Wicklow Way – Shillelagh to Clonegal

The Wicklow Way saves a gentle finish for its last stage: from Shillelagh the route climbs through the forests of Raheenakit and over the low hills of the Wicklow–Carlow borderlands before descending to the picture-postcard village of Clonegal, journey's end beside the River Derry.

The walking is easy on forest track and lane, with the Blackstairs filling the western skyline. Clonegal — with Huntington Castle and a welcoming pub — is a worthy full stop for Ireland's oldest waymarked trail.