7-Day / 6-Night Challenging (Wicklow Way) 🥾

From your point of arrival, use the public transport information we provide to make the journey to Bunclody.

After a transfer to Clonegal, you set out from a small park, marking the start of the Wicklow Way. Relax into the walk with some easy kilometres on quiet country roads, soon crossing the border from County Carlow into Wicklow. Then, some nice steady climbs and descents through woodland and forestry, including a good climb over the shoulder of Agawhole Upper and down to Raheenakit crossroads. The rest of the day follows meandering country lanes surrounded by pastures and rolling countryside, with a final descent to Tallon’s ‘Dying Cow’ Pub, for well-earned refreshments.

Before you leave The Dying Cow Pub behind, stop first for a photo with the famous Wicklow Way hiker and their dog! The path climbs and descends constantly today, firstly over quiet country roads and laneways, then down the boardwalk steps of Noel’s Way and over the River Derry. Climb around the foothills of Coolafunshoge, through Mangans Wood and then up to a stunning viewpoint with a large granite column seat, a perfect spot for lunch. Rambling country lanes then lead to a long gradual climb (200m) over 4km of forestry. Then a long descent down to Iron Bridge, from where you will be transferred to your B&B.

A morning transfer to Iron Bridge. There is plenty of climbing today, but as you are up at a height for most of the day, you are rewarded with stunning views of the area. A long gradual climb up from Iron Bridge, through forestry and passing Mucklagh Hut, until you reach the lower slopes of Slieve Maan. Then a long descent through forestry all the way down into Glenmalure. Then, a gradual climb up the northern slopes of Glenmalure, offering excellent views of Lugnaquilla, the tallest mountain in Wicklow. After passing through Lugduff Gap, the path descends gradually, revealing beautiful views of the picturesque Glendalough Valley. As it curves at the head of the valley, the route crosses the Glenealo River, leading to a peaceful riverside walk with numerous idyllic picnic spots along the way. After descending into valley, the path takes you along the shorelines of the lakes to the Monastic ‘City’ of Glendalough.

Leaving the ancient Monastic City behind, you ascend through dense forestry before crossing the Glenmacnass River. From here, you make your way up Paddock Hill and then down into Oldbridge. If the weather is clear, you can follow an optional detour over Scarr Mountain (641m). Viewpoints on both sides of the trail showcase panoramic views and allow appreciation for how far you have come.

The route passes above iconic Lough Tay, the famous Guinness Lake and the setting for many movies and TV series. From there you climb up to White Hill and around the bulk of Djouce mountain (or visit the summit) before descending into Crone Woods, with spectacular views of Powerscourt Waterfall. You may wish to detour at the end of the walk to visit the famous waterfall up close. A short transfer will bring you to your B&B.

Today starts with a walk through the woods and along a peaceful riverside. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way! As you ascend Prince William’s Seat, you will be rewarded with panoramic views across Dublin City and the Bay. Follow the trail as you cross into County Dublin. An optional detour will bring you to the infamous Johnnie Fox’s pub for refreshments with a stunning view, at ‘Ireland’s highest pub’.

Continue towards the Dublin Mountains, with a longer road section near Glencullen. An optional climb of Fairy Castle Mountain will offer views as far as Holyhead in Wales on a clear day. The transition from mountains to city is surprisingly quick, and you will soon be at the Wicklow Way finishing point after a peaceful stroll through Marlay Park, from where you can get a taxi transfer to your accommodation.

There are regular bus and train services to Dublin City Centre and to Dublin Airport. Your hosts can usually provide the most accurate local details, but if you need additional guidance, our team is happy to help.