Glendalough is a glen (long and deep valley of glacial origin where a river can flow down the valley) and a village in Ireland, located in the Wicklow County Mountains National Park. Its name means Valley of two lakes. The village was established by a hermit priest, Saint Kevin, in the 6th century on the site of a former monastery. Many of his followers wanted to follow him and settled in the valley too. There is a 33-meter round tower, which was used to protect relics, books and chalices, and a Celtic high cross known as Saint Kevin’s Cross. The village was established on the side of Lower Lake and the cliffs north of Upper Lake are recognized as popular climbing places.
Tips
There is no admission fee to enter the park or the site of the old monastery but you should leave your car in the car parks nearby and pay for your place. From here you can visit everything on foot.
You can visit all year round respecting the opening hours of the parking barriers, which are closed at night.
You will find several mountain trails. However, there are no guided or supervised hikes.
