From Dublin: Kilkenny and Wicklow Mountain Full-Day Tour

Explore the captivating landscapes and historical charm of Ireland on this full-day tour from Dublin. With stops in the medieval city of Kilkenny and the picturesque Wicklow Mountains, this excursion offers an engaging glimpse into the country’s rich heritage. From touring an impressive castle to wandering a tranquil monastic site, the tour promises a memorable adventure for travelers seeking to uncover the allure of the Emerald Isle.

Key Points

• This full-day tour takes visitors from Dublin to the historic city of Kilkenny and the scenic Wicklow Mountains, including the monastic site of Glendalough.
• Priced at $43.62 per person, the tour offers comfortable transportation, English commentary, and the flexibility to explore during scheduled stops.
• Highlights include Kilkenny Castle, traditional Irish craft shops, and the Brownshill Dolmen, showcasing Ireland’s ancient past.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and comfortable shoes are recommended for the day-long excursion.
• With an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, the tour provides a memorable experience through scenic views and historic sites.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Kilkenny and Wicklow Mountain Tour is a full-day scenic excursion from Dublin that takes visitors to the historic city of Kilkenny and the picturesque Glendalough.

Priced from $43.62 per person, this 9-hour tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now & pay later option.

Travelers can explore Kilkenny’s Norman castle, shop for traditional Irish crafts, and visit the monastic city of St. Kevin at Glendalough.

The tour includes comfortable, climate-controlled transportation with English commentary, though it’s not a fully guided experience.

Itinerary Highlights

Travelers can look forward to an exciting itinerary on the Kilkenny and Wicklow Mountain Tour.

The tour showcases the historic Kilkenny, known for its impressive Norman castle. Guests will have free time to explore traditional Irish crafts like knitwear, pottery, and glass.

Plus, the tour visits the monastic city of St. Kevin at Glendalough, which served as filming locations for popular movies like "Braveheart" and "PS I Love You."

The tour also includes a stop at the megalithic portal tomb of Brownshill Dolmen, providing a glimpse into Ireland’s ancient past.

• Historic Kilkenny and its Norman castle

• Traditional Irish crafts in Kilkenny

• Monastic city of Glendalough and filming locations

Transportation and Guide

Although the tour isn’t guided in the traditional sense, travelers will benefit from the comfortable, climate-controlled bus and the certified tour guide’s English commentary throughout the journey.

The guide provides insights and information about the sights along the way, while guests have the freedom to explore on their own during the scheduled stops.

The tour departs from central Dublin locations, making it easy for participants to join.

With the convenience of transportation and a knowledgeable guide, guests can focus on enjoying the stunning scenery and historic sites without the hassle of navigation.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Overall, customers have rated this tour 4.4 out of 5 stars based on 763 reviews.

Customers have rated this tour 4.4 out of 5 stars based on 763 reviews.

Highlights from customer feedback include:

• Knowledgeable and humorous drivers who provide insightful commentary

• Comfortable transportation that allows for scenic enjoyment of the journey

• Beautiful views and landscapes that leave a lasting impression

While the tour receives high marks overall, some customers suggest areas for improvement, such as allowing more time for exploring the lakes and providing clearer guidance on timing for lunch.

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Important Information

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes during the day-long excursion. Pets are prohibited, and smoking isn’t allowed on the climate-controlled bus.

The tour covers a lot of ground, from the historic streets of Kilkenny to the serene Glendalough valley.

With so much to see, it’s essential that participants come prepared with the proper attire and mindset to fully enjoy the journey.

Adhering to these simple guidelines will ensure a smooth and memorable experience for all.

Exploring Kilkenny

The historic city of Kilkenny stands as the first major stop on this captivating tour.

Visitors have the opportunity to freely explore this charming town, known for its medieval architecture and thriving craft culture.

Visitors can freely explore Kilkenny’s charming town, renowned for its medieval architecture and thriving craft culture.

The tour highlights include:

• Strolling through the picturesque streets and admiring the famous Kilkenny Castle, a 12th-century Norman castle that dominates the city’s skyline.

• Browsing the quaint local shops and galleries, where visitors can find an array of traditional Irish knitwear, pottery, and glassware.

• Taking in the vibrant atmosphere of Kilkenny, with its lively pubs, cozy cafés, and rich history.

The Scenic Glendalough

After exploring the historic city of Kilkenny, the tour then proceeds to the scenic Glendalough, a glacial valley nestled in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains.

Visitors can wander the ruins of the 6th-century monastic city, including the iconic Round Tower. The site also served as a filming location for movies like "Braveheart" and "PS I Love You."

Next, the tour visits the Brownshill Dolmen, an impressive megalithic portal tomb.

With its peaceful lakes and abundant wildlife, Glendalough offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of Dublin.

Discovering Brownshill Dolmen

Why does the Brownshill Dolmen stand as such an impressive monument? This megalithic portal tomb, located near Carlow, Ireland, is one of the largest of its kind in Europe. The capstone, weighing an estimated 100 metric tons, is truly awe-inspiring.

The site offers an intriguing glimpse into the ingenuity and engineering prowess of Neolithic builders:

• The capstone is perched atop two upright stones, creating a 20-foot-tall structure.

• Visitors can walk underneath the massive capstone, enhancing the sense of scale and grandeur.

• The dolmen’s precise orientation and alignment with seasonal celestial events suggest sophisticated astronomical knowledge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Food Provided During the Tour?

The tour does not include a meal, but there is free time in Kilkenny to purchase lunch. Visitors can enjoy traditional Irish fare at local pubs and restaurants during the stop in Kilkenny.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

Yes, guests are allowed to bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. The tour description notes that pets and smoking are prohibited, but there are no other restrictions mentioned regarding bringing personal food and beverages.

Are Audio Guides Available in Multiple Languages?

No, audio guides aren’t available in multiple languages. The tour is conducted in English, with a certified tour guide providing live commentary during the trip.

Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

The tour does not specifically address dietary restrictions, but the driver can likely accommodate basic needs. Guests should inquire about options when booking if they have any special dietary requirements.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

The tour does not offer a private option. It’s a shared group experience. However, travelers with dietary restrictions can notify the tour operator in advance, and they’ll try to accommodate those needs where possible.

The Sum Up

The "From Dublin: Kilkenny and Wicklow Mountain Full-Day Tour" provides an affordable way to experience Ireland’s historic charm and stunning natural beauty. With comfortable transportation, insightful commentary, and a focus on exploration, this tour offers travelers a chance to explore Kilkenny’s heritage, marvel at Glendalough’s serene landscapes, and discover the ancient Brownshill Dolmen. It’s an efficient and enjoyable way to unveil the rich tapestry of Ireland’s cultural and geological wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: