County Wicklow
Granite mountains, wooded valleys and a medieval monastery: County Wicklow concentrates some of Ireland's finest natural and historic landscapes, just an hour from Dublin.
County Wicklow, nicknamed "the Garden of Ireland," stretches south of Dublin between granite mountains, wooded valleys and a jagged coastline. Its landscapes range from the wild plateau of the Wicklow Mountains to the manicured grounds of Powerscourt, passing through the medieval monastic site of Glendalough. It's one of the most accessible natural escapes from the Irish capital, prized for hiking, photography and Celtic and Christian heritage.
Practical Information at a Glance
- Access from Dublin: approximately 1 hour by car via the N11; bus connections (Dublin Coach, Bus Éireann) to Wicklow town and Rathnew.
- Recommended duration: one day for a specific site (Glendalough or Powerscourt); two to three days to explore the county.
- Attire: waterproof hiking boots recommended; changeable weather year-round.
- Accessibility: varies by site — Powerscourt gardens have accessible pathways; mountain trails are largely inaccessible.
What You'll Find There
Wicklow Mountains National Park covers more than 20,000 hectares of moorland, bog and forest. Glendalough valley is home to two glacial lakes and a remarkably well-preserved monastic complex dating from the 6th century. Further south, Brittas Bay beach attracts Irish families in summer. Along the Military Road, built after the 1798 rebellion, panoramas over Glenmacnass and Sally Gap valleys rank among the country's most spectacular.
History and Context
Saint Kevin founded the monastery of Glendalough around 498, which became a major centre of learning during the High Middle Ages. The Vikings founded Wicklow town (Víkingaló) in the 9th century. Following the 1798 United Irish rebellion, the British built the Military Road to control the heights. In the 19th century, the Wingfield family developed Powerscourt gardens, now ranked among Europe's finest.
Highlights of Your Visit
Glendalough
The monastic site comprises an intact round tower over 30 metres high, several ruined churches and two lakes framed by forests. Marked trails around the lakes allow for loops ranging from one to three hours depending on fitness level.
Powerscourt Gardens and Waterfall
The formal Italian-style gardens open onto direct views of Sugar Loaf Mountain. A few kilometres away, Powerscourt Waterfall is among Ireland's highest. The estate also features shopping and dining facilities in the 18th-century mansion.
Sally Gap and Glenmacnass
This mountain pass at over 400 metres elevation offers endless stretches of bogland. The Glenmacnass waterfall, visible from the road, plunges into a steep gorge — an inevitable photo stop.
Vale of Avoca
The confluence of the Avonmore and Avonbeg rivers, celebrated by poet Thomas Moore, gives rise to the Avoca river. The nearby village is home to Ireland's oldest working woollen mill.
Photography Tips
Golden hour light in late afternoon reveals the russet tones of Sally Gap's boglands. At Glendalough, early morning limits crowds and offers crisp reflections on the upper lake. Powerscourt Waterfall photographs best after a rainy spell when flow is strong. Avoid heavily misty days on the heights — visibility can drop to just metres.
Location and Access
Wicklow borders Dublin to the south; the county boundary begins less than 20 km from the capital's centre. The N11/M11 is the main artery. For mountain sites (Glendalough, Sally Gap), a car is virtually essential. Glendalough and Powerscourt gardens are the two most visited entry points.
Nearby Attractions
- Dublin — Ireland's capital, the natural departure point for exploring Wicklow.
- Glendalough — 6th-century monastic site at the heart of the national park.
- Powerscourt Gardens — formal gardens and waterfall on an 18th-century estate.
- Bray — Victorian seaside resort on the county's edge, connected to Dublin by DART.
- Vale of Avoca — river valley and historic woollen mill.
Frequently asked questions
May through September offers long days and slightly reduced rainfall. Autumn brings remarkable colours to Glendalough's forests. Winter can close certain mountain trails in frosty conditions.
Glendalough is accessible by organised bus tours from Dublin (several operators run day excursions). Bray is served by DART. For Sally Gap or southern beaches, a car remains necessary.
National park access is free. Some sites within it, such as the Glendalough visitor centre, charge admission.
Allow two hours for the monastic site and a circuit of the lower lake. An additional half-day enables you to reach the upper lake and forest trails.
It's feasible by car if you start early from Dublin, but both sites deserve several hours each. It's better to choose one for a thorough visit.
The loops around Glendalough's lower lake and Powerscourt gardens suit families. High mountain trails (Sally Gap, Lugnaquilla) require good fitness and proper equipment.
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