Plan your trip
Getting here & what to expect
Getting here
About an hour south of Dublin
Glacial Valley Hunting is based in Glenmalure Valley, Co. Wicklow, approximately 26 miles and one hour to an hour and a half south of Dublin, depending on traffic. Dublin Airport is the main entry point for international visitors.
By taxi / transfer
Leinster Taxi Dublin is the recommended transfer service. They meet you at baggage claim in Dublin Airport, accommodate up to 6 passengers at the same price, and are accessible for hunters with mobility needs. Cost: €236 each way. Contact Jim when booking and he'll connect you.
By train
Take the Irish Rail service from Dublin Connolly Station to Rathdrum station (book at irishrail.ie). Jim will collect you from Rathdrum. Let him know your arrival time when you book.
By rental car
If you're comfortable driving on the left, it's a beautiful drive through the Wicklow Mountains. The roads narrow as you approach Glenmalure; the valley road is single-track in places. Verify that your overseas driving licence and insurance are valid in Ireland before you travel.
~1 hr from Dublin city centre · ~1.5 hrs from Dublin Airport
Open in Google Maps →Firearms & licensing
Bringing your own rifle to Ireland
Important notice
Firearms regulations for visiting hunters in Ireland are set by An Garda Síochána and can change. The information below is a general guide only, not legal advice. Always verify current requirements with the Garda and your own national firearms authority before travel. Jim Nolan arranges all permits and licensing on the Irish side and will guide you through the process personally.
Visiting hunters can bring their own rifle to Ireland, but an Irish Firearms Certificate is required. This is processed through An Garda Síochána (the Irish police force) and needs to be applied for well in advance, as the process takes time. Jim handles the Irish side of the application; your job is to provide the relevant documentation from your home country.
EU hunters holding an EU Firearms Pass may have a simplified process. Non-EU hunters (including UK nationals post-Brexit) follow a different procedure. If you're uncertain about your specific situation, contact Jim at the enquiry stage and he'll tell you exactly what's needed for hunters from your country; he's done this many times with clients from across Europe, North America, and further afield.
Rifle hire is available on a daily basis if you'd rather not bring your own firearm. This sidesteps the licensing process entirely and is what most visiting hunters choose. Suppressors are also available for hire. Ammunition costs extra. Ask Jim for current rates.
What to pack
Kit list
The Wicklow mountains are wet, cold, and uneven underfoot. Dress for the weather, not for the photo. The single most important rule: avoid cotton at every layer.
Clothing (three layers)
- —Moisture-wicking base layer (merino wool or synthetic)
- —Insulating mid layer (fleece or down, compressible)
- —Waterproof outer layer, quiet fabric, not crinkly shell
- —Break-up camo pattern recommended (blurs outline for deer)
Footwear
- —Waterproof hiking boots (Gore-Tex or equivalent) - broken in before you arrive
- —Lower-leg gaiters
Essentials
- —Binoculars
- —Head lamp
- —Water bottle
- —Insect repellent
- —Sunscreen
Optional
- —Camera
- —Power bank
- —Walking pole / stick
- —Personal first aid kit
Accommodation
Based in the valley
All Ireland packages include B&B accommodation based in or near Glenmalure. Scotland packages include full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). Exact accommodation details are confirmed at booking. Jim can advise on additional nights or alternative lodging options if you're extending your trip.
Medical & accessibility
Let us know in advance
If you have any medical conditions, medications, or mobility requirements, please disclose these when you enquire. Glacial Valley Hunting has experience guiding hunters of varying physical abilities. Jim will be honest with you about what a particular package involves physically and whether adjustments can be made.
For the Non-Hunters
Beyond the Hunt: Explore the Wicklow Area
In addition to the beautiful and captivating trails and hikes around Glenmalure, check out:
- — Glendalough – 6th-century monastic site with Round Tower and twin lakes
- — Powerscourt Estate – Ireland's tallest waterfall and famous gardens
- — Johnnie Fox's Pub – Ireland's highest pub, known for music, seafood, and Hooley Nights
- — Avondale House – Parnell's former home, with a treetop walk
- — Russborough House – Grand Palladian estate near Blessington Lakes
- — Vale of Avoca – Avoca Handweavers mill and the Meeting of the Waters
- — Wicklow Gaol – Restored 18th-century prison with guided tours
- — Mount Usher Gardens – Riverside gardens in Ashford
- — Blessington Lakes – Walking, picnics, boating
- — Brittas Bay & Silver Strand – Wicklow's best beaches
- — The Military Road – Scenic drive past Sally Gap, Glenmacnass Waterfall, and Lough Tay
FAQs
Common questions
Do I need to bring my own rifle?
No. Rifle hire is available on a daily basis, enquire for current rates. If you prefer to bring your own firearm, Jim will guide you through the Irish licensing process. The key step is obtaining an Irish Firearms Certificate in advance; Jim handles the groundwork on the Irish side. This takes time, so contact us as early as possible if you want to bring your own rifle.
What physical fitness level do I need?
A reasonable level of fitness is required. The Wicklow ground involves steep, rough terrain (heather, bog, and rocky ridgelines) and you'll be on foot for three to five hours at a stretch. You don't need to be an athlete, but you should be comfortable walking on uneven ground for extended periods. If you have any medical concerns, let Jim know when you enquire and he'll be honest about what to expect.
Is experience required?
No. Glacial Valley Hunting works with novice and experienced hunters alike. Jim adapts his guiding style to your level. If you've never stalked deer before, he'll walk you through safe handling, range estimation, and shot placement before you go to the hill. Safety is paramount; he will not put a hunter in a position they're not ready for.
Are non-hunting companions welcome?
Non-hunting observers can be accommodated on some outings, subject to availability and at an additional charge. Contact Jim for details. It depends on the terrain and the specific package.
What happens if I miss or wound a deer?
Missed shots are part of hunting. The mountain decides. If an animal is wounded, tracking dogs are available to recover it quickly and humanely. Jim takes this responsibility seriously; every effort is made to ensure a clean, ethical outcome for every animal shot at.
What about trophy export?
Jim handles the taxidermist relationship and trophy preparation on site. For export from Ireland, the relevant documentation depends on your country of origin: EU hunters have relatively straightforward requirements; non-EU hunters should verify import rules in their home country well in advance. Jim can advise based on what other clients from your region have done.
How far in advance should I book?
As far ahead as you can, especially for the peak rut period (October to November). Popular dates fill six to twelve months in advance. Even if you have a specific date in mind, it's worth sending an enquiry early. Jim will let you know what's available and hold a slot informally while you confirm.
What's the cancellation / deposit policy?
Terms are confirmed at booking time. Contact Jim for current deposit and cancellation conditions.
Still have questions?
Jim is happy to talk through anything before you commit. Send an enquiry or call him directly.
