Overview
The Wicklow Gap carries the R756 across the mountains between Hollywood and Laragh. The pass opens between Tonelagee to the north-east and Turlough Hill and Camaderry to the south, and the road threads through open bog and rocky ground with long views over the surrounding peaks when the cloud lifts.
An old road west
Long before it had a number, this was one of the main ways across the range. The run from Hollywood to Laragh is one of the roads crossing the Wicklow Mountains from east to west, the other being the Sally Gap route. It also follows part of St Kevin’s Way, the pilgrim road that carried the faithful west over the mountains to the monastic city at Glendalough.
The land on either side is gorse and heather with few trees, open and exposed to whatever the weather is doing. It is at its best in late summer when the heather colours the slopes, and at its bleakest in a winter crosswind.
Cycling the climb
The road is narrow in places, so cyclists should watch for oncoming traffic near the top, and treat the descent with respect: the bends can be damp or gravel-strewn, and the crosswinds are real.
Walking from the pass
The Gap is a waypoint on St Kevin’s Way. Use Sport Ireland’s route map for the Wicklow Gap to Glendalough section and follow the waymarks. For a shorter walk from a staffed trail hub, choose one of the national park’s waymarked routes from Glendalough’s Upper Lake.
Mining history
Lead was mined around the Gap from 1798 until the last workings closed in 1963, and the Glendalough valley was heavily replanted with conifers during the mining years, which is why so much of it is forested now.
Practical information
Getting there
- By car – Reach the R756 from the N81 side at Hollywood (west) or from Glendalough and Laragh (east). The summit stretch is narrow.
- By bike – The summit stretch is narrow, so take care with traffic and crosswinds.
- On foot – St Kevin’s Way crosses the pass.
- Public transport – Check current Local Link and shuttle options to Glendalough before you go; no service is confirmed for the Gap itself.
Parking
Use only designated parking and leave passing places and access gates clear. Larger car parks are at Glendalough, where fees may apply.
Admission and dogs
The pass is free. Keep dogs on a lead in the national park.
When to go
Check the forecast before crossing the Gap. Fog, ice and crosswinds can change conditions quickly, and snow and ice can make the summit dangerous in winter. Spring mornings often bring fog that hides the views entirely.