Ballinafunshoge
Overview
The scenic valley of Glenmalure is the longest glacier valley in either Ireland or Britain and is shadowed by the mighty Lugnaquillia mountain (927m).
It’s hard to believe that the heather clad mountains in this dramatic valley with its gushing waterfalls, sparkling streams and rivers is only an hour from Dublin.
This area is also close to the monastic site in Glendalough and the home of Charles Stewart Parnell at Avondale House & Forest Park in Rathdrum.
It was here amongt the trees at Ballinafunshogue in 1580 that rebels like Fiach McHugh O’Byrne defeated 800 English soldiers in the Battle of Glenmalure.
During the !798 Rebellion, it was one of the places where it the rebellion was finally suppressed.
The nearby disused lead mines were opened during in 1797 and operated until 1864 producing up to 400 tons of lead ore per year.
Things to do
Walking
Miners Way: (1.6 kms, 30 mins, Strenuous) Halfway down the Glenmalure valley, the Miner's Path is an excellent starting point for challenging hike towards Glendalough or after the initial climb, a relaxing walk back to the Glenmalure Inn.
Mountain Access Route: (2.6km, 50mins, Strenuous) This is a linear walking trail.
A section of the Wicklow Way passes through Balinafunshogue.
Visitors Facilities on site
Car Parking: 10 spaces.