Overview
The Wicklow Way is Ireland’s pioneering long‑distance walking route, formally opened in 1980. At 127 km (81 miles) it traverses three counties – Dublin , Wicklow and Carlow – and forms the westernmost section of the European E8 footpath. Hikers experience a striking mix of suburban parkland, dense forest, rugged mountain terrain, glacial valleys and gentle rolling countryside. The trail is well sign‑posted with the universal yellow “walking man” symbol, making navigation straightforward for both seasoned trekkers and those tackling the route in shorter sections.
History & Background
The trail was created to showcase the spectacular upland landscapes south of Dublin, an area that, despite its proximity to the capital, remains largely unspoilt. As the first officially way‑marked long‑distance path in Ireland, the Wicklow Way set the template for the network of National Waymarked Trails that followed. Its alignment follows ancient routes used by farmers and pilgrims, linking historic sites such as the 5th‑century monastic settlement at Glendalough and the ruins of early Christian churches scattered across the mountains.
What to See & Do
| Highlight | Description |
|---|---|
| Marlay Park (Rathfarnham) | The trail begins in this historic 18th‑century demesne, offering a gentle introduction through landscaped gardens and the Little Dargle River. |
| Powerscourt Waterfall & Gardens | Ireland’s highest waterfall drops 121 m into a wooded gorge; the adjoining gardens are a horticultural masterpiece. |
| Enniskerry Village | A picturesque settlement famed for its Georgian architecture and proximity to the Powerscourt estate. |
| Lough Tay & Lough Dan | Twin glacial lakes with striking turquoise waters, framed by steep-sided valleys and the highest village in Ireland, Roundwood. |
| Glendalough Monastic Site | A world‑renowned early‑Christian valley with stone beehive cells, a round tower and tranquil upper and lower lakes. |
| White Hill | The highest point on the Way at 630 m, offering panoramic views over the Wicklow Mountains. |
| Glenmalure Valley | The longest glacial valley in the British Isles, a deep, U‑shaped trough flanked by towering peaks. |
| Wildlife | Deer, red squirrels, badgers, foxes and a rich birdlife including peregrine falcons and merlins are common sightings. |
Beyond these marquee attractions, the Way passes numerous ruined buildings, memorials, and the remains of early monastic settlements, providing a constant sense of history underfoot. The route also offers opportunities to sample local hospitality – cosy rural pubs, guesthouses, and farm‑shop eateries dot the path, especially in villages such as Roundwood, Glendalough, Moyne and the final stop at Clonegal.
Practical Information
The Wicklow Way can be walked in its entirety (typically 5‑10 days) or broken into shorter stages to suit individual schedules. The most common division is into six main stages, each with its own character:
| Stage | Start – Finish | Distance | Typical Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Marlay Park → Knockree | 20.5 km | 7 h |
| 2 | Knockree → Roundwood | 29 km | 6.5 h |
| 3 | Roundwood → Glendalough | 17 km | 4‑5 h |
| 4a | Glendalough → Glenmalure | 14.5 km | 4.5 h |
| 4b | Glenmalure → Moyne | 21 km | 7 h |
| 5a | Moyne → Tinahely | 13 km | 4 h |
| 5b | Tinahely → Shillelagh | 27 km | 5‑6 h |
| 6 | Shillelagh → Clonegal | 26 km | 6‑7 h |
Access & Transport – The trailhead at Marlay Park is easily reached by public transport from Dublin city centre (bus routes 44, 63, 63A). For those flying in, many walking‑holiday operators meet guests at Dublin Airport and transfer them to the first guesthouse in Wicklow. The southern terminus at Clonegal is served by Rathdrum train station and the Wexford Bus service, providing onward connections to Dublin.
Accommodation – A network of guesthouses, B&Bs and small hotels lines the route, many of which participate in organised walking holidays that include luggage transfers between stops. Popular bases include Glencullen, Knockree, Roundwood, Glendalough, Glenmalure, Moyne, Tinahely and Shillelagh.
Navigation – The Way is fully way‑marked; the yellow walking‑man symbols appear at regular intervals, and detailed maps and GPX files are available from the official website and the ActiveME mobile app. Stage‑specific guide pages provide elevation profiles, distance breakdowns and points of interest.
Safety & Preparation – While the trail is self‑guided, the official Walking Advice page outlines essential safety considerations, including route‑finding, emergency contacts and recommended equipment for the more strenuous mountain sections.
Seasonality – The trail is open year‑round. The most popular months are May‑September, when daylight hours are longest and mountain paths are dry. However, the route’s varied terrain means sections remain walkable in winter, especially the lower‑lying forest and coastal sections.
Cost – There is no entry fee for the trail itself; it is free to walk. Expenses are limited to accommodation, meals and any optional guided services.
Further Resources – For detailed stage guides, downloadable maps and up‑to‑date weather information, visit the official site wicklowway.com. The ActiveME platform also offers a free mobile app with live GPS tracking and offline maps.
Embarking on the Wicklow Way is a journey through Ireland’s natural heartland and its layered past. Whether you tackle a single day’s section or the full 127 km, the trail rewards every step with unforgettable scenery, historic intrigue and the warm hospitality of the Wicklow community.