The East Coast Escape: From M50 Toll to Wicklow's Magic in 90 Minutes
Imagine trading cityscapes for majestic mountains and serene lakes in roughly the time it takes to watch a movie. This journey south from Dublin is one of Ireland's most accessible and rewarding day trips, perfectly demonstrating how the M50 toll serves as a springboard to natural beauty. Your adventure begins the moment you decide to head south from the city, using the M50 toll Irish ring to seamlessly connect to the N11/M11 corridor, the main arterial route towards County Wicklow, famously known as the Garden of Ireland.
After clearing the M50 toll, follow the signs for Wexford (N11/M11). The urban landscape quickly gives way to rolling green fields and the distant promise of hills. Within an hour, you'll be approaching the exit for Glendalough (signposted via Roundwood). This is where the magic truly begins. The road winds through the picturesque village of Roundwood and into the heart of the Wicklow Mountains National Park, leading you to the valley of the two lakes—Glendalough.
Your first major stop should be the iconic Glendalough Monastic Site. Founded in the 6th century by St. Kevin, this ancient monastery is nestled in a glacial valley of breathtaking beauty. Explore the well-preserved round tower, stone churches, and Celtic crosses in the shadow of the mountains. It’s a profound historical and spiritual site, offering a peaceful stroll and incredible photo opportunities. The visitor centre provides excellent context, enriching your understanding of this early Christian settlement.
For the active traveler, the area around the Upper and Lower Lakes offers a network of walking trails for all fitness levels. The Poulanass Waterfall walk is a gentle, rewarding option, while the Spinc trail offers more challenging climbs with panoramic views over the lakes. After your hike, consider driving the famous Military Road through the Sally Gap. This high-altitude route offers stark, dramatic landscapes of bogland and granite, a complete contrast to the wooded valleys below and a testament to Wicklow's raw beauty.
No visit is complete without sampling local charm. On your return journey, detour to the colourful heritage town of Avoca, home to Ireland's oldest working woolen mill. You can also stop in the pretty village of Enniskerry, the gateway to the grand Powerscourt Estate and its spectacular gardens and waterfall. These stops offer perfect opportunities for a leisurely lunch, some craft shopping, or simply a cup of tea before contemplating the drive back.
The return to Dublin is just as straightforward. Rejoin the N11 northbound, and you'll find yourself back at the M50 in no time. As you approach the gantry for the final time, you'll appreciate the efficiency of the M50 toll Irish system. It facilitated a seamless escape from urban bustle to ancient tranquility and back again, all within a single day. This route proves that an unforgettable Irish experience is literally just down the road from the capital, waiting for you to discover it.
