques, offering previous seasons collections from prestigious brands in fashion and home ware,  with up to 60% off all year round. Brands include Bally, Kenneth Turner, Radley, Polo, Wolford and many more. The journey time to Kildare Village is about 45 minutes drive.

Located on the grounds of Powerscourt Estate, Avoca is a popular gift and food shop stocking items such as clothing, rugs, books and jewellery. The food store provides delicious products to take away and the coffee shop is also a perfect location for an afternoon coffee or lunch.

Brown Thomas, located on Dublin’s Grafton Street is Ireland’s most beautiful lifestyle store offering an unparalleled retail experience. Housing the world’s most exclusive designer collections, in awe inspiring environments, Brown Thomas is proud of its heritage, and of its people, placing the best service at the heart of the Brown Thomas experience. Brown Thomas has had its foothold in Irish Style since its inception in 1849. In 1971 and under threat of closure, Galen & Hillary Weston bought Brown Thomas and began the transformation into the prestigious department store that it is today.