The best walks and hikes around Poulaphouca Reservoir
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Hiking around Poulaphouca Reservoir, also known as Blessington Lakes, offers diverse terrain in County Wicklow, Ireland. This expansive artificial lake features a long shoreline, surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills. The area provides views of the Wicklow Mountains and includes forests and woodlands, creating varied environments for outdoor activities.
Best hiking trails around Poulaphouca Reservoir
- The most popular hiking route is Sorrel Hill & Black Hill loop from Lacken — Wicklow Mountains National Park, a 7.9 miles (12.6 km) trail that takes 4 hours 15 minutes to complete, offering views within the Wicklow Mountains National Park.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Silsean and Moanbane loop — Wicklow Mountains National Park, a moderate 6.6 miles (10.7 km) path that traverses varied terrain in the national park.
- Local hikers also love the Radio Tower hike with Blessington Lake views, a 1.4 miles (2.2 km) trail leading through local hills, often completed in about 39 minutes.
- Hiking around Poulaphouca Reservoir is defined by its vast water body, rolling hills, and views of the Wicklow Mountains. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Poulaphouca Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 150 reviews. More than 1,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Poulaphouca Reservoir's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
4.8
(27)
109
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.0
(2)
12
hikers
10.7km
03:50
540m
540m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4
hikers
2.23km
00:39
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
4.88km
01:15
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.0
(1)
2
hikers
2.45km
00:38
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Amazing views across the lake to the castle and the Vallymount Road bridge. Blessington Lakes is officially known as Poulaphouca Reservoir, and it's only one lake. Construction of the dam began in 1937 and by the time it was completed, and the valley flooded, it became the largest man-made lake in Ireland. It supplies water to Dublin and the water is used to power a hydroelectric power plant.
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The Blessington Greenway links Blessington with the Palladian mansion at Russborough House. It's a walking trail of about 6 km (3.7 miles), which skirts the edge of Poulaphouca Reservoir and cuts through areas of woodland.
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As you hike up to the Radio Tower on this trail, you are enveloped by trees. Catch glimpses of the view as you climb, and enjoy the feeling of being surrounded by the trees.
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Valleymount Trail is a beautiful trail that offers fantastic views around the picturesque village of Valleymount and along the shoreline of the nearby Blessington Lakes.
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The Annacarney Brook is a beautiful stream that flows near the ancient Annacarney Sweathouse ruins. The brook's clear, cold water was historically essential, as it was the final stage in the traditional healing ritual: after heating up in the sweat-house, the patient would plunge into the stream's icy waters for a curative shock.
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From this vantage point at the Radio Tower, you are greeted by a wonderful view of Blessington Lake, a worthy reward for your efforts to get there.
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Perched on the edge of the Wicklow Mountains, Blessington Lake unfolds like a shimmering gem beneath the open sky. The panoramic views from this vantage point are nothing short of spectacular, offering a visual feast for those who seek the beauty of nature. As you gaze over Blessington Lake, the landscape is a tapestry of greens and blues. The tranquil waters stretch out, reflecting the changing hues of the sky above. The surrounding hills and mountains frame the scene, their slopes covered in a patchwork of verdant forests and open meadows. In the distance, the Wicklow Mountains contribute to the drama of the panorama.
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Both Black Hill and nearby Sorrel Hill are great out and back run or hike outings and can be completed from the same sizeable car park at Ballynultagh Gap. These trails are very popular for a good reason, some great views can be had out over the Wicklow countryside from here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Poulaphouca Reservoir?
There are over 50 hiking trails around Poulaphouca Reservoir, also known as Blessington Lakes. These routes cater to various fitness levels, from easy strolls to more challenging mountain hikes.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Poulaphouca Reservoir offers 15 easy hiking trails. A great option for families or beginners is the Blessington Greenway loop from Burgage More Road, which is an easy 2.5 km path. Another accessible choice is the Valleymount trail out and back, covering nearly 5 km.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking around Poulaphouca Reservoir?
Hikers can expect diverse landscapes, including the vast water body of the reservoir itself, lush greenery, and rolling hills. Many trails offer magnificent views of the surrounding Wicklow Mountains, and you'll often find yourself walking through enchanting forests and woodlands.
Are there any circular walks around Poulaphouca Reservoir?
Yes, there are several circular walks available. For instance, the Sorrel Hill & Black Hill loop from Lacken offers a moderate 12.6 km circular route within the Wicklow Mountains National Park. Another popular loop is the Silsean and Moanbane loop, also in the national park.
Can I spot wildlife during my hike?
Absolutely. Poulaphouca Reservoir is a designated wild bird conservation zone, making it an excellent spot for wildlife enthusiasts. You might encounter deer and foxes, and birdwatchers can look out for swans, ducks, kingfishers, and goosanders.
What are the most challenging hikes in the area?
While the guide focuses on a range of trails, there are 8 difficult routes for experienced hikers. These often extend into the Wicklow Mountains National Park, offering significant elevation gain and longer distances. The moderate trails like the Sorrel Hill & Black Hill loop provide a good challenge with over 500 meters of elevation gain.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Poulaphouca Reservoir?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 150 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the stunning views of the Wicklow Mountains and the tranquil beauty of the reservoir, as well as the variety of trails available for different skill levels.
Are there any notable attractions or landmarks near the hiking trails?
Yes, the Blessington Greenway passes by sites of historical interest. Nearby, you can visit Russborough House, an impressive 18th-century Palladian mansion with beautiful gardens, offering a glimpse into the region's past.
Is the Blessington Greenway suitable for hiking?
Yes, the Blessington Greenway is a primary attraction for hikers. It's an easy-grade, dedicated path that skirts the shores of the reservoir, suitable for all ages and fitness levels. It offers an enjoyable walk through countryside and forest, with opportunities to appreciate local wildlife and scenery.
What is the best time of year to hike around Poulaphouca Reservoir?
The lush greenery and diverse wildlife make Poulaphouca Reservoir enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and summer offer vibrant landscapes and longer daylight hours, while autumn brings beautiful foliage. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any shorter hikes with good views of Blessington Lake?
For a shorter hike with excellent views, consider the Radio Tower hike with Blessington Lake views. This easy 2.2 km trail can be completed in under an hour and provides scenic vistas of the lake and surrounding hills.
Most popular routes around Poulaphouca Reservoir
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