Glendalough & Wicklow Mountains Half Day Morning Tour From Dublin

Exploring the stunning Wicklow Mountains and historic Glendalough is a must-do for visitors to Dublin. This half-day morning tour from the city center offers an immersive experience, taking travelers through picturesque landscapes and introducing them to the captivating Glendalough Monastic Settlement. With expert commentary, convenient amenities, and a small group size, the tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into Ireland’s natural and cultural heritage. What secrets lie within the ancient walls of Glendalough, and what breathtaking vistas await in the Wicklow Mountains? Discover the answers on this engaging journey.

Key Points

• This half-day tour from Dublin takes visitors to explore the scenic Wicklow Mountains National Park and the historic Glendalough Monastic Settlement.
• The tour includes a scenic drive through the Wicklow Mountains, stopping at Lough Tay for photos, and allowing time to explore Glendalough.
• Travelers can opt to hike on the Wicklow Way during the tour, with the return to Dublin by 12:45 pm.
• The tour is conducted in an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi and USB points, and is led by a knowledgeable driver/guide and local guide.
• The tour has a maximum capacity of 64 travelers, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

Tour Overview

This half-day tour from Dublin to County Wicklow allows visitors to experience the natural beauty of the Irish countryside without the hassle of renting a car.

The scenic drive takes guests through the breathtaking Wicklow Mountains National Park, where they can explore the historic Glendalough Monastic Settlement at their leisure.

Along the way, travelers will see filming locations from popular movies like Braveheart and P.S. I Love You.

The tour departs conveniently from the city center and provides an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi and USB points, ensuring a comfortable journey.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins at 8:00 am, with passengers meeting at the Paddywagon Office on 34 OConnell Street Lower in Dublin 1.

The scenic drive takes visitors through the Wicklow Mountains National Park, past the Great Sugar Loaf mountain and Roundwood village.

There’s a brief stop at Lough Tay for photos before exploring the Glendalough valley.

Travelers can see Celtic crosses, a round tower, and the scenic lakes. An opportunity to hike on the Wicklow Way is available.

The tour typically returns to central Dublin by 12:45 pm.

Inclusions

The tour includes a driver/guide and local guide to provide commentary and insights throughout the experience. The air-conditioned vehicle offers WiFi and USB points for traveler convenience. A fuel surcharge is also included in the tour price. While lunch and gratuities are not specified as included, infant seats and accommodations for service animals are available upon request.

Included	Not Included
Driver/guide	Lunch
Local guide	Gratuities
Air-conditioned vehicle	–
WiFi and USB points	–
Fuel surcharge	–

The tour has a maximum capacity of 64 travelers and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Accessibility and Additional Information

Although the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, collapsible wheelchairs can be stored on the air-conditioned vehicle.

Booster and baby seats are available for toddlers and infants.

Luggage storage is provided, but valuables are stored at the traveler’s own risk.

The tour has a maximum capacity of 64 travelers.

Visitors can cancel their booking for free up to 24 hours before the tour.

Traveler Reviews and Recommendations

According to reviews, this tour has received an overall rating of 4.4 stars from 722 travelers.

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who provide insights about the region’s history and natural beauty. Many highlight the scenic beauty of the Wicklow Mountains and Glendalough as tour highlights.

Some recommend wearing proper hiking shoes to fully enjoy the walking opportunities. While pickup instructions could be clearer, travelers appreciate the convenience of this tour over self-driving.

Exploring Glendalough Monastic Settlement

Glendalough Monastic Settlement is the highlight of this tour, offering visitors a chance to explore Ireland’s rich religious and cultural heritage.

Guided by local experts, you’ll learn about the site’s 6th-century origins and its role as a center of monastic life.

Stroll among the evocative Celtic crosses, round tower, and scenic lakes, discovering the settlement’s tranquil beauty.

Take time to hike on the Wicklow Way for stunning vistas.

With ample free time to explore, you can learn about the serene atmosphere and gain insight into Ireland’s enduring spiritual traditions.

Wicklow Mountains National Park Scenic Drive

The scenic drive through Wicklow Mountains National Park offers travelers a captivating glimpse into Ireland’s rugged natural beauty.

The tour makes a brief stop at Lough Tay, a picturesque lake surrounded by the dramatic Wicklow Hills.

Visitors can:

1. Admire the stunning mountain vistas and rolling green landscapes.
2. Spot native wildlife like red deer and birds of prey soaring overhead.
3. Snap photos of the iconic Great Sugar Loaf mountain that dominates the horizon.

This scenic journey sets the stage for the main highlight – exploring the historic Glendalough Monastic Settlement nestled in the heart of the national park.

Convenient Departure From Dublin City Center

The tour offers convenient city center departure points, allowing travelers to easily access the Wicklow Mountains from Dublin. The tour departs from the Paddywagon Office on O’Connell Street Lower, providing a central meeting location. This saves time and hassle for participants, eliminating the need to navigate to a remote pickup point. The air-conditioned vehicle is equipped with WiFi and USB points, ensuring a comfortable journey. The tour schedule is designed to return to central Dublin by 12:45 pm, allowing ample time for further exploration or dining.

Departure Location	Address	Distance from City Center	Travel Time
Paddywagon Office	34 O’Connell Street Lower, Dublin 1	0 km	0 minutes
N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Glendalough?

The best time to visit Glendalough is during the spring and fall seasons. The weather is mild, and the scenery is lush and vibrant, making it an ideal time to explore the historic monastic settlement and hike the scenic trails.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own snacks on the tour. The tour does not include lunch, so bringing snacks is recommended to keep your energy up during the day’s activities.

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

The tour involves moderate walking during the exploration of Glendalough, including hiking on the Wicklow Way trails. Travelers can expect to walk up to 2 miles at their own pace. Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are recommended.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration, but travelers can explore Glendalough and the Wicklow Mountains at their own pace during the designated time. The tour operates on a fixed half-day schedule with no flexibility to lengthen the experience.

Can I Visit Any Additional Attractions in Wicklow Mountains?

Yes, you can visit additional attractions in Wicklow Mountains. The tour offers optional stops at sites like Powerscourt Waterfall, Powerscourt Gardens, or the Avoca Handweavers shop. These can be added for an additional fee and time commitment.

The Sum Up

This half-day tour from Dublin provides a captivating introduction to the stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Ireland’s Wicklow Mountains. With a knowledgeable guide, travelers can enjoy the serene beauty of Glendalough’s monastic site and enjoy the scenic drive through the Wicklow Mountains National Park. Offering convenient transportation and a small group experience, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an enriching and memorable glimpse into the wonders of Ireland’s countryside.