Wicklow is Ireland’s premier cycling destination, attracting thousands of cyclists annually with its steep climbs and stunning scenery.
From Rathdrum to Glendalough, cyclists can enjoy extraordinary landscapes and challenging routes in the heart of Ireland’s premier cycling destination.
Continuing our series on Wicklow’s road cycling routes, we now focus on Central Wicklow. Discover some of the incredible circuits and breathtaking views that this area has to offer.
Cycling Loop 5: Rathdrum Loop via Glendalough & Annamoe – 39.5km
Loop 5 guides cyclists through Claravale valley to Laragh village, offering access to Glendalough Visitors Centre, close to the Monastic City and upper Glendalough lake. Cyclists then return to Rathdrum.
Grade: Challenging
Distance: 39.5 km
Ascent: 365 m
Estimated Time: 2hrs 20mins
Cycling Loop 6: Rathdrum Loop via Glendalough & Croneybyrne – 34.6km
Loop 6 follows the stunning Claravale Valley into Laragh Village and passes by the Glendalough Visitor Cente. Cyclists return then to Rathdrum along the scenic road north of Claravale.
Grade: Challenging
Distance: 34.6 km
Ascent: 270 m
Estimated Time: 2hrs
Cycling Loop 7: Rathdrum Loop via Roundwood, Sally Gap & Laragh – 61.6km
Loop 7 starts from Rathdrum, cyclists then head to Roundwood, climb steeply to Lough Tay viewing point while en route to the iconic Sally Gap. After passing Glenmacnass Waterfall, riders return to Rathdrum via Laragh and can also enjoy an optional detour to Glendalough.
Grade: Very Challenging
Distance: 61.6 km
Ascent: 730 m
Estimated Time: 3hrs 50mins
Cycling Loop 8: Rathdrum Loop via Ballinaclash – 15.9km
Loop 8 consists of a short cycle up the hill from Rathdrum’s Market Square, down to Greenan and eventually onto Ballinaclash. The route then returns to Rathdrum with the option of a side visit to the “Beyond The Trees” attraction in Avondale Forest Park.
Grade: Challenging
Distance: 15.9 km
Ascent: 165 m
Estimated Time: 1hr
Cycling Loop 9: Rathdrum Mountain Loop – 38km
Loop 9 begins in Rathdrum, proceeding north to Laragh, with a potential detour to Glendalough.
The route then proceeds to Glenmalure, passes the Shay Elliott memorial at the top, and descends into Glenmalure and on to Greenan and Balinaclash.
The route finishes with a short climb back to Rathdrum, and presents an option to visit Avondale Forest Park.
Grade: Very Challenging
Distance: 38 km
Ascent: 520 m
Estimated Time: 2hrs 30mins
