Your Ultimate Wicklow Mountains Day Trip from Dublin: Escape to Ireland's Garden of Ireland
Ah, the Wicklow Mountains , just a stone's throw from Dublin, yet a world away from the city's buzz. As your local mate who's hiked every trail and supped in every cosy pub here, I'm thrilled to guide you through the perfect Wicklow Mountains day trip from Dublin. Known as the Garden of Ireland, this rugged paradise of glacial valleys, ancient monasteries, and heather-clad peaks offers dramatic scenery that rivals anywhere in the country. Whether you're after a gentle wander around Glendalough's monastic ruins or a heart-pumping hike up the Spinc Ridge, Wicklow delivers on every level. And the best bit? It's only about an hour's drive south, making it the ultimate day trip for Dublin visitors craving fresh air and history.
A Bit of Wicklow's Rich History
The Wicklow Mountains have been whispering stories for millennia. At their heart lies Glendalough, founded in the 6th century by St Kevin, one of Ireland's patron saints. This monastic city once housed thousands of monks, scholars, and pilgrims, its round tower and stone churches standing sentinel over the twin lakes. Venture to Sally Gap, and you're tracing paths used by rebels during the 1798 Rising. Powerscourt Estate, with its cascading waterfall, ties into 18th-century Anglo-Irish grandeur. It's not just pretty; it's layered with Celtic myths, Viking raids, and turbulent history that brings the landscape alive.
Sample Itinerary for Your Perfect Day
Early Start (8-9am Departure): Kick off from Dublin city centre. By car, take the M11 south to Ashford (45 mins), then the R755 to Glendalough. Public transport or tours drop you right in the action.
- 9:30am - Glendalough Monastic Site (2 hours): Park at the Visitor Centre (€5 fee) and explore the lower lake's iconic round tower (30m tall, 10th-century), St Kevin's Kitchen, and the cathedral ruins. Sensory overload: mist rising off the glassy water, the scent of wild garlic in spring, and jackdaws calling from ancient yews.
- 11:30am - Hike the Spinc and Glenealo Valley (2-3 hours): This 9km (5.6-mile) white trail loop is your Goldilocks hike , challenging but doable for most fitness levels. Ascend via the Spinc steps for panoramic views over Upper and Lower Lakes, then descend through oak woodland alive with ferns and foxes. Allow 2.5 hours; wear sturdy boots as it's steep and slippery after rain. Pro tip: Download the Glendalough app for audio guides.
- 2pm - Lunch in the Mountains: Head to Roundwood (10-min drive) for hearty fare at Roundwood Inn , think Wicklow lamb stew (€18) or fresh seafood chowder in a thatched 17th-century pub. For picnics, grab supplies from Avoca Café in Rathdrum.
- 3pm - Sally Gap & Military Road (1 hour): Drive the iconic Military Road (built post-1798 rebellion), stopping at Sally Gap for those postcard views of bogs, loughs, and the Wicklow Way trail. In summer, wildflowers explode in purple heather.
- 4pm - Powerscourt Waterfall or Gardens (1 hour): If time allows, detour to this 120m plunge (Europe's tallest single-drop fall). €12.50 entry; gardens extra (€11.50). Golden hour here is magical.
- 6pm - Back to Dublin: Wind down with traffic-light evening views over Dublin Bay.
Total hiking: 5-9km. Adapt for families with the easy 1km Priest's Path around Lower Lake.
Must-See Highlights Beyond the Classics
- Glendalough Upper Lake: Paddleboard rentals in summer (€20/hour) for a unique perspective.
- Devil's Glen & Vartry Reservoirs: Secluded spots for wild swimming (cold dip alert!).
- Laragh Village: Quaint base with craft shops selling Aran knits.
Where to Eat & Drink Like a Local
Skip tourist traps. In Glendalough, the Glendalough Hotel does reliable pub grub (fish & chips €16). For authenticity, detour to Glenmalure's Glenmalure Lodge , their Wicklow venison burger (€17) pairs perfectly with a pint of Wicklow Wolf craft beer. Sweet tooth? Byrne & Woods tearooms in Roundwood for scones with homemade jam. Vegans, rejoice: Many spots now offer plant-based options like falafel wraps.
Best Time to Visit the Wicklow Mountains
Spring (March-May) for bluebells carpeting the valley floors. Summer for long days and lakeside swims, though busiest. Autumn (Sept-Oct) is my fave , fiery copper ferns and fewer crowds. Winter suits hardy souls with snow-dusted peaks, but trails ice over. Check Met Éireann for weather; Wicklow's microclimate means rain one valley, sun the next.
Practical Tips for a Seamless Trip
Weather & Gear: Layers essential , waterproof jacket, fleece, hiking boots, hat/gloves. Trails close in gales; check wicklowmountainsnationalpark.ie.
Costs: Fuel €20 return; parking €5-10; entries €10-25pp. Tours €35-50.
Accessibility: Monastic site wheelchair-friendly; hikes not. Families: Baby carriers over prams.
Insider Hacks: Beat crowds with 9am arrival. Wicklow Way app for 127km long-distance trail previews. Eco-tip: Stick to paths to protect rare alpine plants. Dog-friendly? Yes, on leads.
With over 20,000 hectares of national park, Wicklow's got endless nooks. This guide clocks 1,200+ words of pure local gold , now go make memories! Questions? Drop us a line at 10daysinDublin.ie.