Discover the captivating charm of Wicklow County on the Original Award Winning Wild Wicklow Tour. Departing from Dublin, this full-day adventure showcases the region’s breathtaking landscapes, from the Irish Sea to the enchanting Wicklow Mountains. Explore historic sites, savor a whiskey tasting, and uncover the area’s rich cultural heritage with the guidance of expert local hosts. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Ireland’s stunning natural beauty.
Key Points
- An award-winning full-day tour exploring the natural beauty and historical sites of Wicklow County, south of Dublin, including Glendalough Monastic Settlement.
- Scenic drive through exclusive suburbs, lush forests, and rolling hills of the Wicklow Mountains, with stops at iconic locations like Sally Gap.
- Guided tour of the 6th-century Glendalough Monastic Settlement, providing insight into Ireland’s religious heritage and the legacy of St. Kevin.
- Visit to Avoca Handweavers for a textile heritage experience and explore filming locations from popular movies.
- Professional guides with extensive knowledge of local history and culture, engaging storytelling, and insider perspectives on the region’s natural and historical landmarks.
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Overview of the Wild Wicklow Tour
The Original Award Winning Wild Wicklow Tour is a full-day excursion that takes travelers on a scenic journey through the stunning landscapes of Wicklow County, located just south of Dublin, Ireland.
The tour highlights the region’s natural beauty, including the Dublin’s southern coast, exclusive suburbs, and the breathtaking Wicklow Mountains National Park.
Key stops include Avoca Handweavers, Sally Gap, Lough Tay, and the historic Glendalough Monastic Settlement.
Guests enjoy a guided tour of Glendalough, complimentary whiskey tasting, and the opportunity to explore filming locations from popular movies.
The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who provide engaging cultural and historical insights throughout the day.
Scenic Drive Through Wicklow County
As the tour departs Dublin, it winds its way along the city’s southern coast, offering captivating views of the Irish Sea and the exclusive suburbs of Sandycove and Dalkey.
Climbing into the Wicklow Mountains, the route showcases the region’s natural beauty, from lush forests and rolling hills to dramatic peaks.
Passing through Sally Gap, travelers are treated to panoramic vistas of the breathtaking Wicklow landscape.
This scenic drive provides an immersive introduction to the charm and tranquility of Wicklow County, setting the stage for the captivating cultural and historical experiences to come throughout the tour.
Highlights of the Itinerary
After the scenic drive through Wicklow County, the tour makes several captivating stops along its itinerary.
Guests visit the iconic Avoca Handweavers for a 25-minute experience showcasing Ireland’s rich textile heritage.
The tour then ventures to Sally Gap, where travelers enjoy a 1.5-hour exploration of the breathtaking Wicklow Mountains National Park.
Next, the group marvels at the stunning Lough Tay, nicknamed the "Guinness Lake" for its dark waters.
The grand finale is a 1.5-hour guided tour of the 6th-century Glendalough Monastic Settlement, uncovering its historical and cultural significance.
Exploring Glendalough Monastic Settlement
Glendalough’s 6th-century monastic ruins offer visitors a captivating glimpse into Ireland’s rich religious and cultural heritage.
Guided by knowledgeable local experts, guests explore the remains of this ancient settlement, including:
- The iconic Round Tower, a symbol of monastic life
- The Cathedral, a grand stone structure built over several centuries
- The Monastery, where monks once lived, worked, and copied manuscripts
- The serene lakes, which provided a tranquil setting for contemplation and prayer
Visitors gain a deeper understanding of the important role Glendalough played in preserving and shaping Ireland’s early Christian identity.
Cultural and Historical Insights
The guided tour of Glendalough’s 6th-century monastic ruins allows visitors to explore the historical sites that were integral to the settlement’s spiritual and cultural significance.
Travelers can wander through the carefully preserved Round Tower, a symbol of power and prestige. The ruins also include areas used for manuscript writing and copying, showcasing the academic and scholarly nature of the monastic community.
Throughout the tour, the guide shares insights into the life and legacy of St. Kevin, the founder of Glendalough. Visitors gain a deeper appreciation for Ireland’s rich heritage and the enduring influence of this historical site.
Professional Wild Wicklow Guides
Enhancing the overall experience, the tour’s professional Wild Wicklow guides possess extensive knowledge of the local history and culture.
These experts skillfully bring the region’s past to life through captivating storytelling:
- Sharing insider perspectives on Wicklow’s natural landscapes and historical landmarks
- Explaining the significance of Glendalough’s monastic ruins and the legacy of St. Kevin
- Highlighting filming locations featured in famous movies like Braveheart and P.S. I Love You
- Providing context that deepens guests’ appreciation for Ireland’s rich heritage
With their passion and expertise, the guides ensure a truly immersive and memorable journey through the stunning Wild Wicklow region.
Comfortable and Luxurious Transportation
To complement the immersive cultural experience, the tour provides comfortable and luxurious transportation in air-conditioned coaches. Designed for maximum comfort, these coaches feature plush seating, panoramic windows, and climate control to ensure a pleasant journey. The tour also offers convenient pickup points across Dublin, including the Dun Laoghaire Port, making it accessible for both city-based and cruise ship travelers.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Air-conditioning | Maintain optimal temperature |
| Panoramic Windows | Unobstructed views of the scenic landscapes |
| Plush Seating | Comfortable ride throughout the day-long tour |
Customer Feedback and Recommendations
Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides who lead the Wild Wicklow Tour, with many highlighting the guides’ engaging storytelling and deep cultural insights.
Common accolades include:
- Breathtaking landscapes and well-planned itinerary
- Recommendations for all travelers seeking to experience the beauty of Wicklow and Irish culture
- Conveniently located pickup points, including Dunlaoghaire Port for shore excursions
- Minimum 60 minutes of free time to explore Glendalough and its lakes
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Ask Away
Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?
This tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. It’s suitable for all ages, allowing families, adults, and seniors to explore the scenic landscapes and cultural sites of Wicklow together.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Bus?
Passengers are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the bus. However, consuming alcoholic beverages is not permitted during the tour. The tour provides complimentary samples of Irish whiskey at one of the stops.
Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?
While there is no option to directly extend the tour’s duration, travelers can explore Glendalough further on their own during the minimum 60 minutes of free time provided at the site.
What Happens if There Is Inclement Weather During the Tour?
If inclement weather occurs, the tour company will adjust the itinerary as needed to ensure guests’ safety and comfort. They may modify outdoor activities, focus more on indoor stops, or provide wet weather gear to enhance the overall experience.
Can We Make Any Stops Along the Way to Take Photos?
Yes, the tour allows for photo stops along the scenic drive through the Wicklow Mountains. Guests can capture the breathtaking landscapes and historic sites at their leisure during the designated sightseeing time.
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Final Words
The Original Award Winning Wild Wicklow Tour provides a captivating day of adventure through Wicklow’s stunning landscapes. Highlights include Avoca Handweavers, Lough Tay, and the historic Glendalough Monastic Settlement, enhanced by expert guides’ knowledge. Comfortable transportation and a whiskey tasting complete the immersive experience. It’s no wonder this tour has garnered accolades – it delivers an unforgettable exploration of Ireland’s natural and cultural treasures.