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Roundwood: Ireland's Highest Village

Discover Roundwood, County Wicklow: Ireland's highest village, a haven for outdoor adventures and traditional Irish charm.

Nestled in the Wicklow Mountains, Roundwood is one of Ireland's highest villages, offering scenic beauty and a gateway to outdoor adventures. Explore the Vartry Reservoirs, hike the Wicklow Way, and enjoy the traditional Irish charm of local pubs and restaurants.

A brief summary to Roundwood

Local tips

  • Visit during the summer months (June-August) for the best weather for outdoor activities.
  • Explore the Vartry Reservoirs and enjoy the scenic walking trails.
  • Hike a portion of the Wicklow Way for stunning views of the Wicklow Mountains.
  • Enjoy traditional Irish food and live music at one of Roundwood's local pubs.
  • Check out the Roundwood Festival in August for a taste of local culture and heritage.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Dublin, take the St. Kevin's Bus (line 181) from Leeson Street Lower directly to Roundwood. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and departs twice daily. Alternatively, from Wicklow Town, take the Local Link Bus 183 to Roundwood. This bus runs four times a day and takes about 45 minutes. A single fare on either bus will typically cost around €8-€10. Check the current schedules for most up to date times and fares.

  • Driving

    From Dublin, follow the M11/N11 past Bray and exit at Kilmacanogue onto the R755. Follow the signs for Glendalough, which will take you through Roundwood. The drive is approximately 37 km and takes about 35 minutes. From Wicklow Town, drive north on the R755 for approximately 19 km, which should take about 20 minutes. Parking is available in the village, but it may be limited, especially during peak season. Check local parking regulations for any fees or restrictions.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from Dublin or Wicklow Town to Roundwood. A taxi from Dublin will cost approximately €55-€70 and take about 35 minutes. A taxi from Wicklow Town will cost approximately €29-€35 and take about 20 minutes. Taxi services like Dsouth Taxi Company operate in the Roundwood area. Pre-booking is recommended.

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Discover more about Roundwood

Roundwood, historically known as Tóchar, meaning "The Causeway" in Irish, is a charming village nestled in County Wicklow, Ireland. Situated at 238 meters (781 feet) above sea level, it proudly holds the title of one of the highest villages in Ireland. With a population of approximately 907 residents as of 2022, Roundwood offers a tranquil escape into nature, while remaining conveniently close to Dublin. Located on the main route from Dublin to Glendalough, Roundwood serves as an ideal base for exploring the scenic Wicklow Mountains National Park. The village is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, including the Vartry Reservoirs, which not only supply Dublin with water but also offer picturesque walking trails. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of activities, such as hiking, cycling, fishing, and golfing. The Wicklow Way, a long-distance walking route, passes just a kilometer west of Roundwood, providing access to stunning views and challenging climbs. Roundwood has a rich history, with evidence of Neolithic settlements nearby. In modern times, the village has capitalized on its natural beauty and proximity to Dublin to develop its tourist infrastructure. Visitors can experience traditional Irish culture in the village's atmospheric pubs and restaurants, some of which are known for live music. The village also has connections to two former Presidents of Ireland: Seán T. O'Kelly and Erskine Hamilton Childers. Roundwood is twinned with Spézet, a village in Brittany, France, fostering cultural exchange and communication between the two communities.

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