Distance from the Glenmalure Lodge: 12km

At just 12km away, Avondale House and Forest Park makes an idea destination for a bicycle ride from the Glenmalure Lodge. A peaceful walk through the forest, combined with a tour of the House to be followed by lunch at the café, this will provide a cultural day with plenty of exercise.

Avondale House, birthplace and home of Charles Stewart Parnell (1846-1891), is set in a magnificent 500 acre forest park near Rathdrum in County Wicklow. This interesting Georgian house was built in 1777, and contains fine original plasterwork and the Parnell family furniture.

The House is open to the public from April to October. There is an audio visual presentation, expert guides, a café serving fresh and locally sourced produce with a wine licence, picnic and children’s play area.

Avondale Forest Park is 500 acres in size with a number of marked walks: the River Walk, Pine Walk, Sli na Slainte walk, Cairn Walk, Centenary Walk and the recently opened Railway Walk. There are also 3 orienteering courses within the grounds of the park. Maps for these can be downloaded from the Coillte website. The forest park is open all year long.

Admission to Avondale House: €7.50 Adult / €4.50 Children
Admission to Avondale Forest Park: Free
Parking Fee: €5.00 per car
Website: www.coillte.ie