County Wicklow
Glendalough and Wicklow tours from Dublin
Glendalough is a sixth-century monastic site in a glacial valley in the Wicklow Mountains, south of Dublin. It is one of the easiest countryside days from the capital — the question is whether to drive, take public transport, or join a guided tour.
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The short answer
Glendalough means "valley of the two lakes". The monastic settlement founded by St Kevin has a round tower, stone churches and crosses, and the valley has waymarked walking trails around the Lower and Upper Lakes. Most guided days from Dublin combine Glendalough with a drive through the Wicklow Mountains, and some add stops such as Powerscourt or Kilkenny. Check each tour's own page for its exact route.
Viator collection
Dublin to Glendalough & Wicklow
Driving yourself versus a guided day
| Drive yourself | Guided day tour from Dublin | |
|---|---|---|
| Travel time | Roughly an hour to Glendalough from central Dublin, traffic depending | Coach handles the driving; pickup points in the city |
| Flexibility | Stop where you like; stay as long as you like | Fixed schedule, but no parking or navigation |
| Good for | Walkers planning longer trails, families with their own car | Visitors without a car, or with one free day in Dublin |
| Check | Car park charges and busy weekends at the Upper Lake | Which Wicklow stops are included besides Glendalough |
What to see in the valley
- The monastic site: round tower, cathedral ruins and St Kevin's Church.
- The Lower Lake and Upper Lake, with waymarked trails of different lengths.
- The Wicklow Way passes through the valley if you fancy a longer walk.
Allow at least half a day for the site and a short lakeside walk; a full day if you want a longer trail or extra Wicklow stops.
What to check before booking
- Pickup point and return time in Dublin.
- How much free time you get at Glendalough itself.
- Which other stops are included — Wicklow Mountains, Powerscourt, Kilkenny.
- Whether admission to any paid attraction is included or extra.
- Weather policy, since valley views depend on visibility.