GLEN OF THE

DOWNS

GLEN

OF THE

DOWNS

POCKET IRELAND › Place Guides › Glen of the Downs

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Known as Gleann dá Ghrua or the "Valley of the Two Brows," this dramatic ravine cuts a deep V-shape through the Wicklow landscape. The atmosphere here is defined by a striking contrast: the modern N11 dual carriageway runs along the valley floor, yet just meters away, steep slopes rise into an ancient, tranquil world of sessile oak canopy. While the initial moments of a visit are accompanied by the hum of traffic, the noise quickly fades as you ascend the wooded trails.

JUMP TO THE PHOTOS

The Octagon

Perched high on the western slope is the Octagon, a partially restored 18th-century folly built by the La Touche family of nearby Bellevue Estate. It offers one of the best vantage points in the county, framing a spectacular view of the Great Sugar Loaf mountain.

Ancient Woodlands

The glen is a dedicated Nature Reserve and Special Area of Conservation (SAC). It protects a fragment of the primeval oak woods that once covered much of Ireland, hosting rare bird species like the wood warbler and the great spotted woodpecker.

Glacial Origins

The valley is a classic example of a glacial meltwater channel, carved out by massive torrents of water at the end of the last Ice Age. Its steep, "scalped" sides are a geological testament to these ancient forces.

The Loop Walk

Prioritise the 3.6km looped trail. It is a moderate climb that takes about an hour. Be prepared for mud - hiking boots are strongly recommended, especially after rain.

The Parking Trap

The car park entrance is located directly off the southbound N11 and is notoriously easy to miss. It comes up quickly as a sharp left turn; if you miss it, you will have to drive several kilometers to turn around.

Seasonal Highlights

Visit in late spring (April–May) to see the forest floor carpeted in wild garlic and bluebells, or in late October when the autumn colours of the deciduous canopy are at their most vibrant.