The best cycling routes in the Wicklow Mountains National Park

There are over 60 touring cycling routes in the Wicklow Mountains National Park. These routes offer a diverse range of experiences, from challenging mountain passes to serene valleys.

The routes cater to various skill levels. You'll find 7 easy routes, 27 moderate routes, and 34 difficult routes. This variety ensures that both beginners and experienced touring cyclists can find suitable challenges.

Yes, there are several easy routes suitable for families. While specific routes are not designated 'family-friendly' in the data, the 7 easy routes generally offer less challenging terrain and elevation, making them a good starting point for family outings. Always check the route details for distance and elevation to ensure it matches your family's ability.

The park offers diverse landscapes, including rugged mountain peaks, heather-covered moorlands, serene glacial valleys, and dense woodlands. You'll encounter challenging climbs like the Sally Gap and Wicklow Gap, picturesque lakes such as Glendalough and Lough Tay, and impressive waterfalls like Glenmacnass Waterfall. The Coliemore Harbour – Sandycove Harbour loop from Marlay Park, for instance, offers coastal views and varied terrain.

Many of the touring cycling routes in the Wicklow Mountains National Park are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Glendalough Round Tower – Glendalough Monastic Site loop from Glendalough and the Glendalough Round Tower – Glendalough loop from Glendalough are popular circular options that explore the historic Glendalough valley.

The park is rich in historical and cultural attractions. A major highlight is the Glendalough Monastic Settlement, founded in the 6th century, with its round tower and ruined churches. The Glendalough Round Tower – Glendalough Monastic Site loop from Glendalough passes through this significant area. You might also encounter remnants of the park's mining history or scenic viewpoints like Djouce Summit offering panoramic views.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.88 stars from over 20 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from challenging mountain passes to serene glacial valleys, and the well-maintained public roads. The combination of physical challenge and stunning natural beauty is frequently highlighted.

The Wicklow Mountains National Park is full of breathtaking vistas. The Sally Gap is renowned for stunning views of Lough Tay and Glenmacnass Waterfall. The Wicklow Gap offers views of the Blessington Lakes. Djouce Summit provides panoramic views, and the Military Road (R115) is a scenic route offering spectacular views of mountain blanket bog habitats.

While the region is primarily accessed by car, some routes may be reachable via public transport connections to towns bordering the park. However, direct public transport to trailheads within the more remote parts of the National Park can be limited. It's advisable to research specific bus routes or train services to nearby towns and consider cycling from there.

Yes, many routes feature the park's beautiful lakes and reservoirs. Glendalough, with its Upper and Lower Lakes, is a central feature, and routes like the Glendalough Round Tower – Glendalough Monastic Site loop from Glendalough explore this area. Other notable bodies of water include Lough Tay (the 'Guinness Lake'), Bohernabreena Upper Reservoir, and Vartry Reservoir.

The best time to cycle is generally during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is milder and the landscapes are particularly vibrant. Summer (June-August) is also popular, though routes can be busier. Winters can be challenging due to colder temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and potentially icy conditions on higher passes.

Yes, some routes, particularly those closer to the eastern edge of the park, can offer coastal views. The Coliemore Harbour – Sandycove Harbour loop from Marlay Park is an example of a route that provides scenic coastal vistas as part of its varied terrain.