Trip plans and remaining flexible- Powerscourt, Wicklow, Glendalough

Hello again,
We really want to hit quite a few special areas while in Ireland, but we're worried about burning out. We plan to head towards Powerscourt, Wicklow, Glendalough, with our end game of staying in Kilkenny one night. If we had to narrow down the park in Wicklow to the village and surrounding areas of Glendalough, which wins your vote? I like the idea of visiting the monastatic village. I also would like to walk around/hike around the park areas. Which do you prefer? The next morning we'd like to see some of sites in Kilkenny before moving on to Rock of Cashel, ending in Cork for the night.
Thank you all so much!!!

Hello Robin,

It's so exciting to hear about how your adventure is developing!

Regarding your decision, if you're looking for a more nature related plan, Wicklow is known as the Garden of Ireland. A perfect place for wonderful walks, but it might demand a few days to avoid getting burned out like you mentioned. 

Glendalough, on the other hand, might be the best option for a more narrowed visit to check in Co. Wicklow! Surely a fantastic gem located right at the heart of Wicklow Mountains National Park.; it would definitely be a visit to the past, with more than 5000 years of history in Ireland's Ancient East!

Also, be sure to check this link for more lovely attractions to visit in Kilkenny City!

I hope this help and look forward to hearing more about your journey! :D

Best,
Romina

Hi Robin, that's perfectly doable in a day. There's a lovely walk from the village and monastic site through the woods, along a forest trail, to the foot of the spinc walk and around the lake in Glendalough. Download a map here with a selection of walks: https://www.wicklowmountainsnationalpark.ie/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Walking-Trails-of-Glendalough.pdf
The green route from the round tower might suit you if you just want a short walk and there's a few other trails on there. Stop off at Powerscourt waterfall on the way back, it's lovely and there are gentle walks around there too. The drive to Kilkenny is quick and easy from there as you are just off the M50 motorway and that connects with M9 motorway from Dublin to Kilkenny. 
I hope this helps, Áine