Dublin to Kilkenny, Wicklow, Glendalough, Laragh Sheep Dog Trial

Traveling through Ireland offers a tapestry of medieval towns, breathtaking landscapes, and stories that seem to breathe from every stone and hillside. This Dublin to Kilkenny, Wicklow, Glendalough, and Laragh Sheep Dog Trial tour by Wild Rover Tours is designed for those who want to experience the country’s historic charm and natural beauty without the hassle of driving. With a comfortable climate-controlled coach, unlimited Wi-Fi, and expert guides, you’ll get a taste of Ireland’s past and present in a single day.

What we love is how this tour balances the big sights — like Kilkenny Castle and Glendalough — with authentic local experiences, such as watching border collies excel at herding sheep on a working farm. The sheepdog demonstration is a highlight for many, giving a real sense of Irish rural life. Plus, the scenic stops at Wicklow Gap offer jaw-dropping views that you’ll want to capture and remember.

A possible consideration is the long day’s drive, which can be tiring, especially if you’re sensitive to bus travel. But, for those eager to see a diverse slice of Ireland in one go, this trip offers excellent value. It’s especially ideal for travelers who prefer guided tours that include a mix of history, nature, and local culture, all wrapped into one seamless experience.

If you’re the type who loves a full itinerary packed with discoveries, fascinating stories, and scenic photo opportunities, this tour is well worth considering. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to avoid the stress of renting a car or planning multiple separate excursions.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary featuring medieval Kilkenny, scenic Wicklow Mountains, and historic Glendalough
• Authentic experiences like sheepdog herding demonstrations and walking tours
• Comfortable coach transport with Wi-Fi and professional guides
• Great value for the price, with multiple highlights packed into one day
• Long but rewarding day — plan for a full schedule and some bus time
• Ideal for those who appreciate a guided, all-in-one Irish adventure with cultural and scenic richness

A Deep Dive into the Experience

We found this tour to be a thoughtfully curated introduction to Ireland’s southeastern charm — a perfect mix of history, nature, and authentic rural life. Starting early in Dublin, the journey begins with an engaging guide who shares stories about the city and countryside, setting a friendly, informative tone. With three meeting points in Dublin, lining up is straightforward, and you’re soon on your way in a climate-controlled coach, making the long day more comfortable.

Kilkenny: Medieval Marvels and Craftsmanship

Your first stop is Kilkenny, often called Ireland’s most vibrant medieval city. You’ll enjoy around 2.5 to 3 hours to explore. The standout here is Kilkenny Castle, dating back to the 12th century, surrounded by lush gardens and extensive grounds. The guided walking tour included in the price covers the castle grounds and notable sites through narrow cobbled streets, offering an intimate glimpse into Ireland’s medieval past.

Many reviewers appreciated the way their guides brought Kilkenny’s stories alive. One from Victoria_W described her experience as “a full value tour going to Kilkenny seeing the castle, going to Saint Canice’s, and looking out over the city after climbing a very narrow circular tower — a lovely way to see the city from above.” You’ll also have time to visit attractions like the Black Abbey or the Hole in the Wall Elizabethan tavern, both packed with character and history, plus plenty of cozy cafes to recharge.

Wicklow Mountains: Scenic Drive and Sheepdog Show

Leaving Kilkenny behind, the tour continues through lush Kildare farmland before reaching the Wicklow Mountains National Park. A highlight is the Wicklow Gap, one of Ireland’s highest mountain passes. Here, the views are truly spectacular — rolling hills, ancient peat bogs, and rugged cliffs, often used as film locations (think “Vikings” and “Braveheart”). If weather permits, you’ll get about 10 minutes to walk around and snap some stunning photos.

Next, the tour takes you to a working Irish sheep farm in Laragh, nestled at the foot of the hills. This is where the sheepdog trial takes center stage, showcasing border collies herding sheep across the fields. Many reviews mention how captivating this demonstration is, providing a true taste of rural Ireland. You’ll have the chance to ask questions, mingle with the lambs (if in season), and interact with the dogs — an experience that sticks with many travelers long after the day ends.

Glendalough: Monastic Wonder and Lakeside Serenity

The final major stop is Glendalough, established in the 6th century by Saint Kevin. This monastic settlement is a site of pilgrimage and awe — ancient churches, a round tower, and graveyards intermingle with two tranquil lakes. You’ll have around two hours to explore, which many reviewers found ample for wandering the ruins, walking along the lakeside, and soaking in the peaceful setting.

Our guide’s storytelling adds depth to the visit, recounting legends and folklore. One reviewer, Molly_K, called Liam “absolutely captivating,” noting he “brought history to life.” The walk around the lower lake is an easy, scenic stroll, perfect for photography or just taking a moment to breathe in the fresh mountain air.

Practicalities and Value for Money

The tour’s 10-hour duration packs in a lot but is paced well enough to avoid feeling rushed. The price of about $52 per person is very reasonable considering the inclusion of guided tours, sheepdog demonstration, and all transportation. The coach’s Wi-Fi helps pass the time, and secure storage for luggage is a thoughtful touch if you’re traveling with bags.

While the drive can be long, many reviews highlight the comfortable coach and engaging guides as key reasons the journey feels enjoyable rather than exhausting. The small group size (max 63) also means you’re unlikely to feel lost in a crowd, and personalized storytelling keeps the experience lively and informative.

What the Reviews Say

Overall, reviews are glowing, with a rating of 4.9 out of 5, and many travelers praise guides like Liam, Neil, and Caroline for their knowledge, humor, and storytelling skills. Highlights often include the sheepdog demo and Glendalough’s peaceful scenery. One traveler noted, “Neil and Dermet were fantastic—funny and interesting,” emphasizing the importance of engaging guides.

Some mention the long bus ride and the time at Glendalough being a bit lengthy, but most agree that the diversity of sights and experiences makes up for it. The value is clear, giving a full day of sightseeing, storytelling, and outdoor fun for a reasonable price.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This trip is perfect for those who want to see a mix of Ireland’s historic towns, rugged mountains, and tranquil lakes without the hassle of planning each stop themselves. It’s especially good for travelers seeking authentic rural experiences, like watching working sheepdogs, and those eager to learn stories behind Ireland’s landmarks.

If you’re interested in medieval architecture, spectacular scenery, and interactive local culture, this tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of southeastern Ireland. The inclusion of guided walks ensures you get context and stories that bring each place alive, rather than just ticking off sights.

However, if you’re sensitive to long bus rides or prefer more free time at each stop, you might find the schedule a bit packed. Still, for under $60, the value and variety make this a compelling choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting early in the morning and returning around 6:15 PM in summer.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are plenty of cafes and refreshment options at Kilkenny and Glendalough.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children under 2 are not allowed. The kids who enjoy animals, scenery, and history tend to love it.

What are the main stops?
Kilkenny for medieval sights, Wicklow Gap for mountain views, Laragh sheep farm for herding demonstrations, and Glendalough for monastic ruins and lakes.

How comfortable is the coach?
The bus is climate-controlled with Wi-Fi and secure luggage storage, making the long drives more enjoyable.

Can I participate in the sheepdog trials?
While you can watch and ask questions, the demonstration itself is a spectacle performed by the shepherd and border collies — a highlight for many.

Final Thoughts

This Dublin to Kilkenny, Wicklow, and Glendalough tour offers an engaging and authentic way to experience Ireland’s southeastern corner. You’ll see iconic medieval sites, stunning mountain scenery, and interact with real working farms, all while enjoying the comfort of a well-organized coach trip. The stories, scenery, and sheepdog demonstrations create a vivid picture of Irish rural life and history, making it an excellent choice for travelers who appreciate a mix of culture, nature, and storytelling.

Perfect for those who want a full-day adventure with knowledgeable guides and a good value, it’s a trip that leaves many visitors feeling inspired and connected to Ireland’s landscape and heritage. Just be prepared for a long day on the road — but with so many highlights packed in, it’s a small price to pay for a day filled with unforgettable sights and experiences.