#1. Roundwood and Glendalough
I decided to start the adventure with a track that looked very manageable. 31.8 km one direction seemed alright, given that I have cycled such distances many times before. However, I had underestimated the elevation... 279 m is quite challenging, especially at the beginning because of the steep narrow roads.
One of the first places to visit was the Vartry Reservoir near Roundwood.
There were nice paths around the pool, and the water was so still it was perfect for skipping stones.
Then there was the water tower, a surprisingly elaborate building in terms of architecture.
First stamp - Roundwood
I arrived in Roundwood and was pleasantly surprised by the colourful houses there. The place from which I got the first stamp was a caravan park, the owner of which wished me good luck with getting the rest of them.
Church of St. Laurence O'Toole, Roundwood
I've been to Glendalough many times but that was my first time cycling to it. When I arrived there I was exhausted, and struggling to find a place where I could get a stamp didn't help much. What did help was the amazing scenery - wild animals like deer were watching me curiously. They were probably judging my neon look.
Second stamp - Glendalough
Glendalough used to be a monastic settlement founded in the 6th century. The valley itself has been formed by a glacier, and the name literally means "valley of two lakes".
There's plenty of spaces to do picnic, walk, run, climb, and do numerous other outdoor activities. You will also be hearing more Spanish, German, and French than English - it's a very popular tourist destination.
The way back was tiring but it was definitely more downhill. I had to stop and get a coffee at the Turquoise Café.
