Glendalough

Gleann Dá Loch

A glacial valley in the Wicklow Mountains renowned for its monastic settlement, two pristine lakes, and ancient round tower set among steep wooded slopes. This peaceful, atmospheric site combines historical significance with breathtaking natural beauty and excellent hiking trails.

Things to do

• Round Tower Exploration — Climb the 30-meter 12th-century round tower, one of Ireland's finest examples of Early Medieval architecture, offering panoramic views of the valley.
• Upper Lake Walk — Trek the scenic trail along the Upper Lake's shoreline through ancient woodland, passing monastic ruins and stone crosses.
• Monastic Settlement Tour — Explore the cathedral, St. Kevin's Church, and cemetery ruins that form the heart of the 6th-century monastic community founded by Saint Kevin.
• Spinc Mountain Ridge Hike — Challenge yourself on this steep ascent offering dramatic views across both lakes and the surrounding Wicklow peaks.
• St. Kevin's Bed Visit — Scramble along the lakeside cliffs to reach this tiny hermitage cave carved into rock where Saint Kevin reportedly meditated.
• Lower Lake Paddle — Rent a kayak or canoe to explore the serene lower lake and access hidden woodland coves unreachable on foot.
• Miner's Walk Nature Trail — Follow this gentler woodland path past historical mining sites and waterfalls through native Irish forest.

Food to try

• Wicklow Lamb — Tender slow-cooked lamb from local mountain farms, served in Irish stew with potatoes and root vegetables at nearby Glendalough village restaurants.
• Brown Bread and Smoked Salmon — Thick slices of traditional Irish soda bread served with locally-sourced smoked salmon and butter at tearoom cafés.
• Irish Stew — Hearty one-pot dish of mutton, potatoes, onions and thyme, warming and filling after mountain hikes.
• Boxty Pancakes — Crispy potato pancakes filled with local cheese or mushrooms, a traditional Wicklow speciality served at village establishments.
• Whiskey Cake — Dense fruit cake infused with Irish whiskey, sold fresh at local bakeries and perfect for afternoon tea.

Local customs & good to know

• Respectful Site Behavior — This is a sacred monastic site still of spiritual importance; keep noise low, stay on marked paths, and avoid touching carved stones.
• Weather Preparedness — The Wicklow Mountains create sudden fog, rain, and wind changes; always bring waterproof jacket and check conditions before hiking, even on clear mornings.
• Early Start Advantage — Arrive before 10am to avoid tour bus crowds and experience the monastic site's contemplative atmosphere when visitor numbers are lowest.
• Local Storytelling Tradition — Engage with local guides or café owners who often share folklore about Saint Kevin and ancient Celtic history—these stories enrich understanding of the site.