Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating 9-day self-guided walking tour along The Wicklow Way, traversing the stunning landscapes of Northern Ireland. This journey takes you through the Wicklow Mountains National Park, past the serene Lough Tay and Powerscourt Waterfall, and into the historic 6th Century Monastic City. Experience the beauty of Glenmalure and the vibrant city sights of Dublin as you complete the full Wicklow Way, walking from south to north. Stay in charming family-run guesthouses with en-suite rooms, enjoying hearty breakfasts each morning. With luggage transfers and detailed route notes provided, this tour offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Commence Bunclody
Location: Bunclody
Accommodation Name: Guesthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast
From Dublin, take the bus to Bunclody, where you overnight. This is a pretty little market village by the Derry River and the stream running through its center lined by shady lime trees is a nice feature. A major battle was fought here during the 1798 rebellion.
Day 2 : Clonegal to Shillelagh 23 km/14.3 miles approx 5 hours 30 mins walking
Location: Clonegall
Accommodation Name: Guesthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your accommodation hosts will transfer you to Clonegal (15 minutes), an old wool and iron working village. There is a little park there where the Wicklow Way commences for your first walk. This takes you along some country roads through Newry Forest, over Moylisha and Stookeen Hill down into the town land of Mungaculin. If we are unable to accommodation in Shillelagh, a return transfer will be included back to Bunclody for the evening. Ascent: 715m Descent: 700m
Day 3 : Shillelagh to Tinahely 20 km/12.4 miles approx 4 hours walking
Location: Shillelagh
Accommodation Name: Guesthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your journey from Shillelagh is on some quiet country roads. On your way you will pass St. Finian's Church and a tiny pub called 'The Dying Cow.' Tinahely is a pleasant little village on the banks of the river Derry and was destroyed in the 1798 rebellion. It was subsequently rebuilt and found a new lease of life with the coming of the railway in 1865, it is now a very beautiful village. Ascent: 90m
Day 4 : Tinahely to Moyne 17.20 km/10.8 miles approx 4-5 hours walking
Location: Tinahely
Accommodation Name: Guesthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast
This section of the Wicklow Way undulates around Ballycumber Hill taking in some fantastic views of the adjoining counties like Carlow and Wexford; it also passes through an old Ring Fort or Fairy Fort. The walk finishes in the upper Derry Valley at Sandyford Bridge from where there are different accommodations in the Moyne area. Ascent: 500m Descent: 370m (to Kyle)
Day 5 : Moyne to Glenmalure 21 km/13 miles approx 6 hours walking
Location: Moyne
Accommodation Name: Inn or B&B
Meals Included: Breakfast
An ethereal section of the Wicklow Way, that winds you through forest trails and into two spectacular vales; the Ow and the Glenmalure Valleys. The day is hilly and there are lots of forests, but there is also a high level moorland alternative for good weather only. The first part of the The Ow Valley lies at the base of Wicklow's largest Mountain; Lugnaquilla standing at 925m. Eventually you wind down into The beautiful Glenmalure Valley which is Ireland's longest glacier valley, stretching for over 16km, at the bottom there is the village of Drumgoff, with a famous Inn recalling the life and times of Michael Dwyer, who hid in the valley and fought the crown in 1798 to get an assisted place to Australia. You will spend the night in this valley, either at the Inn or B&Bs nearby.
Ascent from Moyne: 1040m Descent via the Wicklow Way: 1121m
Day 6 : Glenmalure to Glendalough/Laragh. From 17 km/10.5 miles approx 4-6 hours walking depending on which option you take.
Location: Glenmalure
Accommodation Name: Guesthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast
Probably the most spectacular day. The trail takes you steadily up out of the valley and as you climb, the beauty of the surrounding countryside and the famous Glenmalure Waterfall will simply take your breath away. The trail crosses the side of Mullacor Mountain and then there are 3 possible routes down into the valley of Glendalough which has lakes. Two of the options take you away from the Wicklow Way to discover the valley edge views from an area called The Spinc. From here there are wooden walkways down to the old miner's village at the Upper Lake. Whichever route you take, eventually you reach Glendalough famous for its 6th century Monastic Settlement with pencil like Roundtowers, which you will be able to visit on your way. You will stay near Glendalough, usually in the village of Laragh.
Basic Ascent: 450m
If you do the full mines walk. Ascent: 1150m Descent: 1100m
Day 7 : Oldbridge to Enniskerry. From 22 km/13.6 miles approx 4-6 hours walking (approx)*
Location: Oldbridge
Accommodation Name: Guesthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast
The beauty of the walk does not let up. From Glendalough/Laragh you can either walk direct (note that the distance in this case is 28.6km /17.7miles) or there is a short optional transfer to Oldbridge for a short cut from where you head up around two more lakes, Loughs Dan and Tay, gradually climbing out of forest with potentially good views as you come over White Hill 635m. Then there is the option to climb Djouce Hill (733m). The trail then descends off the high moors passing the Powerscourt waterfall and into the attractive Crone Woods. From here walk towards Enniskerry, our B&Bs are scattered in this rural area.
*Please note that our normal accommodation near Enniskerry is 3km off route, this is reflected in the distances quoted. One of the longest walks but a classic. Enniskerry is situated on the doorstep of Dublin.
Day 8 : Enniskerry to Marlay Park Dublin. From 20km/12.6 miles* approx 5-6 hours walking
Location: Enniskerry
Accommodation Name: Guesthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast
(*Note that it is 3km from the usual accommodation back to the trail making today around 23km /14.3miles, you have the option of a transfer at no additional cost. Please advise if required). This last section takes you round through the forests of Glencullen Mountain, dropping down steeply to cross the Clencullen River before a steep final ascent over Prince William's Seat where you will have stunning views over most of Dublin City, the Irish Sea and your final views back into the Wicklow Hills. Your trip finishes on a splendid trail that leads you into Marlay Park, from where buses or taxis can take you into central Dublin for an evening of celebration having completed the route Ascent: 960m Descent: 1046ft
Day 9 : End of tour
Location: Marlay Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
After a hearty breakfast you can take a bus or taxi into Dublin City or on towards the airport.
What's Included
-
Accommodation
8 nights in guesthouses -
8 breakfasts
-
8 nights accommodation in guesthouses on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
-
Luggage transfer (1 bag per person not weighing anymore than 18kg)
-
Information pack including route notes & maps
-
Emergency hotline
-
Dinner, lunch & beverages
-
Entrance fees
-
Travel insurance
-
Travel to the start and from the end point of the trip
-
Personal expenses such as laundry and phone calls
What's Not Included
-
Dinner, lunch & beverages
Meals other than breakfast are not included.
-
Entrance fees
Entrance fees to attractions and sites are not included.
-
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not provided and must be arranged separately.
-
Travel to the start and from the end point of the trip
Transportation to the starting point and from the end point of the trip is not included.
-
Personal expenses such as laundry and phone calls
Personal expenses like laundry and phone calls are not covered.
-
Unscheduled transfers required during the trip
Any unscheduled transfers during the trip are not included.
-
Excess Luggage
Luggage exceeding the 20kg limit is not included.
-
A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
An additional charge applies for solo travelers or those booking a single room.
-
Guide - this is a self guided holiday
This is a self-guided holiday, so no guide is provided.
Accommodation
8 nights in guesthouses. The accommodation on this tour is based on approved family-run guesthouses, with en-suite rooms. Rooms are booked on a bed & breakfast basis. Evening meals are not included but there are always local pubs or restaurants to hand. It is possible to upgrade to a hotel located in the centre of Dublin for the last night of the tour. ...more ...less
Grading
This tour is suitable for those who have had some experience of walking and are in good general physical condition. There are ascents and descents on stepped trails, although most days are not too long, some people will find this tiring in warm weather (grade 3).
Mode of Transport
From Dublin, take the bus to Bunclody, where you overnight. The tour includes luggage transfer, 1 piece per person up to 20kgs. Travel to the start and from the end point of the trip is not included.
Check out our Q&As
-
What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The accommodation on this tour is based on approved family-run guesthouses, with en-suite rooms. Rooms are booked on a bed & breakfast basis. Evening meals are not included but there are always local pubs or restaurants nearby. It is possible to upgrade to a hotel located in the centre of Dublin for the last night of the tour. ...more ...less
-
Is luggage transfer included in the tour?
Yes, luggage transfer is included in the tour. Each person is allowed one piece of luggage up to 20kgs.
-
Are meals included in the tour package?
The tour package includes 8 breakfasts. Other meals such as dinner, lunch, and beverages are not included.
-
What should I do in case of an emergency during the trip?
You will have access to an emergency hotline for any urgent issues during your trip.
-
Is this a guided tour?
No, this is a self-guided holiday, so no guide is provided.
-
What kind of physical condition should I be in for this tour?
This tour is suitable for those who have had some experience of walking and are in good general physical condition. There are ascents and descents on stepped trails, and although most days are not too long, some people may find this tiring in warm weather.
-
What happens if I have excess luggage?
Luggage exceeding the 20kg limit is not included in the luggage transfer service.
-
Are entrance fees to attractions included?
No, entrance fees to attractions and sites are not included in the tour package.
-
What are the transportation arrangements at the start and end of the tour?
Transportation to the starting point in Bunclody and from the end point in Marlay Park, Dublin is not included. You will need to arrange your own travel to and from these locations.
-
Can I travel solo on this tour?
Yes, you can travel solo, but a supplement will apply if you are traveling solo or book a single room.
-
Self-guided holidays - inclusions
We have designed our self guided walking and cycling tours to include a number of elements to help you enjoy your holiday more, while leaving out some things to give you more freedom to tailor the trip to your needs and interests. Refer to the Trip Notes for more information on the specific inclusions for each trip. What’s included: - Detailed Route Notes - Accommodation - Luggage transfers - Any scheduled transfers as per Trip Notes - Emergency support - Some meals (mostly breakfasts) What’s NOT included: - Transport to/from start/finish points - Most meals - Any entrance/park fees - Travel insurance - Personal expenses along the way - Unscheduled transfers required during the trip
-
Trip Grading & Preparation
Match your level of fitness & requirements Please read this information carefully to find out which grade is most suited to your level of fitness and requirements. To make the most of your Walkers' Britain holiday it is essential and your responsibility to choose a trip that is well within your capabilities. All our active holidays are graded and clearly marked in each trip description. All mountains have uphill and downhill sections and by definition walking and cycling demand some effort. However all things are relative, and these grades assume that you are a reasonably active person who enjoys walking or cycling. Few trips are extreme and most allow ample time for sightseeing and enjoying the scenery. If in doubt about the grade of any holiday, please contact us for advice or request the tour dossiers, you can also chat with our team about the right travel insurance for you. Grade 1 – Introductory These trips involve walking for four to five hours per day or cycling for 15-50 km per day at a slow but steady pace. You will need a reasonable level of fitness and good health. Suggested Preparation 30 minutes of aerobic-type exercise (either road cycling or jogging), three times a week for three months leading up to your trip. Grade 2 – Introductory to Moderate These trips involve a combination of what is described in our Introductory and Moderate levels. The emphasis is on introductory activity but including several moderate stages. Grade 3 – Moderate These adventures involve walking for up to six hours per day or cycling for up to 65 km per day, at a steady pace. You will need a good level of fitness and be in good health. Suggested Preparation 45 minutes of aerobic-type exercise (road cycling or jogging) three times a week for three months leading up to your trip. Grade 4 – Moderate to Challenging This trip grading involves a combination of what is described in our Moderate and Challenging levels. The emphasis is on moderate activity but including several challenging stages. Grade 5 – Challenging These active holidays involve walking up to nine hours per day in mountainous terrain with steep ascents and descents, pass crossing & alpine weather conditions, or cycling for up to 80 km per day over undulating terrain, with some steep and sustained hills. You will need an excellent level of fitness, be prepared to carry a daypack weighing up to 8 kg and be completely comfortable in adverse weather conditions. Suggested Preparation 1 hour of aerobic-type exercise five times a week for three to six months leading up to your trip. We also recommend regular hill walking with a pack in variable weather conditions or road cycling.
-
Route notes
While our tours vary in terms of difficulty, route finding is made simple and convenient with our specially prepared package of maps and route notes. On many of the walks it is easy enough to navigate carefully using the route notes provided with a cursory glance at the map. As holidays reach the higher grades, you will need to take more care and we would expect you to have at least some knowledge of using a compass. Maps for our tours also vary considerably, from up-to-date GPS referenced additions, to old map copies which may still be the only ones obtainable for a particular area. The differences in style, grade and destinations of our tours are features that make them of continual interest and delight to our walkers & cyclists. Each set of route notes can contain the following elements relevant to the route: History and information on the region and the route you are walking. Detailed maps including points of interest and accommodation. Detailed step-by-step descriptions (with pictures) of the route and information on detours/optional additions. Transport timetables and information for getting there and away. Safety information and advice. Contact details of accommodation, transport, local representatives and emergency support. Advice for things to do along the way. Suggestions for dining and self catering.
-
How our self-guided holidays work
Self guided walking and cycling holidays offer freedom, independence and choice, allowing you to tailor your holidays in the UK & Europe to your interest and travel style. Our detailed Route Notes will contain all of the information you need to plan how you would like to approach each day, giving you the freedom to set your own pace. As you are not limited by the constraints of group travel, you are free to shorten or lengthen your walk as the terrain permits and can even take a day off, although you may need to travel onto your next accommodation by taxi or public transport in order to do so.
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
2025 May
2025 Jun
2025 Jul
2025 Aug
2025 Sep
2025 Oct
2025 Apr
2026 May
2026 Jun
2026 Jul
2026 Aug
2026 Sep
2026 Oct
2026
Tuesday - Wednesday
Apr 01, 2025 - Apr 09, 2025Wednesday - Thursday
Apr 02, 2025 - Apr 10, 2025Thursday - Friday
Apr 03, 2025 - Apr 11, 2025Friday - Saturday
Apr 04, 2025 - Apr 12, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Apr 05, 2025 - Apr 13, 2025Sunday - Monday
Apr 06, 2025 - Apr 14, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Apr 07, 2025 - Apr 15, 2025Tuesday - Wednesday
Apr 08, 2025 - Apr 16, 2025Wednesday - Thursday
Apr 09, 2025 - Apr 17, 2025Thursday - Friday
Apr 10, 2025 - Apr 18, 2025Friday - Saturday
Apr 11, 2025 - Apr 19, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Apr 12, 2025 - Apr 20, 2025Sunday - Monday
Apr 13, 2025 - Apr 21, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Apr 14, 2025 - Apr 22, 2025Tuesday - Wednesday
Apr 15, 2025 - Apr 23, 2025Wednesday - Thursday
Apr 16, 2025 - Apr 24, 2025Thursday - Friday
Apr 17, 2025 - Apr 25, 2025Friday - Saturday
Apr 18, 2025 - Apr 26, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Apr 19, 2025 - Apr 27, 2025Sunday - Monday
Apr 20, 2025 - Apr 28, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Apr 21, 2025 - Apr 29, 2025Tuesday - Wednesday
Apr 22, 2025 - Apr 30, 2025Wednesday - Thursday
Apr 23, 2025 - May 01, 2025Thursday - Friday
Apr 24, 2025 - May 02, 2025Friday - Saturday
Apr 25, 2025 - May 03, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Apr 26, 2025 - May 04, 2025Sunday - Monday
Apr 27, 2025 - May 05, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Apr 28, 2025 - May 06, 2025Tuesday - Wednesday
Apr 29, 2025 - May 07, 2025Wednesday - Thursday
Apr 30, 2025 - May 08, 2025Book with Confidence
-
Low Deposit
Walkers' Britain requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of walkers' britain charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
The Wicklow Way - 9 Days
9 Days Starting in Bunclody, Northern Ireland and ending in Marlay Park Dublin, Northern Ireland
Visiting: Bunclody, Clonegall, Shillelagh, Tinahely, Moyne, Glenmalure, Oldbridge, Enniskerry, Marlay Park ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
JIW
Group Type:
Independent
Guide Type:
Self Guided
