Wicklow Way, Dublin - Clonegal, 129 km, 6 days

The Wicklow mountains roughly run southward from Dublin into county Wexford. Starting as desolate heath- and moorland, rising up to 900 m, they gradually become more gentle. On a clear day one will have good views over the patched farmland below and the Irish Sea beyond. More to the south, the hills were replanted with conifers, which may be regarded as dull, but the new forests create their own atmosphere. Still further south, the woods give way to farmland.

Glendalough monastery, a historic highlight, is right on the trail.

Clonegal is the end of the Wicklow Way, but not the end of the Wicklow Mountains. The South Leinster Way is the next path in the queue, and actually you can follow long distance trails all the way to Kerry and the Atlantic. We are speaking of the E8 and the Irish Coast to Coast Walk.

The Wicklow Way is Ireland's first long distance path and continues to be popular, facilitated of course by the proximity of the countries capital. In the hills, accommodation is scarce. The path is easy, but can be muddy.