Overview
The Wicklow Way is Ireland’s pioneering long‑distance walking route, formally opened in 1980. At about 130 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
The concept of a long‑distance trail through Wicklow was first put forward by hill‑walker and writer J. B. Malone in a series of newspaper articles in 1966. Malone, who had already published The Open Road (1950) and Walking in Wicklow (1964), proposed a circular “Twelve Days of Wicklow” route. In 1977 he was appointed to the Long Distance Walking Routes Committee of Cospóir (the National Sports Council) and began turning his vision into reality.
- 15 August 1980 – the first section, Marlay Park to Luggala, was opened by Minister of State Jim Tunney.
- 27 September 1981 – the second section, Luggala to Moyne, opened.
- 1982 – the final stretch to Clonegal was completed, giving the linear route that exists today.
The trail was named Slí Cualann Nua (“New Cuala Way”), a reference to the ancient Slí Cualann that ran through the historic kingdom of Cuala. A memorial to Malone stands at Barr Rock, overlooking Lough Tay, and marks his contribution to Irish walking.
Since opening, the Way has been rerouted several times to protect fragile habitats and to resolve access issues – for example, diversions away from Fairy Castle on Two Rock Mountain and from the summit of Mullacor.
Trail Details
- Designation – National Waymarked Trail, managed by the Irish Sports Council.
- Elevation gain/loss – roughly 3,320 m (10,900 ft) total ascent.
- Highest point – White Hill (630 m / 2,067 ft).
- Waymark – yellow “walking man” on a black background, placed on posts, wooden boards or tree trunks.
- Usage – up to 24,000 walkers per year; the route also hosts mountain‑running events and ultramarathons.
- Habitat – upland sections feature mixed broadleaf‑conifer woodland, heath and blanket bog; lower sections pass through hedgerow‑lined fields supporting deer, red squirrels, badgers, foxes and birds such as peregrine falcons and merlins.
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 early monastic sites, providing a constant sense of history underfoot.
Planning Your Walk
Access & Transport
- Start – Marlay Park – reachable by Dublin Bus routes 44, 63, 63A or by the Luas Green Line (stop at Ballinteer/Dundrum). A small car park is available near Marlay House.
- Finish – Clonegal – served by Rathdrum train station and the Wexford Bus service; a free village car park sits close to the trailhead.
- The trail can be walked in either direction and joined at many points via local roads.
Parking
- Marlay Park: free public car park (capacity ~150 spaces).
- Clonegal: free roadside parking near the end of the trail.
- Intermediate villages (Roundwood, Glendalough, Glenmalure, Moyne, Shillelagh) all have small public or B&B parking areas – check with your accommodation.
Accommodation (examples)
- Stage 1 – Knockree – The Enniskerry Inn, Summerhill House Hotel.
- Stage 2 – Roundwood – Lus Mor, The Loft, Wicklow Way Lodge.
- Stage 3 – Glendalough – Glendalough International Youth Hostel, Riversdale House.
- Stage 4 – Glenmalure – Glenmalure Lodge, Coolalingo B&B.
- Stage 5 – Moyne/Tinahely – Kyle Farmhouse B&B, Murphys Hotel.
- Stage 6 – Shillelagh – Central House, Sky High Glamping.
- Stage 7 – Clonegal – Meadowside B&B, The Monkey Puzzle.
Navigation
- The official website provides downloadable PDF maps and GPX files. The ActiveME app offers offline maps and live GPS tracking.
- Carry a paper map and compass as a backup, especially in fog or winter.
Gear & Safety
- Sturdy waterproof boots, layered clothing, rain cover and a day‑pack with water, snacks and a first‑aid kit.
- In the higher sections (White Hill, Glenmalure) weather can change rapidly; be prepared for wind and rain.
- Emergency contact: 112 (EU) – the Irish Mountain Rescue Service covers the Wicklow Mountains.
Seasonality
- May‑September – longest daylight, dry mountain paths – busiest period.
- Spring – wildflowers (bluebells, primroses) colour the forest tracks.
- Autumn – vivid foliage adds contrast to the lakes and valleys.
- Winter – lower sections remain walkable; higher mountain sections can be icy – use caution.
Nearby Attractions
- Avondale Forest Park – a short detour from the route near Rathdrum; explore the historic house of Charles Stewart Parker and extensive woodland trails.
- Brittas Bay – a coastal stretch of golden sand a few kilometres east of the Way; ideal for a post‑walk dip.
- Annamoe – a scenic village nestled in the valley of the River Avonmore, offering cafés and a pleasant riverside walk.
- Killruddery Gardens (Bray) – reachable via a short side‑trip from the Dublin‑Wicklow section; renowned formal gardens and a historic house.
Events & Activities
- The Wicklow Way is a regular venue for mountain‑running races and ultramarathons, attracting both local and international athletes.
- J.B. Malone Memorial Walk – an optional side‑loop that takes walkers to the memorial at Barr Rock overlooking Lough Tay.
- Guided walking holidays are offered by several local operators, many of which include luggage transfers between stages.
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 |
Cost – there is no entry fee for the trail itself; 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 130 km, the trail rewards every step with unforgettable scenery, historic intrigue and the warm hospitality of the Wicklow community.