Chasing Powerscourt Waterfall

Wash me in the water…

e swung by Powerscourt Waterfall before, of course, when we got a little lost on our hike through Djouce Woods back in May 2017.

Rather than go the free route though, this sunny Sunday, we thought it best to cough up the €6 a head to enjoy this natural beauty without being caked in mud.

Part of the Slazengers’ sprawling empire (the English sporting goods giant having bought 47-acre estate in 1961), and surrounded by Djouce Mountain and the Great Sugar Loaf, Powerscourt Waterfall can lay claim to being the highest waterfall in Ireland, given that it is one single ‘horsetail’ drop of 121 metres, and continuously flows all year.

Back in August 1921, it was the visit of King George IV when Richard Wingfield, the 5th Viscount Powerscourt, decided to dam the waterfall, so that he could release a torrent while the two stood on the bridge below the falls. The king unfortunately missed the display, having been detained at a banquet in the main house, but, there’s no doubt it would have been a memorable spectacle for the curious George, given that, when the water was finally released, it washed the bridge clean away.

We’ll cover the Viscount Powerscourts in more detail, when we finally get around to doing a GG piece on the house and its gardens. For now, join us on a sunny Sunday afternoon stroll around this magnificent sight, which also boasts fine walks, and a great big outdoor playground for the kids.

Oh, and whilst the main house might boast Avoca jams, cakes and homemade breads, the waterfall boasts the top-of-the-range Bug Buffet cafe, specialising in such artisan country delicacies as pizza, hot dogs and curry chips.

You’ll find Powerscourt Waterfall on Google Maps here, and find out prices, opening times and directions on the official site here.

Once again, you’ll find Powerscourt Waterfall on Google Maps here, and find out prices, opening times and directions on the official site here. And you’ll find more nearby hikes right here.