The Wicklow Way

Walk from Shillelagh to Tinahely with optional extension via Aghowle

16km, ascents 270m, approx. walking time 4 hours
Via Aghowle 23km, ascents 270m, approx. walking time 6 hours

The route follows tracks and minor roads through gentle farmland as an easy introduction to the Wicklow Way. It is pleasant countryside and a good way to loosen up for the tougher days ahead. You may wish to start in pretty Shillelagh village and the oak woods of Coolattin Estate, which supposedly were the source of timber for to roof London's Westminster Hall. There is also an optional route to Aghowle to see interesting 12 th century church remains.
Second night at Tinahely

Walk Tinahely to Moyne with optional climb of Ballycumber Hill

14km Ascents 190m, approx. walking time 4 hours
with Ballycumber Hill 19km, ascents 400m, approx. walking time 6 hours

Follow Coolafunshogue lane around hills and through the Ballinglen river valley. The Ballincumber route offers excellent views and a challenging climb. Evening meals will be available in your guesthouse tonight.
Overnight Moyne

Walk Moyne to Drumgoff (Glenmalure)

21km. Ascents 500m, approx. walking time 6 hours

The day starts with an invigorating climb and enters the world of the pine forest, so lots of good walking but with obscured views. A good day to spot a red deer and other Wicklow flora and fauna … The finish at Drumgoff, at the head of the picturesque Glenmalure Valley, provides a refreshing end to the day. The area is renowned for its rebels and heroes during the 16 th and 18 th century Irish uprisings. A pint of plain in the Glenmalure Lodge should allow enough time to recall some of the more interesting stories!
Accommodation in Drumgoff

Walk Drumgoff to Laragh with optional climb of Mullacor and Derrybawn Mountain

18km, ascents 530m, approx. walking time 6 hours,
with optional climb 20km, ascents 660m, approx. walking time 7 hours

Superb views, superb walking, superb 6 th century monastic remains at Glendalough; today is one of the tour's highlights. Climbing through forest from Drumgoff, the Way opens to the flat saddle of Mullacor at 550m before crossing open moorland to the slopes of Derrybawn Mountain. The first view of Glendalough (An Gleann Dha Locha, the glen of the two lakes) is wonderful, deep wooded sides and the Glenalo River flowing through. From the valley, a short climb takes you northeast and then down the Glenmacnass Valley to Laragh village.
Accommodation in Laragh Village

Walk Laragh to Roundwood with optional Route via Scarr Mountain

11km, ascents 290m, approx. walking time 3 hours
Via Scarr Mountain 15km Ascents 520m, approx. walking time 5 hours

A short day allows time to visit the monastic remains and Visitor Centre at Glendalough. The valley was also home to extensive mining of lead, copper and zinc during the 19th century. The Way climbs the gentle flank of Paddock Hill, descending to Oldbridge, the Avonmore River and the beautiful Lough Dan. An optional route on Scarr Mountain offers wonderful views of this lake. Today's section finishes in Roundwood, Ireland's highest village at 238m.
Accommodation in Roundwood

Roundwood to Glencree /Enniskerry

18km, ascents 510m, approx. walking time 5 hours

Wonderful walking, overlooking Lough Tay, Lough Dan and Luggala Estate of the Guinness Family. A raised path covers a long stretch of open moorland to the saddle between White Hill and Djouce Mountain. From here it is possible to see the coast as far as Howth Head in north Co. Dublin. Descending past the 120m fall of Powerscourt Waterfall, enter the peace of the Glencree River Valley and a wonderful riverbank walk.
Overnight Enniskerry

Departure from Enniskerry by public transport to Dublin Airport.

Public transport from Enniskerry to Dublin. AirLink coach to Dublin airport is available from various points in Dublin City Centre.