Nestled in the heart of County Wicklow, the Glendalough & Wicklow Mountains offer a captivating escape from the bustling streets of Dublin. This morning tour whisks visitors away to a world of ancient monasteries, serene lakes, and rolling hills draped in lush greenery. With expert guides providing insights into the region’s rich history and natural wonders, travelers can enjoy the timeless beauty that has drawn visitors to this enchanting corner of Ireland for centuries. From the tranquil Upper Lake to the picturesque Sally Gap, each step of the journey promises to leave a lasting impression on the senses.
Key Points
- Take a 5-hour guided tour from Dublin to explore the scenic Glendalough and Wicklow Mountains, with highlights like Sugarloaf Mountain and St. Kevin’s monastery.
- Enjoy a scenic drive through the lush hills of County Wicklow, known as the ‘Garden of Ireland,’ and visit movie filming locations.
- Experience the tranquil Upper Lake, discover the captivating Glendalough monastic ruins, and take in the stunning landscapes of the Sally Gap.
- The tour offers an immersive cultural experience, with a knowledgeable guide providing insights throughout the journey.
- Convenient departure locations in central Dublin, with round-trip transport, and accessibility considerations for most travelers.
Tour Overview
This tour whisks visitors away from Dublin’s bustling city center to the breathtaking landscapes of Glendalough and the Wicklow Mountains, offering a 5-hour journey through Ireland’s renowned ‘Garden of Ireland.’
Priced from just €33 per person, the tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
You’ll start your adventure at O’Connell Street or the Molly Malone Statue, before embarking on a scenic drive through the stunning County Wicklow.
Along the way, you’ll witness the awe-inspiring Sugarloaf Mountain, explore the monastic ruins of St. Kevin’s monastery in Glendalough, and take in panoramic vistas through the Sally Gap on your return to the capital.
A knowledgeable guide will provide insights throughout the journey.
Itinerary Details
The tour departs from two central Dublin locations – O’Connell Street at 8:00 AM and the Molly Malone Statue on Suffolk Street at 8:10 AM, allowing visitors an easy access point to begin their Glendalough and Wicklow Mountains adventure.
The scenic drive takes guests through the lush, rolling hills of County Wicklow, often referred to as the ‘Garden of Ireland.’ Highlights along the way include:
- Soaring views of the Sugarloaf Mountain
- Serene exploration of the Glendalough monastic ruins
- Traversing the beautiful Wicklow Mountains region
- Capturing memorable movie filming locations from Braveheart and P.S. I Love You
This quintessential Irish countryside tour offers a perfect balance of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and cinematic wonder.
Highlights of the Tour
Among the highlights of this Glendalough and Wicklow Mountains tour is the tranquil walk to the Upper Lake in Glendalough, where visitors can enjoy the serene beauty of this ancient monastic site. Explorers can also discover the impressive ruins of St. Kevin’s monastery, providing a glimpse into Ireland’s rich religious heritage. The scenic drive through the Wicklow Mountains, known as the "Garden of Ireland," offers breathtaking vistas, from the Sugarloaf Mountain to the lush, dense forests. As the tour makes its way back to Dublin, the journey through the Sally Gap is another memorable highlight, with its stunning landscapes that have served as backdrops for various film productions.
| Highlight | Description | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Upper Lake | Tranquil walk to this serene location | 30-45 mins |
| St. Kevin’s Monastery | Explore the impressive monastic ruins | 45-60 mins |
| Scenic Drive | Take in the natural beauty of Wicklow Mountains | 1-1.5 hours |
| Sally Gap | Enjoy the stunning landscapes on the return to Dublin | 30-45 mins |
Exploring Glendalough
At the heart of the Glendalough portion of the tour lies the alluring monastic settlement, where visitors can wander amidst the captivating ruins and envision the daily lives of the devout community that once inhabited this sacred valley.
A tranquil walk to the Upper Lake offers a chance to take in the serene beauty of the glacial waterway, surrounded by the verdant slopes of the Wicklow Mountains.
Exploring the remains of St. Kevin’s monastery, with its iconic round tower, provides a glimpse into the rich history and spirituality of the site.
The tour guide’s insightful commentary brings the past to life, enhancing the overall experience of this enchanting destination.
- Tranquil walk to the Upper Lake
- Exploring the ruins of St. Kevin’s monastery
- Iconic round tower and other architectural remnants
- Immersive experience through the guide’s commentary
Scenic Drive Through Wicklow
Departing the tranquil confines of Glendalough, the tour winds its way through the lush, rolling hills of County Wicklow, often dubbed the ‘Garden of Ireland‘ for its breathtaking natural splendor.
The scenic drive takes visitors along picturesque country roads, past sparkling lakes and dense, verdant forests.
One of the highlights is the crossing of the Sally Gap, a mountain pass that offers panoramic vistas of the Wicklow Mountains.
Along the way, the guide shares insights into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage, pointing out movie filming locations that have graced the stunning landscapes.
The return journey to Dublin provides ample opportunity to soak in the serene beauty of this remarkable corner of Ireland.
Transportation and Accessibility
The tour includes round-trip transportation from central Dublin, providing a convenient and hassle-free way to explore the Wicklow region. Participants won’t need to worry about driving directions or navigating the winding country roads, as the experienced driver handles all the transportation logistics.
While the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, it’s accessible to most visitors with some mobility. The following are recommended for a comfortable experience:
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as there will be some moderate hiking at Glendalough.
- Dress in layers to adapt to the changeable weather in the mountains.
- Bring a water bottle and any snacks you may want during the tour.
- Be prepared for the meeting point to vary slightly based on the booking option selected.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
Customers who’ve experienced the Glendalough & Wicklow Mountains Tour have provided overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on over 1,800 assessments.
The tour’s knowledgeable and engaging guides received a rating of 4.4, while the transportation scored an impressive 4.5.
Reviewers particularly appreciated the service and organization, which scored 4.1 and 4.0 respectively.
Common feedback indicates a desire for more time to explore the stunning Glendalough monastic ruins, and some issues with the start location notification and tour duration.
Booking and Payment Options
Booking the Glendalough & Wicklow Mountains Tour is convenient, with a ‘Reserve now & pay later’ option available.
Travelers can secure their spot on the tour and complete payment closer to the departure date, offering flexibility in planning. The tour is priced from €33.00 per person, and free cancellation is permitted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, accommodating last-minute changes in plans.
The booking process offers several advantages:
- Flexible payment options to suit your needs
- Hassle-free reservation with the ability to plan ahead
- Refund policy that provides peace of mind
- Easy online booking through the tour provider’s website
Whether you’re a spontaneous traveler or prefer to plan well in advance, the Glendalough & Wicklow Mountains Tour has a booking option that caters to your preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There an Option for a Private Tour?
There is no specific mention of a private tour option in the provided information. The tour appears to be a group experience, though private arrangements may be available upon request and subject to additional fees.
Can Children Participate in the Tour?
Yes, children can participate in the tour. The tour is family-friendly and welcomes all ages. Children will enjoy exploring the scenic Glendalough and Wicklow Mountains, learning about the monastic ruins, and taking in the breathtaking natural landscapes.
Is Food or Refreshment Provided During the Tour?
No, the tour does not include any food or refreshments. Participants are responsible for bringing their own snacks and drinks to enjoy during the scenic stops. The focus of the experience is on the stunning landscapes and historical sites along the way.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can reserve the tour and pay later, providing flexibility in their booking. This allows them to easily adjust their plans if needed.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Our Preferences?
The tour can’t be customized, but travelers can request modifications when booking. The operator may accommodate special requests if feasible, like spending more time at Glendalough or adjusting the start location. However, major changes to the core itinerary are unlikely.
Recap
This captivating morning tour through the lush, rolling hills of County Wicklow offers travelers a chance to enjoy Ireland’s breathtaking natural beauty.
From the serene Upper Lake at Glendalough to the picturesque Sally Gap, the journey is filled with awe-inspiring sights brought to life by knowledgeable guides.
With flexible booking options and a free cancellation policy, it’s an unforgettable experience that showcases the best of Ireland’s stunning landscapes.
