Aughavannagh, like Glenmalure, is a dispersed rural community located in and around the spectacular valley of the Aughavannagh and Ow rivers. The hamlet marks the most remote point reached by the Military Road from Dublin (built in the early 19th century across the Wicklow uplands to contain any resurgence of rebel activity in the years immediately following the 1798 Rebellion). The last of the five barracks located on the Road was built here in the early 1800s. Following the withdrawal of the military around 1825, ownership reverted to Parnell family from nearby Rathdrum, who used it as a game shooting lodge.
In 1944 An Óige (the Irish Youth Hostel Association) purchased the building for £350. Within four years the hostel had become hugely popular and accommodated an annual tally of up to 3,000 guests, rising to an incredible 5,400 in 1984. How much of this popularity was due to the existence of the nearby shop and "sheebeen" presided over by the legendary "Hairy Essey" is not recorded in the An Óige records! Inevitably the steady deterioration of a 200 year old building took its toll in the form of ever rising maintenance costs and in 1998 there was no alternative but to close it.
Happily the great hostelling tradition of Aughavannagh –albeit without the additional attraction of Hairy Esseys- has been revived in 2008 with the opening nearby of a brand new hostel, Lugnaquilla House.
Long distance trekkers (experienced in mountain navigation) who spend extra time in Aughvannagh will be well rewarded by magnificent one-day walks to the many high peaks which surround this wonderful valley, including Lugnaquillia which at 925m is the highest mountain in Wicklow. Alternatively, for less experienced hill walkers a local guiding service will be available, beginning in 2009. Enquire at Lugnaquilla House Hostel.
