Dublin: Kilkenny, Wicklow & Glendalough Tour & Sheepdog Show

Exploring Ireland outside Dublin is a rewarding way to see some of its most iconic landscapes and towns without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. One popular option is the full-day tour that covers Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains, and Glendalough, with a delightful sheepdog show thrown in. While the tour stretches over about 10.5 hours, it offers a well-balanced mix of history, scenery, and rural life that keeps things interesting from start to finish.

What I especially appreciate about this experience is how knowledgeable guides like Gina and Quiggs make the history and culture come alive with humor and insight. The scenic drives through Wicklow Mountains showcase Ireland’s legendary rolling hills and lush valleys—perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the views. And the sheepdog show offers a rare peek into traditional Irish farming, with dogs expertly herding sheep, which many reviewers say is a highlight. Plus, the free time in Kilkenny lets you wander at your own pace, exploring medieval streets or relaxing in gardens.

A possible downside is the long duration—up to 2 hours between stops—which can feel a little rushed if you’re eager to linger at each spot. Also, since the tour involves a good amount of walking, it might not suit those with limited mobility. But with comfortable transportation, friendly guides, and a reasonable price of around $34, this trip delivers strong value for those keen on a full flavor of Irish countryside and culture.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic rural experience: The sheepdog demonstration is a genuine look at Irish farm life, often cited as the tour’s highlight.
• Excellent guides: Tour leaders like Gina, Quiggs, and Harry receive high praise for their humor, knowledge, and ability to make history engaging.
• Scenic landscapes: The drive through Wicklow Mountains offers stunning views, often compared to scenes from movies like Braveheart and P.S. I Love You.
• Flexible exploration time: You get several hours in Kilkenny, enough to wander cobbled streets, visit the castle, or enjoy local food.
• Good value for money: At $34 per person, the experience includes transport, a sheepdog demo, and guided sightseeing—offering a lot for the price.
• Long day, lots of walking: Be prepared for a full schedule with up to 2 hours between stops. Suitable footwear and weather gear are recommended.

Entering the Heart of Irish Countryside

This day trip from Dublin is designed to cover some of Ireland’s most picturesque and historic sites efficiently. Starting from central Dublin, you’ll board an air-conditioned bus for a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Glendalough. The journey itself is a treat, with lush landscapes rolling past your window. Many reviews mention how comfortable and smooth the ride is, thanks to skilled drivers like Nishad and Rob.

Once you arrive at Glendalough, you’ll step into a landscape famously associated with St. Kevin. It’s a peaceful, almost sacred place—think ancient monastic ruins, stone churches, and two shimmering lakes. Your guide will take you on a guided tour, highlighting the significance of the site while offering tips for exploring on your own afterward. Many visitors mention how the beauty of the setting makes it easy to spend extra time wandering or simply enjoying the tranquility.

The Wicklow Mountains: Ireland’s Cinematic Backdrop

After Glendalough, a scenic drive takes you through the Wicklow Mountains, often called the “Garden of Ireland.” The views here are stunning, with steep valleys, rocky outcrops, and sweeping vistas. The trip is occasionally compared to scenes from movies, which adds to the allure. Expect some stops at scenic viewpoints where you can stretch your legs and take photos.

One hidden gem stop features a guided tour of a working Irish sheep farm, where the real highlight is the sheepdog demonstration. Farmer Mike and his dogs Sal and Maggie demonstrate traditional herding techniques, responding swiftly to commands. This is a genuine slice of Irish rural life, and many reviews mention how engaging and fun it is—especially for animal lovers or families. You might even get to feed lambs or hold adorable collie pups, which many reviewers say is unforgettable.

Kilkenny: Medieval Charm and Historic Sights

After a roughly 75-minute drive, you arrive in Kilkenny, a city that feels like stepping back into Ireland’s medieval past. With about two hours to explore, you’ll have ample time to wander cobblestone streets, browse boutique shops, or visit Kilkenny Castle. Many visitors enjoy walking along the river or relaxing in the castle gardens, which date back to the 12th century.

Guides like Gina offer great recommendations, pointing out hidden gems and culinary spots. Several reviews rave about how helpful and friendly the guides are, making the visit both informative and enjoyable. The castle itself might feel imposing, but it’s not overly commercialized—more a genuine historical site with a lot of character.

Transport, Logistics, and Practicalities

The tour is priced at around $34, which includes all transportation, entrance to Glendalough, and the sheepdog show. Given the cost of individual entry fees and transportation if arranged separately, this offers good value. The air-conditioned bus and the experienced driver make a long day comfortable, especially since the schedule is well-organized.

Timing-wise, it’s a full 10.5-hour day, with the itinerary carefully planned to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed. However, expect up to 2 hours between stops, so bringing snacks, water, and a good pair of walking shoes is advisable. The tour is best suited for those who love nature, history, or simply want a relaxed way to see some of Ireland’s most beautiful spots without the hassle.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This trip is ideal for travelers who appreciate a mix of outdoor scenery, historic sites, and authentic rural experiences. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy guided tours with lively, knowledgeable guides will find it especially rewarding. Keep in mind, if you have mobility challenges or prefer very leisurely pace, you might find the schedule a bit demanding.

The $34 price tag makes it accessible for most budgets, and reviews consistently praise the guides’ humor and storytelling. If you’re looking to see Ireland’s countryside, castles, and farms in one day, this tour offers a well-rounded snapshot.

FAQ

How long is the tour? The tour lasts about 10.5 hours, starting from Dublin and ending back at Aston Quay.

What’s included in the price? Transportation in an air-conditioned bus, a guided tour, entrance to Glendalough, a sheepdog demonstration, and Wi-Fi on the bus.

Is there free time in Kilkenny? Yes, you get around 2 hours to explore Kilkenny’s streets, castles, and gardens at your own pace.

Can I feed lambs or see puppies? Yes, if you’re lucky, there might be lambs to feed or puppies to pet during the sheepdog demonstration or farm visit.

What should I wear? Comfortable shoes and a jacket are recommended, especially for walking and in case of rain.

Are children suited for this tour? Children comfortable with long walks and extended bus time will enjoy it, but it’s not designed for those with limited mobility.

Are meals included? No, meals are not included but can be purchased at stops. It’s wise to bring snacks and water.

Is this tour suitable for seniors? Generally yes, but keep in mind the walking involved. Check with the provider if mobility is a concern.

Can I cancel this tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This full-day trip offers a delightful combination of Ireland’s landscapes, historic towns, and rural traditions. For those seeking a cost-effective way to see some of the country’s best sights without the stress of planning, it’s a solid choice. Expect stunning views, engaging guides, and a peek into authentic Irish farm life—making it a memorable outing from Dublin.