The bridge at Oldbridge spans the Avonmore River, which flows out of Lough Dan. The Wicklow Way also crosses the river here. Circular walks, long-distance trail stages and a cycling route pass through the village or lead to Oldbridge; they differ considerably in duration and character. For planning, you can therefore first decide whether a walk lasting several hours, a long day of hiking or a cycling route should be your priority.

On foot: circular walks and long-distance trails

The “Lap of the Lakes” walk is a long circular route of four to five hours over roads and forest tracks, leading to Old Bridge. The actual time varies depending on the group’s ability and water levels. This makes it easy to distinguish in terms of timing from the challenging Wicklow Way stage between Knockree and Oldbridge.

The Scarr and Kanturk circular walk is about 14 km long, passes through open mountain country and starts in Oldbridge. It reaches the distinctive summit ridge of Scarr at an elevation of 641 m. The route offers expansive views of Lough Dan, the Luggala Estate, Knocknacloghoge and Tonelagee. After the descent, the return to Oldbridge follows a flat, unpaved path along the shore of Lough Dan. This means the route alternates between open mountain country and a flat section along the lakeshore.

The Scarr Mountain Loop starts about 200 m above the village of Oldbridge, at the southern end of Lough Dan. Opposite the Lough Dan Scout Centre, a wooden sign points to the turn-off. The route passes through open mountain country without trail markers. In low cloud, you should only attempt it if you are confident in your ability to navigate.

The 20.4 km Wicklow Way section from Knockree to Oldbridge is rated challenging; the walking time is given as about eight hours. Terrain conditions may vary. On the following section from Oldbridge to Glendalough, a short, steep climb on the road leads to a farm track and on to Paddock Hill. The route then crosses the Glenmacnass River and leads to the Glendalough Visitor Centre. At the junction above Lough Dan, walkers can turn off for Roundwood or continue along the Wicklow Way to Old Bridge. For additional days of hiking, Lough Dan, Scarr, the Kanturks and Knocknacloghoge are also nearby options.

Cycling, river and accommodation

In a route description from October 2024, the return journey of Cycling Loop 21 to Roundwood follows a scenic, partly hilly route through Oldbridge. This also places the village on the route of this cycling tour.

There is access to the Avonmore River at Old Bridge. Groups with suitable equipment and the necessary qualifications can kayak on the river. However, the Lough Dan Scout Centre does not offer white-water canoeing as an activity itself.

Wicklow Way Lodge is associated with Oldbridge; its address is Wicklow Way, A98 K702, Ireland. Check current accommodation details before booking.

County Wicklow in a wider context

The wider Wicklow Way also offers varied scenery: the long-distance trail passes through open bogland, along forest tracks, quiet roads, small lanes and mountain paths. Some sections can be wet and muddy. The Wicklow Way was Ireland’s first waymarked long-distance trail.

In County Wicklow, Wicklow Mountains National Park covers 20,000 hectares and is an important recreational area for locals and tourists. Glendalough adds a distinctive cultural dimension: Saint Kevin founded a monastery there in the 6th century. The remains of the Monastic City include a round tower, numerous medieval stone churches and decorated crosses.

Discover more destinations: Hollywood, Enniskerry, Ballinalea, Boystown, Tulfarris Holiday Village, Bray, Redcross, Kilcoole.

For the wider travel overview: County Wicklow.