Glenmalure Hostel in Wicklow
is a simple mountain hut - perfect for nature lovers who want to get away from it all.
Glenmalure
is a valley in the Wicklow Mountains in eastern Ireland. It is a u-shaped glacial valley, with only one road leading in or out. It is steeped in history where war, destruction and famine were seen. The Avonbeg River flows at the back of the hostel and the serenity in the area is really something special.
Just wanted to say 'Thanks' to An Oige for continuing to maintain such a great hostel in such a superb location - it's a rare and valuable resource and I hope you'll be able to hang onto it for a long time to come. Jes Challand May 2009
"We had a relly good time here in this little mountain hut.......Frank, the proper irish caretaker chap is lovely and is always willing to chat (about anything!). We really enjoyed our 'back to nature' experience here". Hostelworld.com Review, England, August 2006
Below is a review from a guest who wishes to remain annonymous:
Glenmalure hostel is uninque in many ways.
First of all, the location is just beautiful and you have to cross the river to get to it. The building itself is an over 100-year old gem of an Irish cottage and has its own history to tell, just ask the warden.
The kitchen is well-equipped and there is room enough to cook, indeed as far as cutlery and plates etc. are concerned.
There is a nice little stove in the common room, just right to spend a romantic evening reading (there is a full shelf of books). The gas lamps are bright enough for it.
The bunk beds are comfy, the river is murmuring nearby, what else do you want?
There are, however, some things to note:
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You shouldnt forget to bring your food with you for the next shops are in Rathdrum, that`s 13km away.
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There is no running water in the house, so you (or the warden) has to get it from the river, but that`s no problem, you wont have to go far.
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If you want a shower, the friendly staff of Glenmalure lodge (ca. 4 km up the road) will be ready to offer you a shower for a small fee.
To sum it up:
You can do without running water and electricity, believe me. You will be overcompensated by the silence and the peace the place will give you. Go for a walking tour, come back in the evening for a cup of tea and a place near the fire and just relax.
I'm still enchanted by the place as well as the hostel. Your wardens do their real best to make hostelers feel at home. Many thanks to Miles for all his work and help.