The Wicklow Way Ireland
The Wicklow Way - Ireland
- Fitness Level : Moderate
- Suitable for: All age groups
- Group: 16 persons max.
- Duration: Varies by selection
What the Wicklow Way trail in Ireland entails:
The Wicklow Way is one of Ireland’s oldest and most celebrated long-distance trails, stretching 131 kilometres (81 miles) from the charming Dublin suburb of Rathfarnham to the lively town of Clonegal in County Carlow. This self-guided route is ideal for those looking to explore Ireland’s natural beauty and history at their own pace. Meandering through the scenic Wicklow Mountains, the trail showcases Ireland’s iconic rolling landscapes, misty glens, dense woodlands, and serene lakes. Each step reveals a new perspective of the “Garden of Ireland,” immersing walkers in a peaceful yet dynamic environment where nature and history intertwine.
This walk is a journey through Irish heritage, with plenty of ancient ruins, historic landmarks, and quaint villages along the way. A highlight for many is Glendalough, an enchanting valley with a monastic settlement dating back to the 6th century. Here, visitors can explore round towers, ancient churches, and stone crosses nestled in a tranquil, lakeside setting. The journey also passes by Powerscourt Waterfall, Ireland’s tallest waterfall, and crosses the Dublin and Wicklow Mountains National Park, offering walkers a chance to encounter Ireland’s unique flora and fauna in its natural habitat.
The Wicklow Way trail caters to varying fitness levels and is typically completed over 7-10 days, though shorter segments are available for those on limited time. This flexibility allows walkers to tailor the experience to their preferences, whether aiming to cover the entire distance or explore sections of the route. The well-marked trail includes diverse terrain, from forest paths and mountain passes to open moorlands, providing both gentle strolls and more challenging hikes. Accommodation options along the way offer a warm welcome in charming B&Bs, guesthouses, and local inns, ensuring a comfortable and immersive experience.
A self-guided Wicklow Way adventure allows travellers to fully engage with the landscapes and legends of Ireland on their own schedule. It’s perfect for those who enjoy the freedom of walking at their own pace, with the convenience of pre-arranged accommodations and luggage transfers. With its breathtaking scenery, cultural sites, and the chance to connect with friendly locals in traditional pubs and villages, the Wicklow Way is an unforgettable journey through one of Ireland’s most beloved landscapes.
- Dublin
- Enniskerry
- Roundwood
- Lough Tay
- Glendalough
- Glenmalure
- Aughrim
- Tinahealy
- Shillelagh
- Clonegal
- Bunclody
The distances below may vary slightly due to accommodation locations.
- Day 1: Dublin (Marlay Park) – Coolakay (Enniskerry) 23.3Km – Height Gain 404m
- Day 2: Coolakay to Old Bridge (Roundwood) – 16.9Km – Height Gain 502m
- Day 3: Old Bridge – Laragh (Glendalough) – 7.2Km – Height Gain 240m
- Day 4: Glendalough – Return to Dublin on public bus
- Day 1: Dublin (Marlay Park) – Coolakay (Enniskerry) 23.3Km – Height Gain 404m
- Day 2: Coolakay to Old Bridge (Roundwood) – 16.9Km – Height Gain 502m
- Day 3: Old Bridge – Laragh (Glendalough) – 7.2Km – Height Gain 240m
- Day 4: Laragh (Glendalough) – Glenmalure – 15.6Km – Height Gain 432m
- Day 5: Glenmalure – Return to Dublin.
- Day 1: Dublin (Marlay Park) – Coolakay (Enniskerry) 23.3Km – Height Gain 404m
- Day 2: Coolakay to Old Bridge (Roundwood) – 16.9Km – Height Gain 502m
- Day 3: Old Bridge – Laragh (Glendalough) – 7.2Km – Height Gain 240m
- Day 4: Laragh (Glendalough) – Glenmalure – 15.6Km – Height Gain 432m
- Day 5: Glenmalure – Iron Bridge (Aughrim) – 11.9Km – Height Gain 398m
- Day 6: Aughrim – Return to Dublin.
- Day 1: Dublin (Marlay Park) – Coolakay (Enniskerry) 23.3Km – Height Gain 404m
- Day 2: Coolakay to Old Bridge (Roundwood) – 16.9Km – Height Gain 502m
- Day 3: Old Bridge – Laragh (Glendalough) – 7.2Km – Height Gain 240m
- Day 4: Rest Day in Glendalough
- Day 5: Laragh (Glendalough) – Glenmalure – 15.6Km – Height Gain 432m
- Day 6: Glenmalure – Iron Bridge (Aughrim) – 11.9Km – Height Gain 398m
- Day 7: Aughrim – Return to Dublin.
- Day 1: Dublin (Marlay Park) to Coolakay (Enniskerry) 23.3Km – Height Gain 404m
- Day 2: Coolakay to Old Bridge (Roundwood) – 16.9Km – Height Gain 502m
- Day 3: Old Bridge – Laragh (Glendalough) – 7.2Km – Height Gain 240m
- Day 4: Laragh (Glendalough) – Glenmalure – 15.6Km – Height Gain 432m
- Day 5: Glenmalure – Iron Bridge (Aughrim) – 11.9Km – Height Gain 398m
- Day 6: Ion Bridge – Tinahealy – 21.9Km – Height Gain 303m
- Day 7: Tinahealy – Shillelagh – 17.2Km – Height Gain 171m
- Day 8: Public transport from Shillelagh to Dublin.
N.B If you would like to walk to Clonegal on Day 8 to complete the Wicklow Way then we can arrange transfer for you and your luggage back to Dublin. (Additional cost)
- Day 1: Dublin (Marlay Park) to Coolakay (Enniskerry) 23.3Km – Height Gain 404m
- Day 2: Coolakay to Old Bridge (Roundwood) – 16.9Km – Height Gain 502m – Pickup at Old Bridge to accommodation
- Day 3: Old Bridge – Laragh (Glendalough) – 7.2Km – Height Gain 240m
- Day 4: Laragh (Glendalough) – Glenmalure – 15.6Km – Height Gain 432m
- Day 5: Glenmalure – Iron Bridge (Aughrim) – 11.9Km – Height Gain 398m – Pickup at Iron Bridge to accommodation
- Day 6: Ion Bridge – Tinahealy – 21.9Km – Height Gain 303m
- Day 7: Tinahealy – Shillelagh – 17.2Km – Height Gain 171m
- Day 8: Shillelagh to Clonegal – 20.9Km – Height Gain 317m – Pick from Clonegal to accommodation in Bunclody.
- Day 9: Public transport from Bunclody to Dublin.
- Day 1) Dublin (Marlay Park) to Coolakay (Enniskerry) 23.3Km – Height Gain 404m
- Day 2) Coolakay to Old Bridge (Roundwood) – 16.9Km – Height Gain 502m – Pickup at Old Bridge to accommodation
- Day 3) Old Bridge – Laragh (Glendalough) – 7.2Km – Height Gain 240m
- Day 4: Glendalough – Choice of looped walk
- Day 5) Laragh (Glendalough) – Glenmalure – 15.6Km – Height Gain 432m
- Day 6) Glenmalure – Iron Bridge (Aughrim) – 11.9Km – Height Gain 398m – Pickup at Iron Bridge to accommodation
- Day 7) Ion Bridge – Tinahealy – 21.9Km – Height Gain 303m
- Day 8) Tinahealy – Shillelagh – 17.2Km – Height Gain 171m
- Day 9) Shillelagh to Clonegal – 20.9Km – Height Gain 317m – Pick from Clonegal to accommodation in Bunclody.
- Day 10) Public transport from Bunclody to Dublin.
- Friendly and family run guest Houses and B+Bs (Irish Tourism Board Approved)
- Breakfasts each morning with a wide selection to choose from.
- Detailed maps, Water Proof Map Cover
- Wicklow Way Book with interesting facts of areas visited and route descriptions.
- Luggage Transfer each day.
- Phone support along the way. (Accommodations and pickup numbers)
- All Information on public transport required will be given.
- Pickup from the Airport or accommodation to the Wicklow Way can be arranged.
- Extra nights in Dublin before and after your walk
- We choose the accommodation very carefully, a mix of quality B&Bs and Guest Houses.
- There is Free WiFi in all the accommodations we use.
- All the rooms are en-suite.
- The accommodation we use are well used to us bringing them guests after a day’s walk and know that they somewhere comfortable to relax and freshen up.
Here’s a quick list of essentials to bring for a self-guided walk in Ireland:
- Waterproof jacket and trousers – Irish weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for rain.
- Comfortable, sturdy walking boots – Trails can be uneven and wet, so good grip and support are essential.
- Map and Trail notes (we provide these for you).
- Layers of clothing – Dress in layers to adjust to changing temperatures, with a warm layer like a fleece.
- Hat and gloves – Even in summer, it can get chilly on higher ground or in the wind.
- Backpack – A small, comfortable backpack for carrying essentials.
- Water bottle – Stay hydrated, especially on longer hikes.
- Snacks or packed lunch – Some hikes may not have food stops along the way.
- Sun protection – Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as the sun can be strong even on cooler days.
- Camera or phone – Capture the stunning landscapes!
- Personal medication – If needed, bring any essential medications.
A deposit of 10% is required to secure your booking.
The balance of the cost of your tour / walk is due not less than 6 weeks prior to scheduled departure.
If we do not receive this balance in full and on time, we reserve the right to treat your booking as cancelled by you in which case we shall retain your deposit.
- Loss of deposit applies for cancellations made 6 weeks or more in advance.
- Cancellation fee of 40% applies for cancellations made less than 41 days in advance.
- Cancellation fee of 80% applies for cancellations made less than 4 weeks in advance.
- Cancellation fee of 100% applies for cancellations made less than 2 weeks in advance, or in case of no-show.
Walking the Wicklow Way Trail in sections:
Traveling North to South from Dublin to Clonegal.
Distance: 21Km Ascent: 600m Time: 7hrs
Marlay Park is situated on the South side of Dublin in Rathfarnham approx. 4km from the city centre. From Marlay Park you will follow the Wicklow way trail through the park and out the back. Taking a right turn leaving the park, you come to a roundabout and under the Motorway. Things should start getting a little quieter here as you enter a much smaller road passing an old road side water pump heading towards Kilmashagogue Forest.
Once you enter the forest you follow the Wicklow way trail around to the left and in a southerly direction. The trail travels the base of Kilmashogue towards “Two Rock Mountain” which is named after the Granite Tors that sit on top of it. Keep following the Wicklow way trail down the side of Tibradden and onto the road towards Glencullen.
From here you may continue onto Knockree by taking the right of the road you are on or if you wish to stop there is a fantastic pub called “Johnnie Fox’s” just ahead which serves fine food a good pint with live Irish music and dancing most nights. Its approx. 4Km from the Wicklow Way trail.
Distance: 18Km Ascent: 500m Time: 6.5hrs
From Knockree continue on the Wicklow way trail to Crone wood. Follow the markings for the Wicklow way along a path through the forested area which will eventually bring you out along the edge of a cliff overlooking the Powerscourt Waterfall. This is part of the Dargle river. You will then cross through a deforested area belonging to “Collte”, the Irish forestry Board. To your right you will see Djouce and to your left Maulin.
Follow the track left down towards the Dargle river and cross over a bridge following the side of an old stone wall. When you cross the river, you continue up and cross over the stone wall following the trail to the side of Djouce. The Wicklow way takes the path around the side of Djouce. If you wish you can climb Djouce and come back off it and rejoin the Wicklow way towards White Hill. There is a board walk along this stretch over some very boggy and wet ground.
Continue following the board walk south and from here you should start to see Luggala and Lough Tay straight in front of you. This is a fantastic view on a clear day and a great place to stop for lunch and a hot drink.
Coming down from White Hill along this trail there is a rock with a plaque dedicated to the founder of The Wicklow Way J.B. Malone. Continue on this trail out to the Road R759 overlooking the Guinness’s Estate and Lough Tay.
You could organise a pickup from here to bring you to your accommodation for the evening.
Take this road to the Left and continue on to a small crossroads with directions for Roundwood.
Distance: 12Km Ascent: 350m Time: 4hrs
From Roundwood, rejoin the Wicklow Way back to the Pier gates using the road that brought you to Roundwood the previous day or just north of Oldbridge. Continue hiking on the public road crossing the Avonmore River at Oldbridge and keep on this road for a further 3km over Drumray. Turn right onto a lane, keep a sharp eye out for this left turn of the road. This passes a farm house and leads to the north-eastern shoulder of Paddock Hill.
The Wicklow Way route continues over the hill and then descends to cross the Glenmacnass road. Continuing to Glendalough remain on the route which immediately enters Brockagh Forest – with its all too obvious evidence of recent timber harvesting and replanting.
There are some incredible views from here up along the Glendalough Valley. Keep on this trail through the woods and eventually reaching the Glendalough Hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Distance: 14Km Ascent: 400m Time: 4.5hrs
Glendalough is one of the most visited parts of County Wicklow both for its scenery and its historical importance. Glendalough is an excellent example of a Glacial U-Shaped Valley with the monastic site of St Kevin situated at its floor bed. The monastic site complete with a wonderful round tower 100ft high. It was founded by St Kevin in the 6th Century and well worth a visit while in the area.
There are some great walks to enjoy while visiting this area and an extra day here would be well spent.
The Wicklow way in Glendalough starts at the Glendalough Hotel, you can pass through the monastic site and cross the Avonbeg River. The trail brings you up to the Upper Lake where it then takes a left turn passing the Poolanass Waterfall.
You then follow the Wicklow way trail along the side of Mullacore and Lugduff over into the Glenmalure valley. From here you begin your descent into the valley along the side of Mullacor.
As you descend there are incredible views along the valley and the surrounding mountains including Lugnaquillia (Wicklow’s highest mountain) to the far south. The trail goes in a zig-zag direction through forested trails to the end of this stage at the Drumgoff cross roads.
N.B An alternative route can be taken along what is called the Spinc. This is a great walk up along a trail overlooking both lakes and throughout the whole valley.
If you follow the blue trail in Glendalough through a forested walk it will lead you out onto the Cliff edge overlooking the upper lake. Keep following this trail up and towards the top of the valley and then take a left leaving the trail and rejoining the Wicklow way on the far side of Mullacore.
Distance: 21Km Ascent: 550m Time: 7hrs
From Glenmalure, the Wicklow Way trail follows the old Military Road south crossing the Avonbeg river. The remains of the Drumgoff barracks are to your left which were built by the British in the early 1800s. Leaving the military road to your right you take a wonderful forested trail along the side of Slieve Maan (Middle Mountain). Notice the Wicklow way sign to let you know that you are at the half way point of the Wicklow way 63.5Km as you enter this forest.
Keep a sharp eye to follow the trail through these woods as the Wicklow way pointers may be hidden in places by overgrown trees or shrubs.
The trail runs almost parallel to the military road and rejoins it in before crossing the Aghavannagh river. Continue on the trail along side Carrickashane mountain towards Iron Bridge which crosses the river Ow.
“A lot of People doing the Wicklow Way stay in the town of Aughrim and get a pickup from Iron Bridge”
This brings you out to the Aughrim Road, taking a left turn follow a minor road for about 500m passing Ballyteige Bridge then take a right turn leaving the road alongside a small river. You can finish your days walking here and stay in the nearby town of Aughrim, which is just 6Km along this road, this would be a good location to organise a pickup from.
If you are going on then follow the track uphill through some woodland and along the shoulder of Sheilstown mountain. Take a left to descend to another minor road and take a left for about 2km to bring you into Moyne.
Moyne is a great place to stop and take a well-earned rest situated in deep south Wicklow with Lugnaquillia (Leinster’s highest mountain) as a back drop. There are also two dolmens and a fairy ring close by.
Distance: 21Km Ascent: 550m Time: 7hrs
From here the Wicklow way is on a lot of roads and small boreens which can make for very pleasant walks along pathways full with wild flowers during the summer months. Although these roads may be quite, remember to keep right when walking, facing oncoming traffic.
Keeping in a southerly direction from Moyne take a small laneway to descend and cross the river at Sandyford Bridge. There is a holy well close by dedicated to St. Colmcille which is worth a quick visit. From here take a minor road which runs parallel to river next to it, this trail passes between Slieveroe and Ballycumber.
The Wicklow Way trail then turns about to the west under Ballycumber South towards Coolafunshogue woods and eventually crosses the river Derry and comes out to cross the road R747.
If you wish to stop in Tinahealy for the evening follow this road to your left for about 2.5Km and it will bring you straight into the town. Tinahely is a market town in the valley of the Derry River. The town was destroyed in the 1798 rebellion, but was later rebuilt in the early 1800’s by the Earl Fitzwilliam.
A new walk has opened up here along the old railway line or you could visit the protected woodland of Tomnafinnoge Wood one of the largest Oak forests in the country.
If you wish to Continue on the Wicklow way then cross the road to take a sharp left along a small road. Follow this trail along a wonderful flat green pathway north of Muskeagh Hill for 2Km. Then taking a right and descend downhill to a minor road where you will turn left.
Continue on this road to a T junction take the right turn crossing a small bridge keep following this road towards the Stranakelly Cross roads and the “Dying Cow” Pub. This is a great spot to stop along your way for a bite to eat or a refreshing pint with a wonderful beer garden to relax in.
From the junction follow the Wicklow Way trail uphill to your right or your left if leaving the pub. The road follows up around the north side of Cronelea hill to a T junction, take your right passing a small school and a few houses crossing the R725. Cross this road at the staggered junction and continue uphill until you come to T junction with another minor road and turn left.
Following this road, you will come to a right turn for the Wicklow way which brings you towards Raheenakit woods don’t take the right for the Wicklow way at these woods but continue straight towards the Ballard (Baile Ard) High town cross roads. At this cross roads take your left turn and follow this minor road for about 2Km into Shillelagh.
Shillelagh like Tinahely sits on the Derry River and is an estate village built by Earl Fitzwilliam with wonderful looking houses constructed using local granite. The famous Irish weapon that was made from blackthorn sticks, ‘The Shillelagh’ originates from this village.
Distance: 21Km Ascent: 550m Time: 7hrs
Rejoin the Wicklow way by going out towards the Ballard Crossroads. Take your right to Raheenakit and follow the trail left into the woods. The trail takes a few twists and turns as goes across Barnamuinga and Aghowie Upper. There are great views along this trail across counties Carlow and Wexford.
On this trail be careful not to miss out for a stile down a grassy lane along your way as you are coming of Aghowie Upper. You will then come out onto another path take your right and follow this as it joins a minor road. The Wickow way travels north up and around Moylisha and back in a southerly direction around Newry.
Rejoining the road and crossing it towards Wicklow bridge, from which point you have entered County Carlow and from here take your left and follow the Wicklow way for 3 Km to the Finish or start town of Clonegal. An information board and stone bench mark the terminus of the Wicklow Way. Well Done.
Now make your way to Osbourne’s Pub with it’s coffin lids counter and old style feel that makes for the perfect venue to enjoy a pint and wait for your pickup. You can pick up your Wicklow Way Certificate at Osbournes.
Beside the small and appealing village of Clonegal is the 17th century Clonegal Castle or Century Huntington Castle. The granite castle was built in 1695 by Lord Esmonde. The castle has been involved in historical events and legends.
It also said to have two ghosts dwelling in the house as well.
Ticket Price
| 4 Day €466pps Single supplement: + €180 |
| 5 Day €569pps Single supplement: + €240 |
| 6 Day €655pps Single supplement: + €300 |
| 7 Day€765pps Single supplement: + €360 |
| 8 Day€875pps Single supplement: + €420 |
| 9 Day€985pps Single supplement: + €480 |
| 10 Day€1095pps Single supplement: + €540 |
Select number of days while booking. Secure your Booking Now with Just 10% Deposit. Private tours for groups are available upon request. |
Pickup:
| Pickup from the Airport or accommodation to the Dingle Way can be arranged. |
Got a Question?
Do not hesitate to give us a call. We are an expert team and we are happy to talk to you.
17 Dodder Lawn, Dodder Valley Park, Firhouse Dublin 24, Ireland
Gallery
Testimonials
FAQs
-
Yes, this is part of the service and your luggage is transferred each day and will be at your next accommodation before your arrival. So, you can shower and freshen up quickly after arriving
-
All the information to get you to the start of your walk will be given to you, ie, bus times, train times etc. We can also organise a transfer for you from Airports or accommodations.
-
The terrain of this walk is from forest tracks, to open hillside, old roads, country lanes and Irish Bog. The walks are generally of a moderate level with approx. 15 – 20Km per day walk. It is possible to have your day shortened by letting us know and we can organise transfers to shorten the walk for you
-
We use a mix of Guesthouses on these Self-Guided Walks as we believe they give you a more personal service and many of them will provide you with a packed lunch and a hearty breakfast before you start your day. They are also locals to the area and know the best places for music, food and drink.
- We choose our accommodation very carefully and have known the owners for many years now and have built up a close relationship with them
- We can depend on these accommodations to give you the best service and assistance with any queries you may have.
- The accommodation providers are well used to guests arriving after a day’s walk and know that they want somewhere comfortable to relax and freshen up.
- They are all fully qualified and recognised accommodations with Tourism Ireland
-
In many of the towns along the way, there is a choice of restaurant or Pub (Pub cuisine in Ireland is fantastic now with a wide variety of food at a high quality in most).
- Breakfasts are included and there is a wide selection to choose from including a Full Irish, fruit, cereals, breads etc.
- Lunches for the walks: Some of the accommodations may provide a packed lunch for you. If not, they will let you know of a close by Deli or shop where you can have one made up the way you would like it.
- Evening Meals In most towns there are restaurants and Pubs, Wicklow Lamb is famous throughout the world for its quality.
- Dietary requests such as Vegetarians or Gluten free can be catered for with prior notice, although many locations in Ireland are well used to specific foods.
Related Guided Walks
The Kerry Way Ireland
The Kerry Way is one of Ireland’s most celebrated long-distance trails, leading hikers through the heart of County Kerry’s spectacular landscapes....
- Fitness Level : Moderate
- Suitable for: All age groups
- Group: 16 persons max.
- Duration Varies by selection
The Dingle Way Ireland
The Dingle Way, a scenic 179-kilometre trail, takes walkers around the captivating Dingle Peninsula, one of Ireland's most beautiful and unspoiled regions....
- Fitness Level : Moderate
- Suitable for: All age groups
- Group: 16 persons max.
- Duration: Varies by selection
The Beara Way Ireland
The Beara Way is a captivating 206-kilometre trail that winds around Ireland’s rugged Beara Peninsula, a region renowned for its untouched beauty and tranquil landscapes....
- Fitness Level : Moderate
- Suitable for: All age groups
- Group: 16 persons max.
- Duration: Varies by selection
The Sheep’s Head Way Ireland
The Sheep’s Head Way is a stunning 93-kilometre trail on Ireland’s Sheep’s Head Peninsula, known for its peaceful landscapes and breathtaking coastal views....
- Fitness Level : Moderate
- Suitable for: All age groups
- Group: 16 persons max.
- Duration : Varies by selection
The Burren Way – Ireland
The Sheep’s Head Way is a stunning 93-kilometre trail on Ireland’s Sheep’s Head Peninsula, known for its peaceful landscapes and breathtaking coastal views....
- Fitness Level : Moderate
- Suitable for: All age groups
- Group: 16 persons max.
- Duration : Varies by selection
Walking Weekend in Dingle
A Walking Weekend on the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry offers a perfect escape into Ireland’s rugged natural beauty. ...
- Fitness Level : Moderate
- Group: Short Walking Tours
- Suitable for: All age groups
- Duration : Weekend
Walking Weekend in Connemara
Explore the wild beauty of Connemara on a walking weekend, where rugged mountains, shimmering lakes, and Atlantic shores create an unforgettable adventure....
- Fitness Level : Moderate
- Group: Short Walking Tours
- Suitable for: All age groups
- Duration : Weekend
Walking Weekend in Kerry
"Explore Kerry’s breathtaking landscapes on a guided walking weekend, including Kenmare, the Kerry Way and the Beara Peninsula."...
- Fitness Level : Moderate
- Group: Short Walking Tours
- Suitable for: All age groups
- Duration : Weekend