Wicklow Way · Stage 01
Clonegal → Shillelagh
The southern terminus. A gentle opener through country lanes, river valleys and forestry roads — the perfect day to shake off city legs before the real work begins.
14 km
Distance
4–5 h
Typical time
200 m
Total climb
Moderate
Difficulty
Stage 1 route notes
How the day unfolds
- Start at Osborne's pub in the village of Clonegal, Co. Carlow — last village in Leinster for pints before Wicklow. Sign the walker's book on the counter.
- Easy country lanes for the first 5 km, following the Derry River upstream. Listen for dippers and grey herons.
- Climb through Urelands Wood (Coillte forestry). Watch for the red squirrels — this is one of the best stretches in the east for sightings.
- Descend into the Derry Valley. Cross the old stone bridge at Kilcoole (not to be confused with the north Wicklow village).
- Finish at Shillelagh village square. Stay: local B&Bs; dinner at Coollattin Golf Club or the village's single pub.
Route map
Stage 1 on Komoot
Komoot route embed will live here on launch — with elevation profile, photo waypoints, and offline-download to the Komoot app.
Free GPX download
Stage 1 GPX file
Drop your email for the Stage 1 GPX — works with Komoot, OS Maps, Garmin, Strava, AllTrails. Printable stage-map pack included.
Where to stay tonight
Shillelagh accommodation
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