[RWD version 1 ] While not the most exotic of the Wicklow hills, the views along the way more than make up for any lack of adventure. This circuit of the three hills nearest Wicklow Gap attempts to minimise loss of height while completing the circuit.

Parked in a lay-by at the side of the Wicklow Gap to Laragh military road. Headed due north and straight up to the summit of Carrigvore. The rocky outcrop is quite impressive looked at from the north-east side. (People still persist in leaving their dross stuffed in the crevices of surrounding rocks. What a dirty lazy habit).

Headed SE and down the side of Carrigvore to the saddle where it gets decidedly soggy. Kept to the left of the bog hags and with a fair amount of hopping, jumping and leaping managed to avoid most of the peat clutches! The weather has dried out the ground here to a certain degree.

Headed up the track, which is barely visible at times, on to the summit of Gravale. There is quite a bit of erosion evident around the summit. Veered SW and headed down a boulder field towards the saddle with Duff Hill. There is a more defined track at the top.which is slightly to the south. Again the saddle is a test of your ability to be nimble on your toes if you wish to keep your boots dry and avoid the worst of the peat.

A nice haul straight up the steep slope to the summit of Duff Hill. There are wonderful views in all directions from these hills. On the day it was a little hazy but the weather was excellent for walking. Headed east off the hill and towards the corner of the forest. Contoured around the valley and the following spur to arrive back at the start. There are numerous deer tracks along the way which help to navigate the heather.

The wind was in my face along this eastern traverse which brought me into very close contact (15m) with numerous groups of grazing deer. As soon as one attempts to retrieve a camera from a pocket they disperse like smoke on a windy day!