Maccreddin …home of the Brooklodge Hotel

Visiting Maccreddin, Co Wicklow:

Once deserted, this ancient village has been resurrected with the opening of the luxurious Brooklodge Hotel, its craft shops, the very popular Sunday Markets on the first Sunday of every month from March to October and traditional Irish pub.

Situated in an area so outstanding in beauty that it has been designated one (an area of outstanding beauty that is!!) there is lots to see and do here especially in the summer months with outdoor bbq’s catering for hundreds of folk accompanied by jazz music and much much more. You really ought to check out my dancing – they don’t call me four-left-feet for nothing!

The organic produce available in The Strawberry Tree Restaurant is perfect for that special evening (come on , these guys have a cheese cellar lit by candles only – ooh how I’d love to get lost down there for awhile – woof! )and the spa facilities in the hotel will ensure you exit in state of perfect bliss check out their website for details: www.brooklodge.com

Macreddin Stables & Equestrian Centre Run by Mark Walsh, can offer top class training in Show Jumping, Dressage & Cross-country and for suitable clients there is an opportunity to compete in a local show. They also offer delightful trekking and cross-country rides through magnificent unspoilt Wicklow countryside surrounding the village, as well as lessons, schooling and an all weather jumping arena.

FORE!!! For the golf lover there is the truly exceptional macreddin golf course designed by Irish Ryder Cup Hero Paul McGinley who has successfully exploited the beautiful natural canvas to create something dramatic on which to play. See their website for tee-times and so on @ www.macreddingolfclub.com …G & T anyone?

Others who like to play : Ireland Xtreme - a Dublin based adventure group set up team building activities with exclusive access to the adjacent Macreddin Woods which takes you to the very top of the spectacular Cushbawn Mountain, for one of Ireland’s greatest views.

The mountain overlooks the Irish Sea, much of County Wicklow, Carlow and Wexford as well as the local beauty that is on offer at the track at the top of this superior location. You can check out their site on: www.irelandextreme.ie