"Just south of Dublin, in the picturesque Glendalough Valley, lies a great swatch of protected land stretching for more than 50,614 acres—making it the largest National Park in Ireland. Established in 1991 with the goal of conserving and protecting biodiversity, the park attracts more than one million visitors a year with its wide-open spaces, dense forests, wooded valleys, scenic mountain trails, and meandering streams that flow into crystal-clear lakes. In a country already rich with photo-worthy spots, this one takes wild natural beauty to the next level. And if long walks in the woods aren't quite your thing, there are a few seasonal activities you can work in, including paddling, swimming and scuba diving (with a permit) in the Upper Lake, canoeing and boating on the rivers, and fishing in select areas, from mid-March to the end of September." - Sandra Ramani
