Arklow to Blessington Lakes (N81) with Circuit over Sally Gap through Roundwood to Laragh

Avoca Valley; Clara Vale; Wicklow Gap; Pollaphuca Reservoir; Liffey Valley; Sally Gap; Loch Tay; Lough Dan.

This circuit can be joined or left from Arklow (N11 Dublin to/from Rosslare Ferryport) in the south or Blessington (N81) in the west or north from Sally Gap to Enniskerry.

From N11 exit to Arklow town centre and follow signs for R747 & Woodenbridge, a deceptively fast road until you reach a tight C-bend.

Continue up Avoca Valley (R752 a good if demanding road) to Rathdrum.

Bear left up Clara Valley (R755 beware fast, twisties with low blind crests in forested section outside Rathdrum).

From Laragh take R756 Wicklow Gap road across the summit (470m) towards the N81 Blessington. The R756 was resurfaced with steamrolled tarmacadam for a Tour de France pedal-cycle race and for a while was perfect, but parts have been resurfaced with 'tar & chips' so care is needed. Private road access to a pumped-storage reservoir near the summit.

18.3k from Laragh turn right to R758. If you want to visit Russborough House or need petrol, continue straight to Hollywood and junction with N81.

Otherwise turn right to Ballyknockan & Lacken around Poullaphuca Reservoir. You may turn sharp right in Lackan, up Sorrel Hill, through the forest, (road was OK but may be damaged by forestry operations) descending to Liffey Valley and joining R759 (right) to Sally Gap (500m).

Alternatively continue along lakeside to Kilbride and join the R759 heading for Sally Gap. If food, accommodation or petrol needed cross bridge to Blessington.