Tucked away deep in the Wicklow Mountains, Lough Bray feels like one of Ireland’s last truly untouched escapes, and it is less than an hour from the buzz of Dublin.
Just when it feels like every scenic corner of Ireland has been photographed and shared a thousand times, Lough Bray quietly proves otherwise. Hidden high in the hills of County Wicklow, this stunning spot feels wonderfully remote, even though it is surprisingly close to the capital.
With wide open mountain views, glassy water, and an almost eerie calm, it is the kind of place where you can hear nothing but the wind and your own footsteps. On a good day, you might not see another soul.
Made up of two striking glacial lakes, Lough Bray Upper and Lough Bray Lower, this is a destination that rewards anyone willing to venture a little further than the usual tourist trails.
Two glacial lakes in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains – relax in peaceful, uninterrupted bliss
Lough Bray sits within the rugged landscape of Wicklow Mountains National Park, surrounded by steep slopes, open moorland, and big skies. The lakes were formed by glaciers thousands of years ago, giving them their deep, dark colour and dramatic, bowl-like shape.
Lough Bray Upper is the more eye-catching of the two, sitting high above the valley and often reflecting the clouds and surrounding hills on still days. Lough Bray Lower, the quieter and more sheltered neighbour, sits below with a magical calm that gets even better when mist rolls over its dark waters.
Despite their beauty, the lakes remain far less crowded than nearby favourites like Glendalough or Lough Tay, also known as the Guinness Lake.
The Lough Bray Loop walk offers stunning views – quintessential Irish surroundings
One of the best ways to experience the area is by tackling the 4.2 mile (6.7 km) Lough Bray Loop Trail. The walk usually takes between two and three hours and showcases some of the finest mountain scenery Wicklow has to offer.
Starting near Military Road, the trail gradually climbs through open upland terrain, with sweeping views opening up over the lakes and surrounding peaks as you go. With around 300 metres of elevation gain, it can be tough in places and is best suited to walkers with a reasonable level of fitness.
After heavy rain, parts of the trail can become muddy and boggy. This can add to the adventure but makes proper footwear a must for your visit.
What to know before you go – useful information for your hike
Lough Bray parking is available along Military Road where the trail begins, but be aware that spaces are limited. At weekends and during peak seasons, arriving early is strongly recommended. There is no public transport to Lough Bray, so access by car is essential.
As with any mountain walk, preparation makes all the difference. Bring waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water, and some snacks, and be ready for quickly changing weather. The walk can be challenging, but the reward is a peaceful, unforgettable landscape that feels a world away from everyday life.
