The Garden of Ireland, Trails, and Mountains Close to Dublin
County Wicklow, just south of Dublin, is Ireland’s most accessible walking destination and the heart of the country’s long-distance hiking tradition. Known as the Garden of Ireland, it blends rolling uplands, glacial valleys, heather moors, and quiet villages, making it a perfect choice for self-guided walking holidays and outdoor adventures.
At its core is the Wicklow Way, Ireland’s first long-distance waymarked trail, winding 131 km through valleys, forests, and mountains. Walkers encounter iconic sites like Glendalough, a monastic settlement set in a dramatic glacial valley, as well as waterfalls, woodland trails, and sweeping upland ridges. Whether for a day walk, a weekend escape, or a full week-long trek, Wicklow delivers Ireland’s landscapes at their most accessible and varied.
Trails & Routes
Walking in Wicklow offers everything from short loops to long-distance challenges:
- The Wicklow Way – 131 km from Dublin’s Marlay Park to Clonegal, crossing valleys, forests, and mountains.
- Glendalough Trails – loop walks around the lakes and monastic ruins, ranging from easy strolls to challenging upland climbs.
- Lugnaquilla & Glenmalure – Ireland’s highest peak outside Kerry, with panoramic mountain walking.
- Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk – a short, popular coastal trail with views over the Irish Sea.
- Sugarloaf Mountain – a quick but rewarding climb, offering wide views over Wicklow and Dublin.
Adventure Highlights
- The Wicklow Way – Ireland’s classic long-distance trail.
- Glendalough – monastic ruins and a glacial valley of lakes and forests.
- Lugnaquilla – the highest mountain in Leinster.
- Powerscourt Waterfall – Ireland’s tallest cascade.
- The Sugarloaf – short climb, huge views.
- Accessible from Dublin – perfect for weekend or short walking holidays.
Explore the Area
- Glendalough – monastic heritage and lakeside trails.
- Enniskerry – gateway to Powerscourt House & Waterfall.
- Bray & Greystones – coastal towns linked by the cliff path.
- Arklow – seaside town at the southern edge of the county.
- Rathdrum & Glenmalure – traditional bases for mountain walks.
