Dublin Sightseeing Series: Glendalough

Beautiful Glendalough Co. Wicklow.
Looking back at St Kevins and the Round Tower.

We simply love this area.

Just under an hour and a half south of Dublin you'll find a beautiful, natural escape from the city. There are bus tours to the area, tho not  much in the way of public transport. Your own car is the best way to really enjoy the area as you are free to explore for as long as you want.

We fell in love with Glendalough the first time we lived here, and took every single visitor there. We still do. It was one of the first places we visited on our return. It's a very easy way to spend a few hours mid-week while the kids are at school; or longer if you hike (we don't). In the warmer months the picnic grounds are fabulous to wile away the hours.

MissM looks for hobbits and fairies here.

You can visit the area often, as each season offers you something different to see. The colours change with the light, the flora changes too. Seeing the area covered in snow, or snow drops is a real privilege.

From the moment you arrive at the main gates to what was the monastic site, you know you're in for a real treat. You step back in time, walking where millions of people have walked before you and you can't help but feel special.

Not my photo. Mine have 'us' standing under the arch. 

This history surround a gentleman named St Kevin.

Glendalough is sometimes referred to by locals as the Valley with the Two Lakes. The scenery and pure beauty have to be seen to be believed.

Not my photo. We don't hike, so the only place we've seen the
 lakes from is the waters edge. 

If you only visit the area for one reason, it would be to see one of the countries most important monastic sites, founded by St Kevin in the 6th century.  The Round Tower, and cemetery are rather incredible to see - they are SO OLD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Not my photo. The one's we have usually have family
or friends standing in front of it.

Yep ... someone else managed to get this great shot of the majestic
Celtic Cross with really old headstones in the background.

You can take a guided tour from the Visitors Centre (recommend you phone or check online first to make sure the tours are going as most outdoor things in Ireland are 'weather permitting'. The tour explains St Kevin's life, and how he came to settle in Glendalough.

I'd love a wide angle lens on our camera! Maybe then we'd be
able to take shots like this.

There are a number of marked walks for those who are so inclined, and an abundance of photo opportunities for people with cameras. It should be noted, that like any hike/walk, be prepared for changes in the weather, take water and snacks with you and let someone know where you're going and what time to expect you back. Mobile phone connectivity isn't always reliable.

No idea who this man is, but he looks like he's ready for a spring stroll.

There are a few pubs close by for lunch, there's B&B's and small hotels if you choose to stay overnight. Check out the weblink (we simply drive up and back from Dublin)

If the weather's being kind - take a picnic and do yourself a favour - lay back and watch the clouds for a while.

It'll do you good.

With friendship
x


PS: None of the photos are mine.