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Have you ever stayed somewhere that felt like home the minute you walked in? Well, for me, that’s The Wicklow Escape in Donard, Co. Wicklow. Not only is it a cosy mountain escape but The Wicklow Escape is also a foodie dream destination with chef Mark Ahessy at the helm.
My Favourite Place to Stay in Wicklow
I’ve had the good fortune of staying at The Wicklow Escape twice in the past few years and it’s been amazing to see how it was evolved into the perfect mountain lodge for foodies. I can absolutely say that it is, without a doubt, my favourite place to stay in Wicklow.
The Cosy Rooms
The rooms are colourful and cosy. They have a sort of Scandi hygge vibe to them. The rooms feel welcoming, not so pristine that you’re afraid to touch anything, but you can tell that everything is high quality and lovingly curated.
There’s an alpaca wool throw on the bed, though I never needed it because the rooms are nice and toasty in the evenings. Toiletry-wise there are minis from Mise skincare, my new favourite Irish skincare brand, in the room. Oh my lord, their Lavender and Lime whipped body butter is UNBELIEVABLE.
The beds are so comfortable that multiple guests have actually purchased the mattresses after their stay. There are a variety of rooms to choose from; garden, snug and group. The garden rooms face out onto the beautiful greenery that you’ll likely later find in your dinner. The snug rooms lead out onto the communal courtyard/outdoor dining area.
The group rooms are perfect for friends or family with beautiful wooden bunk beds suitable for 4 people.
The Foodie Experience
The head chef is Mark Ahessy who has worked in some of Ireland’s best restaurants including Chapter One, L’Ecrivain and Pichet. The Wicklow Escape prides itself on using local produce in all their meals, from Ridgeway Wagyu Beef to delicious Ballyhubbock Farm Halloumi.
I’m a vegetarian and I can happily say that The Wicklow Escape caters to all dietary requirements perfectly. They provide a hearty breakfast with fresh-ground coffee (of course). When it comes to lunch The Wicklow Escape can provide a packed lunch for you to take on one of the many local hikes/excursions. Dinner is the main event, a phenomenal five course meal(with wine pairings) in the stunning Long Hall.
Also, if you’re a true foodie but don’t have the time to spend the night you can still enjoy the incredible food. Restaurant-only bookings will be open in Spring.
Things to do at The Wicklow Escape
If you don’t want to just cosy up by the fire and eat yourself into a glorious coma then there are plenty of other wonderful things to do at The Wicklow Escape. There’s a wooden hot tub which is my absolute favourite spot. The water is drawn directly from a spring in the mountain – pure bliss.
There is a forest walk connected directly to the property so you can do a bit of “forest bathing” or hike all the way up the Sugar Loaf. The Blessington Greenway and lakes are close by and well worth a visit. Top your trip off with a horse ride along the Ancient Pilgrim Walk which leads to Glendalough.
Why its my Favourite Hotel in Wicklow
I love The Wicklow Escape for many reasons. Its proximity to Dublin makes it the perfect country-side escape for Dublin-dwellers like myself – just hop in the car after work and you’re there in 30 minutes. Despite the proximity to the capital it still feels like a perfect little hideaway.
The welcome you receive from the staff is also second to none. The Wicklow Escape feels like a second home from the minute you step into your room. I’ve loved both my stays at this foodie Wicklow retreat and would completely recommend it. Keep in mind that it is a luxury boutique offering and a fine-dining experience and that is reflected in the prices. In my opinion it is worth every penny!
