Discover the Enchanting Vale of Glendalough
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of the Vale of Glendalough, a serene glacial valley in County Wicklow, Ireland.
Nestled in the heart of County Wicklow, the Vale of Glendalough is a breathtaking glacial valley renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and tranquil atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination for tourists seeking both adventure and serenity.
A brief summary to Vale of Glendalough
- Lugduff, Co. Wicklow, IE
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for fewer crowds and the best lighting for photography.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the trails can be uneven and vary in difficulty.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy by the lakeside, taking in the stunning scenery.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit, as they can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Don't forget to bring a camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes and historic ruins.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, head to the R756 road, which connects to the Vale of Glendalough. From the town of Wicklow, take the N11 north and then exit onto the R756 towards Glendalough. Follow the signs for Glendalough and continue on the R756 for approximately 15 km until you reach the entrance of the Glendalough Visitor Centre. There is parking available here for a fee of around €4 for the day.
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Public Transportation
To reach the Vale of Glendalough using public transportation, take a bus from Dublin. The Bus Éireann service (Route 133) departs from Busáras (Dublin's central bus station) and travels directly to Glendalough. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours. Once you arrive at the Glendalough bus stop, it is a short walk (about 1 km) to the Vale of Glendalough itself. Be sure to check the bus schedule ahead of time, as services may be limited on weekends and public holidays.
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Walking
If you are already in the Wicklow Mountains and close to Glendalough, walking to the Vale can be a beautiful way to experience the landscape. From the Glendalough Visitor Centre, take the marked pathways leading towards the Lower Lake. The distance is approximately 1.5 km, and the walk is well signposted. Enjoy the scenic views along the way!
Discover more about Vale of Glendalough
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lugduff
1.3 km
Discover the breathtaking views and adventurous trails of Lugduff, a stunning mountain peak in Co. Wicklow, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Mullacor
1.8 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Mullacor, a mountain peak in County Wicklow, perfect for hiking, photography, and immersing in nature's splendor.
Camaderry Mountain
2.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Camaderry Mountain, a must-visit destination in County Wicklow, showcasing stunning views and rich Irish heritage.
Derrybawn Mountain
3.3 km
Explore Derrybawn Mountain in Co. Wicklow, a breathtaking peak that offers stunning views, diverse trails, and a serene escape into nature's embrace.
Turlough Hill
3.5 km
Explore Turlough Hill in County Wicklow - A breathtaking mountain peak perfect for hiking and immersing in Ireland's stunning natural beauty.
The Priest's House
3.9 km
Discover the rich history and enchanting beauty of The Priest's House, a must-visit historical landmark in Co. Wicklow, Ireland.
Monasterio de San Kevin
4.0 km
Discover the historic Monasterio de San Kevin, a serene retreat in Glendalough showcasing Ireland's rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes.
Table Mountain
6.8 km
Explore Table Mountain in Co. Wicklow, Ireland – A breathtaking natural landmark with stunning vistas and exhilarating hiking trails.
Scarr
7.9 km
Discover the stunning vistas and invigorating trails of Scarr Mountain in Co. Wicklow, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Ballineddan Mountain
9.5 km
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Lobawn
10.9 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Lobawn, a majestic mountain peak in Co. Wicklow, offering stunning views and serene hiking experiences.
Mullaghcleevaun
11.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Mullaghcleevaun, the second-highest peak in the Wicklow Mountains, offering stunning views and thrilling outdoor adventures.
Luggala
13.5 km
Explore Luggala, the breathtaking mountain peak in Wicklow, where stunning landscapes and rich history create an unforgettable adventure.
Keadeen Mountain
14.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Keadeen Mountain in Co. Wicklow, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers with stunning views and rich biodiversity.
Church Mountain
14.8 km
Explore the stunning vistas of Church Mountain in Co. Wicklow, where nature and adventure blend seamlessly for an unforgettable experience.
Unmissable attractions to see
Glendalough viewpoint
0.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Glendalough viewpoint in County Wicklow, a hiker's paradise offering stunning landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable experiences amidst nature.
Miners Village
0.8 km
Explore the rich mining heritage and stunning landscapes of Miners Village, a captivating tourist attraction in the Wicklow Mountains, Ireland.
Spinc Trail (Short Route)
0.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Spinc Trail in Co. Wicklow, a perfect hiking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Glenealo Valley
1.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Glenealo Valley, a hiker's paradise in County Wicklow, where stunning landscapes and rich history await your discovery.
Glendalough Upper Lake
1.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Glendalough Upper Lake, a serene gem in the Wicklow Mountains, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Glendalough
1.5 km
Explore the natural beauty and historical significance of Glendalough, a serene lakeside retreat in County Wicklow, Ireland.
Temple-Na-Skellig
2.0 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
2.0 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of St. Kevin's Bed in Glendalough, a captivating destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
The Spinc
2.1 km
Explore the breathtaking trails of The Spinc in Glendalough, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty in County Wicklow, Ireland.
Reefert Church
2.5 km
Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Reefert Church in Co. Wicklow, an enchanting landmark that tells Ireland's rich story.
Three Stone Docks
2.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich history at Three Stone Docks in Glendalough, Co. Wicklow - a serene escape into nature's beauty.
Walking trails of Glendalough (start)
2.6 km
Explore the scenic walking trails of Glendalough, where stunning landscapes meet rich history in the heart of County Wicklow, Ireland.
Poulanass Waterfall
2.6 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Poulanass Waterfall in Wicklow Mountains, a scenic gem perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Baravore Mines
2.6 km
Explore Baravore Mines, a historical landmark in County Wicklow, where rich mining history meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Wicklow Mountains National Park (Parking)
2.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Wicklow Mountains National Park, a hiker's paradise filled with stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Essential places to dine
St. Kevin’s Kitchen
4.1 km
Experience authentic Irish takeout at St. Kevin's Kitchen, nestled in the scenic beauty of Glendalough, Co. Wicklow.
The Glendalough Hotel
4.1 km
Experience tranquility at The Glendalough Hotel amidst stunning landscapes and rich history in County Wicklow.
Casey's Bar & Bistro
4.1 km
Discover delicious dining at Casey's Bar & Bistro in Glendalough – where local flavors meet stunning natural beauty.
The Barn, The Glendalough Hotel
4.1 km
Experience exquisite barbecue dining amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Glendalough's Wicklow Mountains.
The Glenmalure Lodge
5.1 km
Discover traditional Irish hospitality at The Glenmalure Lodge - your perfect retreat in Wicklow's breathtaking landscapes.
Wicklow Heather Restaurant | Glendalough
5.6 km
Experience traditional Irish dining at Wicklow Heather Restaurant in Glendalough - where local flavors meet breathtaking mountain views.
Wicklow Heather Restaurant
5.6 km
Discover Wicklow Heather Restaurant: A local culinary treasure offering fresh Irish cuisine amidst breathtaking scenery.
Lynhams of Laragh
5.8 km
Discover comfort and authentic Irish hospitality at Lynhams of Laragh, your gateway to exploring County Wicklow's breathtaking landscapes.
Glendalough Cafe
6.0 km
Experience the best of Wicklow at Glendalough Cafe - where great food meets breathtaking scenery.
Wicklow Mountains
9.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Wicklow Mountains - a paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts in Ireland.
Kavanagh's Vartry House
12.7 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Kavanagh's Vartry House in scenic Roundwood - where tradition meets comfort.
Byrne & Woods Bar & Restaurant
12.7 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine and warm hospitality at Byrne & Woods Bar & Restaurant in beautiful Co. Wicklow.
Coffin Shed
12.7 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
12.8 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Bates Nua Restaurant in Rathdrum - where local ingredients meet culinary excellence.
The Roundwood Inn
12.9 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Glendalough gift shop, Co. Wicklow, Ireland.
3.8 km
Explore Glendalough Gift Shop for unique Irish crafts, souvenirs, and local treasures amidst stunning natural beauty.
Glendalough Craft Shop
4.1 km
Explore the charm of Glendalough Craft Shop in Co. Wicklow, where local artistry meets breathtaking landscapes for an unforgettable shopping experience.
Tweeds & Woollens
5.1 km
Explore Tweeds & Woollens in Glendalough for authentic Irish fashion and craftsmanship, featuring high-quality woollen and tweed clothing.
McCoys XL Laragh
5.7 km
Explore McCoys XL Laragh, your ideal convenience store in the heart of Co. Wicklow, offering local products and friendly service.
Mug Donkey
6.8 km
Explore Mug Donkey, a charming gift shop showcasing unique local crafts and delightful souvenirs that embody the spirit of your travels.
Olannmor
8.4 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
9.3 km
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Diykitchenshop
11.5 km
Explore Diykitchenshop in Co. Wicklow for unique furniture that embodies Irish craftsmanship and style, perfect for enhancing your living space.
EcoChic Boutique
11.9 km
Discover sustainable fashion at EcoChic Boutique in Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow—where style meets eco-consciousness.
TK Hardware & Garden Store
12.6 km
Discover quality home goods and gardening supplies at TK Hardware & Garden Store, a charming shop in Roundwood, Co. Wicklow.
The Rustichouse
12.7 km
Explore a charming antique store in Rathdrum, featuring unique jewelry, vintage books, and delightful novelty items, perfect for treasure hunters.
Sugar Mountain
12.8 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
12.9 km
Explore The Roundwood Stores in Co. Wicklow – your gateway to fresh local produce and charming village life.
Archeryshop.ie
15.1 km
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table.ie
15.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Fenton's Imaal Bar & Lounge Glen of Imaal Bar
11.4 km
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Tóchar House
12.7 km
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The Cartoon Inn
12.7 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at The Cartoon Inn, a cozy bar in Rathdrum with local charm and delightful beverages.
Actons Country Pub and Brewery
13.8 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
14.1 km
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The Star Inn
15.1 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
16.0 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at O'Keeffe's Pub in Knockananna, Co. Wicklow - a cozy retreat for locals and tourists alike.
Kings Glenealy
16.4 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Kings Glenealy, a cozy pub in Glenealy, Co. Wicklow, perfect for relaxation and local brews.
The Hollywood Inn
17.6 km
Discover the charm of The Hollywood Inn, a quintessential Irish pub in Co. Wicklow, offering hearty meals and warm hospitality amidst stunning scenery.
The Talk Of The Town
18.3 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.
N11 at the Ashford House
18.5 km
Discover the essence of Irish dining at N11 at the Ashford House, where culinary delights meet warm hospitality in scenic Co. Wicklow.
Druid's Well Pub
20.8 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.
Garretts Bar
22.2 km
Discover the delightful atmosphere of Garretts Bar in Dunlavin Upper, where local culture and hospitality come alive in a cozy setting.
The Growlerman Bar (O'Connors)
22.8 km
Discover The Growlerman Bar: A cozy spot in Wicklow serving local craft beer, Irish whiskey, and live music for an unforgettable experience.
The Castle Inn Wicklow
22.8 km
Experience the best of Irish cuisine at The Castle Inn Wicklow, a cozy grill in the heart of Newcastle Middle, County Wicklow.
