Glendalough - Discovering Ireland

Travelling to Glendalough

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Glendalough, a pretty good destination in Ireland (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Glendalough and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Glendalough, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Ireland, here's everything to know about Glendalough for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Glendalough

Glendalough is a beautiful valley situated in the Wicklow Mountains National Park in County Wicklow, Ireland. The site is famous for its early Christian monastery founded in the 6th century by St. Kevin, which includes impressive medieval ruins of churches, round towers, crosses and other decorative stonework. The surrounding natural landscape is stunning and offers many hiking trails, lakes, waterfalls and wildlife sightings. It is a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts visiting Ireland.

What to visit in Glendalough

Sure, here are some famous tourist attractions in Glendalough, Ireland and some useful information about each: 1. Monastic Site - The Monastic Site in Glendalough is an ancient monastic settlement that dates back to the 6th century. The site consists of several well-preserved ruins, including a round tower, cathedral, and several churches. The entire site is surrounded by stunning scenery, including mountains and lakes.
2. Glendalough Valley - The Glendalough Valley is a popular spot for nature lovers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. It is a glacial valley stretching from Laragh Village to the Upper Lake and is home to a variety of flora and fauna. The valley is famous for its stunning scenery and picturesque views.
3. St. Kevin's Cell - St. Kevin's Cell is a small, stone church located in the Monastic Site in Glendalough. It is believed to be one of the oldest buildings on the site and is named after St. Kevin, the founder of the Glendalough Monastic Site.
4. Round Tower - The Round Tower is an iconic landmark in Glendalough and one of the most recognizable features of the Monastic Site. It is a tall, cylindrical tower that was used as a bell tower and as a place of refuge for monks during times of danger.
5. Upper Lake - The Upper Lake is a beautiful lake located in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains National Park. It is surrounded by stunning scenery, including mountains and forests, and is a popular spot for fishing and boating.
6. Lower Lake - The Lower Lake is another beautiful lake located in Glendalough. It is a smaller lake than the Upper Lake but is equally stunning and is surrounded by picturesque scenery.
These are some of the popular tourist attractions in Glendalough, Ireland that you can visit while planning your trip.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Ireland, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Glendalough.

When to go on holiday to Glendalough

The best time to visit Glendalough is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is the most favorable. The average temperature during this period is around 18°C (64°F), which is ideal for enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the nearby Wicklow Mountains. However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season in Glendalough, so expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodations. In the shoulder season months of May and September, you can still enjoy good weather but with fewer tourists and more affordable prices. The winter months (December to February) tend to be cold and wet, so unless you are interested in snow sports, this might not be the best time to visit.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Glendalough

To get to Glendalough in Ireland, you can take a bus or drive. If you prefer to take a bus, you can take the St. Kevin’s Bus Service from Dublin to Glendalough. The bus departs from outside St. Kevin’s Church on Lower Camden Street in Dublin and stops at Glendalough Visitor Centre. The journey takes around 2 hours.
Alternatively, you can rent a car or take a taxi from Dublin to Glendalough. The journey takes around 1 hour 30 minutes. Note that if you are driving, the roads leading to Glendalough are narrow and winding, so it is advisable to be cautious and take your time.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Glendalough, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Glendalough

Glendalough is a small town in Ireland located in County Wicklow. Here are some typical foods you might find: 1. Irish Stew - A hearty stew made with lamb or beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions. It is slow-cooked for hours, giving it a rich and flavorful taste.
2. Soda bread - A type of bread made with baking soda instead of yeast, giving it a slightly sweeter taste. It is typically served with butter and jam.
3. Boxty - A traditional Irish dish made with grated potatoes, flour, and milk. It is fried like a pancake and is often served with bacon or sausage.
4. Coddle - A comfort food dish made with sausage, bacon, potatoes, and onions. It is slow-cooked giving the ingredients time to meld together.
5. Black pudding - A type of sausage made with pork blood, oats, and spices. It is sliced and fried and typically served as a breakfast dish.
6. Bangers and Mash - A classic Irish dish consisting of sausages served with mashed potatoes and gravy.
7. Irish Whiskey - Ireland is known for its whiskey and Glendalough has a distillery you can visit. Tasting traditional Irish whiskeys will give you a real experience of the culinary culture in Glendalough. 8. Porter cake - A traditional Irish cake made with porter beer, dried fruits, and spices. It is a moist and flavorful cake usually served as a dessert. These dishes reflect the hearty comfort foods most Irish people love. They are flavorful and filling, perfect for a day of exploring or sightseeing.
You can find general info about typical foods in Ireland here.

Is Glendalough an expensive destination for tourists?

Glendalough is not considered to be a particularly expensive destination in Ireland, but the costs for a trip will depend on your travel style and budget. Accommodation in the area ranges from budget hostels to luxury hotels, so you should be able to find an option that fits your budget. Some attractions in the area, such as the Glendalough Visitor Centre and guided tours of the monastic site, may have admission fees. However, many of the outdoor activities, such as hiking, are free and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Overall, while there are certainly some costs associated with a trip to Glendalough, it is possible to plan a trip that fits most budgets.

Where to find accomodation in Glendalough

There are a few areas to consider for accommodation when visiting Glendalough: 1. Glendalough itself: There are a few options for accommodation in the immediate vicinity of Glendalough, including a hostel and a small number of B&Bs. This is a great option if you want to be close to the main attraction and enjoy hiking in the surrounding Wicklow Mountains National Park.
2. Laragh: This village is located just a few minutes' drive from Glendalough and has a wider range of accommodation options, including hotels, B&Bs, and self-catering apartments. It's a good choice if you want to be close to Glendalough but also have access to more amenities.
3. Wicklow Town: If you're willing to stay a bit further away from Glendalough, Wicklow Town is a good option. It's a charming seaside town with plenty of accommodation options, and it's a great base for exploring the wider Wicklow region. From here, Glendalough is about a 30-minute drive away.
You can check hotel prices at Glendalough here:
Booking.com

Is Glendalough a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Glendalough is a safe place for tourists. Ireland has low levels of violent crime and the area of Glendalough is a popular tourist destination with a relatively low crime rate. However, it's always advisable for tourists to take normal precautions and be aware of their surroundings, especially when travelling alone or at night. Always keep valuables safe and secure and do not leave them unattended in public areas. It's also a good idea to keep emergency contacts with you and have a basic understanding of the local language and customs.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Ireland here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Glendalough.

What type of travelers will enjoy Glendalough the most?

Glendalough in Ireland is a beautiful place that can be enjoyed by a variety of travelers. It is a wonderful destination for nature lovers and history buffs, and can be a great option for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
If you love to explore the great outdoors, then Glendalough is the perfect place for you. The area is surrounded by stunning mountains, lakes, and forests, and offers numerous hiking trails for visitors to enjoy. The wildlife in the area is abundant, so wildlife enthusiasts will also enjoy this destination.
For families, there are plenty of activities for kids to enjoy, such as horseback riding, swimming, and cycling. The area is also rich in historical sites, including ancient monastic ruins, which can offer a unique learning experience for children.
For couples looking for a romantic getaway, Glendalough offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere, where you can spend time hiking, picnicking, or simply enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings with your loved one.
Overall, Glendalough is a versatile destination that can cater to a range of interests and traveler types.

How to get around Glendalough

Glendalough is a small village and the most common way to move around is on foot. The village is surrounded by stunning landscape and there are several walking trails to explore. Additionally, there are minibus tours available that take visitors to various locations in Glendalough and the Wicklow Mountains. Taxis and private cars are also available for hire. However, it is important to note that the roads in the area can be narrow and winding, so visitors must exercise caution when driving.

What to see around Glendalough

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Glendalough in Ireland: 1. Wicklow Mountains National Park - explore the stunning mountains, lakes, and valleys.
2. The Powerscourt Estate - visit the stunning gardens and have a delicious lunch at the terrace cafe.
3. The Avoca Handweavers Mill - tour the historic mill and browse through beautiful Irish crafts.
4. Kilmacurragh Botanic Gardens - discover the beautiful gardens, ancient trees and exotic plants.
5. Glendalough Upper Lake - enjoy a scenic hike through the gorgeous landscape around the lake.
6. Russborough House and Parklands – take a tour of the historic mansion, browse the art collections and enjoy a picnic in the parklands. 7. Dublin – the vibrant capital city with its rich history, culture, and landmarks such as the Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Kilmainham Gaol.
For every travel information about Ireland you can click here.

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