Glenmalure → Moyne
The longest stage. Through the southern upland section into the rolling hills of south-west Wicklow. Optional mid-stage break at Iron Bridge, Aghavannagh (14 km from Glenmalure). Finish in the tiny Georgian hamlet of Moyne — end of the mountain stages.
Why you’ll like it
- One of the quietest and most remote stages of the Wicklow Way
- Long stretches of forest tracks, mountain slopes and open countryside
- Expansive views across the southern Wicklow uplands
- A gradual transition from deep mountain valleys into rolling farmland
- Scenic forestry sections through some of Wicklow's largest upland forests
- A peaceful stage with fewer visitors than the northern sections of the trail
Route & directions
This stage of the Wicklow Way begins in Glenmalure and finishes near Moyne in south Wicklow. The route leaves the glacial valley behind and heads south through forestry, upland tracks and quieter countryside roads before descending into more rural farmland landscapes.
📍 Start: Glenmalure · Finish: Moyne
- Distance: approximately 21 km
- Estimated walking time: around 5–6 hours
- Terrain: forestry roads, mountain tracks, woodland trails, open countryside and minor roads
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
- Waymarking: yellow walking-man symbols on black marker posts
The route leaves Glenmalure and climbs steadily through forestry and upland terrain on the southern side of the valley. Early sections include forest roads and mountain tracks with views back towards the surrounding Wicklow Mountains.
The trail continues southwards through extensive forestry plantations and quieter upland landscapes. Sections of the route cross open hillsides and rural roads before descending gradually towards the farming landscapes around Moyne.
Compared with the more mountainous northern stages, this section introduces more rolling countryside while still retaining long stretches of forest and upland scenery. The route remains relatively remote in places with limited services directly along the trail.
Local tips
- Glenmalure has limited services directly on the trail — carry sufficient food and water
- Forestry tracks can feel exposed during poor weather despite lower elevations than previous stages
- Waterproof footwear is recommended due to potentially muddy conditions
- Mobile signal may be inconsistent in more remote forest sections
- Walkers should check daylight hours carefully during winter months due to the length of the stage
- Accommodation options near Moyne should be arranged in advance where possible
Source: Stage distances, ascents, and waypoints verified against the official wicklowway.com trail description. Total route 127 km · 3,200 m ascent · traditionally walked north-to-south (Marlay Park → Clonegal).
Stage 5 on Komoot
Live route from the official Komoot Wicklow Way collection — pan, zoom, and tap waypoints.
Stage 5 GPX file
Direct download — works in Komoot, OS Maps, Garmin Connect, Strava, AllTrails. Sourced from the official Komoot Wicklow Way collection.
Want stage-map PDFs and accommodation tips emailed too?
Moyne has no accommodation
The official stage ends at Moyne, a crossroads with no shop, food or beds. Most walkers carry on the extra 2 km to Tinahely — full facilities and Madeline's on the Square. See our recommended Tinahely variant, or let us arrange it.
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