A ramble amongst Kippure Estate’s forests and tree groves is like going back in history over 2,000 years to Iron Age times. When you visit us here, while surrounded by the Wicklow Mountains, we will happily take you on a journey to these mysterious, yet sacred, wooded areas where your imagination can soar. You will be able to breathe in the very same Irish native trees and shrubs revered and used for magical and spiritual practices by enchanting druids, the pagan priests of the Celts. When you walk amongst the groves of native Hazel, Mountain Ash, Alder, Hawthorne, Scots Pine, Birch and more, perhaps you will even sense an ancient presence from Ireland’s days of yore.
Oak trees hold a special place in Celtic folklore. They were deemed the “King of Trees” because of their properties of strength and protection. Druids and priestesses listened to the wind rustle through their leaves to hear prophetic messages. It is no surprise, then, that many Irish townlands continue to bear the name of the mighty oak (Dair). For example, the names of the City of Derry (Doire), Derrybeg, Edenderry and Derrydorneen all stem from the Irish word Doire, which means oak grove. Oaks are also special because, compared to other trees, they are able to sustain the largest variety of wildlife.
Oak is not the only mystical species native to Ireland. Other trees and shrubs have also been a part of the Irish landscape since the end of the last ice age 10,000 years ago. The lone fairy tree continues to be a feature of the rural Irish landscape. Woe to the person that cuts down such a special tree. The old fables recount that such a dastardly individual would be cursed with bad luck shortly after committing the destructive deed.
Usually these sacred fairy trees are Hawthorn (sceach geal), a deciduous shrub or small tree that can grow up to 15 metres tall. In May, it blooms masses of white flowers – for this reason it is often called the Maybush or the Whitehorn. In late summer, this fairy bush produces red fruit called haws. The Hawthorn’s autumn red to yellow colors are especially attractive.
You will often see Hawthorn bushes planted beside holy wells; traditionally pilgrims tied rags to the shrub’s branches as offerings. Irish folklore describes the lone hawthorne tree was respected and feared due to its association with fairies. So many native trees are key characterers in Celtic mythology, such as the Hazel (coll) tree whose branches were used as magical wands. The Mountain Ash or Rowan was called the “Traveller’s Tree” as it prevented Celtic travellers from getting lost. The Birch tree, which was referred to as “The Maid of the Forest”, played a vital role in ritual and medicinal ceremonies. A ramble under the pristine Woodland canopies of the Wicklow County will allow you to experience a rich history trail and a magical serenity of mind.