The Wicklow Way

Overview

The Wicklow Way stands as Ireland’s first officially waymarked long-distance trail, formally established in 1980. Stretching 127 km (79 miles) with a total ascent of roughly 3,200 metres, the route traverses three counties – Dublin, Wicklow and Carlow – before finishing in the quiet village of Clonegal. It also forms the westernmost leg of the European E8 long-distance footpath. Walkers are guided by the universal yellow “walking man” symbol on a black background, making navigation straightforward across a landscape that shifts from suburban parkland to dense forest, rugged mountain ridges, glacial valleys and finally, rolling agricultural countryside.

History & Origins

The trail owes its existence to hill-walker and writer J. B. Malone, who first proposed a long-distance route through the mountains in a series of newspaper articles in 1966. Drawing on his earlier publications, The Open Road (1950) and Walking in Wicklow (1964), Malone envisioned a circular “Twelve Days of Wicklow” journey. His advocacy led to his appointment on the Long Distance Walking Routes Committee of Cospóir (the National Sports Council) in 1977, where he began mapping the practical route.

The trail opened in three phases:

• 15 August 1980 – Marlay Park to Luggala, opened by Minister of State Jim Tunney.
• 27 September 1981 – Luggala to Moyne.
• 1982 – The final stretch to Clonegal, completing the linear route.

Officially named Slí Cualann Nua (“New Cuala Way”), the trail echoes the ancient Slí Cualann that once crossed the historic kingdom of Cuala. A memorial to Malone stands at Barr Rock, overlooking Lough Tay, and remains a popular stop for walkers paying respects. Over the decades, sections have been rerouted to protect fragile upland habitats and resolve land access issues, including diversions away from Fairy Castle on Two Rock Mountain and the summit of Mullacor.

Trail Highlights & What to See

The Wicklow Way is designed to pass Ireland’s most iconic natural and historical landmarks, offering daily variety and reliable respite points.

• Marlay Park (Rathfarnham) – The northern terminus begins in this 18th-century Huguenot demesne, offering a gentle, tree-lined introduction along the Little Dargle River.
• Powerscourt Waterfall & Enniskerry – The trail skirts the ridge above Ireland’s highest waterfall (121 m) before descending toward Enniskerry, a Georgian village known for its independent shops and cafés.
• Lough Tay & Lough Dan – Twin glacial lakes famous for their striking turquoise waters. The route passes the Guinness family’s Luggala Estate and offers panoramic views from the saddle between White Hill and Djouce Mountain.
• Glendalough Monastic Site – A 6th-century settlement founded by St. Kevin, featuring stone beehive cells, a round tower and two tranquil lakes nestled in a steep-sided valley.
• White Hill – The trail’s highest point at 630 m, providing sweeping vistas across the Wicklow Mountains and, on clear days, out to Howth Head.
• Glenmalure Valley – The longest glacial valley in the British Isles, a deep U-shaped trough that was a historic base for 16th- and 18th-century rebels. The trail follows the old Military Road through dense pine and oak forests.
• South Wicklow Farmlands – The final third of the route winds through hedgerow-lined fields, quiet country lanes and historic estates like Shillelagh, built by the Earl Fitzwilliam in the early 1800s.

Planning Your Walk

Route & Stages

Traditionally walked north to south, the trail can be tackled in either direction. Walking south to north allows several days of low-level walking to prepare legs for the more strenuous mountain terrain. The route is typically divided into six stages, though many walkers split them into shorter days or join the trail at intermediate points.

Getting There & Transport

• Northern Start (Marlay Park) – Reachable via Dublin Bus route 16 from the city centre (O’Connell Street) or by taking the Luas Green Line to Ballinteer/Dundrum and transferring to a local bus. A small public car park sits near Marlay House.
• Southern Finish (Clonegal) – The Bus Éireann Expressway service from Dublin’s Busáras to Waterford stops at Kildavin (3 km from Clonegal) or Bunclody (5 km away). A free village car park is available near the trailhead.
• Shortened Routes – The official Wicklow Way Bus collects walkers from Glendalough, Glenmalure or Tinahely (with prior notice) and drops them at Rathdrum railway station for a direct train back to Dublin. The Glendalough Bus Company also operates services to Dublin City Centre.

Gear, Safety & Seasonality

Walking the Wicklow Way is a serious test of physical endurance. Each stage involves several hours outdoors, often in isolated upland locations above 400 metres.

• Essential Gear – Sturdy waterproof boots, layered clothing, a reliable rain cover, a day-pack with at least 1 litre of water, snacks and a basic first-aid kit.
• Navigation – The trail is well signposted, but mountain weather can reduce visibility rapidly. Always carry a paper map and compass as backup. The official website provides downloadable PDF maps and GPX files, while the ActiveME app offers offline tracking.
• Weather & Daylight – Conditions change quickly. From late autumn to early spring, expect shorter daylight hours and a higher chance of wind, heavy rain or sleet. Winter walks on higher sections require caution for ice and snow.
• Emergency – Dial 112 for the Irish Mountain Rescue Service, which covers the Wicklow Mountains.

Accommodation & Support

The route is lined with guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, hostels and traditional pubs, making resupply and rest straightforward. Many local proprietors offer luggage transfer services between stages for a fee, and several guided walking operators provide full support packages including daily transfers, packed lunches and route notes.

Popular overnight stops include:

• Knockree – Glencree Hostel and nearby B&Bs
• Roundwood – Ireland’s highest village, with several lodges and guesthouses
• Glendalough – Youth hostels, hotels and the visitor centre
• Glenmalure – Glenmalure Lodge and local B&Bs
• Moyne / Tinahely / Shillelagh – Family-run inns and farm stays
• Clonegal – Osbourne’s Pub, a historic finish point where walkers can collect their official completion certificate

Nearby Attractions

• Avondale Forest Park – A short detour near Rathdrum featuring the historic house of Charles Stewart Parker and extensive woodland trails.
• Annamoe – A scenic village in the River Avonmore valley, ideal for a riverside walk and post-hike coffee.
• Brittas Bay – A coastal stretch of golden sand and dunes just east of the northern section, perfect for a refreshing dip.
• Killruddery House & Gardens – Reachable via a short side-trip from the Dublin-Wicklow border, renowned for its formal gardens and maritime heritage.

Practical Tips

• Best Time to Walk – May through September offers the longest daylight hours and the driest mountain paths. Spring brings bluebells and primroses to the forest tracks, while autumn delivers vivid foliage against the lakes and valleys.
• Navigation Resources – Download the official stage guides and GPX files from wicklowway.com. The ActiveME mobile app provides live GPS tracking and offline maps specifically tailored to the route.
• Pacing – The trail can be completed in 7–10 days, but there is no rush. Many walkers spend extra days exploring the Glendalough monastic site, tackling optional climbs like Scarr Mountain or Djouce, or simply resting in village pubs.
• Wildlife – Keep an eye out for red deer, red squirrels, badgers and foxes. The upland heath supports red grouse, while peregrine falcons and merlins frequently circle the mountain ridges.

The Wicklow Way demands preparation, but it rewards steady effort with reliable waymarks, frequent village stops and some of Ireland’s most dramatic mountain scenery. Check the official site for current trail conditions and downloadable maps before you lace up your boots.