Glendalough & Wicklow Mountains Half Day Morning Tour from Dublin

Exciting Half-Day Adventure to Glendalough and Wicklow Mountains from Dublin for $38

For those visiting Dublin with limited time, the Glendalough & Wicklow Mountains Half Day Morning Tour offers a practical and scenic escape into Ireland’s lush countryside. Priced at $38.03 per person, this 5-hour trip departs from central Dublin and takes you through some of Ireland’s most picturesque landscapes. The tour features a small group setting, guided commentary, and visits to notable filming locations, making it ideal for travelers who want a compact yet enriching experience.

This tour is especially suited for visitors who prefer a relaxed pace and wish to see highlights like Wicklow Mountains National Park, the famous Lough Tay (Guinness Lake), and the historic Glendalough Monastic Settlement. The experience combines scenic drives, photo stops, and free time to explore at your own speed, providing a balance of guided insight and personal discovery. Keep in mind that food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly for snacks or meals before or after.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $38.03 for 5 hours, the tour offers good value for a half-day trip.
• Main Stops: Includes Wicklow Mountains National Park, Lough Tay, and Glendalough Monastic Settlement.
• Scenic and Filming Locations: See sites from movies like ‘Braveheart’ and ‘P.S. I Love You’.
• Transport: Travel is in an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi and USB charging points.
• Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledgeable narration and engaging commentary.
• Accessibility: Suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and luggage storage options.

Starting Point and Booking Details in Dublin

The tour begins at 34 O’Connell Street Lower in Dublin city center at 8:00 am. This convenient location is accessible by public transportation, simplifying the start of your Irish countryside adventure. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience and manageable pacing.

Booking in advance is recommended, with an average reservation window of 24 days. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, providing flexibility if your plans change. The mobile ticket makes it easy to access your booking digitally.

Exploring Wicklow Mountains National Park

The journey to Wicklow Mountains features scenic drives past Great Sugar Loaf mountain and Ireland’s highest village, Roundwood. The landscape is characterized by rolling hills, lush greenery, and captivating viewpoints, making this an ideal introduction to Ireland’s natural beauty.

A brief stop at Lough Tay, often called ‘The Guinness Lake’, offers a chance to snap photos of its striking dark water surrounded by green slopes. This 20-minute stop is one of the most photographed sites in Wicklow, making it a perfect photo opportunity for travelers eager to capture Ireland’s iconic scenery.

Discovering Glendalough’s Monastic Ruins

The highlight of the tour is the two-hour visit to the Glendalough Monastic Settlement, famous for its ancient ruins and tranquil lakes. The site features Celtic crosses, a round tower, and remnants of a medieval monastery. The location’s natural beauty, with its deep valley and crystal-clear lakes, provides an idyllic backdrop for exploration.

Guests have plenty of time to stroll along the Wicklow Way and enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace. The site gained popularity for its appearance in ‘Braveheart’ and ‘P.S. I Love You’, adding a touch of cinematic history to the visit. Exploring the valley of 2 lakes and walking through the woods offers peaceful moments and stunning views.

The Scenic Drive Through Wicklow’s Peaks and Villages

The route from Dublin to Glendalough is marked by impressive sights like Sugar Loaf Mountain and Roundwood, Ireland’s highest village. The drive itself is praised for its beautiful scenery and smooth pacing, with guides providing informative commentary along the way.

Travelers appreciate the comfort of the air-conditioned vehicle equipped with WiFi and USB points, making the journey both convenient and enjoyable. The scenic drive sets the tone for a relaxing morning immersed in nature rather than rushing from one site to another.

The Guide’s Style and Local Expertise

Guides like Eduardo and Shaun receive high praise for their friendly demeanor, deep knowledge, and ability to enhance the experience with interesting facts and storytelling. Their commentary helps bring the landscape and history to life, making the trip engaging for all ages.

Some reviews mention guides adding surprises or fitting in extra stops, which creates a feeling of personalized attention. This approach adds value, especially for travelers seeking more than just transportation but also meaningful insights into Irish culture and history.

Practical Tips for the Tour Day

The tour starts early at 8:00 am, so arriving on time at the meeting point is advised. Since lunch is not included, travelers should consider eating beforehand or bringing snacks for the drive. Luggage can be stored in the vehicle’s storage compartment or in overhead spaces, but valuables are stored at personal risk.

For those with airport connections, the tour is designed to end around 12:45 pm in central Dublin, making it a good option for a half-day exploration before catching a flight or continuing your city plans.

Notable Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers a relaxed pace and scenic highlights, some reviews note that time at each stop can feel limited—approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes at Glendalough—which may not be enough for thorough exploration. Visitors wishing to spend more time should plan a longer visit independently.

There are occasional mentions of itinerary discrepancies, such as not visiting certain viewpoints or landmarks, which can be frustrating. It’s advisable to communicate with the tour operator if specific sites are a priority, and to be mindful of timing to avoid missing the bus.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This half-day guided tour appeals most to those seeking a convenient, well-organized way to see Ireland’s countryside without the hassle of driving. Nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and film fans will appreciate stops at Glendalough and the filming locations. The inclusion of WiFi and USB charging adds comfort to the experience.

However, travelers who want more extensive exploration or to visit additional sites may find the time constraints limiting. The tour is best suited for visitors with a morning window and a desire to enjoy Ireland’s scenic beauty in a relaxed setting.

Final Thoughts on the Glendalough & Wicklow Mountains Half Day Tour

This tour provides great value for a $38 price tag, especially considering the scenic stops, expert guides, and comfortable transport. It offers a beautiful snapshot of Ireland’s landscape, combining nature, history, and cinematic charm.

While it may not cover every site in Wicklow, the well-paced itinerary and informative guides make it a worthwhile choice for those who want an efficient yet enriching half-day escape from Dublin. Travelers looking for a relaxing, scenic morning with a touch of Irish culture should find this tour highly satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $38.03 per person.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 34 O’Connell Street Lower in Dublin.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience lasts approximately 5 hours.

What are the main stops?
Stops include Wicklow Mountains National Park, Lough Tay (Guinness Lake), and Glendalough Monastic Settlement.

Is food included in the tour?
No, lunch and food are not included.

Are luggage storage options available?
Yes, luggage can be stored in the vehicle’s storage compartment or overhead spaces.

What makes this tour different from others?
It offers a small group experience with WiFi, multiple stops, and highlights from famous films, all at an affordable price.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. Booster seats for toddlers are available upon request.

How do guides enhance the experience?
Guides are praised for their friendly and knowledgeable narration, often adding extra surprises or interesting facts along the way.