Overview
Glendalough (Irish: Gleann Dá Locha, “valley of the two lakes”) lies 40 km south of Dublin, deep within the Wicklow Mountains National Park. The U‑shaped glacial valley cradles two ribbon lakes – the Upper Lake, a 30‑metre‑deep blue basin framed by steep pine‑clad slopes, and the Lower Lake below – and a wealth of early‑medieval stonework that once formed one of Ireland’s most important monastic cities. Today the site blends natural beauty, archaeological intrigue and a network of walking trails, making it a must‑see on any Irish itinerary.
History / Background
- 6th century foundation – Saint Kevin, a descendant of a Leinster ruling family, retreated to the remote valley and founded a monastic settlement that grew into a thriving community.
- Medieval growth – Over six centuries the monastery expanded: a cathedral, round tower, several stone churches and high crosses were erected. The Annals record Viking raids (at least four attacks) and the abbacy of St Laurence O’Toole, who later became Archbishop of Dublin (1162).
- Destruction and revival – English forces razed the complex in 1398, but the site remained a local church and pilgrimage destination. In the 19th century the Office of Public Works began careful restoration, and the ruins were opened to the public.
- Mining heritage – From the 1790s to 1957 lead, silver and zinc were extracted at the Glendalough mines. At its peak more than 2,000 miners worked the valley, leaving behind stone houses, rusted crushers, a miners’ village and a network of tunnels. The industry closed after a tragic dynamite accident in 1957, and the skeletal village now forms a poignant historic trail. The Glendalough Mining Heritage Project conserves this industrial legacy.
- Geological origins – The lakes were carved by glaciers during the last Ice Age. Melt‑water filled the corrie, and later sediment from the Poulanass River split the original waterbody into the Upper and Lower Lakes we see today.
What to See & Do
Monastic Ruins
- Round tower and cathedral foundations on the lakeshore.
- Stone churches and high crosses scattered around the valley.
- St Kevin’s Bed, a small cave on the southern shore of the Upper Lake, reputedly used by the saint for contemplation; archaeological work suggests it may pre‑date the saint and be a prehistoric burial site.
Lakes & Shoreline Walks
- Stroll the Upper Lake shoreline for mirror‑like reflections of pine‑clad peaks; the lake reaches 30 m depth and is a favourite photography spot.
- Follow the Lower Lake trail for quieter woodland paths and views of the twin water bodies.
- A pebble‑beach on the Upper Lake offers a pleasant spot for a short rest or picnic.
Trails
- Spinc Trail – A 10.4 km rugged loop (Very Difficult) that climbs 490 m. It starts at the National Park Information Office on the Upper Lake’s shore, ascends the Spinc ridge, passes the Poulanass Waterfall (board‑walk to the crystal basin), and offers unrivalled panoramas of the Upper Lake before descending back to the car park. Red way‑markers guide the route. Two versions are available: a short 5.5 km walk (≈2 h) and a long 9.5 km loop (≈3.5 h).
- Miner’s Road Trail (Purple Route) – A 5 km round‑trip (easy, family‑friendly) that hugs the northern edge of the Upper Lake with only 20 m of ascent. Black arrows and a yellow‑axe sign mark the way to the haunting remains of the miners’ village, where interpretive panels tell the story of the lead‑galena industry.
- Spinc & Glenealo Valley Walk (White Arrows) – Combines the Spinc Loop with the Miner’s Road, creating a 9 km circuit with 380 m of ascent. It offers additional viewpoints over the Upper Lake and is a good option for those who want a longer hike without the full Spinc difficulty.
- Bronze Trail at Upper Lake – Currently closed due to storm damage (Heritage Ireland notice). Check the visitor centre for updates before planning this section.
Wildlife & Photography
- The valley’s mixed woodland and open water attract red‑breasted bullfinches, peregrine falcons, otters, deer and badgers. Early morning or late‑afternoon light creates spectacular reflections on the lakes, ideal for landscape photography.
Practical Information
Getting there & Parking
- By car: From Dublin, take the M11 south to the R755 and follow signs to Laragh (≈1‑hour drive). The Upper Lake car park is a few minutes’ walk from the lake; a daily fee of €4 applies and the space fills quickly on sunny days.
- By bus: The St Kevin’s Bus runs from Dublin to Glendalough, dropping passengers at the Visitor Centre (≈20‑minute walk to the Upper Lake).
- Parking: Limited spaces near the Upper Lake; arrive early in summer. A second car‑park at the Upper Lake (operated by Wicklow County Council) provides additional spaces and public toilets.
Visitor Centre & Facilities
- Opening hours: Mid March – 14 Oct 09:30‑18:00 (last admission 17:15) | 15 Oct – Mid Mar 09:30‑17:00 (last admission 16:15). Closed 23‑29 Dec.
- Admission: €5 adult, €4 group/senior, €3 child/student, €13 family (4). Parking fee is separate.
- Accessibility: Visitor centre fully wheelchair‑accessible; historic graveyard difficult to reach in a wheelchair; many walking routes have uneven surfaces.
- Facilities: Restrooms (close 16:15 mid‑Oct to mid‑Mar), café, free Wi‑Fi, first‑aid station with AED, baby‑changing facilities. Toilets at the Upper Lake car park are operated by Wicklow County Council.
- Dogs: Allowed on lead throughout the wider trails; not permitted on the monastic grounds.
- ATM & Services: No ATM on site; the nearest ATM is in Laragh petrol station (limited hours) or in Rathdrum (24 h).
- Guided walks: The National Parks & Wildlife Service runs seasonal Bat Walks, Dawn Chorus Walks and other educational nature walks – check the information office for the schedule.
- Social guide: Free PDF guides for adults and children are available at the visitor centre (downloadable from the Heritage Ireland site).
Events & Seasonal Highlights
- St Kevin’s Day Pilgrimage – 6 June (2026) – a series of seven pilgrim routes converge on Glendalough; walkers can join a guided pilgrimage.
- Brockagh Country Market (Carboot Sale) – held on the 2nd Sunday of each month (except Jan/Feb) in the nearby village of Laragh.
- Eco Trail Run – 27 December (annual) – a family‑friendly trail running event organised by Wicklow Mountains National Park.
- Wicklow Passport – Collect stamps at participating locations across the county, including Glendalough’s visitor centre, to earn a free souvenir passport.
- Film location – Glendalough has featured in films such as Braveheart; film‑tourists often visit the iconic round tower.
Nearby Attractions & Extensions
- Camaderry Mountain Walk – A challenging ascent offering panoramic views over Glendalough; start from the Spinc Trailhead. (Camaderry)
- National Botanic Garden of Ireland – Kilmacurragh – Approx. 15 km north; a horticultural oasis worth a detour.
- Dwyer McAllister Cottage – 17 km north‑west; a historic 1798 rebellion site.
- Pearse Museum – St Enda’s Park – 30 km north; for those interested in 20th‑century Irish history.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I swim in the lakes? – Swimming is not permitted in either lake to protect wildlife and preserve water quality.
- Is the site suitable for families? – Yes. The Miner’s Road Trail is easy and family‑friendly; the visitor centre has child‑focused displays and a social guide.
- What should I bring? – Waterproof clothing, sturdy boots, a map or downloaded trail app, water, and a snack. Mobile signal can be patchy on the Spinc ridge.
- Are there any current trail closures? – The Bronze Trail at Upper Lake is closed until further notice due to storm damage.
Glendalough’s blend of ancient spirituality, dramatic geology and industrial archaeology makes it a uniquely layered destination. Whether wandering among stone ruins, paddling the tranquil Upper Lake, or conquering the Spinc ridge, visitors leave with a deep sense of the valley’s timeless allure.