Glendalough, Ireland: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Glendalough, Ireland? If you're planning to go to Glendalough, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Glendalough, Ireland

Based on the climate and weather in Glendalough, Ireland, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Glendalough, Ireland

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Glendalough, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Glendalough, Ireland by month

January

Traveling to Glendalough in January, you will notice that it can be very chilly and very rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time and snow sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C). There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ireland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Glendalough. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to pick the right kind. Most adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Mount Usher Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

In February, Glendalough is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Glendalough, with several of the days of the month having rain. In February, humidity reaches as high as 80%. There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ireland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Glendalough. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Mount Usher Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in Glendalough is brisk and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average. There is frost 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ireland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Glendalough. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you pick the right type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you go to Mount Usher Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

If you go to Glendalough in April, you will notice that it is cold and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ireland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Glendalough. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to choose the correct type. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you go to Mount Usher Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

If you go to Glendalough in May, you will notice that it is cool and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C). There is frost once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ireland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Glendalough. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you choose the right kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Mount Usher Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

In June, Glendalough is cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Glendalough, with several of the days of the month having rain. In June, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ireland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Glendalough. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to pick the right kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

If you go to Mount Usher Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

If you visit Glendalough during July, you might notice that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ireland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Glendalough. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Mount Usher Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

August here is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ireland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Glendalough. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to pick the right type. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Mount Usher Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

If you are traveling to Glendalough in September, you will notice that it is cool and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ireland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Glendalough. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Mount Usher Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October for Glendalough is cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. There is frost once in a while. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ireland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Glendalough. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to get the right type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Mount Usher Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

If you are traveling to Glendalough in November, you will notice that it is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ireland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Glendalough. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to pick the necessary kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Mount Usher Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day. There is frost about half of the time. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ireland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Glendalough. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to get the right type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to Mount Usher Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Glendalough, Ireland

Glendalough is a picturesque valley located in the Wicklow Mountains in Ireland. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and fascinating archaeological sites. The valley is home to some of the most popular tourist attractions in Ireland, attracting thousands of visitors every year. In this article, we will explore the top tourist attractions in Glendalough.

1. Glendalough Monastic Site

The Glendalough Monastic Site is undoubtedly the most popular tourist attraction in the valley. It is a 6th-century monastery that was founded by St. Kevin. The site is home to numerous structures including the Round Tower, St Kevin's Church, and St. Mary's Church. The Round Tower stands at roughly 30 meters and is one of the most iconic structures on the site. Visitors can climb up the tower for a breathtaking view of the surrounding valley.

2. Glendalough National Park

Glendalough National Park covers over 4,000 acres and is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Ireland. The park boasts of beautiful lakes, waterfalls, and forests. Visitors to the park can enjoy hiking, cycling, and horse riding among other activities. The park also has a visitor center where visitors can learn more about the park's natural history and wildlife.

3. St Kevin's Kitchen

St Kevin's Kitchen is a small stone structure that was built in the 12th century. It is characterized by its conical roof and unique triangular shape. The structure was likely used as a kitchen and later became a pilgrimage destination. Visitors can explore the structure and learn about its fascinating history.

4. Upper and Lower Lakes

Glendalough valley is home to two beautiful lakes, the Upper and Lower lakes. The lakes are surrounded by stunning scenery, making them an ideal spot for photography and picnics. Visitors can take a walk around the lakes and enjoy the beautiful views from different angles.

5. The Wicklow Way

The Wicklow Way is Ireland's oldest way-marked trail and it passes through Glendalough valley. The trail spans over 100 kilometers and is ideal for hiking enthusiasts. The trail passes a number of heritage sites including standing stones, ring forts, and prehistoric burial sites. Visitors can also enjoy breathtaking views of the valleys and mountainsides along the way.

In conclusion, Glendalough valley is a remarkable destination for both locals and tourists. The valley has an excellent range of tourist attractions that cater to everyone from history enthusiasts to nature lovers. If you're planning a trip to Ireland, be sure to put Glendalough valley in your itinerary.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Darling Downs, Queensland, Australia, Rajshahi, Bangladesh, Langzhong, China, Pirotan Island, India, Bonavista, Newfoundland, Canada, Frankfurt, Germany, Gary, Indiana, United States of America, Rocca Priora, Italy, Jászberény, Hungary, Port Talbot, Wales, United Kingdom, and Louisiana, Louisiana, United States of America.