DERRYBAWN, MULLACOR & SPINC
2 summits
15 KM
5 HRS
740 M
Moderate
WALKING ROUTE
Our hike begins in the Glendalough visitor centre. From here we will walk through the ancient Monastic site of Glendalough founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century. Following the Green Road, we make our way towards the upper lake. The ascent begins here as we hike past Poulanass waterfall and towards the upper hillside of Derrybawn Mountain following a selection of tracks and narrow trail.
Once on the summit of Derrybawn views of the Glendalough Valley and the surround mountains and Wicklow Coast are stunning. We move along the Derrybawn ridge which is undulating terrain with underfoot conditions that can be boggy and uneven, however it’s really good hiking!
Slowly we will ascend Mullacor which involves navigation through and around some extremely boggy terrain. However, from the summit the descent down to the Wicklow Way is reasonably straight forward and we will follow the Miners Way to join probably the most famous walking route in Glendalough, the Spinc route.
Once on the Spinc we will enjoy amazing views down to the upper lake of Glendalough. With steep to near vertical cliffs on one side the boardwalk makes for easy walking where you can enjoy the beautiful views of the valley below. We re-join our route above Poulanass waterfall and retrace our steps to the carpark.
Throughout the walk we will discuss some of the wonderful flora and fauna of the Wicklow Mountains. As Glendalough is steeped in history, we will give insights into the mining and monastic history of the area. We take plenty of breaks for photos, snacks and water. We will keep a slow pace. This hike is graded moderate and moderate levels of fitness are required. See required equipment list below.
WALK INFORMATION
- Professional and qualified Mountain Leader.
- First aid trained and certified leader to REC 3/ Wilderness First Aid 3 standard.
- Fully insured activity and staff.
- Information and insights into the upload flora and fauna.
- Insights into local history and geology.
- Fun, engaging and informative Mountain Leader.
- Personal equipment as listed in the "required equipment" list.
- Food and refreshments.
- Transport.
- Car parking fees.
- Accommodation.
- Personal accident insurance.
- Hiking boots - It can be wet and boggy with off trail sections and open mountainside.
- Clothing suitable for hiking/sport - Avoid cotton/ jeans etc.
- Raingear - Waterproof jacket and leggings.
- Water & Nutrition/Food/Snacks.
- Extra layers such as a fleece jumper.
- Hat & gloves.
- SPF - even if it’s not sunny.
- Bug spray - There can be midge and ticks from spring to autumn.
- Any medications you may need.
- Small rucksack to hold the above items.
- Spare clothing such as socks/tops/bottoms/shoes for after the hike - you don’t need to carry these, leave them in the car for your return.
- Walking sticks if you normally use them.
See google maps below. Click "View on Google Maps" to get driving directions on your phone.