Enchanted woodlands and magical walks can be found in many of our beautiful forests and parks across Ireland. A home to the fairies, a place of make-believe, wonder and magic. Trail upon trail of pixie dust and glee but where on earth could the best fairy walks and villages be?
Enchanted woodlands and magical walks can be found in many of our beautiful forests and parks across Ireland. A home to the fairies, a place of make-believe, wonder and magic. Trail upon trail of pixie dust and glee but where on earth could the best fairy walks and villages be?
The Marley Park Fairy Tree, Dublin
A hidden gem that silently appears deep in the southern woodland walkways of Marlay Park in Rathfarnham. Fairies have been living here for almost eight years, high up on a stump of a tree. Blink and you will miss it. Complete with balconies, spectacular towers and embellishments, it's a must-see. The fairy tree is maintained by an art instructor and students at a nearby centre for adults with disabilities.
Fairy Garden in The Ardilaun Hotel, Galway
A fairy family has set up home in the garden of Ardilaun Hotel. It comes as no surprise as these gardens have been filled with enchantment and wonder for years. It's highly advised to tiptoe around the secluded garden with giant oak and maple trees, as the beautiful glittering fairies have been spotted on numerous occasions and some have left a trail of magic fairy dust behind. Pop into reception and pick up a free map to follow the trail.
Fairy Trail Ardgillan Castle, Malahide, Dublin
Have you taken the free fairy trail quiz? Take a whizz around Ardgillan and explore the fairy village in all its glory. Numerous fairies have set up camp in the magical woodland area in funky little treehouses looking out at the coastline between Balbriggan and Skerries. Throughout the trail, there are informative panels with educational information on the many species of tree growing in the park.
Wells House Enchanted Woodland Walk, Wexford
A favourite with young and old located on the sunny South East. Wells House & Gardens is home to one of the best fairy trails in Ireland. Party with fairies on two enchanted woodland walks, The Lady Frances Woodland Walk and Mogue's Walk. Discover and explore vibrant hidden treasures, keep a lookout for sprinkles of fairy dust and watch out for the Gruffalo standing tall guarding all the fairy homes deep in the forest.
Woodland Fairy Trail at Russborough House & Parklands, Wicklow
Meet Faylinn and his fairy friends who are living at Lady’s Island out in Russborough House almost 270 years. Take part in their magical fairy trail (brochures available from reception), learn the fairy language, enjoy puzzles, fairy games, and colour in their shyest fairy, Shaylee.
Fairy Trail at Loughcrew Estate, Meath
A must see interactive and exciting sensory fairy trail open all year round. Pick up an activity booklet and complete the trail treasure hunt style. If you have any children looking to give up their soother, they can donate it to the fairies here by bringing it to the dummy tree.
Bunratty Fairy Village at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, Clare
Located in the woodland of the historic landmark the kids will be twinkling with magic at this fairy wonderland right in the heart of the Folk Park. Explore the magical fairy trail and village complete with plants and trees that hold magic and healing powers, making it a safe place for the fairies to live. Make sure you pop by the miniature Bunratty Castle, willow tunnel and willow hut in and around the magical forest trails.
Terra Nova Fairy Garden, Limerick
A privately owned and award-winning garden set in the Golden Vale of Co. Limerick. A magical experience for the entire family. A real fairy fort that has been there for many thousands of years just behind the garden and another once stood where the fairy garden stands today. Meet numerous fairies, Hoblins and mystical beings as you make your way through these stunning gardens.
Erica's Fairy Forest at Halton's Amenity in Cootehill, Cavan
A magical fairy forest dedicated to the memory of Erica Ní Draighneain, a five-year-old girl who tragically swapped her crown for a halo following a battle with cancer. Explore the beautiful woodlands home to hundreds of fairies created by her parents, to honour their daughter's memory.
Elf and Fairy Village in Castlecomer Discovery Park, Kilkenny
Fairy folk can be found deep inside Kilkennys favourite multi-activity forest park complete with colourful hand-carved toadstool mushrooms. A charming woodland fairy village a small yellow sweet shop, an underground bunker, a café and a Head Quarters.
Written by Kellie Kearney staff writer at FFHQ who also blogs at www.mylittlebabog.com.