It was a very rainy day when Gayle and I visited Glendalough. This is a very impressive place and packed with history, with local touches including the grave of the grandfather (or great) of the sheep farmer who we visited earlier in our tour. Opportunities to shelter inside are a bit limited as there's an admission fee into the Visitor's center and the nearby hotel (and snack concession) requires a bit of a walk. Besides the natural beauty of this place (and peaceful walking opportunities), the main reason we were here was to visit the monastic settlement founded by St. Kevin in the earth 7th Century. Key runs include the "Monastic City" from the 10th-12th Century (including St. Kevin's Monastery), the iconic round tower and the last surviving ecclesiastical gateway in Ireland (offering sanctuary to those who passed through it). The settlement was attacked by Vikings and Irish kingdoms over the years but continued to be a place of pilgrimage, until at least the 13th Century. Our guide also shared part of the legend of the fair maiden Kathleen who desired Kevin. The stories were fascinating, including a possible tragic end, and St. Kevin's unwavering commitment to his vows, despite temptation. read more

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My mom and I took a day trip tour from Dublin to Glendalough and while I wished we would have had just a little bit more time here, it was absolutely beautiful and I'm so glad we went. We did not quite have the time to walk to the upper lake (well, we probably could have but it would have been a rush) but the lower lake was lovely and peaceful. The monastic ruins were so interesting as well. I would love to come back and spend an entire day wandering. I could have just strolled along or sat for hours taking it all in and contemplating life. Highly recommend. read more

What's up: One of the things I wanted to do on my Ireland trip was to go hiking and Glendalough was a perfect stop that I had to check out. Transit: I was staying at the Carriglen B&B in Ashford and took the TFI Local Link 183 from Ashford Station to Glendalough Visitor Center. If you're driving there's two parking locations, one in front of the visitor center and one in the Glendalough Upper Lake Car Park. Environment: If you're planning to check out the Visitor Center, there is an admission fee; restrooms located outside the Center are free to use. Since I was here for the hiking trails, I headed out to hit the Derrybawn Woodland Trail (aka the Orange Trail). The route was clearly marked and had trail markers with colored arrows so you can easily navigate the route. I had an early start so the trail was fairly quiet until noon when the crowds and tour buses came. After passing by the Poulanass Waterfall, the route led to a great view of the upper lake which was beautiful and well worth the hike. There are picnic tables and benches near the Visitor Center as well as the field near there. And if you're interested in a bit of history, the 6th century ruins of the Glendalough Monastic Site is also a short walk away. Yay/Nay/Meh: Yay. It was a lovely hike around Glendalough. You'll get views of the lake and waterfall, and the walking trails were nice and easy. Although a portion of the trails were closed, what was available was still enjoyable. And you might get to spot some sheep while you're there! read more

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This is such a beautiful place to coming visit! The trails are well marked, and it's fairly easy to get to the lakes and cemetery/monastic site. There are also food trucks available if you've worked up an appetite after your hike or just need some caffeine from the coffee truck. I had a wonderful breakfast sandwich with a hash brown and sausage. If you're in Dublin, make sure you stop here for a day trip! read more

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This review is for the lower lake, not the monastic site, which I've reviewed separately. When we arrived at Glendalough on Day 2 of our Ireland trip earlier this year, we found the monastic site crowded with tourists. So my clever wife suggested we walk up to the lower lake and return once the crowds abated - "Glendalough means the valley between the two lakes, after all," she said. The walk up to the lower lake was an easy one. We sat on rocks by the lakeside, enjoying the refreshing breeze gently ruffling the surface of the water, watching the sun play hide and seek with the dark storm clouds that had been our constant companions all day. A mama duck and her ducklings swam around the reeds and headed straight for us. They fearlessly wandered right into our midst, taking a liking to both our girls, pecking at their shoelaces. They were delighted! After a refreshing hour by the lakeside, we decided to head back, expecting the tourist rush to have subsided by now. We walked back slowly, enjoying the lush green countryside, listening for wildlife. Just before crossing over a stream to the now empty monastic site, we spent 15 minutes watching a heron fish for its supper! Thank you Ireland, and Glendalough, for a magical and memorable experience. read more

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Glendalough was our first historical site after leaving Dublin and it is a beautiful place to visit. In walking the Glendalough grounds and it's valley of the two lakes, we were struck and reminded of the quote by John Whittier: "Of all sad words of tongue or pen, the saddest are these, of what might have been." Glendalough must have been an enchanting and spiritual place in its day. It's settlement was founded back in the 6th century, by St Kevin as a "Monastic City" But first came the Vikings and then The Norman Conquest and so, Glendalough has endured much hardship. Glendalough is consider the home to one of the most important monastic sites, along with it's famous Round Tower, in all of Ireland. The Glendalough Valley is located in the Wicklow Mountains National Park, see Link below for more information. The main group of monastic buildings lies downstream near the Round Tower. We entered through the Gateway, which has two round headed granite arches. Its scenic lakes and valleys is beyond, as well as a selection of walks and trails in the area including The Wicklow Way we would recommend to all visitors to Ireland. It's less than an hours drive from Dublin. www.wicklowmountainsnationalpark.ie/ read more

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A really beautiful area and a great walk. Some good information on sights around the area too. The lake are gorgeous and it's great for kids, dogs or anyone really. Nice little spots to grab tea or a snack too. read more

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So this was our only half day tour. We were very limited by the time we had in Ireland and we were staying in Dublin so we spent 2 whole days doing tours and had a half day open to squeeze in one last one. This one took us to the Wicklow mountains/Glendalough. This area is known as the valley of the two lakes. Both lake areas are beautiful, the upper lake being a bit more pretty. However, as far as the hike went, it was pretty tame and nothing much else to see. There is also a historic cemetery near the entrance. Those gravestones were a marvel to look at as they have survived throughout hundreds of years. read more

The MOUNTAIN RESORT OF IRELAND!!!!!!! Ireland is a flat country so there are very few places with a higher altitude. This is one of them. There are several trails and options that you can take here or just stay at the bottom, walk for about 0.5 miles and enjoy the beautiful lake near by, an old cemetery and the ruins of an old Irish home, possibly the pall bearer's home. The level of steepness and difficulty of the trails is color coded. If you want the great views at the top you have to take the "white" trail which is the double diamonds version for snowboarders and skiers. If you think that you are in great shape this trail will show you quite the opposite. Make sure you have hiking boots, half of the trail is steps up, made of wood and metal, that will make the hike very uncomfortable without the right shoes. Is it worth it?????? yes, but you have to have the right shoes, plenty of water, dress in layers and be in great physical shape. read more

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Glendalough is once of those places that makes you wonder if you are awake or just dreaming. It is that beautiful. The name means the Glen of two Lakes. It is also one of the most important sites of monastic ruins in Ireland and was founded in the 6th century. It is a nice place to stroll on the foot paths or hike amongst the trees. I saw backpackers walking through there and I can imagine that camping would be nice if you don't get too soaked from the rain. There is the Glendalough Hotel right there or more B & B's in the Wicklow Mountains if camping isn't your thing. It is located inside the Wicklow Mountains National Park and it isn't too far from Dublin. read more

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While the monastic ruins are somewhat interesting, as is St Kevin's history, and the scenery is spectacular, I think I could've skipped seeing this site. The round tower looks fantastic and would've been fun to climb. The abbey or chapel is dark and damp. We had a guided tour that didn't hold my attention for long. I did like the short video we watched before the tour and it pretty much told me what I needed to know without having to see the ruins. There's a nice flat paved walking path around the park that I really liked. There are benches to sit and relax and eat lunch. There's a full service restaurant and cafe at the adjacent hotel. But if you're not really interested in St Kevin and your time is limited, skip this one. read more

It's a nice place- we went to the lower and upper lakes- and St Kevin's church and monastery. I found the old church site very nice- and a great place to take pictures. The history is fascinating- and who doesn't want to see a thousand year old tower? We did not walk from the lower lake to the upper one, but some of the other people on our tour did- a nice walk. Wear good shoes. Bring water. It was very hot when we were there, so it was quite uncomfortable- unless you went in the water, as some people were doing in the upper lake. There's a horse and buggy ride you can take. There's a tea house at the lower lake and a carnival atmosphere at the upper one- ice creams, to go food, etc- there are bathrooms, too- not great, but ok. I think it's probably a better place to come for a picnic than it is for a tourist. I say that because we were on the bus along time, and we didn't stay for long and there wasn't much to do. read more

Where to begin... I arrived at Glendalough at 11am this morning expecting a challenging day full of negative thoughts and difficult terrain. Instead I was met with views that were so stunning I started to feel like I was having a spiritual experience. How DARE Glendalough try to change how I feel. I tried to speak to a manager but there was no one on site. To counteract the positive feelings I stole a bottle of coke from the newsstand (at €3.50 a go, who are the real criminals?) Then I poured it over some magic mushrooms a gang of German hipsters were fawning over. (I'm legally not allowed to use drugs anymore so if I can't have fun no one else should be either) After I restored equilibrium to glendalough, and thus returned back into my semi-conscious state of unawareness, I felt my job here had been done and I went home on my electric scooter. Dear glendalough, if you are reading this. You have GOT to do better! Mountains are so boring. If you've seen one you've seen them all. Why not throw something new into the mix ? Drop a serial killer in there and put 12 B-list celebrities into glendalough and make a tv show out of it. I'll even sign up myself. I would run the risk of getting murdered for a half hour slot on TV3. If you can find 11 other celebrities who would get on board then that would be very impressive, but I will go in myself if needs be Namaste , Your narcissistic spirit guide, Frankie (Instagram: @meditationsfortheanxiousmind) read more

Glendalough - Local Flavor Near Me - Bray, WW

The drive from Dublin to Glendalough along Sally's Gap and the Wicklow way is just lovely, and you will no doubt meet lots of people cycling this route, usually crazy Europeans on holiday! Glendalough itself is a big area consisting of a visitor centre with toilets and video and visual displays, a grave yard, the famous round tower, a chapel, lakes, rivers, forests and walk ways, as well as a miners town, lots of walks and hikes. There are two car parks and snack vans to feed the hungry hikers and it is perfectly fine to bring your dog along too! read more

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This place is just magical ! I knew that the Ireland's countryside is beautiful but there... I just fall in love with that place! Everything is so quiet and pure! You feel like in a movie of the middle age with amazing landscapes! You can try the trails in Wiclow Way according to you level of sportivity but every walks are accessibles. You just have to follow the arrows and to enjoy the air, the atmosphere and the nature. After a big walk, you can have a picnic on the border of one of the two lakes or in the the middle of the mountains! At night, enjoy the warm atmosphere of a typical restaurant or a bed a breakfast... Excellent to have a break during your busy year of work !!!! read more

Glendalough - On the top of the blue trail in the Wiclow Way, Glendalough. - Local Flavor Near Me - Bray, WW

One of my favourite nature spots in Ireland. Unfortunately not just for me, so the carparks (and sides of the road) can be very busy, especially on a sunny weekend. But the charme is, as soon as you go just a bit away from the cemetery or lakes you can enjoy the peace of the place. And even the cemetery or lakes are not THAT overcrowded. But it is a tourist attraction and locals love it so to be there on your own you should go very early in the morning or late in the evening. But then the carparks are closed. As mentioned I love the peace in Glendalough. It's quite clear to me why St. Kevin chosed to settle down here. And the amount of walks around Glendalough cater for every occasion, need, circumstamce. Easy around the lakes and cemetery, longer walks up at the waterfall and then following the signs rather to the left, manageable with some level of fitness to do Spinc or it's a very good base for a full days hike across the mountains. The latter rather in a group as that's often off track through bog but everything else you can even walk on your own - provided you have the fitness for your chosen way. read more

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This is one of my favorite places in Ireland. I loved the scenery and calming atmosphere. Got super unlucky with the weather and it rained on and off the entire hike but once I reached Upper Lake..the sight was well worth the soaked clothes. The sun peaked out of the clouds and it was perfect. Just beautiful. I put my feet into the cold water and it was so relaxing! I would definitely recommend this place to anyone visiting Ireland. read more

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Glendalough is always one of those places I recommend in Ireland when people ask me. Its in Wicklow so its not too far from Dublin. The name means Valley of the Two Lakes, and its a historic monastic settlement in a glacial valley. Its very beautiful and there's a series of marked walks around the lakes, with greater and lesser steepness. There's a visitor centre and free parking. Feeling just about fed up with being couped up for the winter, we decided to hit the road today and head to Glendalough. It was one of those lovely crisp, non raining days that you sometimes get at this time of year. We got a map in the visitor centre for 50c and asked for walk recommendations. As we said we'd like to go for about 2 hours, they suggested the orange walk. It took us a little over two hours and was quite steep in parts, but we got fantastic views of the valley and monastry from above. There's a good few shorter, flatish walks if you prefer less exertion, but there's also serious hikes if you feel that way inclined. You still get beautiful views down by the lakes even if you don't take a walk up the mountainside. You'll see lots of people especially on weekends - families, couples, ramblers and people just walking their dogs. Definitely a high point of 'the Garden of Ireland' read more

Glendalough - Local Flavor Near Me - Bray, WW

Every tourist and inhabitant in Ireland should find the time to visit Glendalough in Wicklow. And I don't mean that you should squeeze it into your busy schedule. Instead, make a day trip out of it so you have the time to appreciate this site. The Irish name Glendalough can be translated into English as the "Glen of the two lakes". Situated in the Wicklow Mountains, it takes two hours by bus to get here. Driving is perhaps preferable because you can take a more scenic route. This glen is rich in beauty and history. There are a number a nature trails, a river and two lakes. When the weather is good, it's the ideal retreat for people who like relaxation and the outdoor. In the summertime, many people have picnics and go for a swim. The Monastic site and the Round Tower are world famous and date back to the 6th Century when Ireland was introduced to Christianity. St. Kevin settled in this glen and there are many traces of his occupancy. Today, the site is in ruins and curious visitors can inspect Celtic crosses, gravestones and the old foundation of churches. read more

Glendalough - Taken from website - Local Flavor Near Me - Bray, WW

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The 6th century monastic site of Glendalough is an amazing place and well worth a visit. The site itself is free, including parking, although there is a museum onsite for a small fee. After parking, you can proceed to either the paths to the lakes through the hills (which also has a side path to the monastic site) or directly to the monastic site through an archway near the hotel and bus parking area. The site itself is beautiful and well maintained and includes many 6th century buildings and the large circular tower which Glendalough is known for. If you have time, also take the walk to the lakes. I believe the sign said it was about 1.6 kilometers from the monastic site, but well worth the walk to see the lake nestled between the two hills. This is a great place to visit and a key places which I like to take visiting guests while in Ireland. read more

Glendalough - Local Flavor Near Me - Bray, WW

Glendalough is a Wicklow valley, home to two tranquil lakes, hiking and walking trails, an old monastic site, a round tower and a miner's village. It's a treat for spiritual folk, those who enjoy roaming around the in great outdoors and history buffs. St. Kevin, renowned for his love of nature, made his home here in the solitude of the valley and there is still a special feeling about the place to this day. The visitor's centre offers an informative video and you can piggy-back on one of the short guided tours around the monastic city and round tower. There are a variety of walks around the valley and up into the surrounding hills with varying levels of difficulty. There's also a large green area for picnics. You'll always meet tourists wandering around, particularly at the weekend and on sunny days but the crowds aren't overbearing and the tourist centre doesn't ham it up with fake round towers or other Disneyland-esque tack. read more

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I really enjoyed visiting Glendalough. To see an old monastery in Ireland with so much history really was a moving experience. It dates back to the 6th century AD and flourished for nearly 700 years before being partially by of course, the British. Since then, it has been rebuilt to about as good as it could to be to the original structures. The graveyard in itself is worth taking a hard look at. The graves dating back to as far as they do is really interesting. I personally enjoy that kind of stuff. The old buildings have plaques and some markers saying what they are. Just make sure if you do decide to do a self guided tour instead of a guided tour to get a brochure to get your information. It is fun to just look on your own, but the meaning behind it won't be as significant if you don't read about it. It is a very short commute from Dublin to Glendalough. If you do plan to visit, I would recommend taking a tour bus. They give you a long enough time to visit and to enjoy it at your own pace. If you drive, you might get a tad car sick! The roads to get there are extremely windy. Totally worth visiting if you visit Ireland or Dublin, better yet the Wicklow Mountains! read more

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I love escaping out to Glendalough for a meander around the monastic village, a stroll round the board trail to the great lakes, then out up the hill side. Early morning is best - especially as it gets very crowded with tourists as the day runs on. Free car parking (and lots of it) - though disappears fast on a sunny day. For the less energetic there's a car park closer to the lake, so you can just get out your car, grab an ice-cream and take in the peace and serenity. read more

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Surrounded by acres of gorgeous woodland, the monastic site of St. Kevin is a wonderful place to visit. A stroll in the quiet serene woodlands is a real lift to the spirits and the misty lakes add to the mystical feel of the place. The ruins and bell tower are definitely worth visiting too with their fascinating history read more

What to do on a beautiful morning on the first day of February? A wee walk in the Glendalough valley of course! At the start of the white trail, go right through Miners' Road to get to the Miners' Village ruins before your climb to the summit. Otherwise if you go left, you will have to climb the 600 steps first. There was a lot of snow and ice in some areas but was manageable and makes the walk a bit more challenging. Views are stunning, not a difficult walk and definitely worth doing. Would have preferred less boardwalk and more hiking. read more

Glendalough - Snowy paths at the top - Local Flavor Near Me - Bray, WW

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Anytime I've had too much technology in my life I drive through the Sally's Gap where I always don't get reception on my phone - joy. Then I arrive here. Lovely selection of hikes from gentle rambles to more intense hikes with more of a sharp gradient. Wonderful views of the glacial valley - great for all you geography buffs. Lots of picnic tables so a great spot to take a quick holiday from the city. read more

I was hesitant at first to agree with my friend to take a day trip here as we only had less than 3 days in Dublin. I'm so glad we went. This was actually the highlight of my stay in Dublin. It was a nice drive out here through Sally's Gap, the scenery was amazing. I'm not much of a movie watcher, but our guide informed us of the many movies and TV shows that had been filmed in the area, including Braveheart. I can see why, the area was amazing. We had an excellent tour guide, learned a lot of history in a short amount of time. Walking around St. Kevin's Church, better known as St. Kevin's Kitchen, this 6th century monastic city, rich with celtic crosses, headstones, and tons of great Instagram photo opps! Make sure to take to walk up to the upper lake. I didn't walk for up enough and I missed the waterfall (I was afraid I was going to miss the bus). read more

Great place to visit when coming to Ireland! It's a tiring walk but it's worth it. The view is unreal. Make sure to wear proper walking gear and you'll be sorted for the day. read more

Glendalough - Local Flavor Near Me - Bray, WW

Love going out to Glendalough!!! its so pretty and you can get there in under a hour from the city. if tehres a weekend with even a little bit of sun you should get out there. you can take a walk around the whole lake in just over a hour thats really easy going. Or if you want to something a little more of a challenge you have the spink loop which takes about 3 hours. You have the visiters centre and the monastery aswell as the Glendalough hotel for some food and a drink if the mood takes you. I like the spink loop there its very scenic. If your driving down be sure to take a spin down to lough tay which has a great view!! and is only down the road from glendalough read more

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I sort of just want to write: Just beautiful and idealistic. We went even when it was pouring with one of our friends visiting from the states and even though it was too wet to see anything you see it instantly, the cute little village when you go towards the Wicklow mountains and when you then get to the mountains you can not but be astounded by the beauty. It is simply beautiful, it can not be described it is a must see. read more

I only had two days in Ireland. Usually that means I stick to the city I'm in and cram in what I can. But a co-worker from Ireland suggested I try to find any possible way to Glendalough, so with the help of my hostel, I found a small tour. SO GLAD I DID THIS. Amazing! Glendalough is a beautiful place full of history. It's two lakes are crystal clear and there is so much green surrounding them. The beaches are lovely with people gathering for picnics and to play with their children. It was interesting to walk the grounds of the former monastery that came under siege countless times. Sheep dot the landscape as you take in all of the history and emotion of this wonderful place. It's a real highlight! I think most of my photos came from this place (and I take a LOT of photos). Whether you live in Ireland or are a tourist from another country, I can't recommend this place enough. It's beautiful and impressive, great for walking through the mossy trails around the lake and getting a sense of Ireland outside of a large city such as Dublin. Incredible experience! read more

I love visiting Glendalough. Not for the monastic buildings, but for the scenery and hikes. The Spink Loop is what I normally hike. On one occasion recently though we arrived into Glendalough from the Shay Elliot Recreation area near the Glenmalure valley over the peak of Mullacor and down into Glendalough via the Spink ridge. You need two cars for this, one at each end. But it's well worth it and gives you some new amazing scenery to view. The Spink Loop is a good hike, 9KM with tough up hills. But there are good railway sleeper paths as well as regular paths. Fairplay to the National Parks & Wildlife Services for the maintained pathways here. The first carpark is free, but will make your walk longer. The second carpark will cost you 4 EUR in exact change. read more

When the Irish weather and calendar align to provide the rare 'Sunny Saturday Morning', you need to get to Glendalough. From the drive through the Sally Gap, the monastery and hiking around the valley, it's a place of unique natural beauty and historical significance. The monastery has 1500 years of history to explore and the National Park runs events throughout the year. Great picnic location as well and an excellent place to walk your dog too! read more

One of the most gorgeous places in Ireland I visited while I travel here on Vacation. It baffles me why it's so underrated given it's breath taking beauty Maybe the locals are keeping this place a secret to keep visitors from spoiling it's natural beauty Aside from the cliffs of Moher, this is a must see when visiting the region. read more

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Glendalough is what everyone thinks of when they think of Ireland, whether they know it or not. St. Kevin's monastery had so much history and wonder to it. Loved walking through the cemetery, taking pictures of the church ruins and the Round Tower... you could very easily kill an entire day in this park. I was carrying my whole life on my back, so I took the Miner's Trail, which was one of the longer, easier hikes. The visitor's center didn't have any lockers or places to store your things, so if you're visiting, it's best to leave your things in the hotel. If you're backpacking... more power to you. The Miner's Road was supposed to take maybe three hours there and back. With an extra 40 lbs on me and stopping every few feet to take a picture of something gorgeous, it ended up being a five hour trek for me. Thank goodness the weather held. There are some shorter trails, I'm sure, but the Miner's Road was definitely worth checking out. Got up close and personal with some wild goats, got some great shots of the village ruins, and some beautiful views of the glen and lakes. Don't pass it up, just go! Trust me on this! read more

James A. said it all. Glendalough is a beautful place. A lovely outing to spend outdoors.

If you live in Dublin, own a dog and have access to a car - you need to visit gleann da loch. Perfect morning/afternoon scenic walk amongst woodlands and both lakes. A dogs dream! read more

Glendalough - Local Flavor Near Me - Bray, WW

Simply amazing ! Could have stayed there for days, contemplating the wonders of nature...Our favorite spot so far :o) read more

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Glendalough is a small village in County Wicklow. But the reason people come here is to see the 6th century Christian settlement of St. Kevin. Be aware that you don't need to go to through the hokey €3 visitor centre to access the settlement - you can get to the trails from the parks to the left of the hotel (there's a good car park at the hotel too). There are two parts to the settlement - the upper lake and the lower lake. The upper lake features St. Kevin's Bed and St Kevin's Cell, and the lower lake has a solemn graveyard with a magnificent round tower. This is a beautiful place (especially on a rare sunny day), steeped in history, deeply spiritual and absolutely worth the 45 minute south from Dublin. Buses run here from the city - try St. Kevin's Bus Service or Bus Eireann. Wear sturdy shoes as the trails are rocky and remember that you are a bit away from civilisation (especially at the upper lake) so taking things like a coat and water is a good idea. Early mornings or late evenings are best to avoid the crowds. Must-see. read more

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Out first stop in Ireland - after a 8 hour flight from Chicago then immediately getting our rental car in Dublin and braving the Irish roads. It was just fantastic - exceeded my expectations on the first day. As suggested by another reviewer, plan to linger. Walk the old village, paths, lakes, and waterfalls - take it all in. read more