Glendalough at a Glance: Quick Facts for Your 2025 Day Trip
For those ready to plan, here are the essential details you need. Dive deeper into the guide below for the full story!
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Dublin | ~55 km (34 miles) |
| Travel Time (One-Way) | 1.5 – 2 hours |
| Estimated Cost (Per Person) | €30 (Budget) to €75+ (Tour/Driving) |
| Best Time to Visit | Weekday mornings (April-September) |
| Recommended Visit Duration | 4-6 hours |
How to Get to Glendalough from Dublin: All Your Options
One of the most common questions travelers ask is, “what’s the best way to get to Glendalough from Dublin?” The good news is you have several great options, each with its own perks. Whether you value flexibility, budget, or a stress-free experience, here’s the breakdown.
Option 1: By Car (The Freedom & Scenery Route)
Driving gives you the ultimate freedom to explore at your own pace. The journey itself can be part of the adventure, especially if you take the scenic route!
- Standard Route: The most direct path is via the N11/M11 and then the R755. This will take around 1.5 hours, depending on when you leave Dublin.
- Scenic Route: For a truly breathtaking drive, take the R115 over the Sally Gap. This winding road through the heart of the Wicklow Mountains is slower and more challenging but rewards you with epic, wild landscapes. Allow an extra 30-45 minutes.
- Pros: Complete flexibility to set your own schedule, stop at other attractions, and pack whatever you need.
- Cons: Navigating Dublin traffic can be a headache. Parking, especially at the popular Upper Lake car park (€4-€5 fee), fills up very quickly on weekends and during peak season.
Option 2: By Bus (The Stress-Free Public Transport)
If you’re looking for how to get to Glendalough from Dublin by bus, your best bet is the dedicated service designed for this very trip. It’s simple, direct, and lets you relax and enjoy the views.
- Service: The St. Kevin’s Bus Service is the primary public transport option.
- Departure: It typically runs twice daily from St. Stephen’s Green North in Dublin. The main departure is around 11:30 AM. Always check the official 2025 schedule before your trip!
- Cost & Time: A return ticket costs approximately €25, and the journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Pros: No stress about driving or parking. It’s a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice.
- Cons: You’re tied to a fixed schedule, which gives you about 4-5 hours in Glendalough—plenty for most, but limited for serious hikers.
Option 3: By Guided Tour (The All-Inclusive Experience)
For the ultimate easy day out, a guided day tour from Dublin to Wicklow and Glendalough is a fantastic choice. These tours handle all the logistics, so all you have to do is show up and enjoy the ride.
- What’s Included: Tours typically include round-trip transport from a central Dublin location, a guide to explain the history, and often a stop at another location like the medieval city of Kilkenny or the stunning Powerscourt Gardens.
- Cost: Prices generally range from €35 to €70 per person.
- Pros: Effortless planning, expert commentary, and an efficient way to see multiple sights in one day.
- Cons: The least flexible option, with a set itinerary and timeline.
Reddit’s Choice: What Locals and Travelers Recommend
We’ve scoured the forums for the `glendalough day trip from dublin reddit` advice, and a clear consensus emerges. For solo travelers or couples on a budget who want simplicity, the St. Kevin’s Bus is highly recommended for its direct route and great value. For families or avid hikers who want to start their day before the crowds arrive, driving is the preferred option for its unmatched flexibility.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Glendalough
Once you arrive, the ancient valley opens up before you. While simply wandering is a joy, here are five unmissable experiences to structure your visit around.
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Explore the Monastic City
Step back in time as you walk through the heart of St. Kevin’s 6th-century settlement. This is the historic core of Glendalough, and its stones whisper tales of monks, scholars, and Viking raids. Entry is free!
The Round Tower
Standing an impressive 30 metres high, this iconic tower served as a bell tower, a landmark for pilgrims, and a refuge during attacks. It’s the first thing you’ll see and the perfect spot for photos.
St. Kevin’s Church (The “Kitchen”)
Don’t be fooled by the nickname! The small chimney-like belfry led locals to call it a kitchen, but this is one of the most complete ancient churches on the site, notable for its steep stone roof.
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Walk the Upper Lake Trail
From the Monastic City, a gentle, mostly flat gravel path leads you along the valley floor to the spectacular Upper Lake. The 30-minute walk is accessible for most and offers beautiful views as the valley walls rise around you. This is where the true scale and beauty of Glendalough really sink in.
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Hike the Spinc and Glenealo Valley Trail
For the adventurous, this is the ultimate Glendalough experience. The famous “Spinc” (from the Irish for “pointed hill”) is a 9km loop featuring a boardwalk that climbs high above the valley, offering jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Upper Lake. It’s a challenging 3-4 hour hike that requires proper hiking boots, but the payoff is unforgettable.
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Discover Poulanass Waterfall
If the Spinc sounds too daunting, the Poulanass Waterfall walk is a perfect alternative. A short, looped trail takes you through lush woodland to a cascading waterfall. It’s a beautiful, less strenuous hike that captures the enchanting “Garden of Ireland” feel.
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Relax by the Lower Lake
Located right beside the Monastic City, the serene Lower Lake is an ideal spot for a peaceful pause. On a calm day, the reflections of the surrounding hills are picture-perfect. It’s the best place to have a picnic and soak in the ancient, tranquil atmosphere before you head back.
A Sample One-Day Glendalough Itinerary (By Bus)
Want a ready-made plan? If you take the St. Kevin’s Bus, this schedule will help you make the most of your time in the valley.
- 11:00 AM: Find your spot at the bus stop on St. Stephen’s Green. Grab a coffee and a pastry for the journey ahead.
- 11:30 AM: Board the St. Kevin’s Bus and enjoy the scenic drive out of the city and into the Wicklow countryside.
- 1:00 PM: Arrive in Glendalough. Head straight into the Monastic City to explore the Round Tower and churches before the main crowds gather.
- 2:00 PM: Begin the beautiful, flat walk from the Monastic City towards the Upper Lake.
- 2:30 PM: Arrive at the Upper Lake. Take photos, skip a stone, and grab a hot drink from the snack van if you wish.
- 3:30 PM: Start your leisurely walk back towards the Glendalough Hotel and the bus departure point.
- 4:30 PM: Board the return bus to Dublin, filled with fresh mountain air and ancient history.
- 6:30 PM: Arrive back in Dublin, just in time for dinner.
Where to Eat: Pubs and Cafés Near Glendalough
While packing a picnic is a fantastic option, there are also places nearby to grab a hearty meal or a well-deserved pint.
- Pack a Picnic (€): The absolute best choice for budget-conscious travelers and those who want to eat with a view. Find a spot by the Lower Lake for an unforgettable lunch.
- Casey’s Bar & Bistro (€€): Located in Glendalough village, this is your go-to for classic, hearty Irish pub food like fish and chips or a beef and Guinness stew. Expect mains from €15-€25.
- The Glendalough Hotel (€€€): For a more formal sit-down meal, the hotel restaurant offers a full menu in a historic setting. Main courses typically range from €18-€30.
- Snack Van at Upper Lake: Perfect for grabbing a quick coffee, tea, or light snack while enjoying the best views in the valley.
Insider Tips for Visiting Glendalough in 2025
Make your trip smoother with these tips from those in the know.
- Arrive Early or Late: The valley is busiest between 11 AM and 3 PM when the main tour buses arrive. If you’re driving, aim to get there before 10 AM to secure good parking and enjoy some quiet time.
- Wear Proper Shoes: This cannot be stressed enough. Even the flat paths can be uneven. For any of the hikes, waterproof hiking boots are essential as trails can be muddy and slippery.
- Check the Weather & Pack Layers: The weather in this mountain valley can change in an instant and is often completely different from Dublin’s. Always, always pack a waterproof jacket, even if the sun is shining when you leave.
- Download Offline Maps: Mobile phone service is unreliable in many parts of the valley. Download Google Maps or a trail map from the National Parks website to your phone beforehand.
- Bring Water and Snacks: While there are a few options on-site, they are limited. Bringing your own ensures you stay hydrated and energized, especially if you plan on hiking.
- Leave No Trace: Help keep this historic site beautiful. Pack out everything you pack in and stick to the marked trails.
- Use the Toilets: Public facilities are located at the main Visitor Centre near the entrance and at the Upper Lake car park. Plan your stops accordingly!
What to Pack Checklist
Don’t leave Dublin without these essentials for your day trip.
- [ ] Waterproof Jacket (non-negotiable!)
- [ ] Comfortable Walking Shoes / Hiking Boots
- [ ] Water Bottle
- [ ] Packed Lunch & Snacks
- [ ] Camera and/or Smartphone
- [ ] Portable Power Bank (for recharging your phone after all those photos)
- [ ] Small Backpack
- [ ] Cash (for the bus, parking, and smaller vendors who may not take cards)
Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
Here’s a look at what your day trip from Dublin to Glendalough might cost, depending on your travel style.
| Expense | Budget Traveler (Bus) | Mid-Range (Car/Tour) |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation | ~€25 (Return Bus Ticket) | ~€45 (Guided Tour) or ~€20 (Fuel/Tolls) |
| Food & Drink | ~€5 (Packed Lunch) | ~€25 (Pub Lunch & Coffee) |
| Entry Fees/Parking | €0 | ~€5 (Upper Lake Car Park) |
| TOTAL | ~€30 | ~€70 – €75 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How far is Glendalough from Dublin?
Glendalough is located approximately 55 km (34 miles) south of Dublin. The journey by car or bus typically takes between 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a perfect distance for a day trip.
What is the best way to get to Glendalough from Dublin without a car?
The St. Kevin’s Bus Service is the best and most direct public transport option. It departs from Dublin city centre (St. Stephen’s Green) and takes you right to the Glendalough visitor area, offering a simple and stress-free journey.
Can you do Glendalough and Wicklow in a day from Dublin?
Absolutely! This is one of the most popular day trips around Dublin. If you are driving, you can easily visit Glendalough in the morning and another nearby Wicklow attraction like Powerscourt Estate or the seaside town of Bray in the afternoon. A guided tour is the easiest way to see multiple Wicklow highlights in a single day.
Is Glendalough free to visit?
Yes, entry to the Glendalough Monastic Site and hiking in the surrounding Wicklow Mountains National Park is completely free. You only need to pay for parking at the Upper Lake car park (€4-€5) or for the optional exhibition at the Visitor Centre (€5).
How much time do you need in Glendalough?
We recommend planning for at least 4 hours. This gives you enough time to explore the Monastic City, walk to the Upper Lake and back, and take plenty of photos. If you want to complete a longer hike like the Spinc, you will need 5-6 hours in the valley.
Where is Glendalough in Ireland?
Glendalough is nestled in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains National Park in County Wicklow. This county, located immediately south of County Dublin, is famously known as “The Garden of Ireland” for its stunning natural beauty.
How far is Glendalough from Wicklow town?
Glendalough is about a 25-30 minute drive (approximately 20 km or 12.5 miles) west of Wicklow town, making it easy to combine a visit to both locations if you have a car.
TL;DR: Your Perfect Glendalough Day Trip
In a hurry? Here are the key takeaways for your 2025 trip:
- Best Way to Go: Take the St. Kevin’s Bus (~€25 return) for ease and value. Drive if you want flexibility and to hike early.
- Must-Sees: The Monastic City with its Round Tower, and the walk to the stunning Upper Lake.
- Top Tip: Wear waterproof boots and pack a rain jacket, no matter what the forecast says.
- Time Needed: Allow a minimum of 4 hours on site.
- Cost: It can be a very cheap day out! Entry is free, so your main costs are transport and food.
