The Original Award Winning Wild Wicklow Tour incl. Glendalough

The Original Award-Winning Wild Wicklow Tour incl. Glendalough offers a compelling day trip from Dublin for just $63.40 per person. This 8-hour 30-minute journey takes visitors beyond the usual city sights to explore secluded valleys, historic monastic ruins, and breathtaking viewpoints within Wicklow Mountains National Park. With a small coach, the tour emphasizes comfort and intimacy, making it ideal for those seeking a more personalized experience. The tour is highly rated with a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from over 3,150 reviews, and 96% recommend it, highlighting its popularity and consistent quality.

This tour is particularly suited for those interested in scenic drives, Irish culture, and history, with stops at Avoca Handweavers, Sallys Gap, and the monastic settlement of Glendalough. Be prepared for some walking at stops like Killiney Hill and Glendalough, and note that lunch is at your own expense. The overall experience combines stunning landscapes, engaging guides, and cultural insights, making it a well-rounded day out from Dublin.

Key Points

• Affordable full-day experience at $63.40 with 8.5 hours of scenic highlights and cultural stops
• Small coach group ensures a comfortable, more personalized journey
• Expert guides share detailed stories on Irish history, music, and local legends
• Highlights include Glendalough monastic ruins, Sallys Gap, and Guinness Lake
• Flexible stops for shopping at Avoca Handweavers and Killiney Hill viewpoint
• Food not included but options for lunch available at Lynhams of Laragh

Departure from Dublin’s Central Locations

The tour begins at 8:45am, with multiple pickup points in north and south Dublin, including near Dunlaoghaire Port for cruise travelers. The luxury Mercedes coach provides a smooth ride as it charts a route through Irish coastal suburbs like Sandycove and Dalkey, renowned for their sea views before heading inland. This transportation option suits those looking for a comfortable, stress-free escape from the city.

Scenic Coastal Drive to Killiney Hill

The journey starts with a scenic drive along Dublin’s southern coast, where views of Dublin Bay unfold from Killiney Hill. A short walk at this stop offers spectacular vistas over the city and coast, setting the tone for the day. This location is perfect for photo opportunities and absorbing Ireland’s charming seaside landscape.

Shopping and Irish Culture at Avoca Handweavers

The first major stop at Kilmacanogue introduces visitors to Avoca Handweavers, a renowned Irish crafts store. Here, travelers can browse handmade Irish goods and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee with a homemade scone. This stop provides a taste of authentic Irish craftsmanship and a chance to pick up unique souvenirs.

Exploring Sallys Gap and Lough Tay (“Guinness Lake”)

Driving through Sallys Gap, the tour reaches the heath and bog-covered slopes of Wicklow Mountains National Park. A highlight is Lough Tays, famously called “The Guinness Lake” for its dark, striking appearance. Filming locations for ‘Braveheart,’ ‘P.S. I Love You,’ and ‘Vikings’ make this a favorite for movie buffs. The drive through these untouched landscapes offers plenty of photo opportunities and a real sense of Ireland’s natural beauty.

Lunch at Lynhams of Laragh

After exploring the mountains, the tour stops at Lynhams of Laragh, a traditional Irish pub. Here, visitors can enjoy Irish home-cooking and sip on a Guinness (own expense). The restaurant offers an authentic local atmosphere, giving a taste of Ireland’s hospitality and culinary traditions. Alternative options are available for those not wishing to dine in a pub setting.

The Mystical Monastic Ruins of Glendalough

The final major stop is Glendalough, founded in the 6th century by St. Kevin. Visitors walk through the medieval monastic settlement, viewing the Round Tower and exploring the valley of the two lakes. The site’s archaeological significance, wildlife, and natural beauty make this a must-visit. A guided tour explains the site’s history, and free time allows for further exploration, including a walk to the Upper Lake through ancient forests.

Whiskey Tasting and Return Journey to Dublin

The tour concludes with a complimentary tasting of Glendalough Irish Whiskey aboard the coach, adding a relaxing touch to the return. The luxury coach then heads back to Dublin, with a drop-off at the starting points. The overall pacing balances sightseeing, cultural stops, and ample free time to absorb the scenery.

Logistics and Group Size

The tour caters to a maximum of 37 travelers, emphasizing a personalized experience. Pickup points are conveniently located around Dublin, and the smaller coach size allows access to scenic routes that bigger buses cannot reach, such as the deep Wicklow Mountains through Enniskerry and Glencree. The 8.5-hour schedule includes guided commentary, scenic stops, and free time at key locations.

Guide Expertise and Guest Experience

Guides like Patrick, Ashley, and John are frequently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and entertaining storytelling. Guests note the passion guides show for Ireland’s landscapes, history, and music, which enhances the overall experience. Ashley’s storytelling and John’s local insights stand out as favorites, adding a personalized touch to the tour.

Practical Tips and Considerations

While the tour is generally accessible, it involves some walking at stops like Killiney Hill and Glendalough. Travelers should consider motion sickness due to twisty mountain roads, especially during the drive through Sallys Gap. Lunch is not included, so plan accordingly; options at Lynhams of Laragh range from traditional pub fare to alternative choices. The tour operates rain or shine, with cancellation possible in poor weather, in which case a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

The Sum Up: A Scenic and Cultural Day Out from Dublin

The Wild Wicklow Tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, history, and Irish culture. Its small-group setting and expert guides make it stand out from larger bus tours, providing opportunities for personalized interactions and photo stops. Priced competitively at $63.40, it delivers great value for a full-day adventure through Ireland’s lush landscapes and historic sites.

This tour suits nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone wanting to escape Dublin for a day to experience Ireland’s wild beauty. The guided commentary and scenic routes keep the journey engaging, while stops at Glendalough and Lough Tays offer memorable sights and stories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but there are dining options at Lynhams of Laragh and other stops where you can enjoy Irish home-cooking or pub fare.

How long is the drive from Dublin?
The total tour duration is 8 hours 30 minutes, with most of the time spent traveling and exploring Wicklow’s highlights. The coach ride covers scenic routes between stops.

Are there any physical requirements?
Some walking is involved at stops like Killiney Hill and Glendalough. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues should be prepared for moderate walking.

What makes this tour different from other Wicklow trips?
The small coach size, high guide ratings, and carefully curated stops like Avoca Handweavers, Sallys Gap, and Glendalough set this tour apart. It emphasizes personalized storytelling and scenic routes inaccessible to larger buses.