Dublin to Wicklow, Glendalough Small Group Tour with Guided Walk

The Dublin to Wicklow, Glendalough Small Group Tour with Guided Walk offers an engaging way to explore Ireland beyond the city. Priced at $86.89 per person and lasting approximately 8 hours, this tour is designed for those eager to see the natural beauty and historic sites of Wicklow National Park and Glendalough. With a small group of up to 16 travelers, it promises a more personalized experience compared to larger bus excursions.

This tour departs from Suffolk Street in Dublin at 09:20am and visits a series of scenic stops, including a guided walk through Wicklow Mountains, the charming Victorian village of Enniskerry, and the evocative monastic ruins of Glendalough. The inclusion of live commentary and a local guide enhances the journey, making it both informative and relaxed. While food and drinks are not included, the tour’s highlights — from panoramic viewpoints to historic sites — create a well-rounded day outside the busy city.

Note that booking is recommended 48 days in advance on average, reflecting the tour’s popularity. It’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness and comfortable walking shoes. This experience offers a valuable glimpse into Ireland’s countryside and history, especially for travelers seeking a balance of outdoor activity and cultural insight.

Key Points

• Small-group size ensures a more intimate and personalized experience.
• Includes a guided 1.5-hour walk through Wicklow Mountains, with spectacular views.
• Stops at scenic viewpoints like Sally Gap and Guinness Lake provide excellent photo opportunities.
• Visit Glendalough’s monastic ruins and lakes, with plenty of free time to explore.
• Tour departs from Dublin at 09:20am and covers approximately 8 hours.
• Food and drinks are not included, but there’s a recommended stop for a hearty Irish lunch.

The Route and Scenic Highlights of Wicklow Mountains

The tour begins with a pick-up at Molly Malone Statue on Suffolk Street, setting the stage for a day in the countryside. After about 1.5 hours, the group reaches Wicklow Mountains National Park, where a guided walk along trails offers views of deciduous and evergreen woodland, plus panoramic vistas of the Irish coastline and Dublin.

The walk follows a section of the Dublin Mountains Way trail, leading to scenic viewpoints such as Ballychorus Mine’s historic chimney, which dates back to the late 1800s. The good trails make the walk accessible, and the views of mountains, lakes, and the coastline make it a key highlight.

Next, the group heads to Enniskerry, a Victorian estate village, for a lunch break. Though food is not included, Poppies Cafe is recommended for local, freshly produced dishes. After lunch, the journey continues through the Wicklow Mountains, with scenic stops at Sally Gap, a famously picturesque mountain pass, and Guinness Lake (Lough Tay), known for its striking appearance and role as a filming location for “Vikings.”

Discovering Glendalough: Monastic Ruins and Lakes

The trip’s cultural highlight is the visit to Glendalough, where the guide introduces the 6th-century monastery of St. Kevin. Visitors have 30 minutes to explore the medieval ruins and absorb the ambiance of this historic site, with its stone churches and ancient structures. The two lakes in the valley add to the peaceful scenery, offering great photo spots and a sense of stepping back in time.

Following this, additional free time is available at Glendalough Upper Lake, allowing visitors to stroll around, enjoy the natural surroundings, or simply relax in the tranquil environment. The balance of walking, sightseeing, and free exploration caters well to those who appreciate both history and nature.

Logistics and Group Experience

The tour is led by a driver/guide with live commentary, sharing insights into Ireland’s landscape and history. The small group size ensures ample opportunity for questions and a relaxed pace. The meeting point at the Molly Malone Statue provides easy access from Dublin city center.

The transport involves a comfortable vehicle suitable for scenic backroads, with scenic stops along the way to maximize photo opportunities. The timing allows for a well-paced day, with enough time at each location to appreciate the views and explore.

Since food and drinks are not included, travelers should plan to bring snacks or purchase lunch at Enniskerry. The duration of about 8 hours makes this a full but manageable day trip, especially for those interested in outdoor activity and scenic landscapes.

The Guides and Their Role in the Experience

The local guides and drivers receive high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to share stories about the sites visited. The guide’s explanations bring history and folklore to life, especially at Glendalough and the viewpoints. Tour guides like Matt, Kevin, Gillian, and Richard are noted for making the experience memorable through their enthusiasm and insights.

Many reviews highlight the quality of the guides, emphasizing their passion for Irish culture and their ability to keep the group engaged despite changing weather conditions. Their attentiveness helps enhance the overall experience, especially during scenic stops and walks.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

The tour involves moderate walking, particularly during the 1.5-hour hike in Wicklow Mountains and exploring the Glendalough site. Travelers should wear comfortable walking shoes and have a moderate physical fitness level. The tour’s pace is designed to be accessible for most, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking demands.

There are no specific mentions of accessibility features, so guests with special needs should inquire further before booking. The scenic stops at viewpoints and lakes are generally accessible for most visitors.

Price, Booking, and Cancellation

At $86.89 per person, the tour provides good value for a full day of outdoor and cultural exploration. Booking in advance is recommended, often about 48 days beforehand, due to the tour’s popularity.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing flexibility if plans change. The tour is contingent on good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, travelers are offered a full refund or alternative date.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This trip is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want to walk through Ireland’s scenic landscapes and explore its medieval history in Glendalough. It suits those comfortable with moderate physical activity and who appreciate small-group interactions. It’s also ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed pace without the crowds of larger bus tours.

While food is not included, the well-organized stops and stunning scenery compensate, providing a memorable day outside Dublin’s urban environment. Those interested in nature photography, history, or simply enjoying Ireland’s countryside will find this tour rewarding.

Dublin to Wicklow, Glendalough Small Group Tour: Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced combination of outdoor adventure and cultural discovery. With expert guides, beautiful viewpoints, and visits to historic sites, it delivers a comprehensive taste of Wicklow’s natural and historical charm. The small group size enhances the experience, making it more engaging and relaxed.

Although not ideal for travelers seeking extensive hiking or gourmet meals (since food is at their own expense), this trip excels in showcasing Ireland’s landscape and heritage in a manageable, enjoyable way. It’s well-suited for those who want an authentic, scenic escape from Dublin without the hassle of larger bus tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour from Dublin?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel time, stops, and exploration.

Where does the tour depart from?
It begins at the Molly Malone Statue on Suffolk Street in Dublin city center.

Is food included in the tour?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, but there is a recommended stop at Enniskerry for a hearty Irish meal.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as there will be walking on trails and around the sites.

Are there any physical requirements?
Moderate physical fitness is needed for walking hikes and exploring the monastic ruins.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

What sights will I see at Glendalough?
You will visit the medieval monastic settlement, see the two lakes, and have free time to explore.

How scenic are the stops?
Stops like Sally Gap and Guinness Lake offer breathtaking views perfect for photos.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult and should be comfortable with walking.

Can this tour accommodate special needs?
Specific accessibility information is not provided; travelers with special needs should inquire before booking.

What makes this tour stand out?
The small group setting, expert local guides, and the combination of outdoor hikes with cultural sites make it a popular choice.

Is there any additional information I should know?
Booking is recommended 48 days in advance, and the tour is dependent on good weather conditions.

This small-group day trip from Dublin offers a well-rounded glimpse into Ireland’s natural beauty and historic charm, making it a highly recommended option for those looking to experience Wicklow beyond the city.