Ultimate Travel Guide to Glendalough – The Heart of the Wicklow Mountains

Hidden within the lush folds of the Wicklow Mountains National Park, Glendalough—meaning "Valley of the Two Lakes"—is one of Ireland's most enchanting and historically significant destinations. Home to a 6th-century monastic settlement, serene lakes, and miles of hiking trails, Glendalough perfectly weaves together Ireland’s spiritual past and natural beauty.
 

Whether you're seeking a quiet retreat, an adventurous day hike, or a walk through history, Glendalough promises a rewarding and immersive experience.

📍 Quick Facts About Glendalough

Location: County Wicklow, Ireland

Distance from Dublin: Approx. 50 km (1 hour by car)

Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn

Known For: Monastic ruins, scenic hiking trails, two glacial lakes

Entry Fee: Free to explore the valley; visitor center has a small fee (~€5)

🧭 Getting to Glendalough

🚗 By Car

From Dublin: Take the R755 through Roundwood to Laragh

Free parking lots are available near the Upper Lake and Visitor Centre

🚌 By Public Transport

Take St. Kevin’s Bus from Dublin City (daily service)

Buses stop in Laragh, a 15-minute walk to Glendalough

🚶 On Foot/Bike

Some choose to cycle from nearby villages or follow long-distance trails like the Wicklow Way

🕯️ Historical Background: The Monastic City

Founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century, Glendalough became one of Ireland’s most important monastic centers, attracting scholars, pilgrims, and monks for centuries. Despite Viking raids and Norman invasions, the community thrived until the 13th century.

Today, the preserved ruins stand as a spiritual and architectural treasure—a place where history whispers through every stone.

🏛️ Must-See Monastic Ruins at Glendalough

1. 🗼 Round Tower

Height: Over 30 meters (100 feet)

Built around 1000 AD, it served as a bell tower and refuge during attacks

Still in remarkably good condition; a symbol of early Irish Christianity

2. ⛪ St. Kevin’s Church ("St. Kevin’s Kitchen")

A small, stone-roofed church that resembles a beehive

Nicknamed "the kitchen" due to the chimney-like bell tower

Often mistaken for a dwelling due to its humble size

3. 💀 Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul

The largest building in the monastic complex

Features Gothic archways and carved stone details

Once the heart of the religious settlement

4. 🪦 Celtic High Crosses and Graveyard

Numerous gravestones and crosses dating back hundreds of years

Atmospheric and picturesque, especially in morning mist

🏞️ Natural Wonders of Glendalough

1. 🌊 Lower and Upper Lakes

Glendalough’s namesake "two lakes" are glacial in origin

Lower Lake: Closest to the car park and monastic site

Upper Lake: Surrounded by steep cliffs and forests—ideal for reflection and photos

2. 🥾 Hiking and Walking Trails

There are nine color-coded trails ranging from short walks to challenging hikes. Highlights include:

Green Route (Lower Lake): 1 km, easy

Purple Route (Derrybawn Ridge): 9 km, strenuous but scenic

White Route (Spinc & Glenealo Valley Loop): 9.5 km, with breathtaking views over the Upper Lake

🧭 Tip: Bring good walking shoes, water, and layers—it’s Ireland, after all!

📸 Top Photo Spots

Boardwalk over the Spinc Ridge

Viewpoint over Upper Lake

Round Tower framed by mist

St. Kevin’s Cell (across the lake)

Sunset at the lakeshore

🎒 Things to Do in Glendalough

✅ Take a Guided Tour

Available seasonally or via pre-booked guides. These offer deeper insight into the monastic history and legends.

✅ Visit the Glendalough Visitor Centre

Interactive displays and a short film about St. Kevin

A great primer before exploring the ruins

Small entrance fee

✅ Birdwatching & Wildlife Spotting

Keep your eyes peeled for:

Red deer

Sika deer

Wild goats

Birds of prey (kestrels, hawks)

✅ Try Wild Swimming (If You Dare!)

The Upper Lake is a popular spot for bracing cold dips—safely and responsibly.

🧙 Legends and Folklore

The Legend of St. Kevin and the Blackbird

It’s said that while praying with outstretched arms, a blackbird landed in St. Kevin’s hand and laid an egg. He held his position until the chick hatched—symbolizing his commitment to peace and nature.

The Giant and the Glendalough Valley

Local lore claims the surrounding boulders were hurled by giants who fought across the valleys and ridges.

🍴 Where to Eat Near Glendalough

Glendalough Hotel Restaurant: Elegant dining near the Visitor Centre

The Wicklow Heather (Laragh): Irish cuisine with a literary-themed interior

The Conservatory Café: Ideal for coffee and homemade cakes

Pack a picnic and enjoy it by the lake for a budget-friendly option with stunning views.

🛏️ Where to Stay Near Glendalough

Trooperstown Lodge: Charming B&B with a homely feel

Glendalough International Hostel: Budget-friendly and centrally located

Wicklow Way Lodge: Ideal for hikers along the trail

Camping is also possible in designated areas—just respect the "Leave No Trace" policy.

🧭 Suggested Itinerary (Day Trip)

Morning:

Arrive early to enjoy the Lower Lake and Visitor Centre

Explore the monastic site and take photos at the Round Tower

Lunch:

Picnic or dine at one of Laragh’s restaurants

Afternoon:

Hike the Spinc & Glenealo Loop Trail for incredible lake views

End with a quiet moment at the Upper Lake before returning

🌱 Sustainability and Visitor Etiquette

Stay on marked trails to avoid damaging fragile habitats

Don’t climb on the ruins or tombstones

Take all litter with you

Respect wildlife and fellow visitors

Consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (April, September) to avoid crowds

💡 Fun Facts About Glendalough

Glendalough inspired scenes in movies and music videos

St. Kevin was a hermit before founding the monastery

The Glendalough Valley was once home to hundreds of monks and students

The name Glendalough comes from the Irish “Gleann Dá Loch”—"Valley of Two Lakes"

🌈 Final Thoughts

A visit to Glendalough is not just a walk through scenic landscapes—it’s a journey into Ireland’s spiritual heart and natural soul. Whether you’re drawn by its ancient ruins, its peaceful trails, or its breathtaking vistas, Glendalough offers a sense of serenity and discovery that’s hard to match.

It’s a place where monks once whispered prayers in the mist, where wild deer now graze beside ancient stones, and where every visitor leaves a little more enchanted by Ireland’s timeless charm.