Award Winning Private Tour of Glendalough, Powerscourt & Wicklow

Explore Wicklow and Glendalough with a Private Guide and Tailor-Made Itinerary

This award-winning private tour from Dublin offers a personalized journey through Ireland’s stunning countryside for up to 4 guests at a price of $734.65 per group. Lasting approximately 6 hours, the tour provides a flexible schedule with multiple departure times and includes hotel pickup and private vehicle transportation. Whether you want to stroll through historic monastic ruins, admire the lush Powerscourt Gardens, or enjoy scenic mountain views, this experience adapts to your interests.

The tour is praised for its friendly, knowledgeable guides and customizable route, making it ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, intimate way to explore Wicklow, Ireland’s Garden of Ireland. Be aware that entrance fees to sites like Glendalough and Powerscourt are not included and typically cost €7-€10 per adult. This tour suits those who appreciate personal service and want the freedom to choose stops, with reviews highlighting excellent guides and beautiful scenery as key strengths.

Key Points

• Personalized private tour with a dedicated guide in a private vehicle
• Flexible schedule with multiple start times and route customization
• Visits to Glendalough’s 6th-century monastic site and Powerscourt Gardens, ranked among the best worldwide
• Stops include Wicklow Gaol and Avoca village for shopping or lunch
• Tour duration of approximately 6 hours suits those with a half-day available
• Price of $734.65 covers up to 4 guests, offering good value for an intimate experience

Starting in Dublin: Pickups and Custom Schedules

This private tour begins with hotel pickup in Dublin, offering a convenient start to your day. The multiple departure times available throughout the day make it easy to slot into your plans, and the personal guide works with you to tailor the route according to your interests. You can decide to visit Wicklow Gaol, Avoca Handweavers, or enjoy scenic stops like Sallys Gap or Lough Tay.

The tour is designed for up to 4 people per booking, ensuring an intimate experience. If you prefer a minivan instead of a saloon vehicle, this can be requested, though most vehicles comfortably seat four. The guide’s flexibility means you can spend more time at some sites or skip others if preferred.

Exploring Wicklow Gaol and Irish Heritage

The tour makes a stop at Wicklow Gaol, one of Ireland’s top attractions, which features an interactive tour led by experienced actor guides. The story of prisoners is brought to life through storytelling, and visitors can spend extra time in the Wicklow Genealogy Room to explore Irish roots.

This stop offers a blend of history and entertainment, with entrance fees at approximately €7-€10 not included. The site provides a vivid picture of Ireland’s penal past, and the guided experience helps bring the stories to life in a memorable way. Many reviews highlight friendly guides and the engaging storytelling as major positives.

Shopping at Avoca Handweavers and Local Lunch Options

Before heading to Glendalough, the tour typically includes a visit to Avoca village, home to Ireland’s oldest manufacturing company, established in 1723. Here, travelers can browse handwoven throws, blankets, and other crafts, perfect for gifts or souvenirs.

Avoca is also a popular spot for lunch, offering a range of local food options. The shop and café provide a chance to relax and enjoy Irish hospitality before continuing the day’s sightseeing. Comments from previous travelers praise the quality of products and the charm of the village.

Walking Through the Mystical Monastic City of Glendalough

The highlight for many visitors is the 6th-century monastic site of Glendalough, founded by St. Kevin. Located within a glacial valley, the site features ancient ruins, including the iconic Round Tower and other monuments that make for striking photographs.

The guided exploration allows visitors to understand the significance of the site while also enjoying the wildlife and natural beauty of the area. The walks around the ruins are generally accessible, though visitors should be prepared for some walking and uneven terrain.

Scenic Drive Through the Wicklow Mountains and Lough Tay

The tour’s scenic route covers highlights like Sallys Gap, known for its breathtaking mountain views, and Lough Tay, often called Guinness Lake due to its dark waters and white sandy shores resembling a pint of Guinness. These panoramic stops provide stunning photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate Ireland’s rugged landscape.

Travelers often mention the beauty of the scenery, especially when driven through Wicklow’s mountain passes. The guide’s insights enhance the experience, pointing out notable landmarks and local stories about the landscape.

Powerscourt Gardens: The Garden of Ireland

One of the tour’s most celebrated stops is Powerscourt Gardens, ranked No. 3 in the World’s Top Ten Gardens by National Geographic. Spanning over 47 acres, the gardens feature formal terraces, ornamental lakes, statues, and secret hollows.

Established from 1731, the gardens are a must-see for lovers of landscape design and horticulture. Visitors can enjoy rambling walks, see beautifully maintained plantings, and take in sweeping mountain vistas. The entrance fee is not included, at about €7-€10, but the beauty and tranquility justify the visit.

Optional Stops: Waterfalls and Irish Pubs

Depending on timing and interests, travelers can chat with their guide about adding Powerscourt Waterfall, Ireland’s highest waterfall, or stopping at a traditional Irish pub for refreshments and local food. The Military Road is another scenic route option, showcasing Ireland’s rural charm.

These optional stops add personal touches to the tour, ensuring a customized experience. The guide’s local knowledge helps identify the best spots to suit your preferences.

Logistics and Practicalities

This private tour is fully customizable, with the guide using both private guides and taxi guides to optimize timing and traffic flow. Some vehicles are equipped with free Wi-Fi for convenience. The approximate 6-hour duration can be extended if additional sights are included, with hourly rates discussed directly with the guide.

Entrance fees are not included in the price but are generally €7-€10 per site. Pickup from Dublin Airport is available for an extra charge, making this tour flexible for travelers arriving or departing from the airport.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This private, customizable experience appeals most to small groups or families wanting a personal touch and the freedom to choose their stops. The expert guides and well-paced itinerary suit visitors interested in history, scenery, and culture without feeling rushed. The scenic drives and historic sites make it especially suitable for those who appreciate nature and heritage.

However, travelers should be prepared for walking on uneven terrain at sites like Glendalough and expect some entrance fees. The size of the vehicle might be a consideration for taller travelers or groups requesting a minivan.

Final Thoughts on the Award-Winning Wicklow Private Tour

With its personalized approach, beautiful stops, and friendly guides, this tour offers a rich experience of Wicklow’s landscapes and history. The ranking of 5.0/5 across reviews and 96% recommendations underscore its quality and appeal.

While entrance fees are extra and the vehicle size might be tight for very tall travelers, the flexibility and attention to detail stand out. This tour is particularly well-suited for small groups seeking a comfortable, tailored day exploring Ireland’s Garden of Ireland.

If you value expert guides, scenic drives, and customization, this private Wicklow tour provides a memorable glimpse into Ireland’s natural beauty and heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price for this private tour?
The cost is $734.65 per group, accommodating up to 4 guests.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 6 hours, with some flexibility for extra sights or stops.

What sites are included in the standard itinerary?
Typical stops include Glendalough, Powerscourt Gardens, Wicklow Gaol, Avoca village, Sallys Gap, and Lough Tay.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees such as for Glendalough and Powerscourt are not included, generally costing between €7-€10.

Can I customize the stops and itinerary?
Yes, the tour is custom-made, and the guide works with you to adapt the route based on your preferences.

Is airport pickup available?
Yes, pickup from Dublin Airport can be arranged for an additional fee.