The Original Award Winning Wild Wicklow Tour incl. Glendalough

When you’re in Dublin and craving a full day out to see the best of Ireland’s wild landscapes and ancient sites, this tour is a prime choice. For around $63.40 per person, you get a roughly 8.5-hour journey with a small-group experience that’s rich in sights, stories, and authentic moments. Led by knowledgeable guides (many reviews rave about Pat, Ashley, and John), you’ll explore secluded valleys, scenic viewpoints, and medieval monastic ruins at Glendalough. Plus, stops at Killiney Hill, Lough Tay (“The Guinness Lake”), and a traditional Irish pub for lunch make this a compelling blend of nature and culture.

Two things we particularly love about this tour are how small-group intimacy enhances the experience, allowing for more personal storytelling and flexibility, and the carefully curated stops—each one offering a different slice of Irish life and landscape. The tour’s ability to combine breathtaking scenery with historical sites and local food makes it well worth the price.

A possible drawback? The tour involves a fair amount of driving and some walking, so if you’re not keen on bus rides or hikes, it might feel a bit intense. Also, since the tour visits rugged areas, the weather can be unpredictable, so packing rain gear is recommended.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, authentic day out—those eager to see Ireland’s natural beauty, learn about its history, and enjoy a taste of local culture without the hassle of planning each stop.

• Small-group experience offers a more personal and flexible way to explore.
• Diverse highlights include Glendalough ruins, Wicklow Mountains viewpoints, and Irish craft shopping.
• The tour provides authentic Irish culture through stops at local pubs and craft shops.
• Expert guides bring stories alive, making history, landscapes, and legends accessible and fun.
• Value for money given the included stops, tastings, and in-depth storytelling.
• Good for those who enjoy scenic drives, light hikes, and cultural insights in one day.

If you’re looking for a way to escape Dublin’s hustle and step into Ireland’s storied countryside, this Wild Wicklow Tour offers a well-rounded and engaging day. From start to finish, it balances scenic beauty, historical context, and local flavor. Led by guides who receive rave reviews, you’ll go beyond the typical bus tour to experience the true spirit of Ireland’s landscape and heritage.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Two features stand out right away. First, the small coach size means fewer crowds and more room to relax. Unlike large buses that cram everyone in, this smaller vehicle creates an intimate atmosphere, letting you ask questions and take in views without feeling like just another face in the crowd. Second, the curated stops—from coffee shops to ancient ruins—are thoughtfully chosen to give you a well-paced, enriching experience.

The price point is quite reasonable considering the inclusions: expert guiding, scenic routes, tastings, and free time at Glendalough. It’s a good value for travelers wanting in-depth insight rather than just a quick look at sights. That said, it does involve several hours on the coach, so if long rides or lots of walking aren’t your thing, you may want to prep accordingly.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, landscape lovers, and culture seekers who want a full taste of what Ireland’s Wicklow region has to offer, all in one day.

The Full Itinerary Breakdown

Killiney Hill and Dublin’s Coastal Views

We start early, meeting at a central Dublin pickup point, and immediately feel the difference small-group tours make. The drive out of the city takes us along the southern coast, passing Sandycove and Dalkey, areas known for their stunning sea views and film connections. Killiney Hill offers panoramic views of Dublin Bay—an ideal spot to stretch your legs and snap photos of the city’s skyline against the Atlantic backdrop.

A reviewer notes, “Our guide Patrick took us to various viewpoints and shared fascinating stories about Dublin’s coastal neighborhoods,” which really sets the tone for the day.

Avoca Handweavers and Irish Craftsmanship

Next, we make a stop at Avoca Kilmacanogue, a renowned craft shop and café. Here you can browse handmade textiles, ceramics, and souvenirs, or enjoy a home-baked scone and a cup of tea. This is a lovely chance to pick up authentic Irish gifts and learn about Ireland’s artisan traditions. A visitor described it as “a perfect blend of shopping and culture,” highlighting how this stop adds a special local flavor.

Into the Heart of the Wicklow Mountains

Leaving the coast behind, we head deep into the hills, traveling through Glencree and Enniskerry. This part of the route is only accessible to smaller coaches, which allows us to visit spots larger tour buses can’t reach. The drive through Sally Gap is especially striking, with moorlands, heath, and rugged mountain slopes creating a dramatic landscape.

Here, you’ll stop at Lough Tay, famously called “The Guinness Lake” because of its dark waters and surrounding white sandbanks resembling a pint of Guinness. The scenery has appeared in ‘Braveheart,’ ‘P.S. I Love You,’ and the series ‘Vikings’, making it a must-see for movie buffs.

A reviewer mentioned, “The views from Sally Gap and Lough Tay are absolutely jaw-dropping,” emphasizing how memorable these sights are.

Irish Pub Lunch and Local Flavor

Arriving at Lynhams of Laragh, you’ll enjoy a lunch at a traditional Irish pub. While lunch isn’t included in the tour price, you’ll find options ranging from hearty Irish stews to deli sandwiches, and of course, a pint of Guinness or local cider. Several reviews praise this aspect: “The pub lunch was delicious, and the atmosphere was so authentic,” said one traveler.

If pub food isn’t your preference, ask your guide about alternative options. The relaxed setting gives you a chance to soak in local life before heading to the next highlight.

Glendalough Monastic Settlement: History in the Hills

The highlight for many is the 6th-century monastic site at Glendalough, founded by St. Kevin. The site’s Round Tower, cathedral ruins, and lakeside views make it a magnetic spot for history and nature lovers. The guided tour covers the main sites, explaining their significance and stories behind them; “Our guide brought the history alive, making the ruins feel like a living part of Ireland’s story,” said a review.

You’ll also have free time—about an hour and a half—to explore on your own, walk to the Upper Lake through ancient forests, or simply relax by the lakeside. The scenery here is “absolutely breathtaking,” according to visitors, especially when the weather cooperates.

Return Journey with a Whiskey Tasting

On the way back to Dublin, the coach makes a final stop for a free tot of Glendalough Irish Whiskey, a perfect way to toast the day’s adventures. The guides often share stories and background about the whiskey, adding a touch of Irish culture at the end of the trip.

Transport, Timing, and Group Size

The tour uses luxury Mercedes coaches, which are comfortable and climate-controlled, essential for long days out. The group size is capped at 37 travelers, providing a good balance between social interaction and intimacy, according to reviews.

The total duration, about 8.5 hours, includes around 60 minutes of free time at Glendalough, plus stops for sightseeing, shopping, and lunch. Departure is at 8:45 am, with pickups from central Dublin, including close access to Dun Laoghaire Port for cruise travelers.

What Travelers Say

Reviews highlight how well the guides enhance the experience. Ashley, Pat, and John are repeatedly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to keep everyone engaged. One traveler said, “Pat was the best tour guide I’ve ever had,” and many reviews mention the entertaining storytelling and personalized attention.

The scenery elicits awe, with reviewers describing “gorgeous landscapes,” “breathtaking viewpoints,” and “charming forests”. Several mention the deliciousness of the pub lunch and local treats, adding an authentic culinary dimension.

Considerations Based on Reviews

Some travelers note that more hiking than expected can be tiring, so be prepared for some walking on uneven terrain. Also, the drive involves twisty mountain roads, which may cause motion sickness for sensitive travelers—Dramamine is a tip from some reviews.

Finally, a few mention that waiting for latecomers impacted the schedule, but the tour provider is working on policies to mitigate this.

This Wild Wicklow Tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, landscape photographers, and culture seekers who want to see a wide swath of Ireland’s natural beauty and historical sites in one day. The small-group format, combined with expert guides, ensures a personalized, relaxed experience—more akin to exploring with friends than being herded through a bus.

If you’re eager to walk in ancient forests, marvel at rugged mountains, and learn about Ireland’s monastic past—all while enjoying local food and stories—this trip hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a blend of scenic drives, light hikes, and culture, and who don’t mind spending a few hours on the road to do so.

Given the consistently high reviews and excellent value, it’s a great choice for first-time visitors or anyone wanting to get outside Dublin to experience the authentic, breathtaking beauty of Wicklow.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
Yes, most travelers including families can participate. The tour involves some walking and scenic drives, so it’s best for children who are comfortable with a full day out and some light hikes.

How long do we spend at each stop?
You’ll have about 60 to 90 minutes at Glendalough for exploring and relaxing, plus time at Avoca, Killiney Hill, and Lough Tay. Lunch and whiskey tastings are also part of the schedule.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch isn’t included in the price, but there are options at the pub stop, including Irish home-cooking and sandwiches. It’s a good idea to bring some cash or card for food.

Are the guide and driver knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Multiple reviews praise guides like Pat, Ashley, and John for their entertaining storytelling and deep knowledge of Irish history, culture, and landscapes.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, rain gear, camera, and some cash or cards for souvenirs and lunch. The roads can be twisty, so if you’re prone to motion sickness, consider medication.

Is this tour worth the price?
Yes. For around $63.40, you get a full day of curated highlights, expert guiding, tastings, and free time at major sites—much value considering what’s included.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Whether you’re after breathtaking scenery, historical insights, or a taste of Irish culture, this tour delivers in spades. It’s a thoughtfully designed day that balances adventure, education, and relaxation, making it a highlight for many visitors to Dublin.