Overview
Laragh is a small but vibrant village perched on the banks of the River Avonmore in the heart of County Wicklow. It sits at the southern edge of the ancient monastic settlement of Glendalough, making it the natural base for anyone exploring the valley’s early‑Christian ruins, the surrounding glaciated peaks and the famed Wicklow Way. The village’s stone‑lined streets, a handful of craft shops and the historic Glendalough Woollen Mills give it a distinctly rural charm while still offering modern comforts.
History
The name Laragh (Irish: An Lárach) translates as “the site of a house or enclosure”, a reference to its long‑standing role as a stopping‑point for travellers crossing the Wicklow Mountains. The proximity to Glendalough means the area has been inhabited since the 6th‑century monastic settlement founded by St Kevin. While the village itself never grew into a large town, it flourished in the 19th century as a service centre for the surrounding farming community and later as a gateway for tourists drawn to the dramatic landscape.
What to See & Do
Glendalough Monastic Site
Just a short walk north along the River Avonmore, the ruins of Glendalough’s round tower, cathedral and St Kevin’s Church dominate the valley floor. Interpretive panels explain the site’s significance, and the surrounding lake offers tranquil reflections of the stonework.
Wicklow Way
Laragh marks the southern trailhead of the 131‑km Wicklow Way, a long‑distance walking route that snakes through forested glens, open moorland and historic stone walls. For day‑walkers, the section from Laragh to the Upper Lake of Glendalough is a popular 5‑km loop that rewards hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Glendalough Woollen Mills
Located opposite the entrance to the village, the Woollen Mills have been weaving wool since the 19th century. Visitors can watch looms in action, browse a range of hand‑spun scarves, blankets and traditional Irish tweeds, and pick up a souvenir that truly feels local.
Riverside Bed & Breakfast – A Hub for Active Visitors
Riverside B&B, set back from Rathdrum Road, offers more than comfortable rooms. Guests can hire bicycles directly from the B&B, a convenient option for those wishing to explore the greater Glendalough area on two wheels. The hosts also provide personalised route advice, tailoring suggestions to fitness level and interest. For walkers re‑joining the Wicklow Way, an alternative path runs behind the Woollen Mills along the leafy Green Road, offering a quieter, forest‑fringed approach to the trail.
Local Eateries and Craft Shops
The village hosts a handful of cafés and a small craft market where local artisans sell pottery, jewellery and knitwear. A complimentary voucher for a glass of wine at Lynham’s Hotel is included with a stay at Riverside, giving visitors a taste of Wicklow’s hospitality.
Practical Information
Laragh is easily reached by car via the R755 from Rathdrum, with free on‑site parking available at most B&Bs and at the Woollen Mills car park. Public transport options include a limited bus service from Dublin that stops in Rathdrum; from there a short taxi ride brings you into the village centre. The village’s compact layout means most attractions are within a 10‑minute walk. For cyclists, the bike‑hire service at Riverside operates on a first‑come, first‑served basis, and helmets are supplied on request. The alternative Green Road route to the Wicklow Way is well‑signposted and suitable for walkers of moderate ability.
Nearby Attractions
- Avondale – Just a short drive north, Avondale Forest Park and House offer woodland walks, a historic mansion and the famous “Meeting of the Waters” where the Avonmore and Avonbeg rivers join.
- Blessington – The town of Blessington and its lakes provide opportunities for sailing, fishing and a pleasant lakeside promenade, ideal for a relaxed afternoon after a hike.