The Glendalough & Wicklow Mountains Afternoon Tour from Dublin offers an immersive experience in the stunning landscapes of County Wicklow. Visitors can explore the ancient monastic ruins of Glendalough, admiring the iconic Round Tower and Celtic crosses, while also discovering filming locations from popular movies. The tour showcases the area’s natural beauty, including serene lakes, majestic mountains, and the scenic Wicklow Mountains. For those seeking to experience the captivating Irish countryside beyond Dublin, this tour provides an ideal opportunity to delve deeper into the region’s rich history and natural wonders.
Key Points
- Explores the scenic landscapes of County Wicklow, including the Wicklow Mountains, serene lakes, and filming locations from popular movies.
- Visits the historic Glendalough monastic site, featuring the iconic Round Tower, medieval cathedral ruins, and hiking trails.
- Allows visitors to experience the beauty of the Irish countryside without the hassle of renting a car.
- Provides breathtaking vistas and panoramic views throughout the tour, showcasing Ireland’s natural splendor.
- Offers an immersive way to discover the cultural and historical significance of Glendalough and the Wicklow region.
Overview of the Tour
This tour allows visitors to explore the scenic landscapes of County Wicklow and the historic monastic site of Glendalough, located just south of Dublin.
Travelers can skip the hassle of renting a car and simply enjoy the drive as they admire the region’s beautiful lakes, forests, and mountains.
Along the way, they’ll visit filming locations from popular movies like Braveheart, including the ancient monastic ruins and Celtic crosses at Glendalough.
With a local guide leading the way, participants can learn about the area’s rich history and natural wonders.
Whether you’re seeking stunning scenery or cultural heritage, this afternoon tour offers an ideal way to experience the beauty of Ireland beyond Dublin.
Highlights of the Itinerary
Visitors enjoy the captivating landscapes of County Wicklow, marveling at the serene lakes, lush forests, and majestic mountains that unfold before them on the journey.
The tour then takes them to the historic Glendalough, where they explore the ancient monastic ruins and admire the Celtic crosses that have stood the test of time.
Along the way, they discover filming locations from popular movies like Braveheart, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the experience.
Whether admiring the natural beauty or delving into the region’s rich history, travelers are sure to be enchanted by the highlights of this Wicklow and Glendalough driving tour.
Exploring County Wicklow
The tour whisks participants away from Dublin to the stunning landscapes of County Wicklow, where they enjoy the area’s natural splendor.
Rolling hills, serene lakes, and majestic mountains dominate the scenery, offering a peaceful respite from the bustling capital city. Along the way, travelers catch glimpses of filming locations featured in popular movies, adding an intriguing layer to the experience.
Driving through the Wicklow Mountains, the group takes in breathtaking vistas at every turn. The rugged terrain and lush greenery create a captivating backdrop for the journey, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the beauty of the Irish countryside.
Whether admiring the panoramic views or exploring the region’s rich history, this tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to experience the charms of County Wicklow.
Visiting Glendalough Monastic Site
One of the highlights of the tour is a visit to the Glendalough monastic site, an ancient and well-preserved ecclesiastical settlement nestled in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains. Visitors can explore the iconic Round Tower, the remains of the cathedral, and several churches dating back to the 6th century. The serene valley and two lakes provide a picturesque setting for this historic site, which was once an important center of learning and pilgrimage. Here’s a quick overview of the key features:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Round Tower | Iconic 100-foot tall stone tower, one of the best preserved in Ireland |
| Cathedral | Ruins of the large cathedral, dating back to the 10th-12th centuries |
| Churches | Several smaller churches and monastic buildings from the early medieval period |
| Lakes | Two glacial lakes, Upper Lake and Lower Lake, surrounded by mountains |
| Trails | Scenic hiking trails through the peaceful, wooded valley |
Scenery and Landscapes
Beyond the historic Glendalough site, the Wicklow Mountains showcase Ireland’s breathtaking natural beauty. Rolling green hills, tranquil forests, and glistening lakes compose the scenic backdrops that have made this region a popular filming location.
Visitors can admire the dramatic peaks and valleys from the comfort of the tour bus, or venture out to explore the area’s extensive trail network on foot.
Some highlights of the Wicklow Mountains include:
- The serene Upper Lake at Glendalough, surrounded by wooded slopes
- The scenic Lough Dan, a crystal-clear lake nestled between mountains
- The dramatic cliff formations and waterfalls along the Powerscourt Estate
- The panoramic views from the Sally Gap mountain pass
Transportation and Logistics
This tour offers a convenient way to explore the Wicklow Mountains and Glendalough without the hassle of driving yourself. Travelers can sit back and enjoy the scenic drive from Dublin, while an experienced guide navigates the winding roads and provides insightful commentary along the way.
The tour starts and ends at a convenient location in central Dublin, making it easy to access. With a maximum of 64 travelers, the group size is small enough to provide a personalized experience.
The tour is also accessible for those with strollers, and infant seats are available. The transportation and logistics of this tour are designed to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Tour Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes a local guide and a driver/guide who’ll provide commentary during the drive, as well as the fuel surcharge. Travelers won’t need to worry about renting a car or navigating the winding roads, as the tour handles all the transportation.
The tour’s inclusions make it a hassle-free way to explore the scenic Wicklow Mountains and Glendalough.
Highlights include:
- Admiring the beautiful lakes, forests, and mountains of County Wicklow
- Visiting filming locations from movies like Braveheart
- Exploring the monastic ruins and Celtic crosses at Glendalough
- Skipping the stress of driving and enjoying the scenery instead
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Wicklow and Glendalough tour, with over 330 reviews and a 4.0 average rating across Viator and Tripadvisor.
Many reviewers highlight the stunning natural scenery of the Wicklow Mountains and Glendalough, describing the landscapes as breathtaking and picturesque.
Customers also commend the knowledgeable and engaging tour guides, who provide valuable insights about the history and culture of the region.
Several reviewers note that the tour was a highlight of their trip to Ireland, allowing them to explore beyond Dublin and discover the country’s beautiful countryside.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?
Pets are generally not allowed on tours, as they can disrupt the experience for other participants. The tour operator’s policies likely prohibit bringing pets to ensure the comfort and safety of all guests. Guests should check with the tour provider before attempting to bring a pet.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Yes, passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour does not provide any meals, so bringing snacks and water/beverages is recommended to have during the drive and stops.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
There is no option to extend the tour duration. The tour has a set duration of an afternoon, as clearly stated in the tour details. Travelers must adhere to the specified start and end times.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?
The cancellation policy typically allows for full refunds if cancelled up to 24 hours in advance. Some tours may have stricter policies, so it’s best to check the specific details when booking. Cancellations within 24 hours often result in no refund.
Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?
Yes, there may be discounts for group bookings on this tour. Customers should check with the tour operator for their specific group booking policy and any applicable discounts. The size of the group and booking timing can impact pricing.
Recap
The Glendalough & Wicklow Mountains Afternoon Tour from Dublin offers an immersive experience in the stunning landscapes of County Wicklow.
Visitors can explore the ancient monastic ruins of Glendalough, admire the iconic Round Tower, and enjoy the region’s natural beauty, including serene lakes, majestic mountains, and scenic Wicklow Mountains.
This tour provides an ideal way for visitors to experience the captivating Irish countryside beyond Dublin.
