Overview
The Featherbeds lie in the heart of the Dublin Uplands, a windswept plateau that straddles the border between County Dublin and County Wicklow. In August 2016 the Irish State purchased the 4,900 acres (1,983 ha) from the National Asset Management Agency and incorporated the land into Wicklow Mountains National Park, expanding the park to 22,000 ha. Minister of State Michael Ring described the acquisition as “an important area for nature conservation and for public amenity”, and the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) now works with the Dublin Mountains Partnership to manage the site.
The landscape is characterised by open heather, blanket bog and sweeping views that have been likened by Green Party leader Eamon Ryan to “one of the most spectacular places in this country”. There are no buildings, fences or permanent structures – just raw wilderness punctuated by a few historic markers.
Background & Conservation
The Featherbeds were previously held in private ownership and, before the 2016 purchase, were the subject of a public campaign to prevent a wind‑farm development. A petition organised by the environmental group Uplift gathered more than 20,000 signatures, prompting the government to act. The land is 93 % designated as a Strategic Area of Conservation, underscoring its ecological value. The addition of the Featherbeds creates a contiguous stretch of protected habitat that supports a range of upland flora and fauna, including ground‑nesting birds and the iconic Irish hare.
What to See & Do
Featherbeds Bullaun Stone
A short walk off the Military Road leads to a large rounded granite bullaun stone, marked by three shallow depressions. The stone sits at a rare quadripoint where townland, parish, barony and county boundaries converge – Dublin and Wicklow meet here. Historically, bullaun stones are linked to early ecclesiastical sites and may have been used for grinding or ritual purposes. The Featherbeds bullaun offers a tangible connection to medieval land‑division practices and makes an intriguing stop for history enthusiasts.
Walking & Hiking
The open plateau is a natural playground for walkers. The popular “Kippure from Featherbeds” circular route, mapped by local hikers, covers roughly 5.8 miles (9.4 km) with an ascent of about 1,090 ft (332 m). The trail traverses heather‑covered bog, skirts the bullaun stone and climbs toward the summit of Kippure, providing panoramic vistas over Dublin Bay and the Wicklow Mountains. The route is marked on the Dublin & North Wicklow Mountains map and can be downloaded in GPX, KML and other formats from Plotaroute. The trail forms part of the longer Dublin Mountains Way long‑distance path.
Dodder Greenway Prospects
Local authorities envision extending the Dodder Greenway – a cycling and walking corridor that follows the River Dodder from its source to the sea – through the Featherbeds. If realised, the greenway will link the upland wilderness directly to Dublin’s urban trail network, creating a seamless “mountain‑to‑sea” experience. The project is part of a broader tourism strategy projected to generate €26 million and 2,500 jobs for South Dublin.
Seasonal Highlights
- Late June – August: The heather on the plateau is in full bloom, turning the landscape a vivid purple. This is the most photogenic period and the best time for wild‑flower enthusiasts.
- September – October: Autumn brings a tapestry of gold and amber across the bogs, offering striking contrast against the ever‑green granite outcrops.
- Winter: Snow is occasional but can linger on the higher ground, providing a dramatic backdrop for experienced walkers. Shorter daylight hours mean an early start is advisable.
Practical Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Access | Reachable via the Military Road (R115). A small lay‑by offers informal parking for walkers. |
| Nearest Town | Rathdrum (Co. Wicklow) – bus services to Rathdrum, then a short taxi ride or a 2 km walk to the trailhead. |
| Public Transport | Limited; the closest bus stop is in Rathdrum (routes to Dublin and Wicklow towns). |
| Management | National Parks and Wildlife Service in partnership with Dublin Mountains Partnership. |
| Entry | Free – no admission charge. |
| Facilities | None – visitors must be self‑sufficient. |
| Key Points of Interest | Featherbeds Bullaun Stone, open heather moorland, views toward Kippure and the Dublin coastline. |
| Future Developments | Potential Dodder Greenway extension; ongoing habitat restoration and visitor‑amenity improvements announced by NPWS. |
Getting There
The nearest major road is the Military Road (R115), which connects to the M50 ring road around Dublin. Public transport options are limited; the closest bus services run to the village of Rathdrum in County Wicklow, from where a short taxi ride or a hike can bring you to the park edge. For cyclists, the existing Dublin‑Wicklow trail network provides a scenic approach, and the anticipated Dodder Greenway will further simplify access.
Nearby Attractions
- Bohernabreena Reservoir – a short drive south, offering additional walking routes and bird‑watching opportunities.
- Ballyboden – the gateway community to the Dublin Mountains, with cafés, a visitor centre and easy access to the Military Road.
Conservation Outlook
The Featherbeds’ inclusion in Wicklow Mountains National Park reflects a growing commitment to protect Ireland’s upland ecosystems. Ongoing work by NPWS includes monitoring of bog health, invasive species control and the maintenance of low‑impact walking routes. Community groups continue to advocate for native afforestation and the preservation of historic features such as the bullaun stone.
Whether you are a seasoned hillwalker, a history buff intrigued by ancient boundary markers, or simply a visitor seeking a sense of wild openness near the capital, the Featherbeds offer a rare glimpse of Ireland’s untamed heart.
For the latest updates on trail conditions and any future greenway extensions, visit the National Parks and Wildlife Service website.