Dublin to Powerscourt, Wicklow and Glendalough Small Group Tours

If you’re seeking a full-day escape into Ireland’s lush landscape, the Dublin to Powerscourt, Wicklow, and Glendalough Small Group Tour offers a well-rounded experience at an affordable price of $63.72 per person. This 8-hour journey departs from Dublin and takes you through some of the most picturesque spots in County Wicklow, guided by knowledgeable hosts who bring local stories to life. With a focus on scenic drives, historical sites, and iconic gardens, this tour is ideal for those who want to see Ireland’s countryside without the hassle of navigating themselves.

The tour boasts a high booking rate with an average of 47 days in advance, indicating strong popularity among visitors. While the group size is limited to 16 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience, it’s worth noting that some reviews highlight the importance of good footwear and caution regarding vehicle safety. The combination of stunning scenery, historical stops, and an accessible price point makes this tour a worthwhile choice for anyone eager to explore Wicklow’s highlights.

Key Points

• Affordable full-day trip from Dublin, priced at $63.72
• Includes Powerscourt Gardens, Glendalough, and scenic mountain drives
• Leads with a knowledgeable guide offering live commentary
• Stops in Enniskerry village and Wicklow Mountains with photo opportunities
• Time to explore Glendalough’s monastic site and lakes
• Comfortable small group of up to 16 travelers for a more intimate experience

Departure Details from Dublin at the Molly Malone Statue

The tour begins promptly at 9:20 am at the Molly Malone Statue on Suffolk Street. This central location makes it easy for visitors to meet the group without the need for hotel pickups or complicated logistics. After settling into the vehicle, the guide sets out on a scenic journey through Ireland’s countryside, with informative commentary to enhance your understanding of the places visited.

The group size remains small, with up to 16 travelers, which fosters a more relaxed atmosphere and better interaction with the guide. The tour concludes back at the original meeting point in Dublin, making it convenient for those staying in the city.

Exploring Powerscourt House & Gardens: Ireland’s Third-Best Garden

The first major stop is at Powerscourt House & Gardens, renowned for being ranked number 3 worldwide by National Geographic. The gardens cover vast landscaped grounds that visitors can wander at their own pace for approximately 1.5 hours. Admission is paid separately at the entrance, but the ticket price is discounted for tour participants, making it a great value.

The gardens feature beautifully maintained lawns, fountains, and themed areas, making it a photographer’s haven. After exploring, many guests enjoy visiting the adjacent Avoca shop, where they can grab a coffee or snack and appreciate the local products.

A highlight for many is the free time to enjoy this site without feeling rushed, though some reviews suggest spending more time here could be even more rewarding. The gardens are considered a must-see for garden lovers and those wanting to soak in Ireland’s horticultural beauty.

Lunch Break in the Victorian Village of Enniskerry

Following the gardens, the tour stops at Enniskerry Village Square for a lunch break of about 45 minutes. The village is a Victorian estate town, famous for its charming character and as a filming location for movies like “Leap Year”.

A popular dining spot is Poppies Cafe, recommended for its locally produced food and diverse menu options catering to different tastes. Guests can enjoy a relaxed meal while soaking in the quaint village atmosphere before heading back on the road.

While lunch expenses are not included in the tour price, this stop offers a chance to experience authentic Irish village life and perhaps pick up some souvenirs from local shops.

Scenic Drive Through Wicklow Mountains National Park

Post-lunch, the vehicle journeys through Wicklow Mountains National Park, where the landscape opens to rolling hills, lush meadows, and steaming streams. This scenic drive lasts about an hour, during which the guide shares stories about Irish history, the landscape, and filming locations.

Key sites along this route include Sally Gap, a high mountain pass known for its sweeping views, as well as Guinness Estate and Lough Tays, often called “Guinness Lake” because of its connection to the Guinness family. These areas are popular filming locations, notably for the series “P.S. I Love You” and “Vikings”.

Guests should prepare for winding roads and variable weather conditions, which can affect the overall experience, especially if opting for hikes or photo stops.

Visiting the “P.S. I Love You” Bridge and Guinness Lake

Two notable stops in the Wicklow Mountains are the Old Military Road at the “P.S. I Love You” Bridge and Lough Tays (Guinness Lake).

The “P.S. I Love You” Bridge is a historic filming location, where visitors can take photos and appreciate the rugged scenery. The stop is brief—about 10 minutes—but offers a chance to capture Ireland’s cinematic landscape.

Lough Tays, or Guinness Lake, is another highlight. Known for its dark, striking waters, it’s a favorite for photographers and fans of Irish TV series. This stop is around 15 minutes, giving enough time to admire the views and snap photos of the picturesque setting.

Both sites are accessible without additional entrance fees, making them accessible photo stops that complement the day’s scenic drive.

Exploring Glendalough Monastic Settlement and Lakes

The final major stop is at Glendalough, home to a 6th-century monastic site founded by St. Kevin. The site offers about 1.5 hours of free time, giving visitors the chance to explore the monastic ruins and the beautiful valley with its two lakes.

The main attraction is the monastic settlement, where visitors can walk among ancient stone structures, including a round tower and churches. The lakes add to the serenity of the landscape, making it a peaceful spot for photos and reflection.

For those interested in walking, the surrounding trails offer options for hikes, but it’s recommended to manage the time carefully to avoid rushing back to the vehicle.

Group Size, Safety, and Accessibility Considerations

The tour operates with a maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience compared to larger bus tours. The vehicle used is a minivan, making for a comfortable ride through Ireland’s narrow roads. However, some reviews mention the driver’s dangerous driving and scattered behavior as a concern, so travelers should be comfortable with winding mountain roads and expect a lively, engaged guide.

Comfortable walking shoes are strongly recommended, especially for exploring the gardens and Glendalough’s ruins. The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, and accessibility may be limited at Powerscourt Gardens, as it lacks ramps and rails for disabled visitors.

Overall Experience and Suitability

This small group tour offers a balanced mix of scenic drives, cultural sites, and natural beauty that captures the essence of Wicklow. The knowledgeable guides provide live commentary, enriching the experience with local insights and stories.

While some reviews note moments of unsafe driving or time restrictions, the overall consensus is positive, especially regarding the stunning scenery, well-maintained gardens, and interesting stops. The value for money is highlighted by many, given the comprehensive itinerary and small-group intimacy.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy guided excursions with a flexible schedule, scenic drives, and opportunities to walk around historic sites. It’s less suited for those with mobility issues or looking for a more relaxed pace at specific stops.

Wicklow Day Trip from Dublin: Final Words

The Wicklow full-day tour from Dublin offers a well-curated glimpse into Ireland’s lush countryside, featuring Powercourt Gardens, Glendalough, and the scenic Wicklow Mountains. While the price point is attractive and the highlights are numerous, potential travelers should be aware of vehicle safety concerns and the physical demands of walking around sites.

For those wanting a rich visual and cultural experience without the hassle of self-driving, this tour delivers in terms of scenic beauty and local storytelling. The combination of beautiful gardens, historic monastic ruins, and mountain vistas makes it a memorable day out in the Irish countryside.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, the tour begins at the Molly Malone Statue on Suffolk Street in Dublin, with no hotel pickup or drop-off included.

How long do I spend at Powerscourt Gardens?
Approximately 1.5 hours is allocated for exploring Powerscourt Gardens, with the option to pay at the entrance for admission.

What should I wear for this tour?
Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended, especially for walking around gardens and Glendalough’s ruins.

Are there any entrance fees?
Entrance fees are not included in the tour price and are paid separately at Powerscourt House and Gardens.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult. Physical activity is minimal but walking shoes are advised.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 16 travelers, providing a small-group experience.

What stops are included in the scenic drive?
Stops include “P.S. I Love You” bridge, Guinness Lake (Lough Tays), and the Sally Gap in Wicklow Mountains.

Can I hike around Glendalough?
Yes, there are trails available for walking, but the tour provides about 1.5 hours for exploration; longer hikes require managing your time.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its combination of scenic drives, historic sites, and stunning gardens at an accessible price point, with guides who provide lively commentary.

Is this tour good value?
Yes, considering the small group size, included stops, and overall scenery, many find it to be excellent value for money.