From Dublin: Wicklow, Glendalough, Waterfall & Sheepdog Demo

Taking a guided day trip from Dublin to Wicklow and Glendalough offers a chance to see some of Ireland’s most stunning landscapes, ancient sites, and traditional farming demonstrations. This tour, offered by EI Travel Group, combines natural beauty, history, and lively local culture — all in one memorable 7-hour journey.

What makes this experience stand out? We appreciate the knowledgeable guides, the breathtaking scenery at Powerscourt Waterfall, and the charming sheepdog demonstration that showcases Ireland’s farming roots. However, it’s worth noting that some sites, like Powerscourt, can get crowded, especially during peak times, which might detract from the serenity. If you love experiencing authentic landscapes and historic sites without needing to drive, this tour suits those with a curious mind and a love for Irish culture.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Powerscourt Waterfall and Wicklow mountains provide picture-perfect views.
• Historic sites: Glendalough’s ancient monastic ruins tell stories of Ireland’s spiritual past.
• Authentic experience: A sheepdog demo offers insight into traditional Irish farming techniques.
• Comfortable transportation: Air-conditioned coach with WiFi and USB ports makes the trip pleasant.
• Flexible itinerary: Plenty of time at each stop for photos, exploration, and a leisurely lunch.
• Guided insights: Guides share stories and history, enriching your understanding of Ireland’s heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Route and What to Expect

Starting from Dublin outside the Molly Malone statue, you’ll meet your guide and hop onto a comfortable, air-conditioned coach with WiFi and USB charging ports. The driver and guide work as a team to ensure a smooth trip, sharing entertaining facts and local stories along the way. The tone is friendly, making the long drive feel like a chat with friends, and the scenic Irish countryside whizzes by in comfort.

Powerscourt Waterfall: Ireland’s Tallest Waterfall

Your first major stop is Powerscourt Waterfall, arriving around 10:30 AM. With approximately 45 minutes to an hour here, you’ll have ample time to snap photos of the cascading water set against the lush Wicklow Mountains. The waterfall is a true spectacle, especially after rain, when it roars with more vigor. Reviewers loved the views, highlighting how peaceful and photogenic it is, though they also noted it’s become more of a lively park with visitors having barbecues and picnics.

Glendalough Monastic Site: Ireland’s Ancient Spiritual Heart

Around midday, you arrive at Glendalough, a site founded in the 6th century by Saint Kevin. The ruins of the early medieval monastery, with their stone churches and round tower, evoke a sense of Ireland’s spiritual legacy. You’ll have about 2 hours here, giving you time for a leisurely walk around the monastic site, explore the Lower Lake, or even do part of a short hike. Visitors have praised the site’s quiet beauty, though some mention it can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season, which makes it a bit challenging to find a moment of solitude.

Irish Countryside and Hollywood

The tour includes a visit to the charming village of Hollywood — not the Hollywood in California, but a small Irish town with its own charm. Here, you can explore briefly, enjoy a coffee or snack in local cafes or food trucks, and snap some photos of the picturesque surroundings. The drive through Wicklow’s rolling hills offers stunning views, with many reviewers commenting on the sheer beauty of the landscape.

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Sheepdog Demonstration: A True Irish Farm Experience

One of the tour’s standout moments is the sheepdog demo, often described as a lively, educational experience. The handler explains how training works and demonstrates how border collies herd sheep with impressive intelligence and agility. Reviewers frequently mention how the dogs’ skills are remarkable, and some even get to pet and interact with them afterward. It’s a fun, authentic insight into rural Irish farming traditions.

Details of the Day: Logistics and Tips

The tour departs from Dublin at 9:30 AM, so arriving 10 minutes early is recommended. The day includes multiple stops with varying durations: Powerscourt Waterfall (45 minutes), Glendalough (2 hours), and a brief visit to Hollywood (around 45 minutes). The coach ride between sites totals approximately 3 hours, split into manageable segments to avoid fatigue.

Transportation is top-notch — a climate-controlled coach with WiFi and USB ports makes the long drive more comfortable. The group sizes tend to be moderate, ensuring a more intimate experience without feeling crowded, and guides like Warwick and Derrick have been praised for their enthusiasm, humor, and knowledge.

What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring uneven terrain at Glendalough, along with rain gear, a camera, snacks, and a weather-appropriate jacket. Since lunch isn’t included, plan to purchase something at Glendalough or bring your own.

Pricing and value: The cost includes all admission fees, transportation, and the sheepdog demo, making it good value for a full day of sightseeing and cultural insights. Given the quality of guides and the variety of stops, many reviewers feel this tour offers excellent value compared to self-driving or multiple entry fees.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Insights

Reviewers consistently highlight how guides like Matthew, Warwick, Natasha, and Derrick enhance the trip with their stories and humor. Amanda mentions that her first guided tour was a success, praising the comfortable bus and educational stories. Meanwhile, Monika points out how her guide Alec provided a lot of interesting information, making her first trip to Ireland unforgettable.

Some visitors find that, during busy times, sites like Powerscourt and Glendalough can get crowded, impacting their peace. Stefanie wished for more respect for these ancient sites, which is a reminder that these places remain popular. However, most agree that the views and history make the effort worthwhile.

The Sheepdog Demo: A Crowd Favorite

Among all experiences, the sheepdog demonstration is repeatedly called out as the highlight. Visitors marvel at the dogs’ intelligence, and many enjoy petting the border collies after the show. It’s a genuine window into Ireland’s farming traditions, offering a lively, interactive element that sets this tour apart.

The Balance of Nature, History, and Culture

This tour doesn’t just focus on pretty scenery — it immerses you in Ireland’s heritage, from the early medieval monastic community to rural farm life. The blend allows you to understand Ireland’s identity beyond the capital and indulge in its natural splendor.

Who is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded introduction to Ireland’s Wicklow region without the hassle of driving or planning multiple stops. It suits those interested in history, nature, and authentic rural culture, especially if you enjoy guided commentary and interactive demonstrations. Active travelers will appreciate the walking parts, but it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues. Given the 7-hour duration, it’s best for those comfortable with a full-day outing.

Final Thoughts

This guided day trip from Dublin offers a taste of Ireland’s most compelling attractions, blending scenic landscapes, historic sites, and lively local culture. The coach provides a comfortable way to explore without the stress of navigating narrow mountain roads, and the guided commentary makes each stop more meaningful. The highlight for many is the sheepdog demo, which adds a fun, authentic flavor to the day.

While some sites can become crowded, the overall experience balances stunning views and meaningful insights, making it a great choice for first-time visitors or anyone eager to connect with Irish heritage outside Dublin. The inclusion of all activities and the knowledgeable guides mean you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Ireland’s beauty and traditions.

If you’re after an engaging, value-packed day that covers the essentials of Wicklow’s natural and cultural treasures, this tour is a reliable pick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes transportation by a comfortable, air-conditioned coach equipped with WiFi and USB ports, making the long drive more enjoyable.

What time does the tour start?
It departs from Dublin at 9:30 AM, so arriving at least 10 minutes early is recommended.

How long is the total trip?
The total duration is approximately 7 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and breaks.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not provided. You can buy food at Glendalough or bring snacks to enjoy during the day.

Are the sites very crowded?
Popular spots like Powerscourt Waterfall and Glendalough can get busy, especially in peak season, which might affect the peaceful experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, rain gear, a camera, snacks, and weather-appropriate clothing are advisable. Make sure your phone is charged for photos.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s best suited for those who can handle walking and standing. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Rescheduling policies depend on the booking platform.

Will I learn about Ireland’s history?
Guides share stories and insights, especially about sites like Glendalough and the sheepdog demo, enriching your understanding of Ireland’s rural and spiritual past.

To sum it up, this tour offers a balanced mix of scenery, history, and cultural authenticity. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a comfortable yet engaging way to experience Wicklow’s highlights with plenty of expert commentary. The inclusion of unique activities like the sheepdog demonstration adds a memorable touch that keeps this trip from feeling routine. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, this full-day journey from Dublin makes for an enriching Irish adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: