Private Garden of Ireland Wicklow Tour from Dublin

Explore Wicklow’s Iconic Locations on a Private Day Trip from Dublin

A private garden of Ireland Wicklow tour offers an intimate, flexible way to see some of Ireland’s most breathtaking sights in a single day. Priced at $1,099.72 per group—up to six people—this 8-hour tour includes private transportation, WiFi, and complimentary bottled water. It departs from Dublin, with pickup offered, making it a convenient choice for those wanting an expertly guided experience without the crowds.

This tour shines for its careful curation of highlights, including historic sites like Glendalough, natural wonders like Guinness Lake (Lough Tay) and Powerscourt Waterfall, plus film locations such as Sally Gap seen in “P.S. I Love You” and “Braveheart.” The customized approach and knowledgeable guide—notably Gerry, praised for his friendly, personalized service—ensure a memorable day tailored to your interests.

While the entrance fees at Powerscourt House & Gardens, Waterfall, and the Distillery are not included, the tour’s complimentary amenities, luxurious transportation, and flexible itinerary make it a solid choice for those seeking a private, relaxed exploration of Wicklow’s scenic beauty.

Key Points

• Private tour for up to six people, providing personalized attention and comfort
• Eight-hour experience covering seven major stops including Glendalough, Guinness Lake, and Powerscourt
• Expert guide offers tailored commentary, ensuring a flexible pace
• Transport, WiFi, bottled water included, with parking fees covered
• Entry fees for some attractions are not included, so plan accordingly
• Ideal for travelers seeking a customized, intimate exploration of Wicklow’s landscapes and film locations

Starting at Glendalough Monastic Settlement

The tour begins at Glendalough, home to the monastic ruins founded by St Kevin. As an ancient religious site, it features well-preserved structures and offers insight into early Irish Christianity. The site’s poetry and prose traditions are part of its charm, and the 11th-century Latin Lives provide historical context, though modern dates suggest St Kevin was born around the late 6th century and died circa 618.

Visitors can expect a one-hour visit with free admission. The site’s scenic lake views and historic ruins make it a captivating first stop, blending spirituality with natural beauty. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for photography and quiet reflection.

The Iconic Guinness Lake (Lough Tay)

Next, the tour stops at Guinness Lake, known for its unique shape resembling a pint of Guinness due to the white sand on its northern beach. The lake’s blue waters are fed by the Cloghoge River and drain into Lough Dan. The Guinness family estate surrounds part of the area, making it a famous photo location.

Lough Tay is recognized as one of the most photographed spots in Wicklow, thanks to its stunning scenery and distinctive appearance. Its white sand was imported, adding to the lake’s visual appeal. An excellent viewing point is available along the road, offering a panoramic view of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Travelers appreciate that water—the key ingredient in Guinness beer—comes from Wicklow, adding a local connection to the visit. The 30-minute stop is perfect for capturing photos and soaking in Ireland’s natural artistry.

Sights and Stories at Sally Gap

The Sally Gap is a highlight for its breathtaking views of the Wicklow Mountains and blanket bogs. The final stop on the route offers a 30-minute window to enjoy the spectacular scenery and learn about its Irish name origins, related to ancient “bealach” (pass) and Irish words.

The Sally Gap is also famous as a film location, notably for scenes from “P.S. I Love You”. The mountain passes provide a dramatic backdrop for photographs and are perfect for a short walk or simply appreciating the vast landscape.

Powerscourt Waterfall: Ireland’s Highest

One of Wicklow’s most cherished natural landmarks is the Powerscourt Waterfall, where movies like Vikings have been filmed since the 1920s. It is Ireland’s highest waterfall, offering a powerful display of water motion and soothing sounds.

Beyond its scenic appeal, the waterfall boasts unusual tree species and some of Ireland’s tallest trees. Visitors can enjoy a one-hour visit, taking in the unspoiled beauty and refreshing atmosphere. The site is also connected to the Lord Powerscourt Deer Park, where Sika Deer have been introduced, adding an extra layer of interest.

Though entrance fees are not included, the natural spectacle and historical significance make this stop worthwhile for nature lovers and film enthusiasts alike.

Discovering Powerscourt House & Gardens

The Powerscourt House & Gardens is a top-rated estate, renowned for its Palladian mansion and expansive grounds. This site has hosted over fifty movies and TV series, including the filming of “Henry V” by Laurence Olivier in 1944.

The estate features beautiful gardens, a charming shop with Irish-designed items, and a cozy café offering delicious coffee and cake. Visitors can spend around two hours exploring this historical yet picturesque location.

The film history combined with the world-class gardens makes Powerscourt a highlight for those interested in Irish culture and scenery. The adventure includes free parking, with entrance fees paid separately.

The Craft of Whiskey at Powerscourt Distillery

The Powerscourt Distillery is a recent addition to Wicklow’s attractions, offering a chance to tour Ireland’s newest whiskey producer. The distillery was built following a proposal by Gerry Ginty and partners, with planning permission granted in 2015.

The Fercullen Single Malt, distilled and matured onsite, has already gained recognition, winning GOLD at the 2023 Icons of Whiskey Awards. Visitors can learn about whiskey-making processes under the guidance of Master Distiller Paul Corbett and Whiskey Head John Cashman.

Although admission is not included, the guides’ expertise and the opportunity to taste the locally crafted whiskey make this a noteworthy stop for enthusiasts.

The Flexibility of a Private Tour Experience

This private tour allows for tailoring the schedule based on your interests and pacing. The luxury transportation ensures comfort and convenience, while WiFi onboard helps stay connected during the day.

The group size—up to six people—provides an intimate experience, and pickup is available from Dublin. The 8-hour duration balances sightseeing with relaxation, avoiding the rush of larger group tours. This setup is particularly suitable for families, couples, or small groups seeking a personalized day out.

Practical Details and Considerations

The cost of $1,099.72 covers private transportation, bottled water, WiFi, and parking fees, but entrance fees for Powerscourt Waterfall, House & Gardens, and the Distillery are not included. Travelers should budget for these separately.

Most travellers find the timing suitable, with two hours allocated for travel and stops. The tour begins with pickup in Dublin, making it a straightforward day trip without the need to navigate by yourself.

While physical activity is minimal, some sites involve walking on uneven terrain—particularly at Glendalough and Powerscourt Waterfall—so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Why Choose This Wicklow Private Tour?

This private Wicklow tour stands out for its flexibility, personalized attention, and focus on Ireland’s scenic and cultural highlights. The expert guide ensures that each stop is meaningful, whether exploring historic ruins, enjoying natural beauty, or celebrating film heritage.

The carefully selected stops, combined with luxury transport and customizable pacing, make it ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, tailored experience of Wicklow’s most captivating sights. The price point reflects the private, exclusive nature of the tour, and the positive reviews underscore its reliability and guide quality.

Final Thoughts on the Wicklow Private Day Tour

For those looking to see Ireland’s “Garden of Ireland” without the hassle of planning each stop, this eight-hour private tour offers convenience, comfort, and personalized insights. The stops at Glendalough, Guinness Lake, Sally Gap, and Powerscourt provide a well-rounded view of Wicklow’s natural beauty and film history.

While entrance fees are extra, the value of private transportation and customized itinerary make this a worthwhile investment for small groups or families seeking a stress-free, immersive day in Wicklow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers private transportation, bottled water, WiFi onboard, and parking fees. Entrance fees for Powerscourt Waterfall, House & Gardens, and the Distillery are not included.

How long does the tour last?
The tour duration is approximately 8 hours, with time allocated for each stop and travel between locations.

Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes, being a private tour, the schedule can be tailored to your interests and pace, making it a flexible experience.

What stops are part of this Wicklow trip?
The stops include Glendalough Monastic Settlement, Guinness Lake (Lough Tay), Sally Gap, Powerscourt Waterfall, Powerscourt House & Gardens, and Powerscourt Distillery.

Is this tour suitable for all physical levels?
Most stops involve minimal walking, but some sites, like Powerscourt Waterfall, may require walking on uneven terrain. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, this tour is most often booked around 112 days in advance, ensuring availability and proper planning.

What are the guide’s strengths?
Guides like Gerry are praised for their knowledge, friendly demeanor, and ability to tailor the experience based on the group’s interests.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup in Dublin is offered, simplifying logistics for travelers staying in the city.

How do I pay for entrance fees?
Entrance fees are paid separately by participants at each site, as they are not included in the tour price.

What makes this tour stand out?
The personalized nature, well-chosen stops, and luxury transport make this a top recommendation for small groups wanting a thorough and comfortable exploration of Wicklow.