Crossing the Wicklow Mountains between the summits of Tonelagee and Turlough Hill, Wicklow Gap is one of Ireland’s best-known road passes, regularly used by the Rás Tailteann.
A steady ascent through the heart of the Wicklow Mountains
From Laragh, near Glendalough, it’s 9.9 km for 530 m of elevation gain, averaging 5.4%. The summit sits at around 475 m, on a fully paved road with a moderate profile by Alpine standards, but still a genuine test of endurance by Irish standards.
A recurring climb on the Rás Tailteann
Wicklow Gap ranks among the classic ascents of the Rás Tailteann, Ireland’s premier stage race. The race returned to it in 2026 after eight years away from the Wicklow Mountains, confirming its role as a selective point in the peloton.
Getting the ride right
A packable rain jacket is close to essential given Ireland’s changeable weather, while clip-on mudguards keep the spray down on the frequently damp sections up in the mountains.
When to go
April to October — the road stays rideable most of the year, with only occasional closures for snow or ice during exceptionally cold winters.
Good to know
The road runs near old lead-mine workings and the Turlough Hill pumped-storage hydro station, and follows part of the route of St Kevin’s Way, an ancient pilgrim path leading to the monastic site of Glendalough, one of Ireland’s most visited.
