Wicklow Way - guide, accommodation and stages
- Christian Sommer
- 6 days ago
- 17 min read
The Wicklow Way is a legendary long-distance hiking trail through the green heart of Ireland: it leads from Dublin (Marlay Park) to Clonegal and delights with rolling hills, mystical forests, clear streams and the tranquil magic of the Wicklow Mountains. You will hike – mostly on easily accessible paths, but also on root-covered trails and boggy heights in places – through quiet valleys, past spiritual places such as Glendalough and through ancient landscapes steeped in mist, nature and Celtic heritage.
Content
1. Journey
2. Route
3. Accommodation
4. Weather and best time to travel
5. Further information
6. Recommended stages
7. Packing list
8. GPX and map information
9. Conclusion
Wicklow Way
The Wicklow Way stretches for around 130 kilometres through some of the most charming landscapes in the east of Ireland. The trail is classified as moderately difficult, with gentle but sometimes long climbs, and it usually takes 7 daysto complete the entire route. Despite its proximity to Dublin, the Wicklow Way surprises visitors in many places with its seclusion and tranquil nature.
Info: The Wicklow Way was opened in 1980 as Ireland's first official long-distance hiking trail and is now one of the most popular long-distance trails on the Emerald Isle. The aim was to offer hikers a continuous, marked path through the picturesque Wicklow Mountains – while at the same time making the region's natural and cultural heritage gently accessible.
Wicklow Way Anreise
The Wicklow Way traditionally starts at Marlay Park in the south of Dublin. The starting point has excellent public transport links, so you can plan your journey flexibly – whether by plane, train or hire car. Its proximity to the capital makes getting there particularly easy.
Plane: The nearest airport is Dublin Airport – from here you can reach Marlay Park in about 1 hour by bus and tram or taxi. To find cheap flights, I highly recommend Skyscanner – a first-class app that gives you a quick overview of the best flight deals.
Bus: From Dublin Airport, it is best to take the airport bus (e.g. Aircoach or Dublin Express) to the city centre, then continue by bus or LUAS (tram) to Ballinteer, Dundrum or Rathfarnham – depending on the connection, you will reach Marlay Park in about 50–60 minutes. From Dublin city centre, you can easily reach the starting point with various bus lines (e.g. lines 14, 16 or 75) or the LUAS Green Line heading south. Depending on traffic, it takes about 30-45 minutes from the city centre.
I highly recommend the OMIO app for finding a bus.
Taxi: You can also easily get to the starting point by taxi from the airport or city centre.
As always, I recommend watching a video about the tour:
Wicklow Way route
The Wicklow Way route is generally easy to moderate and ideal for enjoyable long-distance hiking – although individual sections, such as the passage over White Hill or the descent into Glenmalure Valley, can be more challenging in wet or windy conditions. The trail mostly follows well-marked paths, forest roads and old trade routes through quiet forests, open highlands and the rolling hills of the Wicklow Mountains. So you can fully immerse yourself in the green beauty of Ireland. There are no exposed sections!
Despite the solid signage, it is advisable to carry a GPS device or an offline map, especially in foggy conditions, in remote sections or if you are hiking outside the main season. This will help you stay on course even if a marker is missing or the path becomes unclear.
Waymarking: The Wicklow Way is marked with yellow arrows and a stylised hiker symbol on a black background. You will find the signs on posts, wooden boards or tree trunks along the entire route.
Luggage transfer: Book your luggage transfer here!
Remember to insure your trip well – because a fall or other typical hiking injury can quickly result in high rescue costs. Auras Insurance offers you worldwide hiking and trekking insurance, specially designed for active travellers.
Use the discount code HIKINGFEX to get 10% off your insurance.
Wicklow Way stages
The Wicklow Way takes you through the varied landscape of the Wicklow Mountains in the east of Ireland in around seven stages. The difficulty varies only slightly between stages and depends mainly on the length of the day, the altitude and the weather – especially on the open, windy ridges.
Classic:
Stage 1: Marley Park - Knockree (20km and 620m ascent)
Stage 2: Knockree – Roundwood (20km and 610m ascent)
Stage 3: Roundwood – Glendalough (11km and 300m ascent)
Stage 4: Glendalough – Glenmalure (14 km and 480 m ascent)
Stage 5: Glenmalure – Moyne (21 km and 700 m ascent)
Stage 6: Moyne – Shillelagh (24 km and 500 m ascent)
Stage 7: Shillelagh – Clonegall (21 km and 390 m ascent)
Outdooractive: https://out.ac/3wrVii
Wicklow Way accommodation
There are several accommodation options along the Wicklow Way, ranging from charming guesthouses and hotels to B&Bs. You can book your accommodation directly here via my partner platform ‘Booking.com’ using the links below. It won't cost you a penny more. I have also compiled a list of all other accommodation options and campsites for you.
Starting point: Dublin (Marley Park)
Stage 1: Knockree
Stage 2: Roundwood
Stage 3: Glendalough
Mullacor Hut Camping
Stage 4: Glenmalure
Stage 5: Moyne/Tinahely
Stage 6: Shillelagh
Hunter's Lodge -
Tel: +353 (087) 416 0134
Email: thehunterlodge@hotmail.com
Address: Deerpark, Shillelagh, County Wicklow.
Stage 7: Clonegal/Bunclody
Wicklow Way guide
In this review, I share my varied impressions of the Wicklow Way – one of Ireland's most beautiful long-distance hikes. The review gives you an overview of what to expect on this varied tour.
Getting there: Getting to the Wicklow Way is very easy. The best option is to book a flight to Dublin – an international airport with numerous connections from all over Europe. After arriving in Dublin, you can take the bus (runs several times a day) to Marlay Park, the official starting point of the trail, in about 30 minutes. Spend your first night either in Dublin city centre or near Marlay Park, including a hearty Irish breakfast of porridge, eggs and soda bread the next morning.
Stage 1: Marley Park - Knockree (20 km and 620 m ascent)
The Wicklow Way begins classically at the car park next to Marlay House. From here, the trail winds its way through the idyllic, wooded grounds of the popular city park and soon sets course for the gentle heights of the Dublin Mountains. After a short while, the first climb awaits you – a gentle warm-up for what is to come. Shortly afterwards, you will reach the first viewpoint with a sweeping view of the city and the surrounding countryside.
Via Kilmashogue, the striking Fairy Castle (536 m), Two Rock and Tibradden Mountain, the trail steadily ascends and descends – an atmospheric interplay of narrow paths, sweeping views and deep green forest passages. After about 9 kilometres, you will reach Glencullen Road at Ballybrack, which you follow for a short distance.
If you feel like a break with Guinness and live music, it's worth making a short detour to the legendary Johnny Fox's Pub– one of Ireland's highest pubs, only about 2 kilometres away. A great atmosphere is guaranteed.
Otherwise, continue over the Glencullen River and up to Prince William's Seat (555 m). Up there, you will once again be rewarded with a magnificent view – the typical expanses of the Wicklow Mountains spread out before you.
Your day finally ends in Knockree, where cosy accommodation awaits you – ideal for resting after your first day of hiking. Tip: If you fancy a little Irish small-town flair, it's worth making a small detour to Enniskerry, about 4 km to the east. There you'll find charming cafés, a relaxed atmosphere – and Powerscourt Gardens, one of the most magnificent gardens in Ireland.
Stage 2: Knockree – Roundwood (20km and 610m ascent)
The Wicklow Way takes you west around Knockree Hill before descending into the idyllic valley of the Glencree River. From the Crone Wood car park, there is a steady climb – accompanied by impressive views, such as the mighty Powerscourt Waterfall and Deer Park.
Soon the landscape opens up and you reach open, wide terrain. Here you cross the wild Dargle River before the trail climbs to the eastern flank of Djouce (pronounced jowsse, 775 m). The highest point of the day's stage is at about 650 metres. Nearby is a place that appears repeatedly in Irish folklore: in 1946, a plane crashed here on Djouce Mountain – a tragic event that has left its mark to this day.
Behind the next hill, a long wooden plank path begins, leading you across a high moor. Then it's downhill for you: an extensive descent through the quiet forests of Ballinastoe awaits you, interrupted again and again by fantastic views.
The rest of the route runs partly on forest paths and partly on small roads through wooded hills and wide meadows. Finally, you reach your destination for the day: Roundwood – a welcoming place with shopping facilities, cosy pubs and various accommodation options for a restful night.
Don't forget to take an emergency bivouac with you. It consists of an emergency blanket that is cold-resistant, a whistle and a mini compass. It should be in your backpack on every hike anyway.
As the old Scottish saying goes: "There's no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes!"
Stage 3: Roundwood – Glendalough (11 km and 300 m ascent)
At just 12 kilometres, today's stage is significantly shorter than the previous two days – ideal for exploring the heart of the Wicklow Mountains around Laragh in more detail. Four large glacial valleys meet here: Avonmore, Glenmacnass, Glendasan and Glendalough. This region has an incredible amount to offer in terms of both landscape and history – if you can plan an extra day, you won't regret it.
Your hike begins in Roundwood. You follow a small country road for about 3 kilometres over Drumray Hill before turning onto a narrow path. This leads you over the next hill, Paddock Hill, and finally to your destination for the day, Glendalough.
If you would rather go to Laragh – a lively village with good accommodation, pubs, restaurants and small shops – simply continue along the road for another kilometre.
Stage 4: Glendalough – Glenmalure (14 km and 480 m ascent)
The fourth stage of the Wicklow Way takes you through a valley and over a small footbridge across the Glendasan River. Further along the valley, you will eventually discover Poulanass Waterfall. There, the trail turns into the Lugduff Valley – and you begin a 4–5 km climb with an elevation gain of about 400 metres up to Mullacor at 657 metres. At the highest point, you cross a vast moor on a wooden plank path.
This is followed by an equally long descent into the impressive Glenmalure Valley. As you hike down, you will be treated to sweeping views along the Lugduff Ridge. In clear weather, you can even see the highest peak in the Wicklow Mountains – the striking Lugnaquillia.
Your stage finally ends in the peaceful valley of Glenmalure.
Ireland isn't exactly known for its sunshine – but I still managed to enjoy some all day long. That's why, as always, I'd like to recommend my beloved Piz Buin Mountain sun cream!
"The sun also shines behind the clouds." Quote from Karl Friedrich Wilhelm Wander
Stage 5: Glenmalure – Moyne (21 km and 700 m ascent)
The fifth stage of the Wicklow Way is slightly longer and takes you through the southern part of the Wicklow Highlands to the gentler hills in the south-west. Your day begins with a steady climb through the pleasant wooded slopes of Slieve Maan. After about 6 kilometres and 400 metres of elevation gain, you will reach the Military Road, which you will follow for a short distance. Immediately afterwards, you will circle the 508-metre-high Carrickashane. After a long descent, you will reach the historic Iron Bridge at Aghavannagh. Your stage destination will then soon be reached.
The stage ends with a quiet stretch of road that takes you south to the tiny, once Georgian village of Moyne. You will find accommodation nearby, and there is a small shop in Knockananna, about 2 kilometres to the west.
On this section, you slowly leave the mountains behind – from here on, the landscape changes: rolling hills, green paths and lonely country roads accompany you on your way south.
Due to the long distance and the strenuous altitude difference, I would like to recommend my ultra-light hiking gear at this point:
I would also like to recommend my beloved Salewa trekking shoes because of the mountain and jungle landscape and the challenging mountain trails:
‘Give a woman the right shoes and she can conquer the world.’ Quote from Marilyn Monroe
Stage 6: Moyne – Shillelagh (24 km and 500 m ascent)
On the sixth stage, you follow a pleasant, easy-to-walk path along the slopes of Ballycumber Hill and Coolafunshoge. At some point, you will reach the busy road from Hacketstown to Tinahely – here, of course, you need to be careful. From here, colourful wildflowers accompany you along the hedges – a small natural spectacle that will accompany you all the way to Clonegal. A green, tree-lined path leads you along the lower slopes of Muskeagh Hill towards Mullinacuff and the crossroads at Stranakelly. There you will find a true hiking legend: Tallon's Pub – the perfect place for a well-deserved beer, as you have just passed the 100-kilometre mark.
From here, it is another 6 kilometres to your stage destination in Shillelagh.
Stage 7: Shillelagh – Clonegall (21 km and 390 m ascent)
The final stage of the Wicklow Way can be divided into two sections: First, you hike through Raheenakit Forest and past the hills of Stokeen, Moylisha and Urelands – a quiet, wooded section that contrasts sharply with the last few kilometres. From Wicklow Bridge, the border between County Wicklow and County Carlow, the trail leads you through the wide valley of the Derry River to the pretty village of Clonegal.
To celebrate your 127-kilometre hike, stop off at Sean O'Duinn's or Osborne's Pub – both are perfect places to toast your adventure with a final pint. Once you've reached your destination – congratulations! You have my utmost respect.
Wicklow Way best time to visit
The best time to visit the Wicklow Way is between May and October, with the most stable weather conditions usually occurring between June and August. During this period, you can expect long days, mild temperatures and the best chances of clear views across the open moorland and rolling hills of the Wicklow Mountains.
The months of May and June are ideal for those who want to enjoy the route at a more leisurely pace. Nature is at its freshest at this time of year: bright green foliage, flowering gorse bushes and the chirping of song thrushes and robins accompany you on your way. From September onwards, the trail becomes quieter – the light softens, wisps of mist drift through the valleys of Glenmalure or Glendalough, and the landscape slowly takes on its autumnal colours. This is a particularly atmospheric time to experience the wild side of Ireland.
If you want to get a more accurate picture of the typical weather along the route, it's worth taking a look at historical weather data for places such as Dublin, Glendalough or Clonegal. This will give you a better idea of the temperature, probability of precipitation and hours of sunshine – and help you choose the right equipment.
Wicklow Way – further information
Here you will find further important information about the Wicklow Way!
Gas cartridge: You can find one at Mountain Warehouse in Glasgow.
Money: ATMs and credit cards are accepted in many places. Nevertheless, you should take enough cash with you on your trip.
Luggage transfer: Book your luggage transfer here!
Wild camping: Not officially allowed – but apparently tolerated!
In Ireland, wild camping is not clearly regulated by law as it is in Scotland (information subject to change, as the legal situation may change). Basically, almost all land is privately owned, including forests and mountains.
Discreet camping is possible, especially in the forests around Glenmalure, Lough Tay or Glendalough – but be careful: In national park areas (such as Wicklow Mountains National Park), wild camping is strictly regulated.
Water: There are water sources in some places along the way, but they are not always reliable. I therefore recommend that you fill up your water supply at your accommodation before starting each day's stage. If you want to refill your water on the go, be sure to filter or boil it to be on the safe side.
Wicklow Way packing list
Here I recommend the most important hiking equipment that I own, have tested myself and have also bought myself. I pay a lot of attention to the weight and quality of my equipment. The equipment should simply feel good on longer tours and also be light. I can recommend the equipment for women because my wife uses it and it is basically the same as the equipment for men.
Note: Please keep in mind that the packing list is general and you will have to adapt it depending on the season and your needs!
Advertising note: These product links are affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, I will receive a small commission without you having to pay more. This is for the maintenance of my blog and you support me with my project, for which I am very grateful. Thank you very much!
Clothes
Hiking boots
Hiking shorts
Long hiking pants
Functional shirt
Hybridjacket
Fleece-jacket
Rain jacket
Functional underwear
Hiking socks
Other hiking equipment:
• Sun cap
Hiking backback (approx. 60 litres or as required)
by EXPED - unfortunately not available on Amazon.
• Backback - Ospray (was my old one and is also good)
Technology and orientation:
• Compass
• Headlamp
• GPS device or GPS watch if necessary
• Binoculars if necessary
Catering:
• Sweets to keep up morale :)
Health & first Aid:
• First Aid (small and light)
• Tape
• Bivouac
• Toilet paper
Other:
• Passport/Insurance certificate
• cash
• Gas cartridge
Film equipment:
• Camera
• Drone
• Tripod
• Clip
To prepare yourself optimally for your hikes, I recommend the workouts on my YouTube channel.
Long-distance hiking trails in Europe: 90 routes, all countries
Safety advice
Wicklow Way GPX
Here you will find the GPX files for the Wicklow Way. For detailed planning, I would recommend the maps from Outdooractive and Komoot.
Outdooractive: https://out.ac/3wrVii
Wicklow Way FAQ
Here you will find the most important questions and answers about the Wicklow Way – concise, helpful and compiled from our own experience:
Wicklow Way with children
Hiking the Wicklow Way with children is possible in principle – however, much depends on the age, fitness and hiking experience of your children. The entire Wicklow Way is around 130 km long, leads through partly remote mountain landscapes and has some challenging climbs.
Wicklow Way starting point
The Wicklow Way starts right at Marlay House in the park – there you will also find an information board with a route overview, a few cafés, toilets and the first signposts with the yellow hiking pictogram. The trail first leads through the green park, then under the M50 motorway and on towards the Dublin Mountains.
Wicklow Way GPX
Here you can easily download the GPX file for the Wicklow Way – ideal for navigation on your hike.
Camping on the wicklow way
If you want to walk the Wicklow Way with a tent, you're in for a special adventure – camping is possible on this route, but it requires a bit of planning. Wild camping is not expressly prohibited in Ireland, but you should definitely follow the Leave No Trace rules. This means: Staying in one place for only one night, setting up as late as possible, breaking camp early, keeping at least 400 metres away from houses and roads – and, of course, leaving no rubbish behind. However, wild camping is prohibited in the sensitive areas of Wicklow Mountains National Park, such as around Glendalough.
Along the way, there are also several official campsites that offer more comfort: For example, the simple meadow at Glenmalure Lodge, where you can camp with access to the bar and sanitary facilities, or smaller sites such as near Cronybyrne. In Rathdrum or around Clonegal, you will also find places to pitch your tent, sometimes even in the gardens of B&Bs – it is worth asking in advance.
Wicklow Way in september
September is a wonderful time to travel the Wicklow Way: most hikers have already been there, the weather is often still mild, and the autumnal atmosphere bathes the forests, moors and hills in a warm light. However, the days are noticeably shorter and the nights can already be chilly – good equipment is now particularly important.
The most beautiful stages of the Wicklow Way
The most beautiful stages of the Wicklow Way combine quiet forests, vast high moors and rugged mountain slopes with real hiking highlights: from Glendalough, a fairytale trail through the historic monastery valley awaits you, followed by the ascent to Mullacor with views deep into Glenmalure Valley. The passage over Slieve Maan and along the Lugduff ridge is particularly rewarding, with views stretching to the highest peak of the Wicklow Mountains, the striking Lugnaquilla. In small villages such as Moyne or Shillelagh and along green paths, you can feel the tranquillity and authenticity of Ireland – long-distance hiking in its purest form.
Wicklow Way
The Wicklow Way in Ireland is a 127 km long-distance hiking trail that takes you through some of the country's most diverse and atmospheric landscapes. You can expect an impressive mix of ancient forests, open heathland, deep valleys and rolling hills – criss-crossed by secluded paths, historic sites and sweeping views over the Wicklow Mountains. The trail is well marked and suitable for hikers of moderate fitness. The daily stages can be divided flexibly depending on your pace and stamina. Look forward to an unforgettable hike through the green heart of Ireland – and good luck on your tour!
As always, I would be very happy to receive feedback via one of my channels.
You are also welcome to leave me a comment here.
Hello, I am Christian, the chief globetrotter of this Site and an enthusiastic adventurer, hiker and filmmaker. I love to explore new paths and inspire people with them, and I love to share my hiking knowledge with you! You can also find my videos on YouTube! On my blog you can find tips for beginners and professionals on the greatest and most beautiful hiking tours there are. I want to encourage people to explore the world as a hiker, whether in the countryside, through the forest or in the mountains. True to the motto: If you haven't hiked, you haven't seen the world,
On my blog, I also write about hiking gear, the right summit training and nature conservation, as well as tips and information about hiking.