The wonderful walk to Lough Dan, Wicklow

All you need to know before you go on the walk to Lough Dan and why we love this peaceful walk in the Wicklow Mountains.

The walk to Lough Dan, in County Wicklow, is probably my favourite in the area.

It is the perfect walk for when you feel like properly stretching your legs but do not want to go on a proper hike and it is also a great place to feel like you are away from it all, without actually having to drive that far from the city.

We take this walk often: we did it before the kids came along and, since then, we have gone often both when they were toddlers and now that they are a bit older.

This is what the walk to Lough Dan is like and why we highly recommend it.

What to expect on the walk to Lough Dan

The walk to Lough Dan starts on a paved, smooth road heading downhill from the lodge gate to the valley.

The road is large and easy and the views amazing: you have the Wicklow National Park right at your feel and while you can see houses, overall the scenery is pristine and feels pretty remote, like a painting in shades of green.

The road is pretty steep here however, it is very well kept (It is an access road to two houses currently in use) and it doesn’t pose any issues in terms of difficulty or to people with a fear of heights.

While the view is expansive, there are no sheer drops, this is very much a walk and not a ‘hike’ – you can come here in your city clothes no problem!

At the end of this part of the walk, both the path and the scenery change significantly.

The paved road turns into a country road and you find yourself at the bottom of the valley, so the views are of the Valley floor rather than the mountains around it.

However, they are stunning!

Lough Dan receives water from the the river Cloghoge and you encounter water several times during your walk.

You do not really follow the river for long bu you do cross it and the views of it are incredibly pretty.

The river has very dark waters and white stone, plus in spring it is surrounded that bright yellow flowers it is an explosion of spring beauty!

The river however is lovely in summer too: as you can see, it looks very different in different seasons (spring above, summer below) but it is always a peaceful spot of Irish countryside.

As you get closer to the lake, the path changes again and you find yourself walking along large grassy areas where it is not unusual to see wild deer.

Once you get to the deer, (they are not always there although we have seen them almost every time we have gone), you are almost at the lake which eventually opens up in front of your eyes.

The lake is peaceful and while you do meet people here, it is usually a quiet enough spot. Parts of the shore are sand and part are grassy, protected by trees.

If you have a picnic with you, this is the best spot!

What there is to do in Lough Dan?

One of the best things about Lough Dan is that there is absolutely nothing to do as such!

And what I mean with this is that you don’t have structured activities, boat rentals or playgrounds. however, we always find plenty to do.

Depending on your tolerance for cold water, you can swim here, or just relax on the shores and our kids always go on a hunt ofr sticks and stones to create forts and dams. You can also bring binoculars to spot birds and wildlife.

So if you are looking for a structured family day out, this is not the lace but if you are looking for an easy walk in nature near Dublin to do with the kids, this is special!

Where is Lough Dan: practical info

Some practical info and personal observations about this walk.

Where do you park for Lough Dan?

Lough Dan is in Wicklow and you access the path from the access lane to Luggala Lodge, on R759, between the Sally Gap and Roundwood.

There is no car park as such but you can leave the car on the street. Unless you get there early, you are likely to already find other cars there!

Are there facilities or food in Lough Dan?

No. There are no restroom facilities or coffee stops on this hike, nor drinking water so you will need all you need with you.

Please not that there is no garbage disposal facilities here either, so you will need a bag big enough to bring back with you garbage and empties etc.

Is the walk to Lough Dan stroller friendly?

Nor really or at least, not in its entirety.

There are a couple of spots along the path with cattle gates so if you have a stroller, you will have to lift it above them.

Aside from that, the walk is ok although be warned: the last bit of road on the way back up to the car park is steep! And while it is paved and smooth, it is exceptionally hard if you are pushing a buggy!

What should you wear /carry to walk to Lough Dan?

You don’t need any special equipment to reach Lough Dan however, I recommend you bring:

• Good walking shoes (runners/sneakers are ok)
• Layers (especially if you are not from here. I always have at least a windbreaker in summer)
• Water
• Food if you intend oh having a picnic
• Garbage back to bring back your empties
• Sun hat / sunscreen if coming on a sunny summer day
• Camera
• Binocular
• Towel / swim suits
• Picnic blanket

I hope you enjoyed this quick overview of the walk to Lough Dan and the photos inspired you to go check it out one day!