The Spinc and Glenealo Valley loop is the most photographed walk in County Wicklow, and deservedly so. You climb steep wooden steps beside Poulanass waterfall, walk along a boardwalk that cuts across the cliff-top above the Upper Lake, then descend through an abandoned miners' village with mountains rising on three sides. It's a tough 9 km — but nothing else in Ireland quite compares.
Start at the Upper Lake car park (€4 fee, worth every cent). Follow the white-arrow waymarks through the visitor centre, past Poulanass waterfall, and up the wooden steps. The boardwalk runs along the Spinc for about 2 km before descending into the Glenealo valley. Return via the flat lakeside path past the miners' village — this is the Miners' Road.
Komoot or OS embed will live here on launch — this is a design mockup.
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 local voice in your ear as you walk — stories, history, folklore. Works offline once downloaded. Transcript included.
Buy for €3.99