Discover Wicklow’s Scenic Charm for $34.39

This Wicklow tour of Glendalough offers a full-day escape from Dublin’s city buzz, priced at $34.39 per person. Departing at 10:15 AM, it takes travelers on a journey through Ireland’s lush “Garden of Ireland”, exploring ancient monastic sites, spectacular lakes, and quaint villages. The tour is designed for those who prefer organized travel with comfort and ease, featuring hotel pickup from select Dublin locations and a luxury coach with air conditioning and extra legroom.

The experience lasts approximately one day, with an end time around 6:30 PM back in Dublin. The guided narration enriches the trip, bringing the region’s history and landscapes to life. While it’s ideal for those moderately fit, the tour’s smooth logistics and engaging stops make it a practical pick for first-time visitors or anyone seeking a relaxed way to see Wicklow’s top sights without the hassle of self-driving.

Key Points

Price is $34.39 per person for a full-day trip.
Includes hotel pickup, live guide, and air-conditioned coach.
Visit Glendalough, a stunning monastic site in a glacial valley.
Enjoy views of Lough Tay, aka Guinness Lake, and take photos at iconic sites.
Shop at the Avoca Woollen Mills, with a coffee stop included.
Tour departs from Dublin at 10:15 AM and returns around 6:30 PM.

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Convenient Dublin Departures and Pickups

This tour starts at multiple pick-up points in Dublin, including O’Connell Street (Gresham Hotel) at 10:15 AM, Abbey Street Lower, Custom House Quay, and Pembroke Road in Ballsbridge. The schedule ensures travelers can choose the most convenient location. The group size is capped at 49 people, helping maintain a comfortable and engaging atmosphere.

The meet-up process is straightforward, with hotel pickup available at selected hotels. The luxury coach used for transportation is equipped with toilets and offers free Wi-Fi, allowing guests to relax and stay connected during the journey. The comfortable seating and extra legroom contribute to a stress-free day.

Exploring Glendalough and Its Monastic Ruins

A highlight of the trip is a guided visit to Glendalough, renowned for its ancient monastic ruins set within a glacial valley. This site has a fascinating history and offers picturesque views that are perfect for snapping memorable photos. The guide’s narration helps illuminate the significance of the monastic community that once thrived here, making the visit both scenic and educational.

The setting of Glendalough with its stone ruins, lakes, and surrounding greenery creates a tranquil atmosphere. The walking pace is manageable for most, and the tour ensures there’s enough time to explore the site comfortably.

The Spectacular Beauty of Lough Tay (Guinness Lake)

One of the standout stops is Lough Tay, often called “Guinness Lake” due to its dark waters and white shoreline resembling a pint of Guinness. This viewpoint provides an ideal photo opportunity and a chance to admire Ireland’s dramatic landscape. The tour makes it easy to capture the scenery without worrying about navigation or parking.

This stop offers a snapshot of Wicklow’s natural beauty, with rolling hills and lakes forming a stunning backdrop. It’s a chance to appreciate why Wicklow is called the “Garden of Ireland”.

Visiting the Avoca Woollen Mills and Coffee Shop

A practical highlight of the tour is a visit to the Avoca Woollen Mills, where guests can shop for authentic Irish souvenirs such as wool garments, scarves, and homeware. The on-site coffee shop allows for a refreshing break and a chance to sample some local treats.

This stop combines shopping with the opportunity to see traditional Irish craftsmanship up close. The woollen mill is a well-loved location, praised for its quality products and friendly atmosphere.

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Photos at the Iconic PS. I Love You Bridge

Another memorable moment is the photo opportunity at the “PS. I Love You” Bridge, a famous site made popular by the film of the same name. This charming structure offers a romantic and picturesque setting, perfect for capturing a souvenir photo. Its appearance on the tour adds a touch of pop culture and visual charm.

Travelers appreciate this unique stop, as it provides a beautiful backdrop for photos and a bit of film history.

The Guide’s Role in Making the Tour Special

The professional guide on this tour is a key part of the experience. Their live commentary helps bring the region’s history and landscape to life, making the trip more engaging and informative. The guide also volunteers to take photos for solo travelers, enhancing the overall experience.

While the tour emphasizes scenic beauty, the guide’s storytelling ensures that visitors walk away with a deeper understanding of Wicklow’s history and culture.

Practical Details and Physical Considerations

This tour is best suited for people with moderate physical fitness. It involves some walking at sites like Glendalough but remains accessible for most. The air-conditioned coach provides a comfortable ride, and the onboard toilet means less time away from sightseeing.

Participants should dress appropriately for the weather, as Ireland’s climate can vary. The tour operates rain or shine, so packing a rain jacket or umbrella might be wise.

Value and Overall Experience

For $34.39, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Wicklow’s highlights, combining nature, history, and culture in a single day. The hotel pickup and guided narration save the hassle of planning logistics, while the stops at Lough Tay and Avoca Woollen Mills add memorable touches.

The quality of the guide, the scenic stops, and the comfortable transport make this an appealing option for first-time visitors or those looking for a convenient way to see Wicklow’s best.

Wicklow Tour of Glendalough: Final Thoughts

This tour provides a smooth, enjoyable day exploring some of Ireland’s most iconic sights. The combination of scenic viewpoints, historic ruins, and local shopping makes it a balanced experience. The guide’s expertise and relaxed pace ensure visitors can absorb the beauty without feeling rushed.

While the price and inclusions make it a good value, travelers should be prepared for moderate walking and Ireland’s changing weather. The departure points and luxury coach amenities add convenience, making this a trusted choice for exploring Wicklow with ease.

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Wicklow tour of Glendalough

4.5

(8)

“Joe was a gifted driver on some challenging roads and an entertaining guide as we toured the beautiful Wicklow mountains. He even volunteered to ta…”

— Rosemary B, Jul 2019

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $34.39 per person.

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately one day, with an end time around 6:30 PM.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from multiple locations in Dublin, including O’Connell Street at 10:15 AM.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included at selected Dublin hotels.

What sights are visited on this tour?
Stops include Glendalough, Lough Tay (“Guinness Lake”), Avoca Woollen Mills, and the PS. I Love You Bridge.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult; the tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the driver/guide, live commentary, luxury coach, Wi-Fi, toilet onboard, and hotel pickup.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available with at least 24 hours’ notice for a full refund.