Trek the Tombs and Trails in the Dublin Mountains

Discover the Treasures of the Dublin Mountains on a Guided Trek

For those seeking a nature escape just outside Dublin, the Trek the Tombs and Trails in the Dublin Mountains offers an engaging combination of outdoor adventure, history, and local storytelling. Priced at $178.02 per person and lasting approximately 7 hours, this tour is perfect for travelers who want a manageable yet enriching day trip. Its small-group setting, capped at 8 participants, ensures personalized attention from the guide.

Starting from Dundrum, the tour takes you through enchanting forests and mountain trails, where panoramic views of Dublin and the bay unfold. The tour’s highlights include visits to two ancient megalithic tombs, a cairn tomb, and a triangulation pillar. You get to walk along the Dublin Mountains Way and enjoy the chance to pick wild berries (season permitting), adding a hands-on element to the experience.

The tour concludes at a cozy local cafe or pub, where you can relax and savor local cuisine or a refreshing pint. With group discounts available and the option of a mobile ticket, this trek suits travelers looking for flexibility and a more intimate experience.

Key Points

• 7-hour guided trek through the Dublin Mountains with a small group of up to 8 people
• Visits to two megalithic tombs, including a wedge tomb from the second millennium B.C.
• Panoramic views of Dublin and the bay from mountain vantage points
• Seasonal wild berry picking, perfect for snack or making jam later
• Includes bus transportation to and from the trailhead with a bus pass
• Optional lunch or drink in a rustic cafe or local pub, available at the end of the hike

Starting Point at Dundrum Outside the Luas Station

The tour begins at Dundrum, right outside the Luas station, making it easy to access via public transportation. The bus pass included covers both the trip to the mountain village at the start and the return journey, allowing a stress-free beginning and end to the day.

Once on the bus, the group travels through backroads of the Dublin foothills to reach a remote mountain village. This scenic drive sets the tone for the day, with lush landscapes and peaceful rural views.

Visiting an Ancient Wedge Tomb from the Second Millennium B.C.

One of the tour’s standout stops is an ancient burial wedge tomb, dating back to the second millennium B.C. This megalithic structure offers a glimpse into Ireland’s prehistoric past. The guide provides insights into its construction and significance, making this visit both educational and awe-inspiring.

The tomb is part of a route that follows the Dublin Mountains Way, leading to captivating vistas. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to stand beside such ancient structures and imagine life thousands of years ago.

Taking in the Views from a Mountain Vantage Point

A key highlight is reaching a popular mountain viewpoint where panoramic vistas stretch over Dublin city and the bay area. Perched on a mountain top rock, this spot provides a perfect backdrop for photos and quiet reflection.

Nearby, you’ll notice a never excavated cairn tomb and a triangulation pillar. These features further emphasize the area’s archaeological importance and give the hike a tangible connection to Ireland’s ancient landscape.

Seasonal Wild Berries and Forest Walks

Depending on the time of year, the trek offers an enjoyable opportunity to pick wild berries. Whether eaten fresh or used later for jam or tarts, these seasonal treats add a charming and flavorful dimension to the walk.

The group continues along a ridge with views of Dublin to the north and Wicklow to the south. This stretch offers a memorable combination of natural beauty and historical intrigue.

Second Megalithic Site: The Stone Circle and Mountain Name Significance

After traversing the ridge, the route brings the group to a second ancient site — a stone circle and a burial place. This location is notable for being the mountain upon which it sits is named after the figure buried there.

The guide shares stories about the site’s history and cultural relevance, making this stop both an archaeological and storytelling highlight of the tour.

Walking Through Evergreen Forest and Rural Roads

The trek winds down through an evergreen forest, where the scent of pine and the lush environment provide a peaceful end to the mountain hike. The return route follows a rural back-road, adding to the rustic charm of the experience.

This scenic walk transitions smoothly from the mountain trails to the final stop, preparing visitors for their well-earned rest.

Relaxing at a Rustic Cafe or Local Pub

The tour concludes at a quaint cafe or restaurant, where visitors have the option to enjoy a hearty lunch featuring local produce or unwind with a local pint. This relaxed setting offers a perfect opportunity to reflect on the day’s discoveries and share stories with fellow travelers.

The option for an alternative bus route offers flexibility for those wanting to explore different scenery on the return journey, ensuring the experience remains fresh and engaging.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The small group size enhances the experience by allowing more personalized guidance. The tour requires a moderate physical fitness level to manage the walk along mountain trails and forest paths comfortably.

Service animals are permitted, and the tour’s meeting point at Dundrum is accessible by public transportation, making it convenient for city-based visitors. The free cancellation policy offers flexibility in case of weather concerns, with the tour being contingent on good weather conditions.

Why Choose This Tour?

This tour stands out for combining archaeological exploration with mountain hiking and Irish storytelling. The visits to megalithic tombs and ancient sites set it apart from typical nature walks, offering a deep historical context along with stunning views.

The small group size ensures an intimate, engaging atmosphere, and the inclusion of transportation simplifies logistics. The optional lunch or pub visit adds a cultural touch, rounding out a full day of discovery in the Dublin Mountains.

Who Will Appreciate This Trek?

This experience appeals most to those interested in history and archaeology, as well as nature lovers who enjoy manageable hikes with impressive vistas. It’s suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness and who appreciate storytelling and local culture.

While it’s not suited for those seeking a high-intensity trek, anyone wanting a relaxed yet enriching outdoor experience will find this tour rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $178.02?
The price covers bus transportation, visits to ancient tombs, mountain views, and the guided walk. Lunch and drinks are optional and not included.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Yes, the tour operates with a maximum of 8 travelers for a more personal experience.

Are wild berries available year-round?
Wild berries are available seasonally, so availability depends on the time of year.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is poor?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to bad weather, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts outside Dundrum Luas Station and ends back there, with an option for a different return route.

What level of fitness is required?
The tour requires a moderate physical fitness level to comfortably walk mountain paths and forest trails.

Is this tour accessible for service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

Can I have lunch at the end of the walk?
Yes, there is an option to enjoy lunch in a rustic cafe or pint in a country pub after the hike.

How long does the entire tour last?
The total duration is approximately 7 hours.

Who is the provider of this experience?
The tour is operated by MYBIKEORHIKE.