Explore the breathtaking Wicklow Mountains on a guided night hike and history tour. Departing from the Glendalough Visitor Centre, this 5-hour experience takes adventurers through scenic landscapes at twilight. Participants can expect to witness Sika deer grazing as the sun sets and learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage from a knowledgeable guide. With convenient cancellation policies and no upfront payment, this tour offers an immersive and captivating journey into nature’s wonders. What might you discover along the way?

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Key Points

A guided night hike exploring the Wicklow Mountains, departing from Glendalough Visitor Centre and lasting approximately 5 hours.
Opportunity to observe Sika deer, stargaze near ancient sites, and gain insights into the cultural and historical significance of Glendalough from a professional guide.
Itinerary includes a historical presentation, scenic views of the lakes, and a journey through the valleys, concluding with a deeper understanding of the area.
Recommended items include snacks, sturdy hiking shoes, water, and rain gear, while pets, alcohol, and drugs are prohibited.
Overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 based on mixed experiences, with the initial tour and guide’s insights appreciated but later segments sometimes lacking relevance.

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Tour Overview and Details

The Wicklow: Glendalough Guided Night Hike and History Tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the natural wonders and rich history of the Wicklow Mountains.

A unique opportunity to explore the natural wonders and rich history of the Wicklow Mountains on a guided night hike.

Priced from $41.44 per person, the 5-hour experience departs from the Glendalough Visitor Centre.

Led by a professional guide, the tour offers insights into the area’s cultural and historical significance.

Participants can observe Sika deer at sunset, stargaze near 6th-century monastic sites, and enjoy scenic views of the lakes under twilight.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and reservations can be made with no upfront payment.

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Wicklow: Glendalough Guided Night Hike and History Tour

Highlights and Experience

While on the Wicklow: Glendalough Guided Night Hike and History Tour, participants can watch the sunset across the picturesque Wicklow Mountains and discover the rich history and natural wonders of Glendalough.

The tour offers several highlights:

Observe Sika deer grazing at sunset.
Stargaze while passing through the ancient miners’ village and 6th-century Monastic sites.
Engage with a professional guide who shares cultural and historical insights.
Witness the scenic views of the lakes under the twilight.

The tour immerses participants in the captivating environment, blending natural beauty and historical significance.

Itinerary and Activities

After meeting at the Glendalough Visitor Centre in the evening, the tour begins with a history presentation at the church, tower, and tombstones. Participants then journey through the valleys, taking in scenic views of the lakes under the twilight sky. Along the way, they have the opportunity to observe local wildlife, including the graceful Sika deer grazing at sunset.

| Itinerary | Duration |

|———–|———-|

| Initial History Presentation | 30 mins |

| Scenic Views of Lakes | 2 hrs |

| Journey Through Valleys | 2 hrs |

| Return to Starting Point | 1 hr |

The 4.5-hour tour concludes with a return to the starting point, leaving participants with a deeper understanding of the rich history and natural wonders of Glendalough.

What to Bring and Restrictions

To ensure a comfortable and safe experience, hikers are recommended to bring snacks, sturdy hiking shoes, water, a jacket, rain gear, and a flashlight.

Pets, alcohol, and drugs aren’t allowed on the tour.

The night hike isn’t suitable for:

Pregnant women
Individuals with mobility impairments
Those seeking an in-depth, educational experience
Visitors looking for a leisurely stroll

Adherence to these guidelines will help ensure an enjoyable and memorable Glendalough night hike for all participants.

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Customer Feedback and Ratings

The overall rating for the Wicklow Guided Night Hike and History Tour stands at 4.1 out of 5 based on 7 reviews.

Feedback reflects mixed experiences. Some found the initial tour engaging, appreciating the guide’s cultural and historical insights. However, others felt later segments lacked relevance and involved excessive waiting.

Those with mobility impairments noted the tour may not be suitable. The tour seems to provide an immersive experience exploring Glendalough at night, but the quality of the entire experience can vary.

Prospective participants should consider their interests and physical capabilities when deciding whether this tour aligns with their expectations.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The meeting point for the Wicklow Guided Night Hike and History Tour is the entrance to the Glendalough Visitor Centre.

The tour runs for 5 hours and is offered in English. Participants can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, which allows them to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Additionally:

The tour costs $41.44 per person.
Guests can reserve their spot and pay nothing today.
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or individuals with mobility impairments.
Recommended items to bring include snacks, hiking shoes, water, a jacket, rain gear, and a flashlight.

Preparing for the Night Hike

What should hikers keep in mind as they prepare for the Wicklow Guided Night Hike and History Tour? The tour involves walking through valleys and historic sites in the Wicklow Mountains, so proper attire and equipment are essential. Consider the following:

| Clothing | Footwear | Accessories |

|———-|———-|————-|

| Warm layers | Sturdy hiking boots | Flashlight/headlamp |

| Weatherproof jacket | Trail shoes | Water bottle |

| Hat and gloves | Traction devices in winter | Snacks |

Avoid bringing pets, alcohol, or drugs, as they are not permitted. The tour is unsuitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues. With the right preparation, hikers can fully enjoy the magical night experience at Glendalough.

Exploring Glendalough’s History and Landscapes

As the sun dips below the Wicklow Mountains, the guided night hike takes visitors on a captivating journey through Glendalough’s rich history and stunning landscapes.

Exploring the 6th-century monastic site, the group learns about its religious significance and the artifacts that remain.
Traversing the miners’ village, hikers gain insights into the region’s industrial past and the challenges faced by its workers.
Pausing at the iconic round tower and church ruins, the guide shares the cultural and architectural importance of these structures.
Reaching the serene lakes, the group takes in the breathtaking views as the day transitions into night, spotting Sika deer grazing in the distance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Hike Suitable for Beginners?

The hike may not be suitable for complete beginners as it involves some moderate difficulty terrain and lasts around 4.5 hours. However, it’s described as accessible for those with basic hiking experience and fitness levels.

How Challenging Is the Terrain During the Night Hike?

The terrain during the night hike is generally moderate, with some uneven and occasionally steep sections. It’s not an extremely challenging hike, but participants should have a reasonable level of fitness and wear appropriate footwear.

What Types of Wildlife Can We Expect to See?

Visitors can expect to observe Sika deer grazing at sunset during the night hike. The tour also provides opportunities to spot other wildlife like birds and small mammals as you journey through the valleys of the Wicklow Mountains.

Is There Any Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no option to extend the tour duration. The hike lasts approximately 4.5 hours, and the tour provider doesn’t offer any extensions beyond the scheduled timeframe. Guests must adhere to the set itinerary and duration of the experience.

Can We Stop for Breaks or Snacks During the Hike?

Yes, the tour allows for breaks and snacks during the hike. The itinerary notes that hikers should bring their own snacks, and there are opportunities to rest and observe the wildlife and scenery along the way.

The Sum Up

The Wicklow: Glendalough Guided Night Hike and History Tour offers an immersive adventure through the stunning Wicklow Mountains. Participants can enjoy scenic views, encounter wildlife, and learn about the area’s rich history from a professional guide. With flexible booking and no upfront payment, this tour is perfect for those seeking an unforgettable experience in nature.