Glendalough Upper Lake: Wicklow's Glacial Gem
Discover Glendalough Upper Lake: a scenic glacial valley with monastic ruins, diverse trails, and abundant wildlife in Wicklow Mountains National Park.
Nestled in the Wicklow Mountains National Park, Glendalough Upper Lake is a stunning glacial ribbon lake carved out during the last Ice Age. The lake's serene beauty, coupled with its historical significance as part of St. Kevin's 6th-century monastic site, makes it a must-see destination.
A brief summary to Glendalough Upper Lake
- Lugduff, Co. Wicklow, IE
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during peak season (spring and summer), as the car parks tend to fill up quickly.
- Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as the area is ideal for walking and hiking.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy by the lake, or grab refreshments from vendors near the Upper Lake car park.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, and be prepared for changing conditions in the mountains.
- Consider visiting after 4 PM to avoid crowds.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Upper Lake car park, the lake is a short, accessible walk away. Several trails of varying difficulty levels start from this point, including the Miner's Road Walk and the Spinc. Follow the marked paths to explore the shoreline and surrounding areas.
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Public Transport
Take the St. Kevin's Bus from Dublin to Glendalough. The bus will drop you off at the Glendalough Visitor Centre, which is approximately a 20-minute walk from the Upper Lake. From the Visitor Centre, follow the Green Road towards the Upper Lake. Cost: A one-way bus ticket from Dublin to Glendalough typically costs around €15-20.
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Driving
From Laragh, follow the R756 towards the Upper Lake. The Upper Lake car park is located a few minutes from Laragh. Be aware that the car park can fill up quickly on sunny days. Cost: Parking at the Upper Lake car park costs €5 per car.
Discover more about Glendalough Upper Lake
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Vale of Glendalough
1.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of the Vale of Glendalough, a serene glacial valley in County Wicklow, Ireland.
Derrybawn Mountain
2.1 km
Explore Derrybawn Mountain in Co. Wicklow, a breathtaking peak that offers stunning views, diverse trails, and a serene escape into nature's embrace.
Mullacor
2.2 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Mullacor, a mountain peak in County Wicklow, perfect for hiking, photography, and immersing in nature's splendor.
The Priest's House
2.5 km
Discover the rich history and enchanting beauty of The Priest's House, a must-visit historical landmark in Co. Wicklow, Ireland.
Glendalough Roundtower
2.5 km
Explore the enchanting Glendalough Roundtower, an ancient Irish landmark surrounded by stunning scenery and rich historical significance.
Monasterio de San Kevin
2.5 km
Discover the historic Monasterio de San Kevin, a serene retreat in Glendalough showcasing Ireland's rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes.
The Gateway
2.6 km
Explore The Gateway in Co. Wicklow, a magnificent historical landmark offering rich heritage, stunning views, and a taste of Ireland's natural beauty.
Camaderry Mountain
2.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Camaderry Mountain, a must-visit destination in County Wicklow, showcasing stunning views and rich Irish heritage.
Glendalough Visitor Centre
2.7 km
Explore the picturesque Glendalough Visitor Centre, your gateway to Ireland's stunning landscapes, rich history, and serene lakeside trails.
Lugduff
2.8 km
Discover the breathtaking views and adventurous trails of Lugduff, a stunning mountain peak in Co. Wicklow, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Turlough Hill
4.2 km
Explore Turlough Hill in County Wicklow - A breathtaking mountain peak perfect for hiking and immersing in Ireland's stunning natural beauty.
Tonelagee
5.8 km
Explore Tonelagee, a breathtaking mountain peak in Co. Wicklow, perfect for hiking and soaking in stunning Irish landscapes.
Scarr
6.8 km
Discover the stunning vistas and invigorating trails of Scarr Mountain in Co. Wicklow, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Table Mountain
8.0 km
Explore Table Mountain in Co. Wicklow, Ireland – A breathtaking natural landmark with stunning vistas and exhilarating hiking trails.
Ballineddan Mountain
10.9 km
Explore the breathtaking Ballineddan Mountain in County Wicklow, where stunning views and invigorating hikes await outdoor enthusiasts.
Unmissable attractions to see
Temple-Na-Skellig
0.6 km
Explore Temple-Na-Skellig, a stunning historical landmark in Glendalough Valley, Ireland, rich in monastic heritage and surrounded by breathtaking nature.
St. Kevin's Bed
0.6 km
Experience the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of St. Kevin's Bed, a historical landmark nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Glendalough, Ireland.
Spinc Trail (Short Route)
0.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Spinc Trail in Co. Wicklow, a perfect hiking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
The Spinc
0.8 km
Explore the breathtaking trails of The Spinc in Glendalough, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty in County Wicklow, Ireland.
Three Stone Docks
1.1 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich history at Three Stone Docks in Glendalough, Co. Wicklow - a serene escape into nature's beauty.
Reefert Church
1.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Reefert Church in Co. Wicklow, an enchanting landmark that tells Ireland's rich story.
Miners Village
1.1 km
Explore the historic Miners Village in Wicklow Mountains, where Irish heritage meets breathtaking natural beauty, a perfect escape for all travelers.
Glendalough
1.2 km
Discover Glendalough, a breathtaking national park in Wicklow, where ancient history meets stunning landscapes and exceptional outdoor adventures.
Poulanass Waterfall
1.2 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Poulanass Waterfall in Wicklow Mountains, a scenic gem perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Wicklow Mountains National Park (Parking)
1.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Wicklow Mountains National Park, a paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Wicklow Mountains National Park
1.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Wicklow Mountains National Park, a paradise for hikers and nature lovers in County Wicklow, Ireland.
Miners Way
2.2 km
Explore the breathtaking trails of Miners Way in County Wicklow, where stunning landscapes and rich history await every hiker.
Miners Way Glendasan
2.5 km
Discover the Miners Way Glendasan, a tranquil hiking area in County Wicklow, rich in history and natural beauty, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
St. Kevin's Church
2.5 km
Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of St. Kevin's Church in Glendalough, County Wicklow, a true gem of Ireland's heritage.
Glendalough Cathedral
2.5 km
Explore the ruins of Glendalough Cathedral, a testament to Ireland's rich monastic heritage in a stunning glacial valley.
Essential places to dine
St. Kevin’s Kitchen
2.6 km
Experience authentic Irish takeout at St. Kevin's Kitchen, nestled in the scenic beauty of Glendalough, Co. Wicklow.
The Glendalough Hotel
2.7 km
Experience tranquility at The Glendalough Hotel amidst stunning landscapes and rich history in County Wicklow.
Casey's Bar & Bistro
2.7 km
Discover delicious dining at Casey's Bar & Bistro in Glendalough – where local flavors meet stunning natural beauty.
The Barn, The Glendalough Hotel
2.7 km
Experience exquisite barbecue dining amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Glendalough's Wicklow Mountains.
Wicklow Heather Restaurant | Glendalough
4.2 km
Experience traditional Irish dining at Wicklow Heather Restaurant in Glendalough - where local flavors meet breathtaking mountain views.
Lynhams of Laragh
4.5 km
Discover comfort and authentic Irish hospitality at Lynhams of Laragh, your gateway to exploring County Wicklow's breathtaking landscapes.
Glendalough Cafe
4.6 km
Experience the best of Wicklow at Glendalough Cafe - where great food meets breathtaking scenery.
The Glenmalure Lodge
5.2 km
Discover traditional Irish hospitality at The Glenmalure Lodge - your perfect retreat in Wicklow's breathtaking landscapes.
Kavanagh's Vartry House
11.3 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Kavanagh's Vartry House in scenic Roundwood - where tradition meets comfort.
Byrne & Woods Bar & Restaurant
11.3 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine and warm hospitality at Byrne & Woods Bar & Restaurant in beautiful Co. Wicklow.
The Roundwood Inn
11.5 km
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Coffin Shed
12.0 km
Experience local flavors at Coffin Shed - Rathdrum's favorite spot for fresh dishes and renowned coffee amidst stunning County Wicklow scenery.
Bates Nua Restaurant Rathdrum
12.0 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Bates Nua Restaurant in Rathdrum - where local ingredients meet culinary excellence.
La Taverna Armento
13.9 km
Experience authentic Southern Italian cuisine in the scenic beauty of Co. Wicklow at La Taverna Armento.
Strawberry Tree Restaurant
13.9 km
Experience farm-to-table dining at Strawberry Tree Restaurant in Macreddin Village - where local flavors meet culinary excellence.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Glendalough gift shop, Co. Wicklow, Ireland.
2.4 km
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Glendalough Craft Shop
2.7 km
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Tweeds & Woollens
3.7 km
Explore Tweeds & Woollens in Glendalough for authentic Irish fashion and craftsmanship, featuring high-quality woollen and tweed clothing.
McCoys XL Laragh
4.3 km
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Mug Donkey
5.9 km
Explore Mug Donkey, a charming gift shop showcasing unique local crafts and delightful souvenirs that embody the spirit of your travels.
Olannmor
7.3 km
Discover the artistry of knitting at Olannmor, Co. Wicklow's premier knit shop offering expert instruction and high-quality yarns.
ANNAMOE ANTIQUES /VINTAGE RUGS
7.9 km
Explore the charm of Annamoe Antiques & Vintage Rugs, where every piece tells a story in the heart of Co. Wicklow.
Diykitchenshop
10.2 km
Explore Diykitchenshop in Co. Wicklow for unique furniture that embodies Irish craftsmanship and style, perfect for enhancing your living space.
EcoChic Boutique
11.1 km
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TK Hardware & Garden Store
11.3 km
Discover quality home goods and gardening supplies at TK Hardware & Garden Store, a charming shop in Roundwood, Co. Wicklow.
Sugar Mountain
11.4 km
Discover Sugar Mountain, a cozy coffee shop in Co. Wicklow, offering artisanal brews and stunning views, perfect for a relaxing getaway.
The Roundwood Stores
11.5 km
Explore The Roundwood Stores in Co. Wicklow – your gateway to fresh local produce and charming village life.
The Rustichouse
12.0 km
Explore a charming antique store in Rathdrum, featuring unique jewelry, vintage books, and delightful novelty items, perfect for treasure hunters.
The Wild Glen
14.7 km
Discover the charm of handmade candles and unique gifts at The Wild Glen in the heart of Co. Wicklow, a treasure for every tourist.
Archeryshop.ie
15.6 km
Explore the enchanting world of archery at Archeryshop.ie, where adventure and expert guidance meet in the heart of Co. Wicklow.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tóchar House
11.4 km
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The Cartoon Inn
12.0 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at The Cartoon Inn, a cozy bar in Rathdrum with local charm and delightful beverages.
Fenton's Imaal Bar & Lounge Glen of Imaal Bar
12.8 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Fenton's Imaal Bar & Lounge, a cozy retreat in the stunning Glen of Imaal, County Wicklow.
Actons Country Pub and Brewery
13.9 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Actons Country Pub and Brewery, where local brews and hearty meals meet stunning Wicklow scenery.
DJ Cullen Lake View Lounge
14.6 km
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Kings Glenealy
15.2 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Kings Glenealy, a cozy pub in Glenealy, Co. Wicklow, perfect for relaxation and local brews.
The Star Inn
15.7 km
Experience the charm of traditional Irish hospitality at The Star Inn in Co. Wicklow, where great drinks and hearty food await.
O'Keeffe's Pub
17.1 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at O'Keeffe's Pub in Knockananna, Co. Wicklow - a cozy retreat for locals and tourists alike.
N11 at the Ashford House
17.1 km
Discover the essence of Irish dining at N11 at the Ashford House, where culinary delights meet warm hospitality in scenic Co. Wicklow.
The Hollywood Inn
18.5 km
Discover the charm of The Hollywood Inn, a quintessential Irish pub in Co. Wicklow, offering hearty meals and warm hospitality amidst stunning scenery.
Druid's Well Pub
19.4 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Druid's Well Pub in Newtown Mount Kennedy, a charming bar ideal for relaxation and local culture.
The Talk Of The Town
19.7 km
Discover the warmth of Irish hospitality at The Talk Of The Town, a charming bar in Kiltegan offering local drinks and a vibrant community atmosphere.
The Castle Inn Wicklow
21.3 km
Experience the best of Irish cuisine at The Castle Inn Wicklow, a cozy grill in the heart of Newcastle Middle, County Wicklow.
The Growlerman Bar (O'Connors)
21.5 km
Discover The Growlerman Bar: A cozy spot in Wicklow serving local craft beer, Irish whiskey, and live music for an unforgettable experience.
Fitzpatricks Bar
21.5 km
Experience the heart of Irish hospitality at Fitzpatrick's Bar in Wicklow, where cozy ambiance meets delightful drinks and local culture.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Axe Club Glendalough
4.5 km
Unleash your inner warrior at Axe Club Glendalough, the ultimate axe-throwing venue in the heart of Wicklow's stunning landscapes.
Glen Lounge
17.9 km
Discover the cozy charm of Glen Lounge, a delightful bar in Co. Wicklow, offering a warm atmosphere, local drinks, and friendly hospitality.
Doyles
20.2 km
Experience the authentic Irish atmosphere at Doyles, a cozy bar in Co. Wicklow offering local brews and traditional fare.
The Best Night Out
23.1 km
Unleash your inner party animal at The Best Night Out, where electrifying DJ performances and vibrant nightlife await in a stylish setting.
Koo Nightclub
28.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bray at Koo Nightclub, where energetic beats and unforgettable memories come alive.
Encore Nightclub
31.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Encore Nightclub in Naas, Co. Kildare, where music and dancing unite for unforgettable nights.
One New Row
31.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at One New Row - a premier bar in Naas West, perfect for drinks, music, and socializing.
Core Junior Nights
33.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Core Junior Nights in Dublin 6W, where music, dance, and fun come together for an unforgettable evening.
The Vico
35.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Dalkey at The Vico, where electrifying music meets a stylish atmosphere in a stunning coastal setting.
Apollo Club
35.0 km
Discover the electric energy of Apollo Club, a premier night club in Greatconnell, where unforgettable nights and lively music await you.
Mc Gowan's Newbridge
35.1 km
Discover Mc Gowan's Newbridge, a lively sports bar known for its great food, drinks, and vibrant nightlife in the heart of Co. Kildare.
Buzz Late Night Venue
35.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Buzz Late Night Venue, Dublin's premier spot for live music, dancing, and a fun-filled atmosphere.
O2
36.8 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Gorey at O2 Nightclub, where affordable drinks and great music create unforgettable nights out.
Rain Nightclub
36.9 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Rain Nightclub in Dublin, where vibrant music and unforgettable parties await every weekend.
Legg's Nightclub
37.4 km
Discover the pulsating heart of Dublin's nightlife at Legg's Nightclub, where music, dance, and vibrant energy create unforgettable experiences.
