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Wicklow Mountains National Park
Glendalough, Co. Wicklow
Family friendly
Free to visit
Dog friendly
Paid car parking
Sunny days
Explore the wilds of Wicklow Mountains National Park in County Wicklow. Wander along trails through the park, spanning an area of nearly 20,000 hectares, and see beautiful wildlife in a spectacular setting.

Set off on a hike through the striking scenery and check out the leafy forests, stark bogland and wide-open expanses. Wander through mature woodland under mighty canopies as peregrine falcons fly overhead - keep an eye out for rare orchids too. Bring your bike and enjoy a leisurely cycle and take a dip in a lake to round off a great day out.

Visit Glendalough, nestled in a picturesque valley in the mountains, to view the life's work of St. Kevin. The early medieval structures are of great importance and make for unbeatable photographs. Guided tours are available upon request. Discover the story of one of our most important monastic sites on a guided or self-guided tour.

Why we like it
  • Explore 20,000 hectares of this spectacular national park.
  • See peregrine falcons fly through the sky.
  • Explore the national park by bike.
  • Learn about St. Kevin at Glendalough.
Tips from locals

Only a short walk from the JB Malone Memorial is the lookout point for Lough Tay, also known as Guinness Lake thanks to its dark water and white sandy beach.

Contact details
Co. Wicklow, Ireland
Visit duration

We recommend planning to spend 4 to 6 hours here.

More to discover at Wicklow Mountains National Park
Free things to doSpinc & Wicklow Way - Glendalough

Please note: There is a section of this walk temporarily closed for trail enhancement works. There is a detour in place which will add 1.2km to the walk. Embrace the verdant beauty of Ireland’s Ancient East on this 11km loop in County Wicklow. Following mountain paths, it boasts lake views, pleasant woodland stretches and even a waterfall.

Walking and hikingSpink Loop

Back in the 6th century, hermit monk Saint Kevin first sought solace and contemplation in the idyllic surroundings of Glendalough. His followers established a monastery here, which would become one of the most important monastic sites in Europe.

Free things to doSt Kevins Way - Pilgrim Path

Follow in the footsteps of a saint on this rewarding, superbly scenic walking trail through the heart of Wicklow, the Garden of Ireland. Saint Kevin’s Way, also known as the Pilgrim’s Path, is a peaceful 34.3km trail that’s perfect for the moderately fit walker, taking around a day to complete.

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