On this trip, we will explore the area around Lough Tay, where my grandfather used to work on the hills in days gone by.

This region of the Wicklow mountains is spectacular, with views across Lough Tay and Lough Dan and across the Wicklow Mountains. The area around Lough Tay is private property. From Dublin is about 45 minutes to the starting point. If you are looking for a peaceful stroll around lough Dan, the surrounding hills and getting off the beaten track, then you need to get out and walk in this region.

We will first hike to the top of Luggala, and on a clear day we can see as far south as wexford in the South. We will go off the beaten path, climbing over other peaks to Lough Dan making our way back along some beautiful walking trails. Sometimes we will walk along part of the famous hiking route, known as the Wicklow Way.

Lough Tay is fed by the Cloghoge River and then drains into Lough Dan, located to the south. The beach on the northern side is bright white sand.

This is a moderate walk of over 4/5 hours with magnificent scenery, lakes, hills and wildlife.
The walk starts on the Sally Gap Road at the entrance to the Guinness’ Estate. There is room to park at the other side of the road without blocking the gate. Unfortunately there is a steep road decent at the start of the walk which must be encountered on the way back.