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All 3 Vale of Glendalough Attractions »

Glendalough Monastic Settlement

Visitor Centre, Ireland
0404/45325
4.5 of 5 stars 65 Reviews
Type: Historic Sites, Religious Sites, Architectural Buildings
Owner description: This historic site, whose Gaelic name translates to “valley of the two lakes,” consists of the 6th-century monastery founded by St. Kevin and the...... more » Owner description: This historic site, whose Gaelic name translates to “valley of the two lakes,” consists of the 6th-century monastery founded by St. Kevin and the famous round tower, standing 112 feet high with a base measuring 52 feet in circumference. Visitors: There is a car park at the Visitor Centre. It is recommended to see the informational video at the Visitor Centre before starting your explorations. « less
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65 reviews from our community

Visitor rating
    45
    16
    4
    0
    0
Date Rating
Cheerykar
carlow, ireland
Senior Reviewer
9 reviews
4 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 5 February 2012 NEW

An ancient villiage standing the test of time in the scenic vales of Glendalough. The walls almost spek to you telling the stories of the history they are steeped in.... The air of grandeur in the humble settlement is testiment to it's breathtaking beauty More

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cclancy55
Madison, Wisconsin
Senior Contributor
33 reviews
8 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 8 January 2012

Located in Wicklow Mountains National Park, Glendalough is a monastery that dates back nearly one thousand years. It is enchanting and haunting at the same time to walk amongst the ruins of chapels, homes, and gravesites and contemplate the history that you are participating in. Make sure to get there early or late so as to miss the crowds. It... More

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Vanessa H
Parksville, Canada
Contributor
12 reviews
4 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 5 January 2012

I've been visiting Glendalough every year for decades, and for 10 years I've taken a group of Canadians to this 1,500 year old monastic site early in our travels round Ireland. It is always a highlight. The setting is beautiful. The history and legends fascinating. And it always provokes endless questions, great discussion. The main site is beautiful, but take... More

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gmckf
Drogheda, Ireland
Senior Contributor
29 reviews
3 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed 29 December 2011

This place had a lovely ancient feeling to it. The monastic settlement was great, but the walk and the scenery was amazing. Was quite cold as i visited in October.. need to wrap up warm! More

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TheTravelingStaggs
Seattle, Washington
Senior Contributor
36 reviews
16 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 28 December 2011

The scenery is so gorgeous - it is different at every turn, just beautiful. There was a light mist as we came through Wicklow and entered Glendalough. We were both so excited to see the amazing ruins and settlement. It did not disappoint. This is a great place for little ones to run around. Another aspect that was wonderful is... More

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realst8ace
Sugar Land, Texas
Senior Contributor
24 reviews
5 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 12 December 2011

This beautiful site is more than just historic ruins. Set in the Wicklow mountains, there is much to see and appreciate.There are breathtaking landscapes which include the ruins of St. Kevin's monastery , an ancient labyrinth and sparkling lakes. For those who like walking or hiking, there are plentiful paved paths - venture into the mountains or stay on flatter... More

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Duff S
Mancos, Colorado
2 reviews
1 helpful vote
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 30 November 2011

Martin Swords of Glendalough Walking Tours took us in the four directions from St. Kevin's Cross and Kitchen to both lakes, raging waterfall and incessant word plays. Best way imaginable to savor the valley without reading a book or spending three days. Charming host and ultra comfortable hotel stay. More

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sportbros
Crosshaven, Ireland
Senior Contributor
23 reviews
10 helpful votes
3 of 5 stars Reviewed 28 November 2011

When going to the Monastic settlement there really isn't much information. We even stopped in the visitors center and weren't offerred any information but were told where to walk. Would have loved more information and would have paid for whatever was at the visitors center but it wasn't offerred to us! More

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geraldine b
Dublin, Ireland
Reviewer
4 reviews
2 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 25 November 2011

the peace of Glendalough is wonderful in a troubled world. There is a sense of going back in time. The monuments are kept in very good condition and some of to-days builders could take lessons from the builders of Round Tower. Also, the ancient cemeteryn is very interesting, even though sad to see so many people died so young long... More

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Rabbit2011
Phoenix, Arizona
Senior Reviewer
7 reviews
4 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 11 November 2011

Just a short drive from busy Dublin, this historic area is peaceful. On a beautiful day the appeal of walking the distance from the Round Tower, along the Lower Lake to the Upper Lake area proves to be 100% perfect. Don't be in a hurry to 'do Glendalough' but spend a few hours walking, really looking at the historic grave... More

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