Overview
Sally Gap sits at roughly 500 m (1,640 ft) above sea level, making it one of Ireland’s highest mountain passes. The R759 winds through the gap, linking Roundwood in the east with the N81 in the west. The 26 km (16-mile) Sally Gap Drive is celebrated for its dramatic scenery – from the turquoise waters of Lough Tay to the thundering Glenmacnass Waterfall – and for the historic Old Military Road that still snakes across the plateau.
History & The Old Military Road
The route that now forms the Sally Gap Drive was significantly upgraded following the 1798 Irish Rebellion. The British Army constructed the Old Military Road (now part of the R755/R759 network) to enable rapid troop movements and to clear rebel forces from the Wicklow hills. Archaeologists suggest the east–west track predates these 18th-century improvements by thousands of years, originally following the Cloghoge River down to Lough Dan. In the mid-1700s, drainage works in the Lough Tay valley prompted a diversion of the ancient track onto a higher alignment, which locals later nicknamed “Murderin’ Pass” due to its steep, treacherous gradients.
The isolated valleys and rugged terrain have also attracted filmmakers over the years. The area served as a filming location for the 1995 epic Braveheart, with its open moorland standing in for Scottish highlands.
What to See & Do
The drive is best enjoyed as a slow circuit, with several natural pull-in points along the way:
- Lough Tay Viewing Point: A striking turquoise lake set between Djouce and Luggala mountains, owned by the Guinness family trust. A small car park sits off the R759 with a short walk to the viewpoint. Note that access beyond the marked path crosses private property and is at your own risk.
- Sally Gap Crossroads: The junction where the R759 meets the Old Military Road. This spot offers unbroken panoramic views of the surrounding blanket bog and granite hills. There are no facilities, so plan to pull in briefly to admire the landscape.
- Old Military Road: Remnants of the 1800s military construction run parallel to the main route. The track is flanked by heather and granite outcrops, with several pull-outs for short walks.
- Glenmacnass Waterfall: An 80 m cascade that tumbles into a deep valley. A modest car park and viewing platform sit on the right side of the road; a brief walk along the verge brings you to the falls.
- Coffee & Food: The Wicklow Heather café near Glenmacnass serves hot drinks and light meals, while the Coach House in Roundwood provides a cosy fire-side option during colder months. Both are a short drive from the main route.
Walking & Cycling
The Sally Gap area acts as a hub for hikers and cyclists. Popular walking routes include the Djouce Mountain ascent (starting from the JB Malone car park), the Lough Ouler hike (accessible from Glenmacnass or Turlough Hill car parks), and the circular walk connecting Lough Tay to Lough Dan.
Cyclists frequently tackle the 26 km loop, but the route demands respect. The road features narrow bends, steep gradients, and occasional icy patches. A recent accident near Lough Tay highlights the importance of wearing a helmet, checking your brakes, and riding with a partner on the steeper sections.
Practical Information
- Road length & travel time: The full drive covers 26 km and takes roughly 60 minutes without stops. Allow 2–3 hours to properly enjoy the viewpoints and short walks.
- Highest point: 503 m (1,650 ft) at the Sally Gap summit.
- Winter conditions: The road is not routinely gritted by the local authority and can become impassable after heavy snow or ice. Always check weather forecasts and road reports before setting out.
- Parking: Free car parks are available at Lough Tay, Glenmacnass Waterfall, and several designated pull-in points along the R759. Spaces fill quickly during summer weekends.
- Admission: There is no entry fee for the drive, viewpoints, or walking trails.
- Getting there: Start the route from Roundwood (east) or Laragh (west). The R759 connects to the R755 near Roundwood and to the N81 near Blessington, providing straightforward links to Dublin and the south-west of Wicklow.
Safety & Road Conditions
Because the road is narrow and lacks guardrails in places, drivers should maintain a cautious speed and be prepared for sudden declines or oncoming traffic. Cyclists should wear helmets and consider riding in pairs, particularly on the steeper sections near Lough Tay. In winter, fit winter tyres or carry chains, and turn back if visibility drops or the surface is frozen.
Nearby Attractions
- Aghavannagh – A small village in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains, offering additional walking routes and a traditional Irish pub. (Aghavannagh)
- Avoca Valley – A scenic valley known for its river walks and the historic Avoca Handweaving Mill. (Avoca Valley)
Plan your visit for late spring or early autumn when the heather is in bloom and the roads are clear. The Sally Gap Drive rewards patient drivers with unbroken views, quiet forest tracks, and a direct connection to the military history that shaped this part of the Wicklow Mountains.