5-Day Self-Guided Wicklow Way Hiking Tour
Hike through the “Gardens of Ireland” on the Wicklow Way
Self-Guided
5-Day Self-Guided Wicklow Way Hiking Tour Overview
The Wicklow Way is one of Ireland’s most exceptional walking routes. On this 5-day self-guided Wicklow Way walking tour, you’ll venture from a modern capital to ancient monastic ruins and experience a world of beauty in between. Each day you'll walk with only a daypack, as your luggage will be transferred for you from hotel to hotel.
The tour begins in Dublin, where you set off on the Wicklow Way from beloved Marlay Park. Summit the Dublin Mountains with endless views across the Irish Sea. The pristine Powerscourt Waterfall is an early highlight, and a pair of glacial lakes provide a serene vista on your way down White Hill. Your final day is one of ancient exploration through the valley of Glendalough, the ruins of a monastic settlement speaking to you across centuries past.
This hiking tour combines scenery, culture, and convenience into a fantastic adventure!
For those looking for a bit more of a challenge, please have a look at the Complete Wicklow Way Walking Tour.
Trip highlights
Spend a night in Ireland’s vibrant capital city, Dublin, full of pubs, eateries, and entertainment.
Feel the mist rising from Ireland’s tallest waterfall as you stand atop its rushing waters.
Conquer the crossing of the Dublin Mountains, enjoying expansive views over the beautiful Irish landscape.
Step back in time at the monastic city in the Glendalough Valley.
Day By Day Itinerary
Arrive in Dublin, Ireland’s capital and largest city. Check into your accommodations where your welcome pack will be waiting for you, including route guides and contact information. The evening is yours to enjoy. In Dublin, it’s not hard to find things to do!
- Overnight Location:
- B&B in Dublin
- Distance:
- None
- Meals:
- None
The day starts with a short transfer to Marlay Park on Dublin’s southern fringe. This beloved park is where you’ll set off on the Wicklow Way!
Your first major landmarks are the Dublin Mountains, stretching south into County Wicklow. Ascend and cross the hills, taking in endless views of the surrounding mountains and the Irish Sea. Descend into the wooded Glencree Valley, at the base of which are your accommodations.
- Overnight Location:
- B&B in Enniskerry
- Distance:
- 4 hours, 17km, 665m of ascent, 502m of descent
- Meals:
- Breakfast
A great day of adventure awaits! Start off hiking through the valley, coming to the base of the Powerscourt Waterfall, the tallest in all of Ireland. Ascend around the side of Djouce Mountain on your way up to the peak of White Hill.
Your descent into the village of Roundwood takes you past two incredible glacial lakes, Lough Tay and Lough Dan. Lough Tay in particular is worth a stop to drink in the idyllic scene.
- Overnight Location:
- B&B in Roundwood
- Distance:
- 5-6 hours, 23km, 828m of ascent, 866m of descent
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Today’s hike is gentler but no less scenic – perhaps even more so! Set off from Roundwood and hike over Paddock Hill into Laragh, which lies at the mouth of the Glendalough Valley. A monastic settlement was built here in the 6th century AD, and many of its stone structures remain today.
Take plenty of time to explore and enjoy the monastic city and its beautiful surroundings. When you’re finished, head back to Laragh for your final evening on the Wicklow Way.
- Overnight Location:
- B&B in Laragh
- Distance:
- 2-3 hours, 9.5km, 350m of ascent, 424m of descent
- Meals:
- Breakfast
After a delicious Irish breakfast, it’s time to leave Laragh. Check out from your accommodations and depart the region via your own arrangements.
- Overnight Location:
- None
- Distance:
- None
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Tour Map
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Inclusions
Included
- 4 breakfasts are included.
- Accommodations for 4 nights are included.
- Transport to the start of the Day 2 hike is included. Luggage transfers between accommodations are also included. Airport transfers are not included.
- Detailed route book with full area maps or GPS-enabled app for navigation & points of interest
- 24-hour emergency/information support
- Full pre-departure information to maximize your experience
- Luggage Transfers
- Airport Transfers
Not included
- Flights
- Travel insurance
- Visas if required
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Airport transfers
- Entrance fees to any sites or parks
Optional Extras
- Additional accommodation nights before or after the tour
- Single room supplements
Reviews
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These reviews reflect all trips offered by this local tour partner on 10Adventures, not just the tour you’re viewing.
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FAQ
We rate this tour as a 4/5. A good level of fitness is required for the distance and elevation changes on this route, and previous hiking experience is recommended. However, no technical expertise or gear is necessary. The route involves various surfaces: forest tracks, mountain paths, and paved roads, with some wet and boggy sections underfoot. Good boots are essential.
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
Self-guided travelling is not difficult! For many, it is a preferred type of travel as you are in charge of your own time and pace. You are provided all the information on which direction you need to go daily. However, self-guided travelling requires good navigation skills and those who don’t feel confident in unknown places should consider booking guided tours.
4 breakfasts are included.
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover hiking. Get your Travel Insurance.
Fly into Dublin International Airport (DUB). From Dublin Airport, the city centre is roughly 20-30 minutes by car or 30-50 minutes by public transit, depending on traffic and the time of day. Your holiday specialist can assist you with logistics if needed.
The tour ends in the village of Laragh. The Dublin Airport is about a one-hour drive or 2 ½ hours by bus.
Check with your family doctor.
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
Why book 5-Day Self-Guided Wicklow Way Hiking Tour with 10 Adventures?
Self-guided Specialists
Combine the freedom of travelling on your own with the confidence that all of the logistics are taken care of.
Packed with Inclusions
Accommodations, luggage transfers, gear rentals, and more - all taken care of so you can focus on making memories.
World Class Support
Have peace of mind for when travel plans change with our hassle-free booking process and unbeatable support.
Let's start talking about your next adventure!