The Wicklow Way

The Wicklow Way: South to North We run the Wicklow Way from south to north, starting in Clonegal where the trail begins at the edge of County Carlow. This direction builds beautifully: early days wind through the gentle Carlow and south Wicklow foothills, open farmland and quiet lanes that ease you into the rhythm of multi-day walking. As the trail moves north, the terrain changes decisively. You climb into the Wicklow Mountains proper, crossing blanket bog and exposed granite ridges that feel wild and elemental. The descent into Glenmalure, one of Ireland's deepest glacial valleys, is a powerful moment: a steep, wooded ravine where the 1798 rebels held out against British forces, and where the landscape still carries a sense of fierce independence. From Glenmalure, the trail climbs again to Glendalough, the emotional and historical heart of the walk. The 6th-century monastic settlement founded by St Kevin sits in a steep-sided valley between two glacial lakes, ringed by granite peaks. We always recommend spending extra time here. The trail continues north over Djouce Mountain (725m) with views across the Irish Sea to Wales on clear days, then descends through Crone Wood and the Glencree Valley. The final stage drops through Enniskerry and suburban parkland to Marlay Park on Dublin's southern edge. Most walkers complete the full trail in 6 to 8 days, covering 16 to 22km daily. We arrange accommodation in Tinahely, Glenmalure, Laragh, Roundwood and Enniskerry, with luggage transfers between each stop so you walk with just a daypack.