Wicklow Mountains

The Wicklow Mountains are a granite and metamorphic upland in the province of Leinster, Ireland, forming a broad, rounded interior south of Dublin and containing open moorland, bogs and deep glacial valleys. The range includes Ireland’s highest peak in Leinster, Lugnaquilla, at 925 metres.

Glendalough, a monastic valley with two lakes and early medieval ecclesiastical remains, is one of the range’s best-known cultural and visitor sites and provides access to multiple walking routes. Scenic roads such as the Sally Gap and Wicklow Gap cross the massif and give panoramic views over upland valleys and lakes.

The area contains early Christian archaeological sites, and rural settlement and pastoral farming have shaped the landscape over many centuries. Modern conservation and recreational management aim to protect upland habitats while supporting public access.

The mountain range lies directly south of Dublin, with the main visitor entrances and car parks roughly 30 kilometres from the city centre, making it a popular day-trip destination.

• Visiting Glendalough: The monastic site in the valley is busiest in summer and is served by marked walking routes that range from short loops to multi-hour ridge hikes.

What to See #

• Glendalough: A monastic settlement founded in the early medieval period set in a glacial valley with Upper and Lower Lakes, noted for well-preserved round towers and early-Christian ruins.
• Lugnaquilla: The highest summit of the range and of the province of Leinster, rising to 925 metres and popular with hikers travelling long-distance routes across the massif.