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Glendalough is a valley in County Wicklow, Ireland. It’s known for an early medieval monastic settlement founded in the 6th century, as well as for its gorgeous natural scenery. Although car is the easiest method of reaching Glendalough, public transportation is a viable option to exchange Dublin’s stone streets for trees, lakes, and waterfalls.

What to See in Glendalough

Take the day to explore Glendalough via the Visitors’ Center, where you can access numerous walking and hiking trails which lead to different sights and scenic areas. If you prefer, make a weekend of your trip by booking a hotel, b&b, or camping site. The main places to see are:

1. Upper and Lower Lakes
2. Glenmacness Waterfall
3. Monastic Settlement

How to Get to Glendalough from Dublin

There is a bus through St. Kevin’s Bus Service that runs from Dublin City Center to Glendalough with multiple stops between the two points. Summer and winter time tables are available online, with summer return times being later in the day compared to winter.

Purchase your ticket when boarding the bus, using either credit/debit card or a LEAP Card. As of January 2022, one-way fare is 13 EUR while roundtrip is 20 EUR.

The bus departs Glendalough at the stated time, making it important to be at the Visitors’ Center stop on-time to ensure you make the bus back into Dublin City. If you choose to not book roundtrip, you can walk and take a series of buses and trains back into the City Center from Glendalough. However, the local buses from Glendalough to the coastal area does not run frequently. It is best to opt for the roundtrip bus ticket for ease and convenience.

Where to Eat

There are small snack stands within Glendalough, but it is best to pack a lunch, some snacks, and water to get you through the day. After you’re done walking and hiking around, you can walk about 20 minutes down the road to The Wicklow Heather. This is a popular restaurant in Laragh that serves delicious meals and drinks–their lamb stew and reuben sandwich were perfect after a day in Glendalough. Treat yourself to a pint of Guinness, as well!

The Wicklow Heather can get very busy at meal times, so it is best to make a reservation the day before via phone to ensure you have a table.

Peace & happy hiking,

Tay