Glendalough Valley - Discovering Ireland

Travelling to Glendalough Valley

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Glendalough Valley, a pretty good destination in Ireland (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Glendalough Valley and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Glendalough Valley, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Ireland, here's everything to know about Glendalough Valley for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Glendalough Valley

Glendalough Valley is a glacial valley located in County Wicklow, Ireland. It is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including two picturesque lakes and a rich variety of flora and fauna. The valley contains many historic sites, including the ruins of a 6th century monastery founded by St. Kevin, which includes a round tower and several churches. Glendalough Valley is a popular destination for hiking and outdoor activities as it offers many scenic trails and routes through the hills and around the lakes.

What to visit in Glendalough Valley

Here are some of the main tourist attractions in Glendalough Valley, Ireland, along with some information about each: 1. Monastic City: The Monastic City of Glendalough is an important site in Irish history, dating back to the 6th century. It features a collection of historic ruins and buildings, including several churches, a graveyard, and a round tower.
2. Upper Lake: The Upper Lake in Glendalough is a serene and picturesque spot, offering beautiful views of the valley and surrounding mountains. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails around the lake, or rent a boat to explore the waters.
3. St. Kevin's Church: This small, stone church is one of the most famous and iconic landmarks in Glendalough. It is named after St. Kevin, the founder of the original monastery on this site, and features distinctive Irish architectural elements.
4. Glendalough Visitor Centre: The Visitor Centre is a great place to start your trip to Glendalough, offering a wealth of information and resources about the valley's history, geology, ecology, and more. Exhibits include interactive displays and multimedia presentations.
5. Poulnass Waterfall: Poulnass Waterfall is one of the most scenic and popular attractions in Glendalough, cascading down a series of natural rock formations into a crystal-clear pool. There are several viewpoints and hiking trails that lead to the waterfall, making it a great spot to explore.
6. Glendalough Mines: The mines of Glendalough are an interesting and unusual feature of the valley, dating back to the 1700s. Visitors can explore the ruins of the mine buildings and learn about the area's mining history.
7. Wicklow Way: The Wicklow Way is a famous hiking trail that runs through Glendalough Valley and the surrounding area. It is a great way to see the beautiful countryside and experience the natural beauty of the region.
I hope this information helps you plan a great visit to Glendalough Valley, Ireland!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Ireland, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Glendalough Valley.

When to go on holiday to Glendalough Valley

The best time to visit Glendalough Valley in Ireland is during the summer months of June, July, and August. During this time, the weather is typically warm and mild, with long hours of daylight. This is also the peak tourist season, so you can expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodations and attractions.
If you prefer to avoid the crowds, you can consider visiting Glendalough in the shoulder seasons of May and September. The weather might be slightly cooler, but the scenery is still breathtaking, and you can enjoy the area's natural beauty with more peace and quiet. However, keep in mind that some attractions and accommodations may have limited hours or may be closed during this time, so it's best to check in advance.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Glendalough Valley

To get to Glendalough Valley in Ireland, you have a few options: 1. By Car: The easiest way to get to Glendalough Valley is by car. It is located around 50 km (31 miles) south of Dublin. From Dublin, you can follow the signs for the N11 southbound towards Wexford and Rosslare. After around 40 km (24 miles), take the exit for Rathnew and Glendalough (R755), and then follow the signs for Glendalough.
2. By Bus: There are several bus companies that offer services from Dublin to Glendalough Valley, such as St. Kevin's Bus Service and Bus Eireann. The journey takes around 2 hours, and the bus drops you off at the visitor center in Glendalough.
3. By Tour: If you prefer a more organized trip, there are several tour companies that offer guided tours from Dublin to Glendalough Valley. These tours usually include visits to other nearby attractions such as the Wicklow Mountains or the Powerscourt Estate.
Whichever mode of transportation you choose, make sure to plan ahead and check the schedules and availability before you go.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Glendalough Valley, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Glendalough Valley

Here are some typical foods of Glendalough Valley, Ireland with a short description of each: 1. Irish Stew: This hearty stew is made with chunks of tender beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, and herbs all cooked together in a savory broth.
2. Soda Bread: This traditional bread is made with a combination of flour, baking soda, salt, and buttermilk. It has a dense texture and a slightly tangy flavor.
3. Boxty: Boxty is an Irish potato pancake made with grated potato, flour, and milk. It can be served plain or filled with a variety of ingredients like bacon, cheese, or herbs.
4. Seafood Chowder: This creamy soup is made with a variety of seafood like salmon, cod, mussels, and shrimp, as well as potatoes, carrots, and onions. It's seasoned with herbs and spices and served warm.
5. Guinness: While not a food, Guinness is a staple drink in Ireland and is often enjoyed with meals. This dark and creamy stout is brewed in Dublin and has a distinct malty flavor.
6. Brown Bread Ice Cream: Brown bread ice cream is a unique dessert made with a base of rich cream and brown bread crumbs. It's sweetened with honey or brown sugar and often flavored with a hint of Irish whiskey.
You can find general info about typical foods in Ireland here.

Is Glendalough Valley an expensive destination for tourists?

Glendalough Valley is a popular tourist destination, but it's not necessarily an expensive one. Prices for accommodation, food, and activities can vary depending on the season and level of luxury you're looking for. Generally speaking, it is a mid-range to slightly expensive destination, with options for both budget and high-end travelers. However, it is still possible to enjoy the beautiful scenery and historic sites on a reasonable budget by choosing wisely and doing some research beforehand.

Where to find accomodation in Glendalough Valley

There are a few areas where you can find accommodation to visit Glendalough Valley in Ireland. 1. Glendalough itself: There are a few guesthouses and B&Bs located in the village of Glendalough that provide easy access to the valley.
2. Laragh: The nearby village of Laragh also has a variety of accommodation options including hotels, B&Bs, and self-catering cottages.
3. Roundwood: Another nearby village, Roundwood, has a few guesthouses and B&Bs that provide easy access to Glendalough Valley.
4. Wicklow Town: If you don't mind staying a little further away, the town of Wicklow is about a 20-minute drive from Glendalough Valley and has a range of accommodation options including hotels and B&Bs. Overall, it's best to stay somewhere close to Glendalough or in one of the nearby villages to make the most of your visit to the valley.
You can check hotel prices at Glendalough Valley here:
Booking.com

Is Glendalough Valley a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Glendalough Valley in Ireland is generally a safe place for tourists. However, like any other tourist destination, it is always best to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. It is advisable to not leave valuables visible in your car, and to keep your personal belongings with you at all times. When hiking, stay on marked trails and be prepared for changing weather conditions. It is also important to respect the local flora and fauna, and not to litter or disturb the natural environment. Overall, Glendalough Valley is a popular and well-visited tourist destination in Ireland, and as long as visitors exercise common sense and take necessary precautions, they should have a safe and enjoyable experience.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Ireland here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Glendalough Valley.

What type of travelers will enjoy Glendalough Valley the most?

Glendalough Valley in Ireland is a great attraction for nature lovers, hikers, and history buffs, so it's ideal for families and couples who enjoy outdoor activities, and appreciate the beautiful scenery. Young people looking for fun might find the area too quiet, but if they enjoy hiking or cycling then it could be a great destination for them as well. So, Glendalough Valley is a perfect spot for those who love nature, history, and outdoor activities.

How to get around Glendalough Valley

The best way to move around Glendalough Valley in Ireland is by hiking. Glendalough is a natural amphitheater surrounded by mountains and filled with beautiful scenery, which makes it an ideal location for hiking and walking. There are many hiking trails available within the valley, ranging from beginner to advanced difficulty levels. Additionally, there are local tour companies that offer guided hikes and walking tours of the area. If you prefer a more relaxed way to explore the valley, you can also consider renting a bike or taking a horse-drawn carriage ride. However, keep in mind that some of the trails may be inaccessible for bikes and carriages.

What to see around Glendalough Valley

Sure, here are some suggestions: 1. Wicklow Mountains National Park - a beautiful and peaceful national park. With stunning landscapes, scenic drives, and walking trails.
2. Powerscourt Estate - a historic estate with stunning gardens, a waterfall, and a beautiful Georgian house.
3. Brú na Bóinne - a UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient tombs and monuments, including the famous passage tomb of Newgrange.
4. Dublin - Ireland's capital city is only about an hour's drive away from Glendalough, with plenty of landmarks, museums, and attractions to see and experience.
5. Kilkenny - a charming medieval city that's well worth a visit. There are plenty of historic landmarks to explore, including the 13th-century Kilkenny Castle.
I hope this helps, and you have a fantastic trip!
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