From Dublin: Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough & Kilkenny Tour
Dublin County, Dublin
Escape Dublin on a guided day trip through Ireland's rolling countryside. Enjoy the views at the Wicklow Gap, visit the medieval monastery of Glendalough, and explore the charming city of Kilkenny.
This full-day guided tour from Dublin features medieval Kilkenny, the Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough monastic site, and a traditional Wicklow sheep farm, suited for history and nature enthusiasts.
Highlights
- Visit a traditional Wicklow sheep farm and watch live sheepdog trials
- Explore medieval Kilkenny with free time and an optional guided walking tour
- Drive through the Wicklow Mountains with a Wicklow Gap photo stop (weather permitting)
- Discover Glendalough’s ancient monastic ruins and lakeside valley
- Travel with an expert local guide and separate professional driver
Description
Experience Ireland’s Ancient East on a comfortable full-day tour from Dublin. Discover medieval Kilkenny, the scenic Wicklow Mountains, the monastic valley of Glendalough, and a traditional Irish sheep farm.
Start in Kilkenny City, a well-preserved medieval town along the River Nore. You have about 2.5 hours of free time to explore its cobbled streets, cafés, and historic sites. An optional guided walking tour explains Kilkenny’s Norman heritage and crafts. Visiting Kilkenny Castle is also possible during your free time (entrance fee not included).
Next, travel through the Wicklow Mountains, an area known for its rolling farmland and glacial valleys. The route includes stops for photos at scenic viewpoints including Wicklow Gap, weather permitting. This landscape has featured in films such as Braveheart.
Continue to Glendalough, an early Christian settlement founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century. Spend around 2 hours 15 minutes exploring its Round Tower, ancient churches, and lakeside trails. An optional short guided walk is available.
The tour includes a visit to a Wicklow sheep farm where you can watch live sheepdog trials, demonstrating the traditional partnership between shepherds and dogs. Depending on the season, you may also meet lambs. This provides insight into rural Irish life.
Your expert guide shares local stories and history throughout the day while a dedicated professional driver manages the journey. Note that from November to February and on Sundays, the itinerary runs in reverse order, visiting Glendalough and Wicklow Mountains before Kilkenny.
Includes
- Traditional sheep farm visit with live sheepdog trials
- Guided walking tours in Kilkenny City and Glendalough (optional participation)
- Scenic photo stop at Wicklow Gap (weather permitting)
- Expert local guide throughout the day
- Separate professional driver for a safe and relaxed journey
- Transport by comfortable air-conditioned coach
- WiFi on board (coverage may vary in rural areas)
- Regular comfort and restroom stops during the tour
- Secure luggage storage on board
- All parking and road fees included
Excludes
- Food and drinks
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Restroom on board (regular comfort stops included)
- Gratuities (optional and at your discretion)
Important Information
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure
- The tour departs promptly and cannot wait for late arrivals
- Present your digital or printed voucher to the guide before boarding
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain
- Check the weather forecast and dress for Irish conditions
- Bring a camera to capture the landscape
- Food and drinks are not included but can be purchased during scheduled stops
- There are no restrooms on board, but regular comfort stops are included
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
For the best experience, book in advance and bring layered clothing and comfortable shoes to handle variable weather and walking conditions.
