Private day trip to Wicklow mountains from Dublin

Explore Wicklow’s stunning landscapes on this private day trip from Dublin, including Powerscourt Gardens, Glendalough Monastery, and Lough Tay, with a knowledgeable guide.

Discover the beauty of Wicklow on this private day trip from Dublin that offers a personalized experience for up to six travelers. Priced at $1,017.70 per group, this approximately eight-hour tour includes visits to some of Ireland’s most iconic sights, guided by an engaging driver and storyteller. With private transportation, air-conditioned vehicles, and admission tickets included, it provides a seamless way to explore this captivating region. The tour suits those who appreciate comfortable, tailored excursions and are eager to see film-famous landscapes and historic sites just an hour outside Dublin.

While the tour doesn’t include lunch, it offers plenty of time to admire the scenery, learn local stories, and enjoy the region’s highlights at a relaxed pace. The tour’s flexibility and focus on intimate group size make it ideal for travelers who prefer a private, informative experience over crowded bus excursions.

Key Points

  • Private tour for up to six people ensures an exclusive experience.
  • Visit Powerscourt Gardens, ranked as Ireland’s most beautiful garden and the third most beautiful in the world.
  • Explore the Glendalough Monastic Settlement, famous for its historic ruins and peaceful atmosphere.
  • See Lough Tay, also known as Guinness Lough, owned by the Guinness family, with free access.
  • Includes admission tickets and bottled water, with transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
  • Tour duration is around 8 hours, starting at 12:00 pm, with flexible cancellation options.

Powerscourt House & Gardens: Ireland’s Most Famous Garden

The tour kicks off with a visit to Powerscourt House & Gardens, often called the “Gardens of Ireland.” This site is renowned for its breathtaking landscaping, meticulously maintained lawns, and stunning water features. According to National Geographic, it ranks as the third most beautiful garden in the world.

You spend about 1 hour and 30 minutes exploring the expansive gardens, with admission included. The gardens feature a variety of plant collections, carefully curated landscapes, and impressive views that make it a highlight of any trip to Wicklow. Visitors can enjoy walking along winding paths, visiting ornate fountains, and taking photos of the scenic vistas.

The Powerscourt estate also offers a chance to learn about Irish horticultural craftsmanship and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. This stop provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultivated artistry, setting a high standard for the rest of the day.

Visiting the Ancient Glendalough Monastic Settlement

Next, the tour guides to the Glendalough Monastic Settlement, one of Ireland’s most historic and picturesque sites. Known for its well-preserved monastery ruins, this site offers a glimpse into early Irish Christian life.

With about 1 hour for exploration, admission is included to access the grounds. Visitors can walk among ancient stone buildings, including the round tower, church remains, and graveyard. The serene atmosphere makes it an ideal place for reflection and photography.

The site’s natural setting enhances its appeal, with lush greenery and surrounding hills adding to the sense of timelessness. The guide provides engaging stories about the monastery’s history, making this stop both educational and inspiring.

Lough Tay: The Landmark of Guinness Heritage

The third stop features Lough Tay, often called Guinness Lough due to its association with the Guinness family. Known for its striking appearance—dark waters contrasted by white sandy shores—this scenic spot is a favorite for its dramatic landscape.

Spending around 20 minutes here, visitors can enjoy free access to admire the stunning view. The lake’s distinctive appearance, resembling a pint of Guinness, makes it a popular photo spot.

While there’s no admission fee, the view alone makes Lough Tay worth the quick stop. It’s a great place to take in the scenery, snap pictures, and learn about its connection to Ireland’s most famous brewing family.

Comfortable Private Transportation and Convenience

The tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable journey between stops. This setup minimizes waiting times and allows for a relaxed day, perfectly suited for small groups seeking an intimate experience.

The pickup service offers added convenience, and a bottle of water is provided on board to keep everyone refreshed throughout the day. The entire experience is designed to be smooth, with tickets for key attractions included in the price, so no additional planning or waiting is needed.

Flexible, Easy Booking with Free Cancellation

Starting at 12:00 pm, the tour is accessible for most travelers. The confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the private nature of the tour ensures only your group participates.

A notable advantage is the free cancellation policy—you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The experience is also dependent on good weather, with options to reschedule or receive a full refund if conditions are poor.

Who Should Consider This Wicklow Private Tour?

This tour is ideal for small groups or families looking for a personalized day trip outside Dublin. The private nature of the trip guarantees a tailored experience, making it perfect for those who value comfort and detailed storytelling. The stops are accessible and not physically demanding, suitable for most travelers.

However, since lunch is not included, visitors should plan to bring their own food or purchase something during the day. The pace is relaxed, allowing ample time at each site to enjoy the scenery and history without feeling rushed.

Wicklow’s Scenic Highlights in One Day

The Wicklow Mountains are one of Ireland’s most scenic regions, and this tour captures their essence through visits to iconic spots like Powerscourt Gardens, Glendalough, and Lough Tay. The combination of natural landscapes and historic ruins provides a well-rounded experience that appeals to history buffs, nature lovers, and photography enthusiasts alike.

The inclusion of admission tickets ensures no additional costs at the attractions, and the private vehicle makes the day comfortable and stress-free. The knowledgeable guide, who shares stories and anecdotes enthusiastically, enhances the overall experience, turning sightseeing into an engaging journey.

Limitations to Consider

While the tour offers an excellent overview of Wicklow’s highlights, it does not include lunch, so travelers should plan accordingly. The 8-hour duration means the itinerary is fairly full, which might feel rushed if additional stops or activities are desired.

Plus, the tour depends on good weather for the best experience; poor weather could impact the scenic views and overall enjoyment. Nonetheless, flexible cancellation options provide some peace of mind in case weather conditions are unfavorable.

The Sum Up: A Personalized Journey Through Wicklow’s Beauty

This private day trip from Dublin stands out for its small-group intimacy, expert storytelling, and carefully selected stops. The combination of stunning gardens, historic sites, and remarkable landscapes makes it a rewarding choice for those who appreciate a relaxed, well-paced exploration.

While no lunch is included, the admission tickets and private transport add convenience and value. The knowledgeable guide known for lively storytelling ensures an engaging and informative experience. This tour is especially suited for travelers who prefer a tailored, comfortable outing with plenty of opportunities to take photos and soak in Ireland’s scenic charm.

Overall, it offers a memorable introduction to Wicklow’s natural and cultural treasures—perfect for small groups seeking a personal touch on their Irish adventure.

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Private day trip to Wicklow mountains from Dublin



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“We had a great day!!! William is very interesting (in addition to being nice). He told us the story of Ireland very enthusiastically with lots of …”

— A Tripadvisor Reviewer, Apr 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included. Travelers should plan to bring their own food or purchase it during the day.

What is the starting time of the tour?
The tour departs at 12:00 pm.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Full refunds are available, and weather-related cancellations are also accommodated.

How many people can join this private tour?
It is designed for up to six guests in a private group, ensuring an exclusive experience.

What attractions are included in the visit?
The tour includes visits to Powerscourt Gardens, Glendalough Monastic Settlement, and Lough Tay. Admission tickets are included for Powerscourt and Glendalough.

Is transportation comfortable and convenient?
Yes, the tour uses private, air-conditioned vehicles with pickup offered at convenient locations near public transit.

Who is the tour provider?
The tour is operated by Lugtours, with contact via +353872909312 or [email protected].

Can this tour be customized?
Since it is a private tour, the schedule can be tailored to fit your preferences, within the scope of the stops listed.