Located in Co. Wicklow, the Vartry Reservoir Trail follows lakeside paths and country roads.
If you’re looking for a hike to go on this autumn, the Vartry Reservoir Trail is brimming with foliage and fauna, with picture perfect mountain views.
Highlights
The Lower Vartry is one of the three main trails at Roundwood in Co Wicklow. It is a 7.2km loop and typically takes around two hours. The waymarkers on this trail are blue, with the starting point located in Roundwood village at the T-junction between the R755 and the R765. The trail is graded as easy with minimal elevation. This scenic walk offers clear water views. If the reservoir’s water level is low, you can see an old, submerged stone bridge. Also, look out for the ancient, bowl-shaped Ballaun stone near the water’s edge, which was originally moved here from an old monastery. For a more relaxed stroll check out the Upper Vartry Trail which is 6.4km or the 3km Woodland Walk.
Getting there and parking
Located in the Wicklow Mountains on the R 764 and the R755, midway between Bray and Wicklow Town, there is parking available at the trailhead of the Upper Vartry Trail and the Woodland Walk. There is no carpark at the Lower trailhead, but there is parking available a short distance away.
Bite to eat
After a trip around the loop, stop in the Roundwood Stores for a bite to eat. Only a couple of minutes’ walk from the lower trail entrance, set in the restores stabled of the Coach House in Roundwood village, this is stunning a café, bakery and artisan grocer offering fresh pastries and organic produce. For those looking for something a bit more elevated, look no further than the Coach House restaurant, right next door.
Where to stay
For that outdoorsy feel with added comfort, check out the Knockrobin Glamping Pods, just 20 minutes from Roundwood Village. Kick back and relax in front of the firepit or cook up a storm on the complimentary barbecues. For a bigger budget, The Deerstone is a luxurious eco-hideaway option just ten minutes away, complete with private outdoor hot tubs.
