Overview
St Kevin’s Way is a linear pilgrim trail that runs between the village of Hollywood (with an optional spur from Valleymount) and the world‑famous monastic site of Glendalough in County Wicklow. Depending on the chosen start point, the route measures between 26 km and 34 km and involves a total ascent of roughly 580 m. Most walkers complete the walk in a single day (6‑10 hrs), though guided itineraries break it into 4‑ or 5‑day stages for a more leisurely experience.
The trail is marked by a distinctive yellow pilgrim arrow on a black background; on the Valleymount spur the arrow is replaced by a yellow saintly figure. Five stamping stations – at St Kevin’s Church in Hollywood, Ballinagee Bridge, the Wicklow Gap, Glenmalure Lodge and the monastic site in Glendalough – can be recorded in the National Pilgrim Passport introduced in 2016. The way forms part of Ireland’s National Pilgrimage Routes network, linking local heritage with the wider Camino de Santiago tradition.
History / Background
The way follows the footsteps of Caoimhín Naofa (St Kevin), a 6th‑century hermit who sought solitude in the glacial valley that later became Glendalough. After his death in AD 618 the hermitage grew into a thriving monastic settlement, attracting pilgrims from across Ireland. Over the centuries the route became a recognised pilgrimage road; it was revived by the Heritage Council and, in 2016, incorporated into the National Pilgrim Passport scheme.
Local legend adds colour: Kevin is said to have first taken refuge in the caves of Hollywood, where he famously rejected a woman’s advances and flung his chair down the valley – the curved stone chair still visible today. He later moved on to the Wicklow Gap, before establishing “Kevin’s Bed” in Glendalough, a rock formation that still dominates the Upper Lake.
What to See & Do
| Feature | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Hollywood Village | Starting point with St Kevin’s Church, historic well, a repurposed phone‑box information kiosk, and the stone “castaway chair”. |
| Ballinagee Bridge | Junction of the Hollywood and Valleymount spurs; a convenient rest point and stamping station. |
| King’s River & Boreens | Quiet river walks and historic narrow lanes, punctuated by wooden footbridges. |
| R756 Road Section | A short, busy stretch of road – walkers should exercise caution. |
| Wicklow Gap | Highest point (≈ 500 m). Panoramic views of the Wicklow Mountains, heather‑clad slopes and distant Dublin Bay. |
| St Kevin’s Bed | Dramatic rock outcrop overlooking the Upper Lake, linked to the saint’s legend of preserving his chastity. |
| Poulanass Waterfall | Picturesque cascade on the Glenealo River, reachable via a short forest detour. |
| Lough Tay (Guinness Lake) | Dark‑water lake with a white‑sand beach, historically owned by the Guinness family. |
| The Spinc | Steep, well‑maintained climb offering sweeping vistas over the two Glendalough lakes. |
| Clara Vale Nature Reserve | One of Ireland’s largest semi‑natural woodlands, home to ancient oak and rich birdlife. |
| St Kevin’s Pool & Annalecka Brook | Popular (though chilly) swimming spots set among boulder‑framed pools. |
| Raised Bog Board‑walk | Elevated wooden walkway through pristine bog, ideal for spotting heather and birdlife. |
| Glendasan Valley | Remnants of 19th‑century lead, silver and zinc mining, with historic stone slabs. |
| Glendalough Monastic Site | Terminus of the walk – a 12th‑century complex featuring a 30 m round tower, St Kevin’s Church, high crosses and an interpretive centre. |
| Nearby Aghavannagh | The village of Aghavannagh lies a short detour off the trail, offering additional woodland walks and a historic inn. |
| Avoca Valley | The scenic Avoca valley can be explored from the lower sections of the route, with opportunities to visit the famous hand‑weaving mill. |
Practical Information
- Distance: 26 km (Hollywood start) – up to 34 km via Valleymount spur
- Typical time: 6‑10 hrs (single‑day) or 4‑5 days on guided itineraries
- Difficulty: Easy (well‑marked), though some sections involve bog board‑walks and a short steep climb at the Spinc.
- Trail quality: 4.5/5; Scenic rating: 5/5
- Ascent: ~580 m total; highest point at the Wicklow Gap (≈ 500 m)
- Way‑marking: Yellow pilgrim arrow on black; Valleymount spur uses a yellow saint figure.
- Parking: On‑street in Hollywood; paid car‑park in Glendalough (€5 day)
- Dogs: Not allowed on the trail
- Wheelchair access: Not suitable
- Facilities: Information kiosk in Hollywood, cafés (e.g., Hollywood Café), toilets at Glenmalure Lodge and Glendalough visitor centre.
- Stamps: Collect at the five designated stations for the National Pilgrim Passport.
Getting There & Transport
The trailhead in Hollywood is reachable by car via the R755 from Bray or the M11. Public transport options include:
- Bus: Local Bus Éireann routes connect Bray and Wicklow town with Hollywood; the nearest stop is a short walk from the trailhead.
- Train & Bus combo: Take the DART to Bray, then a Bus Éireann service to Hollywood or Glendalough.
- Parking: In addition to on‑street parking in Hollywood, a paid car‑park is available at the Glendalough visitor centre (approximately €5 per day).
Please verify current bus timetables and any seasonal service changes.
Accommodation & Facilities
For walkers choosing to split the route, several options exist along the way:
- Glenmalure Lodge (near the Wicklow Gap) offers basic rooms and a restaurant; it is a popular staging point.
- Local B&Bs in Hollywood and the nearby villages of Valleymount and Aghavannagh provide comfortable overnight stays.
- Camping: Designated camp‑sites are available at the Glendalough car‑park area (subject to local regulations).
Confirm availability and booking requirements before arrival.
Seasonal Tips
- Daylight: Summer months provide up to 16 hours of daylight, making a single‑day walk more feasible. Winter days are shorter, so plan for earlier starts.
- Weather: The Wicklow Mountains can be changeable; bring waterproof clothing and sturdy boots.
- Trail conditions: Bog sections may be wetter in autumn and winter; board‑walks can become slippery.
- Events: Occasionally the National Pilgrimage Routes organise guided walks and pilgrim festivals along St Kevin’s Way. Check local listings for dates.
Guided Walks & Pilgrim Services
Several local operators run guided pilgrim walks ranging from half‑day introductions to multi‑day treks that include accommodation, meals and passport stamping assistance. These tours often provide deeper insight into the saint’s life, local folklore, and the natural history of the Wicklow Mountains.
St Kevin’s Way offers a blend of spiritual heritage, dramatic mountain scenery and accessible walking, making it a rewarding experience for anyone exploring the Wicklow Mountains.