FRANCIS BRADLEYbraves a northeasterly breeze for a bracing walk just north of Wicklow town
IF YOU HAVE a couple of hours to spare, you could do worse than find your way to the Murrough, just north of Wicklow town, and take a stroll up along the coast and back along Broad Lough.
The beginning of this walk, in the industrial area at the south end of the Murrough, reminded me of the urban scenes from Stanley Kubrick's Full Metal Jacket. With a new access road under construction the area is fairly cut up, and first impressions aren't encouraging.
The Murrough forms the southern end of the shingle coastline that stretches from Killiney to Wicklow town. Because of the stony surface, this stretch of the coast is not top of the list for bathers, but it is a favoured spot for sea anglers and walkers.
The Dublin-Rosslare railway line, which hugs this section of the coast, is under constant threat from the sea before turning inland at the Murrough. The starting point for the walk is where the rail line passes under the new road. There is a well-worn if sometimes mucky path that heads north along the shingle embankment.
I enjoy bracing coastal walks, and on the day we were out there was a cutting northeasterly breeze. This three-kilometre stretch is completely exposed and offers no chance of shelter, so come prepared. This walk affords the opportunity for variation, and in order to get out of the bitter breeze we cut across the railway line at a gated crossing where there is a 27-mile marker.
Continuing along a trail bordered by already flowering gorse, we reached the shore of Broad Lough. The lough is fed by the Vartry River, which used to flow straight into the sea. But then the build-up of the shingle bank cut off the river’s access to the sea, Broad Lough was formed, and the river now flows into Wicklow Harbour via the short Leitrim River.
The going is rough in places, but manageable, and the shelter we got from the bank of gorse and brambles on our right was much appreciated. Broad Lough is a special protection area under the auspices of the National Parks and Wildlife Service. The lough supports a wide variety of waterfowl and is an important site for wintering birds.
Soon you see where the Vartry River enters Broad Lough, and shortly the lough opens out again, surrounded by reed beds. Ahead you will see evidence of a disused gravel pit, and the trail leads you through it towards a derelict house.
On reaching the house turn right, cross the railway line on to the shingle bank and head directly south, back towards to the start of the walk.
Start and finishThe Murrough, just north of Wicklow town.
How to get thereBy car, follow the N11 until the turnoff for Rathnew. In Rathnew, turn left for Wicklow town. Entering the main street, take a left at a small green area heading downhill towards the harbour. Cross the bridge over the Leitrim River and turn left. Continue along this road to the Murrough. If you arrive in Wicklow town by bus or train, you will need an extra 25 or 30 minutes to get to the start of the walk.
DistanceSix and a half kilometres.
TimeTwo hours.
MapOrdnance Survey Ireland Discovery Series 56.
SuitabilityA simple walk but not suitable for buggies.
Accommodation and refreshmentsPlenty of choice in Wicklow town.
Note:A map is useful but a compass isn't necessary. Dress appropriately and don't litter. If you bring a dog, keep it on a lead in the area of Broad Lough.