The Wicklow Way - Marley Park to Knockree (Stage 1)

As part of our training we decided to walk the Wicklow Way in stages. We did the first stage two weeks ago; Marley Park To Glencree River.

22km, Mixture of road walking, forest tracks and hillside paths

First smart idea of the day was to drive one car to the finish point so that we wouldn't have to walk an extra 5km at the end to get a bus back. You only realise when you have walked 22km that you don't want to have to walk even further just to get a bus home.

We started at  9.40am and got to the car (parked at Knockree Hostel) at approximately 2.45pm. This time incorporated a 20min lunch and a few breaks to take in the scenery. Although we were out of breath at bits, it was completely manageable. The trail took us through woods, uphill and downhill paths and trails, heathery moorlands, a rocky path and a very small portion of road walking. It was really well signposted with walking markers and even though we had bought a guide book, we could have completed it just following the markers.

For anyone thinking of doing the walk, a pair of hiking boots is a must, to protect your ankles. The only other definite requirement is a rain jacket and a packed lunch. It got quite windy when we were high up and the jacket came in really handy. You could also decide to stay at the Knockree hostel overnight as it is just a couple of hundred metres from the stage 1 finish point. Although we only parked there (there is a field just up from it that allows you to park there for day hikes), it looked more like a hotel than a hostel.

My final note, don't underestimate how well you have done when you complete this hike. My legs were sore for a couple of days after, reminding me that, although I didn't find the hike was at an extremely difficult level, it definitely was a really good work out.

http://www.wicklowway.com/

http://www.knockreeyouthhostel.com/Knockree-hostel-pictures

Fi.