Overview
The Wicklow Gap carries the R756 across the mountains at 475 metres, which makes it one of the highest paved passes in Ireland – though not the highest in Wicklow, since the Sally Gap road to the north runs higher still. The pass opens between Tonelagee to the north-east and Turlough Hill and Camaderry to the south, and the road threads through open bog and rocky ground with long views over the surrounding peaks. On a clear day you can see east to the Irish Sea.
An old road west
Long before it had a number, this was one of the main ways across the range. The 26 km run from Hollywood to Laragh is still only one of two roads crossing the Wicklow Mountains from east to west, the other being the higher Sally Gap route. It also follows part of St Kevin’s Way, the pilgrim road that carried the faithful west over the mountains to the monastic city at Glendalough.
The land on either side is gorse and heather with few trees, open and exposed to whatever the weather is doing. It is at its best in late summer when the heather colours the slopes, and at its bleakest in a winter crosswind.
Cycling the climb
Among road cyclists the Wicklow Gap is a rite of passage. The ascent from the Glendalough side is a Category 3 climb by Tour de France grading: steady rather than savage, which is why it turns up so often on training rides. The surface is good but narrow in places, so watch for oncoming traffic near the top, and treat the descent with respect – the bends can be damp or gravel-strewn, and the crosswinds are real.
Walking from the pass
The Gap is a waypoint on St Kevin’s Way, and from the top walkers can branch off in two directions:
- North-east to Tonelagee – A moderate climb, with the heart-shaped Lough Ouler tucked into the slope below.
- South to Turlough Hill – A track up to the reservoir at the summit, home to Ireland’s only pumped-storage power station.
Mining relics
Lead was mined around the Gap from 1798 until the last workings closed in 1963. The ruins are still there to read from the road and the valley floor – roofless buildings, spoil heaps and the dark mouths of old adits – and the Glendalough valley was heavily replanted with conifers during the mining years, which is why so much of it is forested now.
Practical information
Getting there
- By car – Reach the R756 from the N81 side at Hollywood (west) or from Glendalough and Laragh (east). It’s fully paved, though the summit stretch is narrow.
- By bike – The R756 is the standard ascent; there’s a stand at the summit lay-by.
- On foot – St Kevin’s Way crosses the pass.
- Public transport – No bus serves the Gap itself. Glendalough is the nearest hub, reached by Local Link and private shuttle services; from there you’d walk or cycle up.
Parking
A few small lay-bys sit along the pass. They’re free but fill fast on fine weekends. Bigger car parks are at the Upper Lake, Laragh and the Glendalough Visitor Centre, where fees may apply in season.
Admission and dogs
The pass is free and open year-round, within Wicklow Mountains National Park. Dogs are welcome on the road and the trails but must be kept on a lead to protect ground-nesting birds and grazing sheep.
When to go
Snow and ice can make the summit dangerous in winter, so check conditions before you set off. Spring mornings often bring fog that hides the views entirely. On a clear day, aim to arrive before midday: the lay-bys fill quickly, and the light is best early.