As we journey across the landscape, from Dublin city to the ruins of an earlier city, at Glendalough, we journey back in time, through Ireland’s history. We begin at the carefully tended gardens of Marley and follow roads, forest tracks and eventually the land itself, to reach our destination 3 days and 50 km later, with 2 overnight stops. As we move away from the city, an internal journey also unfolds, as we experience the highs and lows of the path with our fellow travellers. We have time to reflect and make a space to refresh ourselves. This journey is a gentle reminder of an earlier Ireland, where people walked from place to place on foot. Our walks are in tune with nature, heading off to birdsong in the early morning light.

Day 1 Marlay Park to Knockree
As we pass beneath the M50, we are reminded of how we have made a choice to travel at a different speed for these 3 days. Our trail winds gently uphill and we leave the road onto the forest tracks of Kilmashoge. Continuing uphill, we skirt around the first of the Dublin mountains and down to the road in Glendhu valley. The road takes us down to the valley floor, across Glencullen river by way of Boranaralty bridge. We climb out of this valley and around the side of Glencullen mountain and descend yet again, now in the Glencree valley. Our walk finishes at Curtlestown Wood where we will be picked up and brought to our accommodation. 
Distance: 20 km/12.5 miles, Ascent: 700 m /2100 ft  

Day 2 Knockree to Roundwood
Continuing on the Wicklow Way, we walk down into peaceful valley of Lackandarragh, along by the Glencree river. Onto Crone Forest where we will have towering views of Powerscourt Waterfall, Ireland's longest waterfall. 
The trail takes us onto the side of Djouce Mountain, stopping at our highest point on White Hill at 630m, on towards the end of our day at Roundwood.
Distance: 18 km/11.3 miles, Ascent: 550 m/1650 ft

Day 3 Roundwood to Glendalough
Our third and final day tour takes us out of Roundwood and on towards the monastic city of Glendalough, which was founded by St. Kevin in the sixth century.
We leave Roundwood and follow the Wicklow Way around the base of Scarr and onto Paddock hill. From here we continue on to Glendalough and as we enter by the ruined gatehouse we remember the little gate we stepped through in Marlay Park, 3 short days previously. Has our journey changed us in any way?
After finishing our tour of the ruins the trail leads us up into the valley, past Polanass waterfall and out onto an area known as the Spinc. From here we will have sweeping views over the lakes, the Monastic City and surrounding countryside. We will continue around the head of the valley and descend by the miner's track, down alongside the tranquil upper lake with St.Kevin's bed visible on the far shore. 
Distance: 19 km/11.9 miles, Ascent: 560 m/1680 ft

Day 4 Depart

About your guide on this walk
Liz Murray is a passionate mountaineer, whether ice-climbing in Norway, or teaching mountain skills in Wicklow. She especially loves walking paths with a rich history and presence, like the Camino de Santiago, The Art O’Neill walk, St.Kevin’s Way. You will be in safe hands with this qualified mountain leader, with a spiritual centre.

If you would like more information or a detailed itinerary, please e-mail us at: info@walkinghikingireland.com