Glendalough Cathedral is the largest church in the Monastic City, a 6th-century settlement founded by St Kevin in a glaciated Wicklow valley.
The ruined Cathedral is the biggest church on the site, with a nave, chancel and sacristy from the 11th and 12th centuries, set beside a 6th–7th century granite cross and the Priest's House. The churches, round tower and lakes are free to visit and open all year.
The most impressive surviving structure, a 30m granite round tower standing among the main group of monastic buildings near the river.
A small interpretive centre explains the monastic site before you walk it; there is a bookshop and guided tours can be booked by phone on +353 (0) 404 45325. Average visit 1–1.5 hours.
A barrel-vaulted oratory of hard mica schist with a steeply pitched roof and a small round-tower belfry, dating to the 12th century.
Easy routes such as the Green Road (3km) and Miners' Road walk (5km) follow the lakeshore past St Kevin's Bed, Reefert Church and oak woodland.
The 9.5km Spinc and Glenealo Valley route climbs 380m past the Poulanass Waterfall onto a boardwalk with classic views over the Upper Lake; allow about 3 hours 15 minutes. Start at the National Park Information Office.
Picnic areas are provided at the Upper Lake. Fires and solid-fuel barbecues are not permitted; gas barbecues are allowed.
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