The Original Award Winning Wild Wicklow Tour incl. Glendalough

Travelers seeking a well-rounded taste of Ireland’s stunning landscapes, historic sites, and authentic charm often turn to the Wild Wicklow Tour. With a near-perfect rating of 5.0 from over 3,150 reviews, this tour is praised for its scenic beauty, knowledgeable guides, and excellent value. It’s a full-day experience that takes you beyond Dublin’s city limits into the rugged beauty of Wicklow County, with highlights that include medieval monastic ruins, mountain viewpoints, and Irish craft shopping.

What we love about this tour is its careful balance of nature, history, and culture, all delivered with a friendly, small-group vibe. The itinerary allows plenty of time to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed, and the stops at places like Glendalough and Sally’s Gap showcase some of Ireland’s most iconic vistas. However, a key consideration is that the drive involves some mountain roads that can be twisty, so it might not be ideal for those prone to motion sickness or looking for a very relaxed, low-activity day.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want to see the countryside, enjoy Irish hospitality, and learn about Ireland’s history in a lively but relaxed setting. It’s ideal for those who appreciate good storytelling, scenic drives, and a mix of cultural and natural highlights in one well-organized package.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: The drive through Wicklow Mountains and stops at Lough Tay and Sally’s Gap show some of Ireland’s most photogenic landscapes.
• Rich Cultural Stops: The visit to Glendalough offers a glimpse into Ireland’s early Christian monastic history, with guided insights into the ruins and surroundings.
• Authentic Irish Experience: Shopping at Avoca Handweavers and visiting a traditional pub for lunch add local flavor.
• Expert Guides: Reviewers frequently mention guides like Patrick and Ashley for their friendliness, knowledge, and storytelling skills.
• Small Group Comfort: With a maximum of 37 travelers, the tour feels personalized, allowing for more interaction and better access to viewpoints.
• Good Value: At around $63.40, this tour provides an extensive glimpse of Wicklow’s highlights, along with tastings and enough free time to explore.

In-Depth Review of the Wild Wicklow Tour

How the Tour Starts and Transportation

From the moment you meet your guide at one of Dublin’s central pickup points, you feel the tour’s promise of a comfortable, personable experience. The coach is a luxurious Mercedes model, well-air-conditioned and accommodating up to about 37 travelers, creating an intimate atmosphere compared to larger bus tours. You’ll quickly notice the smaller group size, which many reviews agree makes the experience more relaxed and engaging.

The journey kicks off at 8:45 am, heading out of Dublin with a professional guide who doubles as a storyteller. The driver, often praised for their skill navigating mountain roads, keeps things smooth, even on the twisty sections. You’ll pass through Dublin’s coastal suburbs like Sandycove and Dalkey, enjoying views of the sea and glimpses of local life before heading inland to Wicklow.

First Stop: Killiney Hill

Your first scenic stop is Killiney Hill, just outside Dublin, where a short walk rewards you with sweeping views over Dublin Bay. It’s a perfect introduction to Ireland’s dramatic coastline, and many reviewers mention how these initial vistas set the tone for the day. This stop is about 40 minutes long, giving enough time to take photos and absorb the fresh sea air before heading further into the mountains.

Avoca Handweavers

Next, the tour takes you to Kilmacanogue to visit Avoca Handweavers, a renowned Irish crafts shop. Here, you can browse handmade Irish goods, from woolen scarves to pottery, or grab a hot drink and a scone (own expense). Reviewers love this stop for its genuine Irish atmosphere and the chance to pick up souvenirs that reflect local crafts. The 25-minute visit offers a quick but meaningful culture.

Scenic Drive and Sally’s Gap

Reboarding the coach, you venture through Enniskerry and Glencree, entering the Wicklow Mountains National Park. A major highlight is the drive through Sally’s Gap, a mountain pass famous for its rugged beauty and film connections—like “Braveheart” and “Vikings.” Expect breathtaking views of heath, bogs, and mountain slopes. This section is about 1.5 hours, during which guides often share stories about the landscape’s geology and history, adding depth to the scenery.

At Lough Taye, known as “The Guinness Lake” for its dark waters and rolling hills, you’ll see why this location has become a filming backdrop. Many reviews mention how scenic and photogenic these spots are, and some note that the drive can be a bit winding, so bring motion sickness medication if needed.

Lunch at Lynhams of Laragh

After the mountain drive, you arrive at Lynhams of Laragh, a traditional Irish pub, for lunch (own expense). The pub offers hearty Irish fare—think stews, sandwiches, and, of course, Guinness. Reviewers have enjoyed this relaxed stop for its cozy atmosphere and authentic Irish hospitality. If pub food isn’t your thing, ask your guide about alternatives, as they usually accommodate different tastes.

Glendalough Monastic Site

The final major stop is Glendalough, a site that combines natural beauty with centuries of history. Founded in the 6th century by Saint Kevin, this monastic settlement was once a thriving religious center. Today, it’s a site of pilgrimage and peaceful reflection, with well-preserved ruins, including the iconic Round Tower.

A guided tour here gives insights into the monks’ lives, their manuscripts, and the spiritual significance of the place. You’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore independently, walking along ancient forest paths to the Upper Lake or simply soaking in the mystical atmosphere. Reviewers appreciate the time dedicated to this stop, as it’s a highlight that offers both cultural education and stunning scenery.

Returning to Dublin

On the journey back, the guide offers a complimentary little tasting of Glendalough Irish Whiskey, a little treat to finish the day. Many travelers mention how guides like Patrick and Ashley made the trip engaging through storytelling, historical anecdotes, and humor.

What the Experience Means for You

This tour is more than just a sightseeing run. It’s a carefully curated experience that balances scenic beauty, history, and local culture. The small-group setting, friendly guides, and well-paced itinerary make it appealing for those who want to explore Ireland’s countryside without feeling rushed or lost in a crowd.

While the drive involves mountain roads that can be winding, most reviews mention that guides do their best to make the trip comfortable and safe. The stops at iconic sites like Lough Taye and Glendalough provide ample photo opportunities and moments of tranquility away from city life. The inclusion of Irish craft shopping and pub lunch adds a layer of authenticity that enhances the overall value.

Price and Value

At around $63.40, this tour strikes a good balance between cost and what’s included. The guided commentary, scenic drives, whiskey tasting, and free time at Glendalough mean you’re getting a comprehensive Irish experience at a reasonable price point. For those with limited time in Dublin, it’s a solid choice to see a different side of Ireland—one filled with rugged mountains, ancient ruins, and genuine Irish hospitality.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy a mix of scenery, culture, and storytelling, this tour will be right up your alley. It suits travelers who appreciate small groups, comfortable transportation, and a full day of exploring. It’s especially well-suited for history buffs, photography enthusiasts, and those wanting to experience Ireland’s natural beauty without extensive hiking or self-driving.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
Approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, including travel, stops, and free exploration time.

What is included in the tour?
A professional guide, small coach transportation, scenic viewpoints, whiskey tasting, and free time at Glendalough.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included but is available at Lynhams of Laragh or nearby options. The pub offers Irish home-cooking and Guinness.

Are there any physical activity requirements?
There’s some walking involved at Glendalough and Killiney Hill, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Reviewers mention it’s more active than some bus tours.

What’s the group size?
Up to 37 travelers, which allows for a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this suitable for children?
Most travelers say yes, but keep in mind the walking and mountain roads might be less ideal for very young children.

How do I get to the pickup points?
Pickup points are centrally located in Dublin, including near Dunlaoghaire Port; check your booking details for exact locations.

Final Thoughts

The Wild Wicklow Tour offers a compelling blend of Ireland’s rugged landscapes, fascinating history, and lively cultural stops, all wrapped in a friendly, small-group format. With guides like Patrick and Ashley consistently praised for their knowledge and humor, it’s clear that this experience is designed to entertain and inform.

The value for money is another strong point—covering scenic drives, cultural highlights, whiskey tastings, and generous free exploration time. While mountain roads can be winding, most travelers feel the stunning views and engaging commentary make it worthwhile. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free way to see Ireland’s natural beauty and historical sites in one day.

If you’re after a well-organized, authentic, and scenic escape from Dublin, this tour is hard to beat. It’s perfect for history lovers, nature photographers, and anyone eager to experience the genuine charm of Wicklow’s landscapes and villages.

Note: Always check current availability and cancellation policies before booking, especially during winter or busy travel seasons.