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Walking & Hiking in Wicklow




Ballyknocken House is the ideal base for walking and hiking holidays in Ireland and boasts Ireland’s famous hill-walking route, “The Wicklow Way”, close-by making it the perfect choice.
Enjoy a three night weekend walking break to explore the Wicklow Way on a self-guided walk with a hearty Ballyknocken Picnic taking in Glenmalure Valley and Glendalough and on the second day explore Carrick Forest & Mountain directly behind Ballyknocken House.
We are happy to provide Wicklow Walks maps, conveniently packaged in plastic, as well as an assortment of outerwear, boots and brollies available in the front porch. If you prefer a more gentle walk try the Devil's Glen Sculpture Walk which is also close by and provides wonderful leisurely strolls and vistas.
Just let us know what your requirement and we will assist you to have a safe, memorable experience here in the Garden of Ireland!
Correct clothing and footwear is required on all hikes and remember leave no trace.
The peace and tranquility at Ballyknocken, our care and attention, homely log fires, gardens, wonderful walks and award winning breakfasts make us a popular choice for a holiday or a short break.
Whatever your choice you will find a log fire, freshly brewed coffee and a warm welcome awaits you here at Ballyknocken.
The Wicklow Way
“The Wicklow Way”, Ireland’s oldest and longest hill walking route – 132km – is a marked trail through some of the most beautiful scenery in Ireland and has been described internationally as the “Walkers Paradise". Paths are etched out through heathery terrain, over open moorland and mountain peaks where the peace and tranquility prevail.
Ballyknocken House which has been specialising in Walking Holidays for over 30 years and we are pleased to offer both weekend and weekly walking packages:
Wicklow Way Weekend Break
Enjoy a three night weekend break at Ballyknocken and explore the Wicklow Way on a self-guided walk with a hearty Ballyknocken Picnic taking in Glenamalure Valley and Glendalough on the second day explore Carrick Mountain and Forest directly behind Ballyknocken guesthouse. We commissioned our own book of walks for this wonderful forest, renowned for its hardwoods, Eucalyptus and Redwoods. It is just magical!
Walk the Wicklow Way Week
Walks average 12-18km per day. Grade 2/3.
The Walks have been specially selected to depict the best of Wicklow. The weekly package includes accommodation and full Irish breakfast at Ballyknocken. Picnic lunches, walks on 5 days, transfers to and from the walks and use of guidebooks and maps. Dinner is available at Ballyknocken and in local pubs.
Walking For Softies
This is a leisurely walking package based on local strolls, using local bus transport. The package includes 7 nights accommodation and full Irish breakfast at Ballyknocken Guesthouse. Picnic lunches, walks on 5 days, transfers to and from the walks and use of guidebooks and maps. Dinner is available at Ballyknocken and in local pubs.
Plan your Own Walks
If you have a car, are interested in a small amount of walking during your holiday and / or cannot stay for the full 7-night package, we would be pleased to assist you. All maps and books are available at Ballyknocken and with our years of experience, we would be pleased to advise.
Mountain Top Picnic Package
Enjoy a romantic stroll through Carrick forest to enjoy a hilltop picnic with your loved one. Marvel at the view of the Garden county from you prime hilltop location. After your afternoon amble through the forest arrive back to Ballyknocken House to enjoy a delicious romantic candle lit dinner!
Your Mountain Top Picnic package includes:
- 1 Nights accommodation in Ballyknocken House
- A romantic candle lit four course dinner
- A predinner sherry in front of our log fire
- Award Winning Irish Breakfast
- 1 delicious picnic complete with Blanket for your hilltop picnic
€112 per person sharing
€224 in total for 2 persons sharing



