About Glendalough Monastic Site

What do hiking, rock climbing, and a monastic settlement have in common? They are all part of the Glendalough Monastic Site. St. Kevin founded the area in the 6th century in a glacial valley in County Wicklow. At the one end of the valley, there is also a lead mine.

St. Kevin would have found the quiet Glen of Two Lakes the perfect secluded area for his monastery. He first lived in a cave now known as St. Kevin’s Bed. His outdoor hut overlooked the Reefert Church, the Temple-na-Skellig, and the “Caher.” Many churches, gateways, and towers were slowly added during the growth of the settlement including St. Ciarán’s Church, St. Mary’s Church, Trinity Church, and St. Saviour’s Church. Wander the stone buildings and ruins for a glimpse of this simple life.

If you fancy a bit more walking, be sure to take one of the trails. Some lead around the lakes, to the Poolanass Waterfall, and through forests.

Want to get a better view of Glendalough Monastic Site? Climb the granite cliffs. The area is one of the best known for rock-climbing. One of the most popular cliffs is the Twin Buttress.

 

Must See

  • Glendalough Monastic Site and Visitor Centre

  • Spink Loop

  • Wicklow Mountains National Park

  • Glendalough Woollen Mills

How to reach

By bus:

Take a bus from Booterstown, Woodbine Road to Glendalough Visitor Centre. It is a journey of 52.2 km that is covered in 1 hour and  minutes and costs 5 to 7 EUR. It is followed by a 4 minute walk to Glendalough Monastic Site.

By taxi:

Take a taxi from Dublin to Glendalough Monastic Site. It is a journey of 49 km that is covered in 46 minutes and costs 80 to 100 EUR.

 

Tips

  • Glendalough Visitor Centre offers an exhibition, audiovisual shows, and guided tours. However, access to the monastic site itself however is very limited. 
  • The area is ideal as a base for hikes, so be sure to wear suitable shoes if you want to take a hike.
  • Picnic areas are available if you want to have a picnic.
  • Make sure you do not litter the area!
  • Glendalough Visitor Centre is fully accessible for visitors with disabilities.
  • Check the weather prior to your trip so you can pack appropriate clothes.
  • It is advisable to carry an umbrella with you.

Visit Time

Sunday:           Open 24 hours

Monday:          Open 24 hours

Tuesday:         Open 24 hours

Wednesday:    Open 24 hours

Thursday:        Open 24 hours

Friday:             Open 24 hours

Saturday:         Open 24 hours

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Waiting Time

No waiting.

 

Entrance Fee Icon

Entrance Fee

Yes

Adult:                             € 5.00

Seniors/group:               € 4.00

Child/student:                €  3.00

Family:                          € 13.00

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Time you can spend

3 hours

 

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Weather

Broken Clouds 6.29°C

 

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