The Green Road Walk (Lower Lake Loop)
3 km · Gentle; mostly flat elevation
About
The Green Road is the easiest and most accessible of Glendalough's walks, a roughly 3km, mostly flat loop that links the monastic city to the shore of the Lower Lake on boardwalk sections over the wetland, before returning past the visitor centre. It is the walk to do with young children, limited time, or after the monastic site if the Spinc feels like too much, and it still delivers real views across the lake to the mountains. Wear shoes that can handle soft ground after rain, but no special fitness or equipment is needed.
Highlights
- ✓Boardwalk sections over the wetland at the edge of the Lower Lake
- ✓Views across the lake to the surrounding mountains
- ✓Links the monastic city to the lake shore in one easy loop
- ✓Suitable for young children and limited time
Tips
- →The most accessible walk in the valley; a good choice with children or in poor weather.
- →Wear shoes that suit soft ground after rain.
- →Combine with the monastic site for a satisfying half-day without a steep climb.
Best Season
More Walk Activities
The Spinc and Glenealo Valley Walk (White Route)
A 9.5km boardwalk-and-valley loop above the Upper Lake, climbing 380m through oak forest to a cliff-edge boardwalk and the ruined miners' village. About 3.5 hours.
The Miners' Way (Upper Lake Walk)
A roughly 5.4km flat walk along the Upper Lake shore to the old lead and zinc mine workings, an easier alternative to the Spinc for the same mining history.
Poulanass Waterfall Walk
A short, steady woodland climb beside the Poulanass River to a waterfall in the trees, shares its start with the Spinc but works well as a standalone half-hour.