Glendalough (Gleann Dá Loch, 'the valley of the two lakes') is Ireland's most celebrated early-Christian monastic site, set in a glacial valley within Wicklow Mountains National Park. Founded in the 6th century by St Kevin (Naomh Caoimhín), this 'Monastic City' grew into one of Europe's great pilgrimage centres, and its round tower, medieval stone churches and carved crosses survive across the glen as protected National Monuments. As of 2026 the Visitor Centre is run by the Office of Public Works (OPW), and the Bronze Trail at the Upper Lake is temporarily closed due to storm damage, so check current notices before you go. It works best as a half-day mix of ruin-walking and a lakeside hike.
The round tower, roughly 30 m tall — Glendalough's emblem and one of Ireland's best-preserved bell tower / refuge towers
The Gateway, the only surviving example of a monastic entrance gateway in Ireland, with its sanctuary stone inside
St Kevin's Church ('St Kevin's Kitchen'), a complete stone-roofed oratory topped by a small round belfry
The ruined Cathedral and the 12th-century St Kevin's Cross
The Upper and Lower Lakes and the clifftop boardwalk views along the Spinc (White Route) trail
Good to know
SeasonIrish weather is changeable and wet in every season. A waterproof jacket and grippy walking shoes are essential, and the valley can feel cold even in summer.
SafetyThe Spinc trail is about 9.5 km with 600+ steps early on and a clifftop timber boardwalk that gets very slippery in rain. Come prepared and stay on marked paths.
SafetyBreak-ins to parked cars at trailhead car parks are occasionally reported. Don't leave passports, wallets or electronics visible in the vehicle.
MannersThe monastic site is still an active graveyard and a sacred place. Keep noise down, don't climb on the gravestones or ruins, and follow Leave No Trace in the national park.
RulesWild camping, fires and cooking are not allowed in the national park, and drone flying is restricted. Keep dogs on a lead and to permitted areas.
CautionOn summer weekends the St Kevin's Bus from Dublin and day tours sell out fast — book seats ahead, and use the official OPW car parks rather than any informal 'parking' touts.
Practical info
Reach Glendalough by St Kevin's Bus (route 181) from St Stephen's Green North in Dublin (about 1 hr 20 min), or by car via the N11 and R755. The Visitor Centre generally opens at 09:30 (to ~18:00 in peak season, ~17:00 off-peak, closed 23–29 Dec); walking the monastic ruins and entering the national park are free, while the centre's exhibition and car parking carry a small charge. Confirm fares, running times and trail closures before you visit.
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