Wicklow and Glendalough by Campervan
Quick summary: The Wicklow Mountains begin less than an hour south of Dublin, making them the easiest first stop on a campervan trip. Glendalough has an early medieval monastic settlement beside two glacial lakes, with walking trails for every level, while Powerscourt House and Gardens sit near Enniskerry. The Sally Gap and Military Road cross open bogland with wide views, though some sections are narrow and exposed in a campervan or motorhome.
| At a glance | |
|---|---|
| From Dublin | Glendalough is around 50 km south |
| Glendalough | Monastic site, round tower, two lakes |
| Powerscourt | Gardens and waterfall near Enniskerry |
| Sally Gap | High mountain pass over bogland |
| Best for | Walking, scenery, a gentle start |
| Tours | Glendalough tours, Wicklow tours |
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What is there to see at Glendalough?
A round tower, ruined churches and a graveyard from the monastic city founded by St Kevin, plus the Upper and Lower Lakes and trails that climb above the valley. Car parks fill early on summer weekends.
Is the Sally Gap suitable for an RV?
It’s passable for smaller vehicles in good weather, but the road is narrow with soft verges, and it can be closed or icy in winter. Larger motorhomes are better on the main roads around the mountains. Check conditions before setting out.
What else is worth a stop?
| Stop | Why go |
|---|---|
| Powerscourt Gardens | Formal gardens and Ireland’s highest waterfall nearby. See Powerscourt tours |
| Wicklow Way | Ireland’s best-known long-distance walking trail |
| Avoca | Weaving mill village in a wooded valley |
| East coast beaches | Brittas Bay and other sandy stretches |
Where can you stay?
At campsites in the Wicklow area, some near the coast and others close to the mountains. Overnighting in the Glendalough car parks is not permitted. See campsites and overnight parking.
How long should you spend in Wicklow?
One or two days, enough to walk at Glendalough and visit Powerscourt. See Dublin, Wicklow and Boyne in 3 days.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Around 50 km south, about an hour by road.
Yes, in the visitor car parks, which fill early in summer. Overnight stays aren’t allowed.
In good weather for smaller vehicles. It’s narrow and can be icy or closed in winter.
Its early medieval monastic site, round tower and two glacial lakes.