Glendalough and the Wicklow Mountains - Day Trip from Dublin

What to Expect

Glendalough is one of the finest day trips available from Dublin city, combining one of Ireland’s most important early medieval monastic sites with a glacial valley of exceptional natural beauty in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains. Founded by St Kevin around 570 AD, the monastic settlement grew into one of the great centres of learning in early Christian Europe, and the remains of the site, including a striking round tower, Celtic crosses, stone churches and a gateway arch, are among the best-preserved early medieval ruins in Ireland.

The valley contains two lakes, and a network of walking trails of varying lengths suits everyone from those who want a short gentle stroll to experienced hikers. The easiest option is the flat lakeside trail from the monastic site to the Upper Lake, a 30-minute walk each way through beautiful woodland. The Spinc Walk is a full-day option, a 9km loop that climbs the ridge above the Upper Lake for dramatic views across the valley, taking 3-4 hours.

All walking trails and the monastic site grounds are free to access. The Heritage Ireland visitor centre charges a small admission fee and provides excellent context for understanding the site’s history. Parking costs a few euros at the designated car park.

Getting There

St Kevin’s Bus runs twice daily from Dawson Street in Dublin city centre to Glendalough, with departures at 11:30am. The return journey from Glendalough departs at 4:30pm, making this the ideal way to visit without a car. The journey takes approximately 90 minutes. By car, Glendalough is approximately 50km south of Dublin via the N11 and R755 through Roundwood, taking around 60-90 minutes depending on traffic.

Good to Know

• Walking trails and monastic site grounds are free
• Visitor centre admission approximately €5 adult
• St Kevin’s Bus runs twice daily from Dawson Street, Dublin
• Wear walking boots and bring waterproofs; the Wicklow mountains can be wet even in summer
• Combine with Powerscourt or the Wicklow Gap for a fuller day trip
• The Upper Lake area can be busy on summer weekends; consider an early start

Planning Your Visit

Allow at least half a day for the monastic site, visitor centre and a walk to the Upper Lake. For the Spinc ridge walk, allow a full day. Glendalough also makes a rewarding overnight stay; the Glendalough Hotel and several guesthouses are near the site.