Hiking the Wicklow Way for 10 days

A magnificent hike today, with views of Lough Tay, Lough Dan, and the Guinness family's Luggala estate. An elevated path crosses a long stretch of open moorland to the pass between White Hill and Mount Djouce. From here, you can see the coastline as far as Howth Head, north of County Dublin. Today you'll pass Powerscourt Falls (120 m) and enjoy the tranquility of the Glencree Valley and a lovely walk along its banks.

A short day trip allows you to visit the monastic ruins and visitor center at Glendalough. The valley also saw significant lead, copper, and zinc mining in the 19th century. This route climbs from Oldbridge and the River Avonmore, then descends the gentle slopes of Paddock Hill. An optional detour up Mount Scarr offers stunning views of the lake. The day's ride finishes in Roundwood, Ireland's highest village at 238 meters above sea level.

Alternative route: Via Mount Scarr, 15 km. Elevation gain: 520 m. Approximate walking time: 5 hours.

Today, you have many options. Explore a monastic site in the valley, including seven churches, a fortified gate, a round tower, and St. Kevin's cell. Several hiking routes are possible, including the two already mentioned, as well as trails accessible via Mount Derrybawn, Brockagh, the Glendassan Valley, or Trooperstown Hill.

Alternative route: Upper lake and mines: 16 km, elevation gain: 540 m. Approximate duration: 6 hours.

Today is one of the highlights of the hike, with superb views, a beautiful walk, and the discovery of 6th-century monastic remains at Glendalough. Starting from the village of Laragh, you'll ascend the Glenmacnass valley and, after a short climb, reach the River Glenalo and the magnificent Glendalough. From there, you'll climb the slopes of Mount Derrybawn, traversing open moorland, before reaching the flat Mullacor pass at 550m altitude. The trail then descends through the forest from Mullacor, eventually arriving at Glenmalure.

Variant: 20 km. Elevation gain: 600 m. Approximate walking time: 7 hours.

Today's route winds through a pine forest and offers magnificent views of the deep gorges of the Avonbeg River, on the eastern slope of Lugnaquilla, the region's highest peak. The descent follows the Carrawaystick Stream, which drains the lake towards Avonbeg, 450 meters below. The Carriglineen trail is more accessible and makes for a pleasant hike, followed by some relaxation at the refuge.

Option 1: Mount Carriglineen: 8.5 km. Elevation gain: 330 m. Approximate duration: 3 hours.

Option 2: Glenmalure Valley: 12 km. Elevation gain: 600 m. Approximate duration: 5 hours.

Starting in the Glenmalure Valley, your hike begins with exceptional panoramic views. An optional route, via Croaghanmoira, reaches an altitude of 664m and offers breathtaking vistas over the Ow and Avonbeg valleys. The main route continues through a pine forest, where you might be lucky enough to spot a red deer as well as other species of Wicklow County wildlife.

Alternative route: Croaghanmoira Hill: 21 km. Elevation gain: 950 m. Approximate duration: 6 hours.

Your hike to Moyne will take you along peaceful forest trails, open mountain slopes, and quiet country roads. Moyne is the birthplace of Edward C. Godwin, founder of the New York Nation newspaper in 1865. This section of the Wicklow Way offers exceptional views and will take you back through the region you have already traveled through, as well as the neighboring counties of Carlow and Wexford. You will also pass by an old circular fort (Fairy Fort).

Variant with Ballycumber Hill: 20 km. Elevation gain: 400 m. Approximate hiking time: 6 hours.

Your first day of walking will take you along country roads and through forests, starting with Raheenakit Forest, passing through Moilishe and Stookeen Hill, and through Newry Forest.

Departure from Bunclody for the next leg of your journey. Instructions for returning to Dublin will be provided.