Universally celebrated as the “Garden of Ireland,” County Wicklow is a spectacular landscape of mountain wilderness, ancient glacial valleys, and some of the most magnificent formal gardens in Europe. Lying just a short journey south of Dublin, it offers a dramatic transition from the urban bustle to a world of mist-clad peaks and serene monastic ruins. From the rugged heights of the Wicklow Way to the gentle, salt-sprayed shores of Brittas Bay, the county provides a compact yet extraordinary escape into the very heart of Ireland’s natural beauty.
The county’s spiritual and historical heart is Glendalough, a profound early-mediaeval monastic settlement nestled within a deep, U-shaped glacial valley. Founded by St Kevin in the 6th century, its iconic round tower and ancient stone churches stand as silent sentinels beside two dark, tranquil lakes, offering a sense of timeless peace that has drawn pilgrims for over a millennium. This rugged, ancient character continues in the Wicklow Mountains National Park, where the heath-covered slopes of Lugnaquilla and the cascading torrent of Powerscourt Waterfall—Ireland’s highest—showcase the raw, untamed power of the Irish landscape.
Wicklow’s reputation as the “Garden of Ireland” is most elegantly realised in its sprawling historic estates and horticultural masterpieces. Powerscourt House and Gardens, with its Italianate terraces and panoramic mountain views, is often cited as one of the world’s great gardens, while the naturalistic planting of Mount Usher and the Georgian grandeur of Russborough House offer a more contemplative glimpse into the county’s aristocratic past. Along the coast, the landscape softens into the lively seaside towns of Bray and Greystones and the mile-long golden sands of Brittas Bay. Whether you are exploring the hand-weaving traditions of Avoca or hiking the atmospheric forest tracks of Avondale, County Wicklow delivers a remarkably diverse and enduringly beautiful Irish experience.
South County Wicklow, wicklow
Aghavannagh is a near-empty hamlet in a glacial valley below Lugnaquilla, eastern Ireland's highest peak at 925m. Its old military barracks, built for 100 soldiers on the post-1798 Military Road, later became a hunting lodge for the Parnell family and then a youth hostel. There are no shops or fuel, so stock up before you arrive.
Annamoe, wicklow
Straddling the gentle flow of the Avonmore River, Annamoe is a peaceful Wicklow village best known for its graceful stone humpback bridge and a well-stocked trout fishery that welcomes anglers of all ages. Just minutes from Glendalough, it serves as a quiet base for exploring the mountains while offering its own slice of history at the nearby Castle Kevin ruins.
Southeast coast of Ireland, wicklow
Arklow grew up as a Viking harbour and a shipbuilding town at the mouth of the River Avoca, and it still builds ships. The 1755 Nineteen Arches Bridge – the longest handmade stone bridge in Ireland – links the two halves of the town, and the maritime museum tells the story of the yards that built Francis Chichester's Gypsy Moth III and the sail-training ship Asgard II.
North Quay, wicklow
The Arklow Heritage Museum (the old Maritime Museum, renamed in 2025) holds over 2,000 artefacts on the town the historian John de Courcy Ireland called Ireland's most maritime. Highlights are the 1917 Kynoch explosion display, Ruben Chappell ship paintings, and a working trawler wheelhouse for children.
Ashford, wicklow
Set on the banks of the River Vartry, Ashford blends ancient history with vibrant gardens and woodland art. Explore Mount Usher’s 5,000-plant paradise, wander Devil’s Glen, and step into the literary world of Glanmore Castle – all within a charming Irish village.
Aughrim, wicklow
Where the Ow and Derry rivers meet, the Aughrim River cuts a short, lively course through County Wicklow’s Vale of Avoca. Follow the former railway trackbed for historic walking, try your hand at trout fishing, or tackle Grade 1–3 rapids in a compact white-water run.
Wicklow, wicklow
Avoca sits in the lush Vale of Avoca, where the Avonmore and Avonbeg rivers meet. Visit the historic Handweavers mill, follow the riverside trail, and discover a village celebrated in Irish poetry and craft.
Avoca, wicklow
Set on the banks of the River Avoca, this white-washed mill has been turning wool into rich tweeds since 1723. Step inside to watch skilled weavers at work, explore three centuries of textile history, and finish with homemade treats in the on-site café.
wicklow
The Avonbeg rises on Camenabologue and drops through Glenmalure before joining the Avonmore at the Meeting of the Waters, the confluence that gave Thomas Moore his ballad. It is a spate river that changes character with the rain, good for trout, red kites and the walks out of Baravore.
Avondale, wicklow
Avondale pairs a forest estate with the Georgian house where Charles Stewart Parnell was born and where Irish forestry began. The draw is Beyond the Trees: a fully accessible treetop boardwalk, a 38-metre viewing tower and a 90-metre spiral slide back to the forest floor.
wicklow
The Avonmore River carves a scenic path from the Wicklow Mountains to its famous confluence with the Avonbeg. Walk the waymarked Avonmore Way through Clara Vale, explore the Parnell family home at Avondale, and stand where Thomas Moore’s verses brought the valley to life.
East County Wicklow, wicklow
Carved into a narrow gorge along the River Avonbeg, Ballinaclash is a quiet Wicklow village where a historic stone bridge meets centuries of local lore. From otter-spotting walks and Synge-era literary nods to the imposing grounds of Whaley Abbey, it serves as a peaceful waypoint for walkers and cyclists exploring East County Wicklow.
Ballinastoe, wicklow
Ballinastoe MBT sits in the Wicklow Mountains, just 45 minutes from Dublin. Riders tackle purpose-built blue, red and black loops across rolling forest and exposed ridges, while walkers follow an atmospheric boardwalk to a viewpoint over Lough Tay.
Baltinglass, wicklow
Set in the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains, Baltinglass is a village where medieval monastic ruins meet prehistoric hillforts. Wander the banks of the River Slaney, explore the imposing stone arches of Baltinglass Abbey, and hike up to ancient passage graves for a deep dive into Ireland's layered past.
Wicklow Town, wicklow
Black Castle is a free clifftop ruin on a headland east of Wicklow Town, above Travelahawk Beach. Local clans burned it repeatedly between 1301 and 1645; little of it remains, but the views over the town and harbour are worth the short walk.
Blessington, wicklow
Blessington sits at the foot of the Wicklow Mountains beside a man-made lake that flooded a working valley in the 1930s and still hides a village beneath it. From the town a flat, paved Greenway runs along the southern shore to Russborough House, one of Ireland's finest Palladian mansions.
Bray, wicklow
The Brandy Hole is a stretch of cliff on Bray Head named for the cave smugglers once used to land brandy, wine and silk from France. The cave itself was destroyed when the coastal railway was tunnelled through the headland in the 1850s, so what's left is the name, the story and a steep, rewarding walk up from Bray seafront.
Bray, wicklow
Just 12 miles south of Dublin, Bray retains its charm as Ireland’s first fashionable seaside resort. Stroll the wrought-iron Victorian promenade, watch the swans in the harbour, and climb Bray Head for dramatic views of the coast and Wicklow Mountains.
Bray, wicklow
Bray's Victorian promenade runs about a mile from the harbour, past James Joyce's childhood home at Martello Terrace, to the foot of Bray Head, the headland whose summit cross gives the walk its payoff. William Dargan built it in 1859 to turn Bray into 'the Brighton of Ireland', and it's still a free, 24-hour seafront walk with a beach, an aquarium and the Harbour Bar at the end of it.
Bray to Greystones, wicklow
Bray Head offers two distinct coastal routes: the historic cliff-side footpath to Greystones and the gentle, interpretive De Buitléar Way loop. Walkers are rewarded with sweeping views over Dublin Bay, encounters with seabirds and dolphins, and stories ranging from Brunel’s engineering feats to local smuggling lore.
Wicklow, wicklow
Contrasting pristine cream-white sands with a bustling caravan-park scene, Brittas Bay balances natural serenity and lively recreation. Its award-winning Blue Flag waters and 100-ha dune system host rare orchids and butterflies, while nearby golf and film locations add a modern touch.
Broadlough, wicklow
Broad Lough is the Vartry River's tidal estuary, held behind the long sand-and-shingle spit of The Murrough just north of Wicklow town. It is a quiet spot for birdwatching – teal and little grebes in the colder months, kingfishers and egrets along the channels – overlooked by Tinakilly House, the Victorian mansion of transatlantic-cable captain Robert Halpin.
Blessington, wicklow
When the Poulaphouca Reservoir flooded the ancient settlement of Burgage More in the late 1930s, the towering St Mark’s Cross was carefully dismantled and re-erected in this quiet graveyard. Today, a community-maintained circular path winds past 19th-century gravestones and mature trees, making it a peaceful stop on the Blessington Heritage Trail.
Glendalough, wicklow
Camaderry is the 699m mountain forming the western arm of the Glendalough horseshoe, reached on an 11km loop from the Lower Lake car park. The climb follows the old Miner's Way past the flooded adits of a lead-and-silver industry that ran until 1957, and the summit gives a 360° view over the twin lakes and out to the Irish Sea. It draws walkers who want Glendalough's scenery without the crowds on the Spinc.
Wicklow, wicklow
Standing at 758 m, Camenabologue is the 31st-highest peak in Ireland and a favourite among serious hillbaggers. The ascent follows a well-trodden path through upland heath to a remote summit cairn, with a short detour revealing 19th-century silver mine ruins. Always check military closure notices before heading into the Glen of Imaal area.
Carnew, wicklow
Carnew sits at the southern edge of County Wicklow, where a striking medieval tower house meets a quiet market village. Walk past Georgian-Gothic façades, trace the footsteps of 1798 rebels, and explore peaceful walking routes through the surrounding countryside.
Castlekevin, wicklow
Built in 1214 to control the Wicklow Mountains, Castle Kevin remains one of the county's most imposing medieval earthworks. Recent LiDAR surveys have uncovered hidden settlement boundaries, adding new layers to the story of this protected Norman fortress.
Baltinglass, wicklow
Castleruddery Stone Circle is a dramatic 30-metre Bronze Age monument set in a grazing field near Baltinglass. Its towering white quartz portal stones and surviving earthen bank frame striking views across the Glen of Imaal.
Wicklow Mountains, wicklow
Rising on the slopes of Tonduff Mountain, the Cloghoge River carves a dramatic path through schist and granite before feeding the striking waters of Lough Tay and Lough Dan. Walkers follow well-marked trails past 18th-century ruins and panoramic mountain vistas, making this headwater a cornerstone of the Wicklow Way.
Shillelagh, wicklow
Set among rolling hills and ancient oak woodlands, Coollattin Estate blends aristocratic history with natural beauty. The grounds feature an award-winning arboretum golf course, the ruins of a 17th-century hunting lodge, and a neoclassical house rebuilt after the 1798 rebellion. Visitors can explore marked trails, trace the estate's timber trade to Westminster Hall, and discover the poignant story of Famine-era emigration to Canada.
Roundwood, wicklow
Located on the quiet north-western shore of Lough Dan in the Wicklow Mountains, Coon Beach is a secluded sandy strip surrounded by dramatic mountain slopes. Popular with hikers and wild swimmers, it offers a peaceful wilderness escape with no facilities, reachable only by foot via scenic mountain trails.
Wicklow Mountains, wicklow
Crone Woods offers a direct route into the heart of the Wicklow Mountains via the well-marked Maulin Loop. Walk through mature pine and oak plantations to Ride Rock, where the trail opens up to dramatic views of Powerscourt Waterfall, the Great Sugarloaf and Dublin Bay.
Enniskerry, wicklow
Rising on the slopes of Djouce Mountain, the Dargle River winds through ancient woodlands and glacial valleys before plunging over Ireland’s highest waterfall. Visitors can enjoy quiet riverside walks, spot native birdlife, or tackle Grade 4–5 rapids in this protected catchment.
Bray, wicklow
The De Buitléar Way is a 4km circular trail on Bray Head, opened in 2014 in memory of the wildlife filmmaker and naturalist Éamon de Buitléar, with interpretive panels along the way about his life and the area's plants and animals. With the Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk closed for safety, it's a useful way to get the headland's coastal views.
Ashford, wicklow
Silent limestone walls channel the roar of the Vartry River’s waterfall, while surrounding beech and chestnut woodlands offer tranquil, shaded trails. The well-marked Seamus Heaney and Waterfall loops provide accessible routes for walkers, blending Ice Age geology with poetic heritage.
Roundwood, wicklow
Djouce Mountain offers one of Ireland’s most accessible high peaks, with a sturdy wooden boardwalk cutting through fragrant bogland and ancient forest. From the J.B. Malone memorial stone, walkers are treated to sweeping vistas over Lough Tay and the surrounding hills, making it a rewarding day trip just minutes from Dublin.
Dublin Connolly (County Dublin) – Rosslare Europort (County Wexford), dublin
Dating back to 1834, the Dublin-Rosslare line is Ireland’s oldest railway and the world’s first commuter service. Today it carries daily DART and intercity trains past dramatic cliffs, historic market towns, and sunny beaches, while summer heritage steam trips keep its Victorian spirit alive.
Dublin to Wicklow, dublin
The Dublin–Wicklow railway line traces the Irish Sea coast, offering frequent DART and commuter services between the capital and County Wicklow. Passengers enjoy sweeping cliff-top vistas, seaside resorts, and easy connections to inland heritage sites like Glendalough and Rathdrum.
Arklow, wicklow
Dunganstown Castle is an ivy-clad 17th-century tower house near Arklow, said to have once hosted King James II. The castle itself is private, but a self-guided heritage trail loops past it through yew groves, a 400-year-old hornbeam and an old forge that worked until 1997.
Dunlavin, wicklow
Unusually broad, Dunlavin’s market square spans 108 ft at its widest, ranking among the widest village squares in Ireland. Anchored by Richard Cassels’s 1740 Palladian Market House, the village offers easy access to Bronze-Age monuments, 1798 rebellion heritage, and the rolling hills of Wicklow National Park.
Enniskerry, wicklow
Eagle's Crag is a coarse granite scramble standing 530m above Upper and Lower Lough Bray, two dark glacial lakes in the Wicklow Mountains. The 7–9km loop is unmarked, so an offline map matters, and the final boulders sit close enough to the edge to rule it out for anyone with a fear of heights.
Enniskerry, wicklow
While Enniskerry’s tidy neo-Tudor façades echo the 1840s estate planning of Viscount Powerscourt, the wild Glencullen Valley beyond bursts with untamed mountain scenery. The nearby Powerscourt Estate adds formal Italian gardens, a towering 121-metre waterfall and an on-site distillery for a striking blend of refinement and ruggedness.
Bray, wicklow
Step inside the historic stone walls of Festina Lente Gardens in Bray for a peaceful retreat. This free-to-enter Victorian garden features a therapeutic sensory trail, a working kitchen garden, and a sanctuary for terrapins, all set within the grounds of Old Connaught House.
Wicklow, wicklow
One of Ireland’s few monastic sites retaining its south transept wall, the Franciscan Friary in Wicklow offers a quiet glimpse into medieval Grey Friar life. Set beside a gentle brook in the leafy Abbey Grounds, the ruins provide a peaceful retreat just steps from the town centre.
North County Wicklow, wicklow
The Glen of the Downs offers a dramatic escape just off the N11, where steep glacial walls shelter one of Ireland's finest sessile-oak woodlands. A 3.6km loop trail winds past Bronze-Age forts and an 18th-century stone Octagon, with views over the Sugarloaf hills.
Wicklow Mountains, wicklow
Glencree is a Wicklow Mountains valley 40 minutes from Dublin, home to Ireland's only German war cemetery – 134 graves gathered into an old quarry beside the river – and the Glencree Centre for Peace and Reconciliation, housed in an 1806 British barracks. The valley walks, cemetery and grotto are free.
Enniskerry, wicklow
Rising on the slopes of Glendoo Mountain, the Glencullen River winds 11 kilometres through a fault-line valley into the heart of Knocksink Wood. This protected waterway offers peaceful riverside walking, healthy brown trout fishing, and a rare glimpse of Ireland’s ancient woodland ecosystems.
Glendalough, wicklow
Glendalough combines early-medieval stonework, glacial lakes and a network of marked walking trails in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains. From St Kevin’s monastery to the remnants of a 19th-century mining village, the valley packs history, wildlife and outdoor adventure into a single location.
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Glenealo is the wild back half of the Glendalough valley in the Wicklow Mountains, a 1,958-hectare nature reserve of bog and heath protected since 1988. Most people see it on the Spinc and Glenealo loop, which climbs a boardwalk ridge above the Upper Lake, then drops into the valley past a deserted 19th-century lead-mining village and a herd of feral goats.
Laragh, wicklow
Three staggered drops plunge 80 metres into the head of the Glenmacnass Valley, marking the geological boundary between ancient granite and dark schist. Set within the Wicklow Mountains National Park, the waterfall offers dramatic views and free access from the historic R115.
Glenmalure, wicklow
Glenmalure is a long, remote U-shaped glacial valley in the Wicklow Mountains, the main walkers' base for Lugnaquilla, Ireland's highest peak outside Kerry. It was the O'Byrnes' stronghold and the site of their 1580 victory over an English army, and its slopes still hold 19th-century lead-mining ruins.
Wicklow Mountains, wicklow
The Great Military Road runs 56 km from Rathfarnham to Laragh, crossing the Sally Gap at the centre of the Wicklow Mountains. The army built it after 1798 to hunt down rebels hiding in the hills; today it is a free public road past Lough Tay, Glenmacnass Waterfall and the ruins of four barracks.
Greystones, wicklow
Greystones blends a sparkling Blue Flag South Beach with a bustling, award-winning harbour marina, all set against the dramatic backdrop of Bray Head and the Wicklow Mountains. History, sport and seaside charm converge in this commuter favourite just 24 km south of Dublin.
Hollywood, wicklow
Hollywood is a compact, historic village in the Wicklow Mountains where 6th-century pilgrimage paths meet modern film tourism. Walk the first stretch of Saint Kevin’s Way, explore ancient standing stones, or follow the sign-posted Film Trail to locations featured in Braveheart and P.S. I Love You.
Rathnew, wicklow
Operating continuously under the same family since 1825, this riverside inn blends original coaching-inn architecture with two acres of carefully cultivated gardens. Guests enjoy antique interiors, locally sourced meals and a peaceful retreat in the heart of County Wicklow.
Roundwood, wicklow
The Inchavore River winds through a broad, rush-laden floodplain at the head of Lough Dan, showcasing perfect glacial meanders and steep, fissured cliffs. An easy, free-to-access trail leads visitors through this Special Area of Conservation, offering quiet wildlife spotting and direct links to the wider Wicklow Mountains walking network.
J. B. Malone Memorial Viewpoint, wicklow
The J.B. Malone Memorial is a granite plaque on the Wicklow Way, reached by a short forest path and a boardwalk of old railway sleepers laid to protect the blanket bog. It honours J.B. Malone, the Evening Herald walking columnist who proposed the Wicklow Way in 1966 and lived to see it open in 1982. The viewpoint looks straight down on Lough Tay, the dark 'Guinness Lake' with its imported white strand below the Luggala estate.
Wicklow, wicklow
Kilbride sits at the western edge of the Wicklow Mountains, where ancient passage tombs overlook the Brittas River valley. The village serves as a quiet starting point for hill walks, scenic drives and exploring nearby heritage sites.
Kilcoole, wicklow
Stretching along the barrier beach south of Kilcoole village, this flat, brackish wetland complex offers unobstructed views of the Irish Sea and exceptional wildlife spotting. Visitors can walk freely across the salt-marsh and grasslands to observe nesting redshank, wintering swans, and the rare little tern colony that gives the site its national significance.
Kilmacanogue, wicklow
Tucked between the Little and Great Sugar Loaf mountains, Kilmacanogue is a former coaching stop that still carries the echoes of 19th-century travel. Today, visitors come for the Avoca Handweavers outlet, the gentle flow of the local river, and straightforward routes up to sweeping summits. It serves as a practical, scenic base for exploring the Glen of the Downs and the wider Wicklow Mountains.
Southern Cross, wicklow
Set on the southern edge of Bray, Kilruddery Estate unfolds across 800 acres of meticulously landscaped grounds, French-Baroque gardens and a Tudor-Revival mansion. Guided tours reveal centuries of Brabazon family history, while the Long Ponds, domed orangery and weekly farmers market offer a relaxed escape just minutes from Dublin.
Wicklow/Dublin border, wicklow
Towering above Dublin’s skyline, Kippure’s 127 m mast was Ireland’s first television transmitter when it began regular broadcasts on 31 December 1961. The peak also cradles two glacial corrie lakes and feeds the headwaters of both the Liffey and the Dodder, making it a natural as well as technological landmark.
Knockree, wicklow
Tucked into the Glencree Valley, Knockree Youth Hostel occupies a restored 18th-century farmhouse overlooking the Wicklow Mountains. Once the site of a medieval monastery, it now serves as a welcoming base for walkers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts exploring Ireland’s oldest long-distance trail.
Laragh, wicklow
Set against the River Avonmore at the foot of the Glendalough valley, Laragh is a quiet hamlet that doubles as the southern trailhead for the 131-km Wicklow Way. The village is best known for its working 19th-century woollen mill, where cloth is still woven on historic looms, making it an ideal base for hikers, cyclists and heritage seekers.
Wicklow Mountains, wicklow
High in the Wicklow Mountains, Liffey Head Bog is the living source of Dublin’s most famous river. This protected upland blanket bog offers quiet walking trails, rare sphagnum mosses, and sweeping views across a landscape that has shaped Irish history and ecology for millennia.
Kilmacanogue, wicklow
Little Sugar Loaf rises 342m above the Bray–Kilmacanogue coast, offering sweeping vistas of Dublin Bay, the Great Sugarloaf, and the Wicklow uplands. A short, well-marked walk takes you past heath-covered slopes and coastal cliffs, making it an ideal day-trip for walkers and nature lovers.
Lough Bray, wicklow
Set on the eastern face of Kippure, the dark waters of Upper and Lower Lough Bray reflect the surrounding granite crags and open moorland. A short drive from Dublin, the lakes are best explored via a network of unmarked trails that reward hikers with sweeping mountain panoramas and a glimpse of the historic Lough Bray House.
Wicklow Mountains National Park, wicklow
Lough Dan is a boomerang-shaped ribbon lake set deep in the Wicklow Mountains at the foot of Luggala and Knocknacloghoge. Most of the shore is private estate, but the north-western corner falls inside the national park, with three walking routes down to the pebble shore at Coon Beach. Closed for a time in the early 2020s over anti-social behaviour, it reopened under controlled access in 2024.
Wicklow Mountains National Park, wicklow
Wind sweeps across heather-clad slopes as hikers navigate the boggy approach to Lough Ouler. From Tonelagee summit, the glacial corrie lake reveals a striking heart shape, rewarding the effort with sweeping mountain panoramas and quiet solitude.
Roundwood, wicklow
Lough Tay's dark waters and white-sand beach look like a poured pint of Guinness, framed by sheer granite cliffs. From the nearby J.B. Malone memorial you can soak up panoramic mountain views and set off on well-marked Wicklow Way loops.
Wicklow Mountains National Park, wicklow
The steep western wall of Lugduff plunges dramatically into Glenmalure, while its eastern side overlooks Fraughan Rock Glen. Walkers can reach the summit via the Spinc White Trail, threading wooden boardwalks and steps past Poulanass Waterfall for panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Wicklow Mountains, wicklow
Rising above the dark waters of Lough Tay, Luggala's granite crags and historic estate offer a compelling mix of adventure and heritage. Walkers can tackle the ridge summit for panoramic views, while climbers tackle renowned granite routes. The area's gothic lodge and film-location fame add cultural depth to this scenic Wicklow destination.
Wicklow Mountains, wicklow
Rising to 925 m, Lugnaquilla crowns the Wicklow Mountains with its broad Percy's Table plateau and dramatic North and South Prison corries. Hikers can soak up panoramic sea-to-mountain vistas, explore hanging valleys like Fraughan Rock Glen, and spot alpine flora and soaring raptors.
wicklow
Start at the Crone Woods car park and follow forest tracks up to Maulin's 570m peak. The route rewards walkers with a unique perspective of Powerscourt Waterfall framed by the valley, alongside sweeping vistas of the Great Sugar Loaf and the Dublin skyline. A manageable loop with a steep finish, perfect for combining with a visit to Enniskerry.
Bray, wicklow
Housed in a former civic building on Main Street, this cultural hub blends a flexible auditorium, a sunlit gallery and a relaxed café into one destination. From touring theatre and classical music to family workshops and local art shows, it’s the creative heart of Bray.
Wicklow, wicklow
Rising to 657 m in the southern Wicklow Mountains, Mullacor crowns a sweeping horseshoe ridge above Glendalough. Walkers tackle boggy summit plateaus and steep forested paths for panoramic views of the Upper Lake, Turlough Hill, and neighbouring peaks like Lugduff.
Wicklow, wicklow
At 849 m, Mullaghcleevaun is County Wicklow’s second-highest peak and a central hub for serious hillwalkers. The summit plateau shelters Cleevaun Lough, the county’s highest natural lake, and offers continuous boggy ridges connecting to Tonelagee and the Sally Gap.
Glendalough, wicklow
Poulanass Waterfall drops into a series of clear plunge pools high above Glendalough's Upper Lake. Reachable via a steep boardwalk and over 600 wooden steps, the route offers a brisk, rewarding hike with dramatic gorge views and echoes of rushing water.
Enniskerry, wicklow
A 121-metre waterfall cascades through ancient woodland beside a restored Palladian mansion at Powerscourt. Ranked among the world’s finest gardens, the estate blends formal terraces, woodland walks and a boutique distillery into a compact day trip from Dublin.
wicklow
Quietly perched among the southern foothills, Preban Graveyard greets visitors with centuries-old headstones emerging from restored laurel groves. After a dedicated community clearance, the site now offers a peaceful walk through history, framed by the Wicklow Mountains and a protected 19th-century church.
Wicklow Mountains, wicklow
Prince William's Seat stands 555 metres on the northern rim of the Glencree valley, on the boundary between Wicklow and Dublin and within the national park. The standard route is an 11km loop from the Cloon Curtlestown Wood car park, climbing through Scots pine and spruce on the Wicklow Way before opening onto heather slopes and a trig point. The name is contested: it may be an Ordnance Survey relabelling of the older Fitzwilliam's Seat nearby.
Baltinglass Hill, wicklow
Rathcoran sits atop Baltinglass Hill, where a Neolithic passage tomb meets the double ramparts of a Bronze Age hillfort. Walk the ancient stone chambers, trace the unfinished fortifications, and take in sweeping views of the River Slaney and surrounding Wicklow countryside.
Rathdown Upper, wicklow
Perched above the Irish Sea near Greystones, Rathdown Castle preserves the outlines of a double-ditch moat and the stone foundations of a medieval tower. Walk the historic coastal paths, trace the remains of a lost nucleated village, and discover a site with continuous occupation from the Stone Age through the Norman era.
Greystones, wicklow
Step back through five thousand years of Irish history at this volunteer-run park. Interpretive panels and restored ruins guide you from early farming communities to a 13th-century Norman castle, all just a short walk from the DART station.
Rathdrum, wicklow
Set at the gateway to the Wicklow Mountains, Rathdrum blends a lively market town atmosphere with peaceful riverside walks. Parnell Memorial Park offers free entry, scenic trails and historic monuments, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the Garden County.
Rathnew, wicklow
Rathnew offers a quiet, authentic Irish village atmosphere just south of Dublin, while nearby Tinakilly House dazzles with Victorian grandeur and spectacular sea-view gardens. Together they make an ideal base for exploring Wicklow’s heritage, coastline and hiking trails.
Southeast Ireland, wicklow
Rising on the slopes of Lugnaquilla, the River Slaney carves a 117-kilometre path through Wicklow, Carlow and Wexford before meeting the Irish Sea. Follow its banks for spring salmon fishing, guided kayak tours, and a trail of Norman castles, Cistercian ruins and 1798 rebellion landmarks.
wicklow
The Vartry rises in Calary Bog beneath the Great Sugar Loaf and runs a short course to the sea at Wicklow Harbour. Dammed at Roundwood in 1865, it still supplies roughly 40% of Dublin's water and flows past Mount Usher Gardens on its way down.
wicklow
Perched 238 m above sea level, Roundwood is a gateway to Wicklow’s mountains, lakes and historic trails. Just beyond the village, Victor’s Way offers a meditative stroll among 33 black-granite monoliths and three bronze figures, blending Irish scenery with Indian artistry.
Blessington, wicklow
Grand Doric columns and intricate Lafranchini stucco ceilings define Russborough House, a masterpiece of 18th-century architecture on the edge of the Wicklow Mountains. Beyond the historic interiors, the estate offers a world-class art collection, a bird-of-prey centre, and extensive trails perfect for families and nature lovers.
Wicklow Mountains, wicklow
Carved through the Wicklow hills after the 1798 Rebellion, Sally Gap sits at 500 m and offers sweeping views of Lough Tay and Glenmacnass Waterfall. Follow the historic Old Military Road or take a short drive to discover Ireland’s highest mountain pass.
Bray, wicklow
Reimagined and expanded, Marine Life Aquarium Bray brings Ireland's coastal wonders to the promenade. From gliding cownose rays to a tropical shark lagoon and interactive reptile zone, it is a top rainy-day destination for families and school groups.
wicklow
Upon reaching Seefin’s summit, a cool wind carries the scent of heather across the open cairn surrounding the ancient passage tomb. The north-facing entrance aligns with Newgrange, and on clear days the Liffey Valley and Dublin’s skyline sparkle below the stone-capped peak.
Wicklow & South Dublin, wicklow
Golden light spills over Seefingan’s grassy summit, painting the 723 m ridge in amber as the wind whispers through the cairn-strewn ridgelines. From this perch, the sweep of the Wicklow peaks, the glint of Poulaphouca Reservoir and the distant outline of Dublin unfold in a 360° panorama.
Shillelagh, wicklow
Shillelagh (Síol Éalaigh) is a beautifully preserved estate village in the Wicklow Uplands, shaped by the FitzWilliam family and the River Derry. Explore its 19th-century architecture, ancient oak woodlands, and the legacy of the iconic Irish walking stick.
wicklow
Once a private branch line for the FitzWilliam family, this 19th-century railway now forms a peaceful, fully accessible walking and cycling trail. Follow the old trackbed through the Vale of Avoca to discover surviving station buildings, riverside views, and quiet countryside.
Silver Strand Beach, wicklow
Accessible only via private caravan parks, Silver Strand remains a tranquil Wicklow enclave rarely touched by crowds. Its golden sand and calm, cliff-sheltered waters make it a reliable spot for family paddling and early-morning photography.
Wicklow, wicklow
Slievemaan sits at the southern edge of the Glen of Imaal, forming a quiet but rewarding counterpoint to the busier routes around Lugnaquilla. Walkers are rewarded with a well-defined ridge path, a historic summit register, and panoramic outlooks over the central Wicklow peaks.
Rathdown Upper, wicklow
Discover St Crispin’s Cell, a compact 16th-century chapel ruin built from distinctive red stone. Once a private worship space for the lords of Rathdown Castle, it now stands as a protected heritage site on the Bray-to-Greystones coastal walk.
Hollywood, wicklow
Set in a glaciated valley flanked by steep mountains and twin lakes, this 6th-century monastic settlement offers a striking blend of early Christian history and rugged natural beauty. Visitors can walk among well-preserved ruins including the medieval Kitchen chapel and the leaning Wishing Cross, before stepping into the still-active St Kevin’s Church in nearby Hollywood.
Stratford-on-Slaney, wicklow
Built in 1774 as a planned industrial town, Stratford-on-Slaney retains its distinctive double-crescent streets and octagonal square. Today, visitors explore quiet village lanes, historic church ruins and the River Slaney walkway in a setting that won a Highly Commended Tidy Towns award in 2014.
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Rising sharply above Kilmacanogue, the Great Sugarloaf delivers a rewarding hike with panoramic views across Dublin Bay and the Wicklow Mountains. Walkers can follow well-marked trails to Bronze-Age summit cairns, enjoying wildflower slopes and coastal vistas on a route accessible to families and seasoned hikers alike.
Glendalough, wicklow
Set in the shadow of the Wicklow Mountains, The Hermitage Centre blends early Christian heritage with modern contemplative practice. Visitors can explore staff-led monastic tours, watch a documentary on Irish monasticism, or book a stay in one of the self-catering hermitages. Its location in Laragh makes it a peaceful base for exploring the Glendalough valley and surrounding trails.
Wicklow, wicklow
Ireland’s pioneering long-distance trail weaves through the Wicklow Mountains, linking Dublin’s southern suburbs to the rolling farmlands of County Carlow. Walkers navigate 127 km of heather-clad ridges, glacial lakes and early Christian ruins, with waymarked paths and village pubs providing reliable respite along the route.
Tinahely, wicklow
Set in the Derry River valley, Tinahely combines a restored 19th-century market village with a traffic-free railway trail. Walkers, cyclists and families can enjoy stone bridges, seasonal bluebells and easy access to one of Ireland’s last mature oak plantations.
Wicklow Mountains, wicklow
Tonduff’s dark peat-capped summit rises 644 m above the northeast Wicklow range, delivering 360° panoramas of the sea, Dublin coastline, and inland peaks. Hikers choose between a moderate loop via Maulin or a demanding traverse linking Djouce and War Hill.
Wicklow Mountains National Park, wicklow
Tonelagee rises to 817m on the central spine of the Wicklow Mountains, offering walkers a rewarding climb to a summit trig point and a dramatic drop into a glacial corrie. Below the ridge, the heart-shaped Lough Ouler sits framed by steep cliffs, creating one of the region’s most photographed mountain scenes.
Dunlavin, wicklow
Set in the quiet Wicklow countryside, Tornant Moat combines a Bronze Age rath with later Norman fortifications and nearby burial barrows. This free, self-guided historic site offers a quiet walk through centuries of Irish settlement, complete with panoramic views of the surrounding uplands.
Wicklow Gap, wicklow
First glimpses of Turlough Hill reveal a rugged ridge crowned by a striking blue reservoir, a testament to mid-20th-century engineering. Beneath the blanket bog and heather lies Ireland’s sole pumped-storage power station, while the surrounding trails offer sweeping views across the Wicklow Mountains.
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Step into Ireland’s post-Ice Age canopy at Clara Vale Nature Reserve. This 220-hectare semi-natural forest offers waymarked trails through ancient oaks and hazel, crossing the tranquil Avonmore River and the historic Samuel Hayes bridge.
Roundwood, wicklow
Juxtaposing 19th-century engineering with today’s leisure trails, Vartry Reservoir supplies Dublin’s water while offering walkers sweeping lake vistas and mountain panoramas. The historic dam, completed in 1863 to curb cholera outbreaks, now sits beside easy marked paths that lead to the Sugar Loaf and Djouce peaks, inviting both history buffs and nature lovers.
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White Hill sits on a broad, heather-dusted ridge in the Wicklow Mountains, just south of Dublin. Accessible via the well-known Wicklow Way, this 630m peak rewards walkers with steady ascents, wooden sleeper paths through ancient peat bogs, and panoramic outlooks over the surrounding valleys.
Wicklow, wicklow
Wicklow Gaol on Kilmantin Hill offers a chilling glimpse into Ireland’s penal past, from 1798 rebels to republicans held during the War of Independence. Visitors can explore original cells, step aboard a replica prison ship, or join night tours that lean into the site’s reputation as one of Ireland’s most haunted locations.
Wicklow Gap, wicklow
Perched at 470 metres between Tonelagee and Turlough Hill, Wicklow Gap delivers sweeping panoramas from the Irish Sea to Snowdonia on clear days. The winding R756 follows the historic Great Military Road, making it a favourite route for cyclists, drivers and hikers tracing early Christian and industrial heritage.
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Ireland’s wild heart lies in the Wicklow Mountains, where ancient monastic ruins sit beside soaring peaks and blanket bogs. From the tranquil lakes of Glendalough to the dramatic Sally Gap drive, the park offers a blend of history, wildlife and unforgettable landscapes just a short journey from Dublin.
Wicklow town, wicklow
Wicklow Town is the county town of the Garden County, set on the Vartry estuary around a sheltered harbour and the Black Castle headland. Its best-known sight, the 'Gates of Hell' gaol, is closed for renovation as of late 2025, but the free Saturday Heritage Trail and the Glen Beach cliff walk carry a visit.
Wicklow Town, wicklow
Wicklow Town's Heritage Trail guides you through 25 interpretive stops, tracing the town's evolution from St Patrick's legendary landing to the 1922 birth of the Irish Free State. This free self-guided walk brings centuries of rebellion, maritime trade, and Norman history to life in the heart of the county capital.
