From Dublin: Wicklow, Glendalough, Waterfall & Sheepdog demo

If you’re craving a break from Dublin’s bustling streets, this full-day countryside tour to Wicklow offers a mix of natural beauty, history, and authentic rural life—all wrapped into about seven hours of sightseeing and fun. It’s a great way to see some of Ireland’s most photogenic spots without the hassle of driving or planning.

What really makes this tour shine are the stunning waterfalls, the historical monastic site, and the sheepdog demonstration—a genuinely unique experience. The guides are often praised for their knowledge, which adds a lot of value to the day, but be aware that a few reviews mention inconsistent commentary and bus system issues.

This tour suits travelers looking for an easy, well-organized day trip with plenty of outdoor activities, picturesque views, and a taste of country life. If you’re after a relaxed, informative journey that balances history with nature and fun, this could be just the trip for you.

Key Points

• Stunning natural sights: Powercourt Waterfall and Wicklow Mountains offer picture-perfect moments.
• Historical insights: Glendalough’s monastic ruins showcase Ireland’s spiritual past.
• Authentic rural experience: Sheepdog demos and farm visits bring country life to your day.
• Comfortable transportation: Air-conditioned coach with WiFi and USB ports makes the trip enjoyable.
• Value for money: For around $52, you get a full day of diverse activities and scenic drives.
• Group size: Typically up to 55 travelers, making it a social yet manageable experience.

The Full Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and Departure

Your journey begins at 09:30 am from the Molly Malone Statue on Suffolk Street. The meeting spot is fairly central in Dublin, and most travelers found it easy to reach, especially with public transit. We liked that the guide called attention to the location details, although a few reviews mention that arriving on time is crucial—being even five minutes late might cause you to miss the bus, as some guests experienced.

First Stop: Powerscourt Waterfall

Our first highlight was Powerscourt Waterfall, the tallest in Ireland at 121 meters (397 feet). Surrounded by lush woodlands, it’s a dramatic sight—one that travelers say is even more impressive in person. It’s a peaceful spot where you can walk along trails, listen to the rushing water, and snap plenty of photos.

Reviewers mention that the waterfall has been a filming location over the years, which adds to its allure. It’s a perfect opportunity to stretch your legs, enjoy the fresh air, and take some memorable pictures. The admission is included in the tour, so you just need your camera and some curiosity.

Second Stop: Glendalough Monastic Settlement

Next, the tour takes you to Glendalough, a site celebrated for its 6th-century monastery founded by Saint Kevin. The monastic ruins sit in a valley flanked by two tranquil lakes, creating a striking backdrop for exploring centuries-old stone churches, a round tower, and ancient crosses.

Visitors often describe Glendalough as surreal and beautiful, with many appreciating the chance to learn about Ireland’s religious heritage. The site is free to explore, but a review highlights that it’s quite a walk—so comfortable footwear is recommended. Some guests mention that the site can be crowded during peak times, but the scenery remains captivating regardless.

Lunch and Free Time

There’s a window for lunch in a nearby restaurant, giving you flexibility to choose a hearty Irish meal or a lighter snack. While not included in the tour price, most travelers found this a good opportunity to relax, refuel, and take in the views at your leisure.

Third Stop: Barnbawn Sheep Farm

The highlight for many is Barnbawn, where you’ll meet a friendly local farmer and watch a sheepdog demonstration. You’ll see the dogs in action, herding sheep using voice and whistle commands, which is both fascinating and entertaining.

Reviewers praise the knowledgeable farmers and the energetic, highly trained dogs—some say the dogs are “mesmerizing” and display impressive skills. The demo’s timing is just right, giving you a real glimpse into Ireland’s rural lifestyles. For those interested, the farmer also discusses different sheep breeds and their uses, providing a brief but insightful look into Irish farming practices.

Final Return to Dublin

The bus rolls back into Dublin around 4:45 pm, completing a well-paced day that balances sightseeing, outdoor activity, and cultural insights. Guests appreciate the comfortable coach with WiFi and USB charging ports, making the journey back pleasant and connected.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Diverse Scenic Experiences

From the powerful cascade of Powerscourt Waterfall to the serene lakes of Glendalough, travelers consistently mention how breathtaking the scenery is. The Wicklow Mountains provide the perfect backdrop for a day in the countryside, and the views are described as magnificent, even for seasoned travelers.

Authentic Irish Country Life

The sheepdog demonstration isn’t just a photo op; it offers a hands-on look into Irish farm life. Reviewers mention that the farmer was enthusiastic and eager to share stories, making the experience more personal and engaging. Watching the dogs work is described as mesmerizing, with some reviewers calling it “the main event” of the day.

Knowledgeable Guides and Commentary

While some reviews point out inconsistencies—like misstatements about local history—the majority praise guides like Flann and Alec for their wit, local insights, and ability to keep the group engaged. The WiFi and USB ports on the bus help keep travelers connected, which is handy after a long day of outdoor exploration.

Great Value for Money

At around $52 per person, the tour provides a full day of varied experiences—scenic drives, historical sites, nature walks, and sheepdog demos. The inclusion of transportation, admission fees, and a comfortable coach make it a cost-effective option for those wanting a hassle-free day in Wicklow.

Room for Improvement

Some guests mention issues like poor audio systems on the bus or guides providing inaccurate historical details. A few reviews also note that if you’re traveling with very young children or strollers, navigating certain stone trails might be challenging. punctuality is crucial, as missing the bus could ruin the experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and those wanting to see authentic Irish countryside life. It’s perfect if you prefer a guided experience that covers multiple highlights without the hassle of driving or planning.

Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers looking for a mix of nature, history, and fun will find plenty of value here. If you’re seeking a quick glimpse of Ireland’s rural charm—this tour hits all the right notes.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers with children aged 12 and up enjoyed the trip, especially since it involves outdoor walking and the sheepdog demo. However, strollers may be difficult to maneuver on some stone trails.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included. You are given time to eat at a nearby restaurant, so bringing snacks or a packed lunch is a good idea if you want to maximize your sightseeing time.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is best, especially sturdy walking shoes for Glendalough. Ireland’s weather can be unpredictable, so bring a light rain jacket just in case.

How long is each stop?
Powerscourt Waterfall is about 50 minutes, Glendalough around 2 hours, and the sheep farm demo lasts approximately 45 minutes. The schedule allows for a relaxed pace while still seeing everything.

Is the tour transportation air-conditioned?
Yes, the coach is air-conditioned, with WiFi and USB ports, making the return journey comfortable and connected.

What’s the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 55 travelers, which helps maintain a lively group atmosphere without being overwhelming.

What happens if I’m late or need to cancel?
Arriving late risks missing the bus, as some reviews indicate the guide might leave promptly. Cancellation is free if done 24 hours in advance; later cancellations aren’t refunded.

Final Thoughts

This Wicklow and Glendalough tour offers a well-rounded taste of Ireland’s natural beauty and rural traditions. It balances scenic drives with engaging activities, making it a solid choice for anyone eager to see the country’s lush landscapes, historic sites, and farm life—all in one day.

While a few minor hiccups might occur—like audio issues or a guide’s occasional inaccuracies—the overall experience is authentic, informative, and fun. The sheepdog demonstration alone makes it worth considering if you want a memorable, hands-on encounter with Irish farm life.

If you’re after a value-packed day trip that combines breathtaking scenery with cultural insights, this tour deserves a spot on your Dublin itinerary. Just remember to be punctual, dress comfortably, and bring your camera—you’ll want to capture Ireland’s countryside at its very best.

Happy exploring!