Wicklow Mountains

Sléibhte Chill Mhantáin

A rugged mountain range south of Dublin offering excellent hiking, wild moorland landscapes, and charming mountain villages like Roundwood. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking accessible wilderness and scenic trails.

Things to do

• Wicklow Way Hiking Trail — A 131km long-distance walking route stretching from Marlay Park in Dublin to Clonegal, passing through the heart of the mountains with diverse landscapes and mountain villages.
• Glendalough Round Trip — Hike around the glacial valley containing two pristine lakes, ancient monastic ruins, and a famous round tower dating to the 10th century.
• Powerscourt Waterfall Walk — A scenic 4km loop trail leading to Ireland's highest waterfall at 121 metres, set in woodland with mountain views.
• Roundwood Village Exploration — Visit this charming mountain village, the highest in Ireland at 370m, with traditional pubs, craft shops, and scenic surroundings.
• Sally Gap Mountain Pass Drive — Drive or cycle the dramatic high-altitude pass connecting Roundwood and Glendalough with stunning moorland vistas and mountain photography opportunities.
• Lugnaquilla Summit Trek — Climb to Ireland's longest mountain at 925m for panoramic views across the Irish landscape and coastal plains on clear days.

Food to try

• Boxty — A traditional Irish potato pancake made from grated raw potato mixed with flour and potato puree, served folded or rolled with savory fillings like lamb or smoked salmon.
• Mountain Lamb Stew — A hearty traditional dish featuring locally-raised lamb, root vegetables, and potatoes, slow-cooked and served in rural pubs throughout the mountain region.
• Wicklow Farmhouse Cheese — Creamy artisanal cheeses produced by local farmstead creameries, often paired with brown soda bread at village cafés and farm shops.
• Irish Soda Bread — A dense, slightly sweet bread made with wholemeal flour and buttermilk, traditionally baked fresh in village bakeries and served warm with butter and jam.
• Smoked Trout from Local Rivers — Freshly smoked trout caught from Wicklow's mountain streams, served at farm-to-table restaurants and available at local fishmongers in Roundwood.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Hiking Etiquette — Always close gates behind you, stay on marked trails to protect bog habitats, and greet fellow hikers—it's a cherished mountain tradition.
• Visit Pubs for Local Stories — Irish mountain pubs are social hubs where locals gather; order a drink, chat with patrons, and you'll hear authentic stories about the land and its history.
• Check Weather Conditions Daily — Mountain weather changes rapidly; locals always check forecasts before hiking and expect mist, rain, or fog even on seemingly clear mornings.
• Support Local Artisans and Farms — Visit farm shops, craft studios, and family-run businesses in mountain villages—direct support for local livelihoods is deeply valued in rural Wicklow communities.