This tour promises a journey just outside Dublin’s city limits, where you’ll find a peaceful landscape of rolling hills, ancient burial sites, and spectacular views over Dublin Bay and Wicklow. It’s perfect for those wanting to escape the busy streets, breathe fresh mountain air, and connect with Ireland’s landscape and stories. The experience is led by a knowledgeable guide, ensuring you learn about Irish archaeology, mythology, and local history along the way.
Two standout features I particularly appreciated are the stunning mountain and sea vistas you’ll enjoy throughout the trek and the opportunity to learn about Ireland’s ancient sites from an engaging guide. The chance to sample wild berries or indulge in a rustic café lunch adds a lovely touch of authenticity. A potential drawback? The tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or young children under 15, which is worth considering if you’re traveling with family or friends with different needs.
Key points / Takeaways
- Accessible journey from Dublin, yet feels worlds away from city life.
- Spectacular views over Dublin, Wicklow, and the Irish Sea.
- Ancient sites, including a wedge tomb and stone circle, showcase Ireland’s prehistoric past.
- Informative storytelling by guides like Eoin, who make history come alive.
- Wild berries and local cuisine add a charming, sensory dimension.
- Flexible routes with alternative scenic paths and return options for variety.
Exploring the Dublin Mountains and Megaliths
When I hear “hiking near Dublin,” I think of city breaks and pub nights. But this tour changed that perspective entirely. It’s a seven-hour escape that combines outdoor activity, ancient history, and breathtaking scenery, all accessible with public transportation. Starting at Dundrum LUAS station, you’ll ride a local bus through quiet backroads toward a rugged corner of County Dublin, far from the hustle and bustle.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Dublin County.
What to Expect on the Journey
The day begins with a short bus ride – about 30 minutes – through lush, quiet countryside to the village of Glencullen. From there, the adventure starts on foot, following a mountain trail that’s gentle enough for most people in decent shape but offers enough incline to feel like a true mountain hike. The guide, often a local like Eoin, weaves stories about Irish myths, ancient burial sites, and the landscape’s natural features, making the walk both educational and engaging.
Visiting the Ancient Megaliths
One of the highlights is visiting a second millennium B.C. wedge tomb hidden amidst trees. These tombs are fascinating relics of early Irish civilization, and standing at one gives you a real sense of walking through the ages. Later, you’ll see a stone circle—a marker of Ireland’s prehistoric past—on a mountain top named after the man buried there. These sites are not just pretty stones; they’re windows into a distant world, and your guide will fill you in on their significance.
Panoramic Vistas and Berries
The tour’s best feature is undoubtedly the views. From a prominent vantage point, perched on a rocky outcrop, you’ll gaze over Dublin’s skyline, stretching to the sea, with Wicklow’s mountains in the distance. Depending on the season, you might pick wild berries—sweet, tiny delights perfect for snacking or topping ice-cream later. This moment of snacking amidst nature is charming and authentic.
Forest Walk and Rustic Lunch
The walk continues through evergreen forests and along rural backroads. The scenery shifts from rugged mountain ridges to tranquil woodlands, a perfect contrast to Dublin’s urban scene. After a scenic descent, you’ll arrive at a rustic family-run café, serving hearty local fare—think fresh bread, Irish stew, or homemade scones. It’s a well-earned break, offering a taste of genuine Irish hospitality.
Alternative Routes and Return
The return journey can follow a different route, often via another scenic backroad, adding a fresh perspective to your day. The final stop is back at Dundrum LUAS station, making logistics smooth and straightforward.
Detailed Breakdown of the Tour
Starting Point: Dundrum Outside Luas Station
Your day begins at a modest wooden bench near the bus stop outside the Dundrum LUAS station. The meeting is casual and friendly, with a small private group. From here, the guide introduces what’s ahead, emphasizing safety and sharing some quick local history.
Bus to Glencullen
The bus ride is about half an hour, offering a glimpse of Dublin’s outskirts. You’ll pass lush fields, stone walls, and quaint farms—an everyday Ireland scene, far from touristy spots.
First Stop: Glencullen
Arriving in the mountain village, you get a chance to stretch and admire the view. The walk starts here, heading into a landscape dotted with ancient sites and panoramic vistas.
Scenic Stops: Three Rock, Fairy Castle, Tibradden Mountain
Each stop offers a chance for photos, short walks, and soaking up the scenery. The Three Rock viewpoint is ideal for a quick photo with Dublin and the sea in the background. The Fairy Castle (a historic ruin) and Tibradden Mountain provide further spectacular views and photo opportunities.
Megalithic Sites
The highlight for many is the wedge tomb—a stone structure from Ireland’s early history—and the stone circle, perched on a mountain top that bears the name of a local figure buried there. The guide explains their purpose and significance, making the stones come alive with stories and myths.
Forest Walk and Return
The walk down from the mountain involves a gentle trek through an evergreen forest, a peaceful way to wind down. The rural backroads lead you to the cozy café, where you’ll sample local produce—making the entire experience feel very authentic and satisfying.
The Return Journey
The tour concludes with an alternative bus route back to Dundrum, allowing you to see more scenery. The total duration is about seven hours, perfect for a day trip that fits into most travel schedules.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re into outdoor activities, history, and spectacular views, this is a gem. It’s ideally suited for travelers with a reasonable level of fitness—think a comfortable walk, not a grueling uphill climb—and those eager to see Ireland’s landscape beyond the city.
The experience is particularly good for nature lovers and history enthusiasts who enjoy storytelling and learning about ancient Irish sites in a relaxed setting. Families with older children, especially those interested in mythology and archaeology, will find it both fun and educational.
It’s less suitable for people with mobility issues or very young children under 15, given the walking demands and uneven terrain. Also, if you’re not comfortable with a moderate hike or outdoor weather, you might want to reconsider or prepare accordingly.
Price and Logistics
The tour’s price includes public bus tickets, the guidance of a qualified local (like Eoin), and a personalized digital souvenir, which is a nice touch to remember the day. Food and drinks aren’t included, so bringing snacks and water is advised—though the café lunch is a great reward after the hike.
Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before. You can reserve now and pay later, which is convenient if your plans fluctuate.
Final Thoughts
This Mountains and Megaliths Trek offers a wonderful mix of outdoor adventure, cultural depth, and scenic beauty, all within easy reach of Dublin. It’s ideal for curious travelers who want to see Ireland’s ancient past, enjoy stunning views, and experience the countryside without the hassle of renting a car or planning complex logistics.
The knowledgeable guide, scenic stops, and authentic local touches make it a memorable outing. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, this tour provides a balanced blend of activity and relaxation, with plenty of opportunities to connect with Ireland’s landscape and stories.
For those who love a good hike combined with history and spectacular vistas, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your Dublin visit.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children under 15?
No, children under 15 are not recommended due to the walking demands and terrain.
What should I bring with me?
Bring snacks, hiking shoes, rain gear, a daypack, and a reusable water bottle to stay comfortable and prepared.
Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, public bus tickets are included for both the outward and return trips.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, including stops, walking, and lunch.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is previous hiking experience necessary?
Not necessarily, but good health and a reasonable fitness level are advised.
Are there alternative routes?
Yes, the return journey might follow a different scenic backroad for variety.
Will I get a souvenir?
Yes, a personalized digital souvenir is included after the hike.
What’s the best time of year to do this?
The tour runs seasonally, and the chance to pick wild berries depends on the season; generally, late summer offers the best berry picking.
Is the tour suitable for people with mobility impairments?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users due to terrain.
In all, this tour offers an authentic slice of Irish countryside, ancient history, and stunning scenery—all in a comfortable, well-organized package. Perfect for those seeking a meaningful half-day outside Dublin’s city buzz.