A 12 km riverside walk that follows the Avonmore through the Vale of Clara from Rathdrum to Laragh — a quiet alternative to the Wicklow Way, ending at the gates of Glendalough. Allow 4–5 hours. Linear, so plan transport at the Laragh end (the 65 bus runs between Rathdrum and Laragh on most days). Mostly woodland and riverside; some uneven ground and a steady climb out of the valley near Laragh.
Start point shown — click the marker to get directions. Zoom in to explore the area.
Start at Rathdrum railway station — the Dublin–Rosslare DART line drops you here. The trail begins on the lane behind the station and follows the Avonmore river upstream through woodland. After about 5 km you enter the Vale of Clara Nature Reserve, an ancient oak wood protected for over a hundred years. The path crosses the river twice on footbridges. The final 2 km climbs steadily out of the valley and into Laragh village. Allow 4.5 hours at a steady pace.
A beautifully restored historic guesthouse on the Square in Tinahely — the Wicklow Way passes through the village. Double, twin and small-double rooms, all with private bathrooms. Self-service coded entry — arrive when it suits you.
A professionally-recorded version with a local Wicklow narrator launches in 2026. The full transcript below previews what walkers will hear.
A 12 km riverside walk that follows the Avonmore through the Vale of Clara from Rathdrum to Laragh — a quiet alternative to the Wicklow Way, ending at the gates of Glendalough. Allow 4–5 hours. Linear, so plan transport at the Laragh end (the 65 bus runs between Rathdrum and Laragh on most days). Mostly woodland and riverside; some uneven ground and a steady climb out of the valley near Laragh.
Full audio tour with professional Irish narration will be added when this walk's content is finalised. The summary above is the working draft.