WICKLOW WAY HIKING TOUR DESCRIPTION
 | 5 or 8 days |  | Mar 1 - Oct 31 | 
| Self-Guided Hiking |
 | From €695 | 
| Moderate | ||
 | Dublin, Ireland |  | Laragh, Ireland |
Hike the Wicklow Way – Ireland’s Most Stunning Self-Guided Trail
Dreaming of an unforgettable hiking adventure in Ireland? The Wicklow Way self-guided tour takes you deep into the heart of the Wicklow Mountains, where rugged peaks, serene valleys, and charming villages create the perfect escape into nature.
Imagine yourself hiking through rolling green hills, standing at the edge of Lough Tay (Guinness Lake)—one of Ireland’s most breathtaking viewpoints—and wandering through the ancient monastic site of Glendalough, where history and natural beauty collide.
Whether you choose the 5-day version for a taste of the trail or go all in with the 8-day Wicklow Way hike, every step reveals another side of Ireland’s wild beauty.
With our self-guided tour, you get the freedom to hike at your own pace, while we take care of the logistics—accommodations, luggage transfers, and detailed trail notes—so all you have to do is enjoy the adventure.
Why You’ll Love This Wicklow Way Hiking Tour
🌿 Hike one of Ireland’s most iconic trails – The Wicklow Way is Ireland’s oldest and most famous long-distance route, offering breathtaking scenery at every turn.
⏳ Choose your adventure – Opt for a 5-day journey for a taste of the trail or go all-in with the full 8-day Wicklow Way hike.
🏞 Experience diverse landscapes – Walk through rolling green fields, misty forests, rugged mountain passes, and tranquil lakesides.
🏞 Marvel at Lough Tay (Guinness Lake) – One of Ireland’s most famous sights, this dark, peaty lake is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and resembles a pint of Guinness!
🍀 Discover Glendalough’s ancient monastic site – One of Ireland’s most magical places, where history and nature blend seamlessly.
🏡 Stay in cozy Irish guesthouses – Experience the famous hospitality of Ireland in handpicked accommodations, complete with hearty breakfasts to fuel your hikes.
🎒 Self-guided freedom, zero stress – We handle the details—route planning, luggage transfers, accommodations, and trail notes—so you can simply enjoy the adventure.
🚶♂️ Easily accessible from Dublin – A perfect escape into nature, just a short trip from Ireland’s capital.
If you’re looking for a hiking experience that blends adventure, history, and Ireland’s legendary landscapes, this is it. Are you ready to explore the Wicklow Way? 🌄☘️
An absolute gem of a trail, winding through rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and peaceful lakes. The accommodations Monkeys and Mountains picked were spot-on and made the whole experience even better.
– Kate
WICKLOW WAY HIKING TOUR: 5-DAY ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrive in Dublin – Explore Ireland’s Vibrant Capital
Your Wicklow Way self-guided tour begins in Dublin, Ireland’s lively capital, where centuries of history blend seamlessly with modern city life. You’ll make their own way to Dublin and to your first-night accommodation in a centrally located hotel.
If you arrive early, take the opportunity to explore some of the city’s must-see landmarks. Wander through the historic streets of Temple Bar, soak in the grandeur of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, or learn about Ireland’s most famous stout at the Guinness Storehouse. With Dublin’s compact city center, these highlights are all within easy reach.
After a day of exploring, settle in for the night and get ready to leave the city behind as your Wicklow Way hike begins tomorrow!
Travel time from Dublin Airport to your hotel: Approximately 50 minutes.
Day 2: Begin Your Wicklow Way Hike – Dublin to Enniskerry
t’s time to leave the city behind and step into the wild beauty of the Wicklow Mountains! After breakfast, a taxi transfer takes you to Marlay Park, the official starting point of the Wicklow Way hike.
Your journey begins with a gentle walk through the park before the trail gradually climbs into the Dublin Mountains, offering breathtaking views of both the city and the Irish Sea. As you cross the border into County Wicklow, the landscape transforms into rolling hills and rugged mountain terrain, giving you a taste of what’s to come on this epic Wicklow Mountains tour.
The descent into the stunning Glencree Valley is a highlight of today’s hike, with its peaceful woodlands and panoramic vistas. Once you reach the valley floor, you’ll call your pre-arranged taxi for a transfer to your cozy accommodation in Enniskerry, a charming village known for its welcoming pubs and scenic surroundings. Note: this section can bet wet underfoot, so ensure you have weather-proofed your hiking boots.
- Hiking Details: Distance 17.20 km. (10.7 miles), Ascent 735 m. (2,411.4 ft.), Descent 562 m. (1,843.8 ft.), Max Height 510 m (1,673.2 ft.)
Day 3: Hike From Enniskerry to Roundwood – Epic Views & Iconic Landmarks
Today’s Wicklow Way hike is packed with jaw-dropping scenery, from cascading waterfalls to breathtaking mountain and lake views. Leaving Enniskerry, you’ll rejoin the Wicklow Way and traverse the stunning Glencree Valley, a landscape of lush forests and rolling hills.
One of the day’s highlights is passing Powerscourt Waterfall, Ireland’s highest waterfall, tumbling 121 meters (397 feet) down a rugged rock face. From here, the trail begins its ascent around Djouce Mountain, where the climb is rewarded with sweeping views over the Wicklow Mountains. The terrain varies from forest tracks to mountain paths, with some sections that can be wet and boggy—proper hiking boots are essential.
Reaching your highest point of the day at White Hill, the scenery becomes truly spectacular. As you descend, prepare to be mesmerized by the dramatic glacial lakes of Lough Tay (Guinness Lake) and Lough Dan, two of the most breathtaking sights on the entire Wicklow Way self-guided tour. The dark waters of Lough Tay, surrounded by steep mountains and a white sandy shoreline, give it the famous nickname “Guinness Lake”—a must-see for any hiker in Ireland.
Your day ends in Oldbridge, near the charming village of Roundwood, where you can relax and soak in the beauty of Ireland’s hiking paradise.
- Hiking Details: Distance 24.20 km. (15 miles), Ascent 1,038 m. (3,405.5 ft.), Descent 1,071 m. (3,513.8 ft.), Max Height 687 (2,253.9 ft.) m
Day 4: Hike From Roundwood to Laragh – Into the Heart of Glendalough
Today is your final hiking day on the Wicklow Way and it’s nothing short of spectacular. Leaving Roundwood, the trail winds around the Barton Estate, passing through peaceful forest tracks before climbing over Paddock Hill. From the top, take in breathtaking views of the Wicklow countryside before descending along an old Mass Path, a historic trail once used by villagers on their way to church.
As you arrive in Laragh, the gateway to Glendalough, you’ll have time to visit one of Ireland’s most iconic monastic sites. Founded in the 6th century by St. Kevin, Glendalough is a place of ancient round towers, stone churches, and serene lakes, all set against a stunning mountain backdrop. It’s the perfect spot to slow down, take in the atmosphere, and reflect on your incredible journey.
Today’s route includes some road walking, mountain paths, and forest tracks—with a mix of well-defined trails and uneven sections. Some areas can be wet underfoot, so sturdy hiking boots are essential.
- Hiking Details: Distance 9.50 km. (6 miles), Ascent 388 m. (1,273 ft.), Descent 456 m. (1,496.1 ft.), Max Height 404 m (1,325.5 ft.)
Day 5: Depart Laragh – Farewell to the Wicklow Way
After several days of exploring the Wicklow Mountains on foot, it’s time to say goodbye to the Wicklow Way. Whether you choose to linger a little longer in Glendalough, soaking up its ancient history and serene lakes, or head straight back to Dublin, today marks the end of your unforgettable Wicklow Way self-guided tour.
From Laragh, you have several options for returning to Dublin:
🚌 Public or Private Bus – Regular services run from Laragh to Dublin City Centre, with a journey time of about one hour.
🚖 Bus or Taxi to Wicklow Town – If you’d prefer to travel by train, a short bus or taxi ride will take you to Wicklow Town, where you can catch a train north to Dublin or south to Rosslare.
As you leave the rolling hills, glacial lakes, and rugged trails behind, you’ll take with you incredible memories of your Wicklow Way hike—a journey filled with breathtaking landscapes, history, and the true spirit of Ireland.
Slán go fóill—until next time! ☘️
COST OF THE 5-DAY WICKLOW WAY TOUR AND INCLUSIONS
| 5-DAY WICKLOW WAY TOUR HIKE DETAILS | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 days | | Mar 1 - Oct 31 | | Dublin, Ireland | | Laragh, Ireland |
| From €695 | ||||||
| Optional Extras | Single Supplement: €235 | ||||||
WICKLOW WAY TOUR INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
✔ 4 nights in our hand-picked 3-star rated accommodations, guest houses, BnBs and 1 hotel in Dublin
✔ Complimentary access to our app, tailormade for your tour, containing all your documents, GPS navigation & points of interest
✔ Delicious Breakfast each morning.
✔ 24 hour, emergency telephone support
✔ Luggage transfer as per the itinerary
✔ Detailed, easy to read, Route Notes with marked maps of each route
✔ Dedicated, in house, Holiday Specialist to assist with planning any additional activities, travel, airport transfers, etc.
OPTIONAL EXTRAS:
- Upgraded Accommodation available in select locations. Very limited availability.
- ✔ Extra days/nights on request
-
Single Supplement: €235
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:
- Travel insurance that covers you for this tour and includes emergency evacuation and hospital care in the unlikely incident that you get injured. HeyMondo insurance covers this which is why we recommend it.
- Airport transfer
- Anything not mentioned in the ‘What’s Included’ section.
An absolute gem of a trail, winding through rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and peaceful lakes. The accommodations Monkeys and Mountains picked were spot-on and made the whole experience even better.
– Kate
A beautiful mix of windswept heather moors, rolling green sheep pastures, and even views over Dublin and the valley – the scenery kept changing and never disappointed.
– Marcus
The perfect first multi-day hike – gentle terrain but just enough challenge to keep it interesting. Loved the seamless luggage transfer, cozy stays, and that warm Irish hospitality.
– Larissa
WICKLOW WAY HIKING TOUR: 8-DAY ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrive in Dublin – Explore Ireland’s Vibrant Capital
Your Wicklow Way self-guided tour begins in Dublin, Ireland’s lively capital, where centuries of history blend seamlessly with modern city life. You’ll make their own way to Dublin and to your first-night accommodation in a centrally located hotel.
If you arrive early, take the opportunity to explore some of the city’s must-see landmarks. Wander through the historic streets of Temple Bar, soak in the grandeur of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, or learn about Ireland’s most famous stout at the Guinness Storehouse. With Dublin’s compact city center, these highlights are all within easy reach.
After a day of exploring, settle in for the night and get ready to leave the city behind as your Wicklow Way hike begins tomorrow!
Travel time from Dublin Airport to your hotel: Approximately 50 minutes.
Day 2: Begin Your Wicklow Way Hike – Dublin to Enniskerry
It’s time to leave the city behind and step into the wild beauty of the Wicklow Mountains! After breakfast, a taxi transfer takes you to Marlay Park, the official starting point of the Wicklow Way hike.
Your journey begins with a gentle walk through the park before the trail gradually climbs into the Dublin Mountains, offering breathtaking views of both the city and the Irish Sea. As you cross the border into County Wicklow, the landscape transforms into rolling hills and rugged mountain terrain, giving you a taste of what’s to come on this epic Wicklow Mountains tour.
The descent into the stunning Glencree Valley is a highlight of today’s hike, with its peaceful woodlands and panoramic vistas. Once you reach the valley floor, you’ll call your pre-arranged taxi for a transfer to your cozy accommodation in Enniskerry, a charming village known for its welcoming pubs and scenic surroundings. Note: this section can bet wet underfoot, so ensure you have weather-proofed your hiking boots.
- Hiking Details: Distance 17.20 km. (10.7 miles), Ascent 735 m. (2,411.4 ft.), Descent 562 m. (1,843.8 ft.), Max Height 510 m (1,673.2 ft.)
Day 3: Hike From Enniskerry to Roundwood – Epic Views & Iconic Landmarks
Today’s Wicklow Way hike is packed with jaw-dropping scenery, from cascading waterfalls to breathtaking mountain and lake views. Leaving Enniskerry, you’ll rejoin the Wicklow Way and traverse the stunning Glencree Valley, a landscape of lush forests and rolling hills.
One of the day’s highlights is passing Powerscourt Waterfall, Ireland’s highest waterfall, tumbling 121 meters (397 feet) down a rugged rock face. From here, the trail begins its ascent around Djouce Mountain, where the climb is rewarded with sweeping views over the Wicklow Mountains. The terrain varies from forest tracks to mountain paths, with some sections that can be wet and boggy—proper hiking boots are essential.
Reaching your highest point of the day at White Hill, the scenery becomes truly spectacular. As you descend, prepare to be mesmerized by the dramatic glacial lakes of Lough Tay (Guinness Lake) and Lough Dan, two of the most breathtaking sights on the entire Wicklow Way self-guided tour. The dark waters of Lough Tay, surrounded by steep mountains and a white sandy shoreline, give it the famous nickname “Guinness Lake”—a must-see for any hiker in Ireland.
Your day ends in Oldbridge, near the charming village of Roundwood, where you can relax and soak in the beauty of Ireland’s hiking paradise.
- Hiking Details: Distance 24.20 km. (15 miles), Ascent 1,038 m. (3,405.5 ft.), Descent 1,071 m. (3,513.8 ft.), Max Height 687 m (2,253.9 ft.)
Day 4: Hike From Roundwood to Laragh – Into the Heart of Glendalough
Today’s Wicklow Way hike takes you deeper into the Wicklow Mountains, with stunning views and a chance to explore one of Ireland’s most treasured historic sites. Leaving Roundwood, you’ll follow the trail around the Barton Estate, winding through peaceful woodlands before beginning your ascent over Paddock Hill. From the top, soak in sweeping views of the rolling countryside before descending along an old Mass Path, a historic trail once used by locals walking to church in centuries past.
As you arrive in Laragh, the gateway to Glendalough, you’ll have time to visit this breathtaking monastic settlement—one of the most magical and historically significant sites in Ireland. Founded in the 6th century by St. Kevin, Glendalough is a place of ancient round towers, stone churches, and serene lakes set against a stunning mountain backdrop. It’s the perfect spot to slow down, take in the atmosphere, and reflect on the incredible journey so far.
Tonight, you’ll stay in Laragh, a charming village just minutes from Glendalough, where you can relax and prepare for more unforgettable trails ahead.
Today’s route includes some road walking, mountain paths, and forest tracks—with a mix of well-defined trails and uneven sections. Some areas can be wet underfoot, so sturdy hiking boots are essential.
- Hiking Details: Distance 9.50 km. (6 miles), Ascent 388 m. (1,273 ft.), Descent 456 m. (1,496.1 ft.), Max Height 404 m (1,325.5 ft.)
Day 5: Glendalough Loop – Exploring Ireland’s Most Magical Valley
After several days of hiking the Wicklow Way, today is your chance to explore Glendalough in greater detail.
If you’re up for another spectacular walk, your route notes include a hike to The Spink, a stunning ridge offering panoramic views over Glendalough’s lakes. You’ll then descend through the old mining village, where remnants of Ireland’s lead mining history add another layer of interest to the landscape. The route includes a mix of mountain paths, forest tracks, and some road walking, with sections that may be wet or rocky—so hiking boots are essential.
For those looking for a more relaxed day, private bus services make it possible to do excursions to:
🚌 Rathdrum – Visit Charles Stewart Parnell’s homeplace, one of Ireland’s most important historical figures.
🚌 Avoca – Explore the charming village made famous by the TV series Ballykissangel, known for its traditional handweaving and scenic surroundings.
After a day of hiking or sightseeing, return to Laragh for a restful night before continuing your Wicklow Way self-guided tour tomorrow.
- Recommended Hiking Details: Distance 12.30 km. (7.6 miles), Ascent 551 m. (1,807.7 ft.), Descent 553 m. (1,814.3 ft.), Max Height 530 m (1,738.9 ft.)
Day 6: Hike From Laragh to Glenmalure – Into the Wild Wicklow Mountains
Today’s Wicklow Way hike takes you deep into the heart of the Wicklow Mountains, following ancient trails, climbing through rugged landscapes, and offering some of the best views on the entire route. Leaving Laragh, you’ll walk into the stunning valley of Glendalough, passing by the serene Upper Lake before the trail begins to climb steeply.
The ascent follows an old green road before bringing you alongside Poulanass Waterfall (Paul an Eas), where the sound of cascading water adds to the dramatic scenery. From here, you continue upwards to reach the Pass of Borenacrow, a wild and remote crossing between valleys. Feeling adventurous? You have the option to climb Mullacor Mountain, where panoramic views over the surrounding peaks make the extra effort worthwhile.
Descending into the spectacular Glenmalure Valley, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of Lugnaquilla, the highest mountain in County Wicklow. The hike ends at the Drumgoff/Glenmalure crossroads, where you can reward yourself with a well-earned pint at the local pub—because no Wicklow Way self-guided tour is complete without a stop at a traditional Irish watering hole!
Tonight, you’ll stay in Glenmalure, a remote and peaceful valley steeped in history and surrounded by incredible natural beauty.
- Hiking Details: Distance 12.30 km. (7.6 miles) Ascent 614 m. (2,014 ft.) Descent 589 m. (1,932 ft.), Max Height 530 m (1,738.9 ft.)
Day 7: Hike From Glenmalure to Laragh – A Mountain Ridge Adventure
Today is your final day of hiking the Wicklow Way and it takes you on an exhilarating return hike from Glenmalure to Laragh, but via a completely different and equally stunning route. Leaving the Drumgoff/Glenmalure crossroads, you’ll follow forest tracks as you begin your steady ascent towards the summit of Mullacor.
From the top, the reward is well worth the effort—sweeping 360-degree views of the Wicklow Mountains, with the rolling peaks stretching as far as the eye can see. Your trail then continues along a spectacular mountain ridge, leading you across Cullentragh Mountain and Derrybawn Mountain, both offering breathtaking panoramas of Glendalough and beyond.
As you descend, the landscape opens up, revealing Glendalough’s Upper and Lower Lakes in all their glory—a fitting sight for your final approach back into Laragh.
Bad weather? No problem! If conditions on the ridge aren’t ideal, you have the option to take a lower-level route from Mullacor, descending via the Wicklow Way through forestry paths, offering more shelter while still delivering fantastic scenery.
- Hiking Details: Distance 14.00 km. (8.7 miles) Ascent 595 m. (1,952 ft.) Descent 613 m. (2,011.2 ft.), Max Height 559 m. (1,834 ft.)
Day 8: Departure Laragh
After several days of exploring the Wicklow Mountains on foot, it’s time to say goodbye to the Wicklow Way. Whether you choose to linger a little longer in Glendalough, soaking up its ancient history and serene lakes, or head straight back to Dublin, today marks the end of your unforgettable Wicklow Way self-guided tour.
From Laragh, you have several options for returning to Dublin:
🚌 Public or Private Bus – Regular services run from Laragh to Dublin City Centre, with a journey time of about one hour.
🚖 Bus or Taxi to Wicklow Town – If you’d prefer to travel by train, a short bus or taxi ride will take you to Wicklow Town, where you can catch a train north to Dublin or south to Rosslare.
As you leave the rolling hills, glacial lakes, and rugged trails behind, you’ll take with you incredible memories of your Wicklow Way hike—a journey filled with breathtaking landscapes, history, and the true spirit of Ireland.
Slán go fóill—until next time! ☘️
COST OF THE 8-DAY WICKLOW WAY TOUR AND INCLUSIONS
| 8-DAY WICKLOW WAY TOUR HIKE DETAILS | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 days | | Mar 1 - Oct 31 | | Dublin, Ireland | | Laragh, Ireland |
| From €1050 | ||||||
| Optional Extras | Single Supplement: €345 | ||||||
WICKLOW WAY TOUR INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
✔ 7 nights in our hand-picked 3-star rated accommodations, guest houses, BnBs and 1 hotel in Dublin
✔ Complimentary access to our app, tailormade for your tour, containing all your documents, GPS navigation & points of interest
✔ Delicious Breakfast each morning.
✔ 24 hour, emergency telephone support
✔ Luggage transfer as per the itinerary
✔ Detailed, easy to read, Route Notes with marked maps of each route
✔ Dedicated, in house, Holiday Specialist to assist with planning any additional activities, travel, airport transfers, etc.
OPTIONAL EXTRAS:
- Upgraded Accommodation available in select locations. Very limited availability.
- ✔ Extra days/nights on request
-
Single Supplement: €345
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:
- Travel insurance that covers you for this tour and includes emergency evacuation and hospital care in the unlikely incident that you get injured. HeyMondo insurance covers this which is why we recommend it.
- Airport transfer
- Anything not mentioned in the ‘What’s Included’ section.
An absolute gem of a trail, winding through rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and peaceful lakes. The accommodations Monkeys and Mountains picked were spot-on and made the whole experience even better.
– Kate
A beautiful mix of windswept heather moors, rolling green sheep pastures, and even views over Dublin and the valley – the scenery kept changing and never disappointed.
– Marcus
The perfect first multi-day hike – gentle terrain but just enough challenge to keep it interesting. Loved the seamless luggage transfer, cozy stays, and that warm Irish hospitality.
– Larissa
TRAVEL INFORMATION FOR YOUR WICKLOW WAY HIKING TOUR
Approx Travel Times (public transport)
Dublin Airport to Dublin City Hotel: 40-50 minutes
Laragh / Glendalough to Dublin City: 2-2.5 hours
Laragh / Glendalough to Dublin Airport: 2-2.5 hours
Shannon Airport / Cork Airport to Dublin: 3-4 hours
BOOK YOUR HIKING TOUR IN WICKLOW WAY
PHOTOS OF THE WICKLOW WAY HIKE
