Wicklow, Glendalough and Sheep Dog Demonstration Private Tour

A 5-star-rated private tour from Dublin offers an ideal way to explore County Wicklow’s breathtaking scenery, historic sites, and local farm life. Priced at $900.68 per group, this 8-hour experience comfortably accommodates up to 8 people. Led by a knowledgeable driver-guide, the tour combines scenic drives, engaging stops, and exclusive access to highlights like a sheepdog demonstration, Glendalough’s monastic ruins, and the Powerscourt Gardens—ranked the third-best garden worldwide by National Geographic.

This tour is perfect for those seeking a comprehensive day trip with personalized attention, scenic beauty, and cultural insights. It includes private transportation, guiding services, and the all-important sheepdog demonstration, with no extra charge. While lunch isn’t included, the itinerary packs in memorable moments, making it an excellent choice for travelers eager to see Wicklow’s natural and historical treasures.

Key Points

• Private, guided 8-hour tour from Dublin for up to 8 guests
• Includes sheepdog demonstration and entrance to Glendalough
• Visit Powerscourt House & Gardens, ranked No. 3 in the world
• Stops at Guinness Lake and P.S. I Love You Bridge for iconic photo opportunities
• Drive through Hollywood village and Wicklow Mountains National Park
• No lunch included, but plenty of scenic and cultural highlights

Wicklow’s Natural Beauty and Scenic Drives

This tour showcases the stunning landscapes of County Wicklow, known as the Garden of Ireland. The driver-guide navigates quaint narrow roads through lush valleys, lakes, and mountains, revealing the lush greenery that has made Wicklow a film favorite for movies like Braveheart and series such as Vikings and Ballykissangel. The scenery is a major draw, with stops designed to maximize your visual experience.

The drive through mountainous terrain, boglands, and wooded valleys offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of Wicklow while relaxing in the comfort of private transportation. The pace allows ample time to appreciate the views without feeling rushed, making it suitable for visitors of most ages and mobility levels.

Exploring the Ancient Monastic Settlement at Glendalough

One of the tour’s highlights is a visit to the Glendalough Monastic Settlement, founded by St. Kevin over 1,500 years ago. The ancient ruins stand as a testament to Ireland’s early Christian history, with stone churches, a round tower, and tranquil lakes nearby. The admission to the site is included, giving you the chance to walk among the old stone structures, soak in the spiritual atmosphere, and imagine life in medieval Ireland.

The one-hour stop is well-paced, allowing enough time for exploration and photos. The scenic surroundings of Glendalough make it an ideal spot to appreciate Ireland’s heritage and natural beauty simultaneously, with a backdrop that’s ideal for photography.

Encounter with Irish Sheepdogs on a Working Farm

A unique feature of this tour is the sheepdog demonstration at a working farm near Wicklow. Here, visitors get to meet the farmer and learn about the history of sheep herding in Ireland. The demonstration showcases working sheepdogs in action, demonstrating their skills in herding sheep across the farm.

This hour-long experience offers insight into traditional Irish farming practices and the breeds of sheep native to the region. It’s a practical and engaging stop, especially for animal lovers or those interested in rural life. The admission fee for this activity is included, making it a valuable addition to the overall experience.

Discover Guinness Lake and Its Famous Filming Locations

Guinness Lake, also known as Lough Tay, is renowned for its striking appearance and film connection. The 15-minute stop offers breathtaking views of the lake, with its dark waters and surrounding greenery resembling a pint of Guinness—hence the nickname. Scenes from the TV series Vikings and movies like Irish Wish were filmed here, adding a cinematic touch.

This quick stop is perfect for snapping memorable photos of one of Wicklow’s most iconic sights. Its proximity to other stops makes it an easy addition to the day’s itinerary, providing a scenic photo opportunity that’s both fun and visually impressive.

P.S. I Love You Bridge and Movie Memories

A visit to the P.S. I Love You Bridge is a must for fans of the film. This 15-minute stop allows guests to capture photos at the spot where Gerard Butler and Hilary Swank’s characters shared a romantic moment in the movie P.S. I Love You. The location offers lovely views of the surrounding countryside, adding a romantic touch to your day.

This stop is a quick but charming way to connect with Irish cinema history, providing a few minutes for photos and soaking in the scenery.

Driving the Military Road Through Wicklow’s Mountains

The 30-minute drive along the Military Road offers a leisurely return route toward Dublin. This scenic route takes you through mountains, valleys, and woodlands, giving a comprehensive view of Wicklow’s rugged landscape. The guide’s commentary enhances the experience by pointing out notable features and landscape highlights.

This part of the tour balances sightseeing with relaxing travel, making it an excellent way to transition back to Dublin while still enjoying Wicklow’s scenery.

Visiting Powerscourt House & Gardens

The tour concludes with a visit to the Powerscourt House & Gardens, rated No. 3 in the world by National Geographic. The beautiful gardens and historic house provide a refined end to the day. The one-hour stop includes entrance fees, giving guests time to stroll through the meticulously maintained gardens, admire the ornate architecture, and enjoy scenic views.

This stop offers a peaceful setting for reflection on the day’s adventures and provides excellent photo opportunities amid some of Ireland’s most celebrated landscaping.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

This private tour departs from Dublin at 8:00 am and lasts approximately 8 hours. It includes pickup, private transportation, and guiding services, with the sheepdog demonstration and entrance to Glendalough covered in the fee. No lunch is included, so travelers may wish to bring snacks or plan for meal options during their day.

The tour is designed for most travelers, with service animals allowed and a full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance. The group size is limited to 8 people, ensuring a personalized experience.

Who Would Enjoy This Wicklow Tour?

This tour suits those interested in a diverse mix of nature, history, and rural culture. It appeals to visitors who want an intimate, guided experience without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. The stops at iconic locations like Guinness Lake, Glendalough, and Powerscourt Gardens guarantee memorable photos and insights.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers eager to see Wicklow’s famous scenery and historic sites with the comfort of private transportation. The sheepdog demonstration adds a distinctive local flavor that sets this tour apart from more generic day trips.

Final Thoughts on the Wicklow Private Tour

This 8-hour private journey offers an engaging blend of scenic drives, historic ruins, and rural life, driven by an expert guide. The expertly curated stops ensure visitors experience Wicklow’s most striking sights, while the inclusion of a sheepdog demonstration provides a fun and educational rural activity.

While the price may seem high, the private nature and comprehensive itinerary justify the cost for those seeking a relaxed, personalized exploration of Ireland’s Garden of Ireland. The tour’s balance of nature, history, and film locations makes it especially appealing for first-time visitors or those with limited time in Dublin.

In summary, this tour delivers a memorable, scenic, and culturally rich day in Wicklow, perfect for travelers who value personalized service and want to see Ireland’s countryside at its best.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The private transportation, guiding services, sheepdog demonstration, and entrance to Glendalough are included in the $900.68 fee.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:00 am from Dublin.

Is lunch provided?
No, lunch is not included, so travelers should plan to bring snacks or arrange their own meal.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The information suggests most travelers can participate, but the tour involves walking at Glendalough and some uneven terrain. Service animals are allowed.

What makes this tour stand out?
The private guided experience, sheepdog demonstration, and visits to iconic film locations like Guinness Lake and P.S. I Love You Bridge distinguish this trip.

How many people can join this tour?
Up to 8 guests can participate, making it intimate and personalized.

Is pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered from Dublin, making logistics straightforward.

What is the reputation of this tour?
It holds a perfect 5.0/5 rating based on one review praising the knowledgeable guide and breathtaking views.

Where can I find similar experiences?
Additional tours such as the Cliffs of Moher, Guinness Storehouse, Old Jameson Distillery, and Blarney Castle are available, but this tour uniquely combines scenic landscapes with rural farm life.