The Irish Road Trip

Wicklow Mountains National Park: Hikes, Walks + Historic Sites To Explore In 2024

By Author Gillian Birch

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

Wicklow Mountains National Park: Hikes, Walks + Historic Sites To Explore In 2024

Although some travel sites would lead you to believe differently, the magnificent Wicklow Mountains National park doesn’t just comprise of Glendalough.

Don’t get me wrong, Glendalough is incredible, but there’s much,  much more to the park than Glendalough, as you’ll discover shortly.

The huge mountainous area stretches across most of County Wicklow and is characterised by a variety of beautiful landscapes and wildlife. 

Below, you’ll discover everything from walks in the Wicklow Mountains and historic sites to hidden gems. You’ll also find a map at the end.

Table of Contents

Some quick need-to-knows before you visit the Wicklow Mountains National Park

tonlegee hike

Photo by zkbld (Shutterstock)

The Wicklow Mountains National Park is huge, so a visit isn’t overly straightforward unless you plan ahead, as the various attractions are pretty spread out. Here are some quick need-to-knows:

1. Location

The Wicklow Mountains cover a vast area of central County Wicklow and even stretches into the south of County Dublin. It’s just a stone’s throw from Dublin, making it a popular place to visit for city dwellers looking for some time in nature.

The Wicklow Mountains National Park is one huge place. It covers an impressive 54,000 acres of County Wicklow and is the largest of the six national parks in Ireland. It’s also the largest area of continuous high ground in Ireland, with stunning rugged peaks some of which are the highest in the country. 

3. An explorer’s paradise

The national park is jam packed with plenty of attractions and things to do for people looking to get outdoors. From some of the best walks in Wicklow to scenic drives and viewpoints, there are a variety of activities for everyone to enjoy. The area is also popular for history buffs with some important ancient sites within its boundaries, including at Glendalough.

4. Wicklow Mountains weather

The weather in the Wicklow Mountains is  very  changeable, and you need to take it into consideration before you visit, especially if you’re doing one of the hikes mentioned below. A bright, clear day can change in an instant, so adequate planning is required.

About the Wicklow Mountains National Park

What areas the park encompasses

The national park area stretches through most of central County Wicklow and into the southern parts of County Dublin.

The northern reaches of the park are just a short distance to the south of Dublin City. The landscapes inside the boundary vary from bogs to grassland and woods to exposed rocky peaks. 

Glendalough

Glendalough is considered one of the highlights of the park and is the main historic site in the area. It features a collection of early medieval monastic structures from the settlement founded by St Kevin in the 6th century.

There are also a variety of walks in the valley as well as a great Visitor Centre offering plenty of facilities and information. It’s a popular place to head on a day trip from Wicklow town. 

Management of the park

The park was announced in 1988 at Glendalough and was eventually opened in 1991. It’s managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service as one of the six national parks in the country.

The service is responsible for conservation, research, education, facilities and public safety for the entire area. The park has continued to expand with an additional 7000 acres added in 2009 and nearly 5000 acres in 2016. 

Things to do in the Wicklow Mountains National Park

The park is home to many of the best places to visit and things to do in Wicklow , from the many Glendalough walks and Powerscourt Waterfall to the Devil’s Glen and more.

Below, you’ll find some of our favourite things to do in the park, from hikes and walks to waterfalls and much more.

1. Explore Glendalough

wicklow mountains guide

Photo by Stefano_Valeri (Shutterstock)

Glendalough is a beautiful valley in the Wicklow Mountains, close to Laragh village. It’s most well-known for its historic sites, particularly the ruins of an early Christian settlement founded by St Kevin in the 6th century. 

However, the area is also home to some of the best walks in the entire national park. From easy rambles to Poulanass Waterfall or more challenging hikes like the Spinc and Wicklow Way route, there’s something for everyone. See our Glendalough walks guide for info on each of the trails.

2. Head off on the Sally Gap Drive

a narrow road near Lough Tay

Photo by Dariusz I (Shutterstock)

The Sally Gap Drive is one of the most scenic drives in Ireland and certainly offers some incredibly wild landscapes along the way.

The best route (in my opinion) is to head off from Roundwood village in Wicklow and make your way up to the Lough Tay Viewing Point. 

From there, you can keep heading towards Sally Gap, before taking a sharp left down towards Glenmacnass Waterfall . You can stop to enjoy plenty of epic vistas on the way. You can read more about why it’s our favourite drive in Ireland here .

3. Soak up the views at Lough Tay

lough tay walk wicklow

Photo by Lukas Fendek (Shutterstock)

Lough Tay is a small but incredibly scenic lake in the Wicklow Mountains. It sits almost in a bowl surrounded by mountains just north of Glendalough and south from Sally Gap .

It’s a great place to soak up the views, which you can easily do with a car parking area just off Wicklow Road.

There are a couple of viewpoints from where you can look over the lake. It’s best to head here at sunrise or sunset though if you can, when the golden light produces incredible photos. 

4. See Glenmacnass Waterfall

things to do in wicklow national park

Photo by Lynn Wood Pics (Shutterstock)

One of the best stops on the Sally Gap Drive, Glenmacnass Waterfall spills over a rockface into the river that runs along the Old Military Road from Sally Gap to Laragh.

It’s a stunning sight and a popular place to stop for a photo. There is a car park above the waterfall just off the road from where you can take a short walk to the falls and viewpoint. 

5. Visit Lough Ouler (Ireland’s heart-shaped lake)

lough ouler hike wicklow

Photo by Remizov (Shutterstock)

Lough Ouler is a stunning heart-shaped lake right in the middle of the Wicklow Mountains at the side of Tonelagee Mountain. If you want to get a great view of this lake, you need to head off on the Tonelagee hike which is best started from Turlough Hill car park.

The lake is a completely unique sight and definitely an Instagram-worthy snap. You can read more about the hiking route to reach the lake in our guide here . 

6. Conquer Lugnaquilla (for experienced hikers)

the Lugnaquilla hike

Photo left: By CTatiana. Photo right: By Newsome

If you’re an experienced and keen hiker, you’ll certainly want to conquer Lugnaquilla. It’s the highest mountain in Ireland outside of County Kerry, so you’ll need to be an experienced climber for this one.

It’s located in the south-west corner of the Wicklow Mountains and stands a lofty 925 metres high. There are a few different routes to get to the top, which you can read about in our guide to the Lugnaquilla hike .

You need to be fully prepared for crazy weather conditions, but the panoramic view from the summit is what makes the effort worthwhile. 

7. Or try the much easier Sugarloaf walk

sugarloaf

Photos via shutterstock.com

If the Lugnaquilla Hike sounds a little too daunting, then you should perhaps opt for the easier Sugarloaf walk. This is a much more accessible hike that still delivers incredible views on a fine day.

The Great Sugarloaf stands at 501m and is a unique conical shape mountain. It’s located in the north-east of the Wicklow Mountains and you can even look across to Dublin city from the top. The short walk takes just an hour, or you can try the longer option which is around 2.5 hours to the top. You can read our full guide to the Great Sugarloaf Walk for more details. 

8. Explore Djouce Mountain and Woods

2 photos of djouce mountain

Photo left: By Turraoin. Photo right: By Al Kelly

Djouce Woods are a popular place for a ramble through the forest. Less than an hour south of Dublin City, the woods have two main walking trails where you can explore beautiful views over Sugarloaf, Bray and Dublin Bay and unique wildlife including the Sika Deer. 

The Djouce Woods were once part of the Powerscourt Estate and are just a short drive from Powerscourt Waterfall if you have more time to explore further. 

If you fancy conquering the mountain, you can do so on the Djouce Mountain walk , which takes around 2.5 hours, max, with stops.

9. Or the now famous Ballinastoe Forest Walk

Ballinastoe woods walk

Photo by PhilipsPhotos (Shutterstock)

Thanks to a million IG photos that make this place look like a scene from Lord of the Rings, the Ballinastore Forest Walk is suddenly become incredibly popular.

It’s just 5km north of Roundwood village and south of the Powerscourt Estate, making it an easy place to reach on a day trip to the Wicklow Mountains. 

There is a decent car park and picnic area where a nice 5km loop walk heads into the forest. The area is home to foxes, badgers, red squirrels and sika deer as well as many species of birds. For keen mountain bikers, there’s also a 16km trail in the woods as well. 

10. Drop by Powerscourt Waterfall

powerscourt

Photo by Eleni Mavrandoni (Shutterstock)

A must-stop on your way to the Wicklow Mountains from Dublin is the Powerscourt Waterfall . This mighty tumble of water is the highest waterfall in Ireland at 121m. It’s an incredible sight to see and easily reached inside the Powerscourt Estate. 

As part of the estate, you will have to abide by opening hours and admission tickets, but it’s worth a visit for a picnic on a nice day. 

11. Spin along the Blessington Greenway

blessington greenway

Photo by riganmc (Shutterstock)

On the less visited western side of the Wicklow Mountains, a cycle along the Blessington Greenway Trail offers beautiful views across the shores of the Blessington Lakes . The 6.5km trail is an easy ramble or cycle from the historic town of Blessington to the 18th century Palladian mansion at Russborough House. 

The easy path follows a mix of forest roads, tarmac paths, boardwalks and gravel trails. The views of the lake and Wicklow Mountains in the distance make it a nice weekend activity. 

How to get from Dublin to the Wicklow Mountains National Park

One of the most FAQs we’ve received over the last 6 years has revolved around how to get from Dublin to the Wicklow Mountains. There’s 3 ways to do so:

By far the easiest way to get from Dublin to the Wicklow Mountains is by car. Depending on where you leave from, the journey from Dublin should take no more than 60 minutes.

Public transport

Getting from Dublin to the Wicklow Mountains by bus is handier than you might think. St. Kevin’s Bus leaves from many parts of Dublin City and stops at Roundwood, Annamore, Laragh and Glendalough and runs several times throughout the day.

Organised tours

If you fancy letting someone else do all the hard work, this tour (affiliate link) that takes you from Dublin to the Wicklow mountains is worth checking out. It’s €35 and you’ll see a good chunk of the park and Glendalough over 8 hours and the tour has racked up rave reviews.

FAQs about visiting the Glendalough and the Wicklow Mountains National Park

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from the where you’re allowed to go camping in the Wicklow Mountains to what there is to do.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What are the best things to do in the Wicklow Mountains?

Explore on foot. Any of the walks mentioned above are worth doing, but note, the likes of Lugnaquilla should only be attempted by experienced walkers.

Can you drive through Wicklow National Park?

Yes. Despite popular belief, the park doesn’t just encompass Glendalough. You can explore much of it on a scenic drive. 

How big is Wicklow National Park?

The park encompasses a whopping 20,483 hectares.

Is camping in the Wicklow Mountains allowed?

Although camping in Glendalough is forbidden, you can camp in the greater National Park, once you abide by the Wild Camping Code.

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English

  • Wicklow Mountains

Why go hiking in the Wicklow Mountains and on the Wicklow Way?

  • Older than the Himalayas and the Alps, the Wicklow Mountains in Ireland’s Ancient East possess a stillness and beauty that will soothe body and soul.
  • Explore the beautiful valley of Glendalough with its lakes and the romantic remains of one of the most important monastic sites in Ireland, established in the 6th Century AD.
  • Experience some of the most spectacular scenery in Ireland including the tranquil ‘Guinness Lake’ of Lough Tay and one of Ireland's highest waterfalls at Powerscourt along the Wicklow Way.
  • Convenience: Just 90 minutes south of Dublin Airport, it's so easy to get to County Wicklow, also known as the Garden of Ireland and home to Ireland’s largest National Park!

What's Included:

  • Top-Choice Accommodation
  • Detailed Itinerary, Maps & GPS Tracks
  • Baggage Transfer
  • Insider Tips
  • 24/7 Support
  • Access your tour details & documents on the go with your designated Hillwalk Tours account

What's Excluded:

  • Travel to and from tour start and end points
  • Lunches, dinners, snacks & drinks
  • Travel insurance
  • Hiking equipment

Wicklow Mountains

Despite its proximity to Dublin, the Wicklow Mountains offer hundreds of kilometres of wonderfully unspoilt trails and a wide variety of scenic landscapes like mountains, upland lakes, steep sided glacial valleys, fast flowing mountain streams, forests and farmland. The most famous is the Wicklow Way b ut there are also many other wonderful trails that are not part of the Wicklow Way and which are worth exploring.

Wicklow Mountains (Heart of Wicklow)

For this reason we have created three gentle itineraries that mostly use these other trails, which also offer a wonderful hiking experience. We call these Heart of Wicklow tours and while they still include some up and down, the daily walks on these itineraries are generally a little shorter than the Wicklow Way routes.

Depending on the chosen itinerary the Heart of Wicklow tours follow one or more of these hikes:

  • a spectacular loop walk from Glendalough into the Glenealo Valley and over the Spinc ridge
  • a gentle, short loop walk from Laragh over the top of Trooperstown Hill
  • the beautiful Avonmore Way along the Avonmore River from Rathdrum to Laragh
  • the eastern part of the St Kevin’s Way which follows an ancient pilgrim route across the mountains on its way to Glendalough.
  • The Wicklow Way section from Roundwood to Enniskerry, widely considered the highlight of the Wicklow Way trail.

Wicklow Mountains (Wicklow Way)

The majority of our Wicklow Mountains hiking tours mostly follow the Wicklow Way hiking trail. But many itineraries also include the Glenealo Valley and Spinc walk to allow more hikers to experience the magic and spectacular scenery of Glendalough.

The 131km (81 Miles) long Wicklow Way, which crosses the Wicklow Mountains from south to north, runs from the village of Clonegal in County Carlow to Marlay Park in the southern suburbs of Dublin. It was first proposed by Dublin hillwalker, J.B. Malone in the 1960s and in 1981 it became Ireland’s first waymarked trail.

Due to the scenery and its proximity to Dublin the Wicklow Way has remained one of the most popular walking routes in Ireland. The trail is a pleasure to walk and well signposted. It mostly follows upland paths, forest tracks and quiet country roads.

See what it’s like to hike the Wicklow Way through the lens of Wolf who walked the trail with Hillwalk Tours and made this exhilarating video of their experience:

Choose Your Hike

Prices / what's included, accommodation, extra days/activities, travel info, why choose hillwalk tours, more reading.

We offer different tour grading levels depending on the balance of physical challenge and comfort level that you require

Gentle Hikes

Our Gentle Hiking Tours are designed with the part-time hiker in mind.

People for whom taking photos, meeting the locals and enjoying a long lunch are as important as the hike itself.

Average Hiking Distance: 12-16km (8-10 miles) per day Average Hiking Time: 4-5 hours per day

Moderate Hikes

Our Moderate Hiking Tours will suit people who are used to regular exercise.

Hikers will appreciate the chance to cover plenty of ground each day without going beyond their limits.

Look out for the 👣 symbol: these itineraries cover the entire Wicklow Way trail from Bunclody to Marlay Park, Dublin

Average Hiking Distance: 15-19km (9.5-12 miles) per day Average Hiking Time: 5-7 hours per day

Challenging Hikes

Are you the type of hiker who sets off in the morning and doesn’t stop until they reach their destination?

If yes, then our Challenging Hiking Tours will be just right for you.

Average Hiking Distance: 22-27km (14-17 miles) per day Average Hiking Time: 6-8 hours per day

The Wicklow Mountains

The Wicklow Mountains, just south of Ireland’s capital Dublin, form the largest area of continuous hills and mountains in Ireland with more than 500 km 2 above 300 metres. They stretch for almost 70km from Dublin, in the north, to the border with the counties of Wexford and Carlow in the south. The highest peak, Lugnaquilla (925m), is the highest Irish mountain outside of County Kerry, and there are a total of 39 peaks over 600 metres in Wicklow.

The Wicklow Mountains were created 400 million years ago but they owe their current shape largely to the effects of the last ice age, when glaciers deepened the valleys and created the many lakes. Much of the uplands consists of bog, heather and upland grassland while the valleys are mostly a mixture of coniferous and deciduous woodland. 

The famous early Christian monastic settlement at Glendalough was founded in the 6th century. Many early medieval churches as well as the impressive, almost 1000 year old, Round Tower can still be seen there. From the 12th to the 19th century, the Wicklow Mountains were a stronghold and hiding place for Irish clans and rebels opposed to English rule. This ended after the construction of the Military Road through the mountains at the start of the 19th century. 

These days the Wicklow Mountains are a major destination for tourism and recreation. The entire upland area is protected by law and the Wicklow Mountains National Park is Ireland’s largest national park.

  • The Wicklow Way: Most of our tours on the Wicklow Way hike the route from south to north (towards Dublin). That way, the sun and much of the wind and rain will be in your back instead of in your face. This also has the advantage that most of the travelling is done on the first day and when walkers finish their tour, they are closer to Dublin City centre. The Wicklow Way starts in the small village of Clonegal in County Carlow and for the first 50km it crosses a series of gentle foothills. The route then enters the central Wicklow Mountains, with its high rounded ridges and deep valleys. Much of this section is covered in forestry and the landscape often changes when trees get felled or replanted. The route passes through the remote and wild glacial valley of Glenmalure, the longest of its kind in Ireland and Britain, before entering beautiful Glendalough with its ancient monastic site. From there, the trail moves deeper into high, heathery moorland, often with wide vistas over the glens and mountains, before finishing in the southern suburbs of Dublin. The Wicklow Way was originally designed to lead through the mountains from one remote inn or hostel to the next and the route does not pass through any villages or towns. While the trail is never really far from a public road, there is a strong sense of remoteness on many of the hikes and transfers are often required between the trail and the overnight accommodation. It is a richly varied route, with the more dramatic scenery of mountains and lakes at the northern end. The highlights include Glenmalure, Glendalough, Lough Tay and the former Guinness estate and the Powerscourt waterfall.
  • Glenealo Valley & The Spinc (Glendalough Loop Walk): This is a popular walk that gives easy access to some of the most spectacular scenery in Wicklow. After a visit to the peaceful valley of Glendasan it follows the Miners Road in Glendalough to the old ‘miner’s village’. An invigorating climb leads to a bridge at the top of the valley from where hundreds of wooden steps lead to a ridge above the lake with spectacular views back towards Glendalough. Descend is via the Poulanass Waterfall to the two lakes and the monastic village.
  • Trooperstown Hill: A gentle walk south from the village of Laragh leads through mixed woodland and then up to the top of Trooperstown Hill from where hikers often have wonderful views of the Wicklow Mountains and towards the sea in the east. The route descends through Trooperstown Wood and across the Avonmore River on its way to Laragh.
  • Avonmore Way: The route follows the Avonmore River from the village of Rathdrum through the beautiful Claravale Nature Reserve. From the picturesque settlement of Clara with its ancient bridge the trail climbs through forests to a road with views of the valley. You can choose to climb Trooperstown Hill before descending through more forest and across the Avonmore River on your way into Laragh.
  • St Kevin’s Way: This hike follows in the footsteps of medieval pilgrims who walked to the ancient monastery at Glendalough. The trail climbs gently towards the spectacular Wicklow Gap with its reservoir and hydroelectricity plant. The route passes reminders of a rich mining heritage before it follows the descent of the Glendasan River and a peaceful river walk leads into the Valley of Glendalough.

Terrain Overview ( Wicklow Way )

The terrain on the Wicklow Way consists of forestry tracks, quiet country roads, green boreens (a Gaelic word that literally translates as ‘little road’) and mountain paths through open moorland. Some sections can occasionally be wet and muddy, but many of those have been improved by wooden boardwalks. 

Large sections of the route follow gravel tracks through land owned by Coillte, a state owned forestry company. This means that the landscape along those sections is often changing as trees get felled, are replanted, grow and then reach maturity as tall trees within the cycle of commercial forestry.

Approx. 39km or 30% of the total Wicklow Way route follows local roads, to avoid walking on private land. But this percentage can be much lower, depending on which tour itinerary you choose. In general, there is more road walking in the southern part of the route.

Since our Wicklow Mountains tours lead through a landscape of hills and mountains there is naturally a fair amount of ‘up and down’ in all itineraries and as part of every hiking day. The total aggregate ascent is approximately 3,300m over the entire route and there are some steep sections with longer climbs. The highest point is at White Hill, near Lough Tay, where the trail reaches a little over 600m.

Elevation Profile (Wicklow Way)

Elevation Profile Wicklow Way

Terrain by Stages

You will find more info on the route, distances, walking times and daily ascent on the overview pages for the individual itineraries we offer in the Wicklow Mountains.

Clonegal – Shillelagh (Wicklow Way) : This section consists of quiet country roads and forest trails through rolling hillside.

Shillelagh – Tinahely (Wicklow Way) : Forest tracks, farmland and quiet country roads make up this part of the trail. One section can be muddy in wet weather.

Tinahely – Iron Bridge (Wicklow Way) : A mixture of grassy mountain paths, forest tracks and minor roads. Lots of ups and downs but not particularly steep.

Iron Bridge – Glenmalure (Wicklow Way) : Most of this walk is on forest paths and tracks with some sections on quiet mountain roads. There is one long climb along good surface. Possible areas of felled and/or replanted forestry.

Glenmalure – Glendalough (Wicklow Way) : The day starts with a one long climb along forest tracks followed by a steep but short climb on stone steps. Descend then via boardwalks and mountain paths tracks to Glendalough/Laragh. Possible areas of felled and/or replanted forestry.

Avonmore Way (Rathdrum – Laragh) : Good forest and riverside tracks and paths, with the option to climb Trooperstown Hill, some road walking, parts of which can be avoided by alternative route options. A number of shorter climbs one of them quite steep.

Glenealo Valley & The Spinc (Glendalough Loop Walk) : Good tracks and mountain paths, boardwalks over wet or more difficult sections. A short, easy climb at the beginning and a long, moderate climb towards the top of the valley followed by a long gradual descent with one steep section on railway sleepers. 

Trooperstown Hill (Laragh Loop Walk) : Minor roads, country and forest tracks and upland paths. One long but quite manageable climb to Trooperstown Hill followed by a slightly steeper descend.

St Kevin’s Way (Ballinagee Bridge – Glendalough) : Paths and boardwalks through areas of forestry, mountain tracks and paths, limited road walking. Gentle climb to the Wicklow Gap before a long descent into Glendalough. Possible areas of felled and/or replanted forestry.

Glendalough – Roundwood (Wicklow Way) : A gentle and well-maintained mountain path followed by a long walk on a quiet road. The route option to the summit of Scarr is on a rugged, albeit well-defined, mountain path.

Roundwood – Enniskerry (Wicklow Way) : Forest tracks and a short section on a quiet road, then mountain paths and boardwalks. Halfway, the highest point of the walk is reached near Djouce (600m). There are a few longer climbs and one that is shorter and a little steeper. Possible areas of felled and/or replanted forestry.

Enniskerry – Marlay Park (Wicklow Way): This section has quiet mountain roads, paths and tracks. Two climbs before a long descent to the outskirts of Dublin City. Possible areas of felled and/or replanted forestry.

What’s Included in the Price?

  • Stay in our friendly, family-run guesthouses & hotels
  • Relax in comfortable en-suite bedrooms *
  • Big breakfasts will keep you going all day long
  • Luggage? Don’t worry, we’ll move it for you!
  • Detailed maps, route notes and GPS tracks mean you’ll never get lost
  • Walking directions written and updated by the Hillwalk Tours team
  • Local alternative/supplementary route options based on local knowledge
  • Our waterproof map-case keeps your maps and documents dry
  • If you need to contact us, we’re here 24/7 to help
  • Insider tips on the best places to eat and drink **
  • Explore the local history and culture in our fascinating guides
  • Discover the most interesting attractions on the trail
  • Need info on transport ? We’re happy to help

* Unless already booked out in which case we’ll try to secure a private bathroom

** You will have the opportunity to purchase picnic lunches and evening meals each day. If you are staying in a remote location, the B&B owner will prepare a tasty surprise for you upon request.

Transfer Note:

  • Due to a scarcity of accommodation in the more remote parts of the Wicklow Mountains, transfers are in some cases required between the walking trail and your accommodation. The cost of these transfers is built into the price of your tour. However, for larger groups (i.e. 4 walkers or more), additional transfers may be required which can incur a small surcharge. Please contact us for further information.
  • For tours finishing in Marlay Park (Dublin) it is not possible to organise a pre-paid taxi transfer to your accommodation in Dun Laoghaire. However, it is easy to get a taxi and the cost of this transfer has been discounted from your tour price.

Please Note:

We occasionally charge additional supplements on the Wicklow Way for tours starting during the high season. This is due to higher costs involved in booking our upgrade option or in cases where our normal accommodation suppliers do not have availability, and an alternative, more expensive, supplier is sourced with your approval.

Give those weary legs some respite and explore some of the other attractions of the Wicklow Mountains!

Glendalough: This spectacular glacial valley with its 6th Century monastic village has a rare spirituality and charm. The scenic hikes around the lakes are a highlight. (Please note that many of our itineraries already include the hike around the lakes as well as one or more days in Laragh / Glendalough which also allow time to visit the valley and sights.)

Dublin (Dún Laoghaire): A vibrant coastal town 12km south of Dublin City Centre built around a 200-year-old harbour, with an abundance of shops, restaurants, cafés and pubs. Visit Ireland’s National Maritime Museum or take a dip at the Forty Foot, one of The Ten Best Places to Swim in the World according to the New York Times. Dublin City Centre, with attractions such as The Guinness Storehouse, Kilmainham Gaol and the Book of Kells, is within easy reach by public transport.

Booking Extra Days

  • Choose WHERE you wish to stay.
  • Decide HOW MANY NIGHTS you need.
  • Go to the BOOKING FORM and fill in the ‘Extra Nights Required/Other Requests’ section.

The costs of extra nights during your Wicklow Mountains hiking tour start from €75 per person per night and from €100 for single hikers who will have their own private room. 

You can also add extra nights in some other popular locations in Ireland: Dublin (Dún Laoghaire), Galway, etc. Please enquire when booking. The costs of these extra nights vary by location and date booked.

Please note that if you book any extra nights in a location not included in your tour itinerary, you will have to make your own arrangements to transfer your bags to this location.

Staying at the very best accommodation during your time in Ireland can transform a “good” hiking tour into a “great” hiking tour.

That’s why, at Hillwalk Tours, we take the quality of our accommodation partners seriously. So much so that you will find we strive to only work with high-quality and well-reviewed accommodation. Additionally, most of our accommodation partners have been personally checked by a member of the Hillwalk Tours team to ensure your comfort.

As keen hikers ourselves we know you’ll want somewhere relaxing to put your feet up in the evening. A place where a warm smile from your hosts makes you feel welcome as soon as you step through the door. If your hiking gear gets wet, it’s nice to know that you can dry it or, if you ask, it may even be taken from you and returned nice and dry the next morning.

Comfy beds, en-suite bathrooms (where available), tasty breakfast menus, and a friendly & cosy atmosphere – these are all the things that we like so you can rest assured that we’ll do our best to find them for you as well.

To find out more about the types of accommodation you can expect to find on a Hillwalk Tours walking holiday, read here: Accommodation on your Walking Tour

In addition, if you’d like to stay an extra night at any location during your hiking tour, just let us know.

Due to limited accommodation options in some locations on your tour, we may need to book you into accommodation which will require transfers to/from your hike start/end point or where you will have private bathroom facilities instead of an ensuite. We may also need to book you into the same accommodation for more than one night to cover multiple locations. The cost of this is covered in your basic tour price and will not affect your tour itinerary.

In general, we try to book accommodation which is as close to the local amenities as possible. If you are staying in a remote location (where access to local pubs/restaurants is not feasible), the hosts of the accommodation that you are staying at will ensure that you are well fed.

Getting to and from your Wicklow Mountains hiking tour is easy… when you know how!

In your hiking pack, you will receive all the necessary public transport information you need to make your journey as convenient as possible.

In the meantime, if you’d like to do some advance planning yourself, here are our tips.

Most Convenient Airports

  • Dublin Airport

Sustainable Travel (from Europe)

  • Travel by Ferry to Ireland Sail from Cherbourg & Rosscoff in France, or Bilbao in Spain, to Dublin, Rosslare or Cork in Ireland. See list of Routes from Europe to Irish Ports.
  • Travel by Ferry to Ireland via the UK Sail from ports in the Netherlands, France and Spain to Dover, Hull, Harwich, Portsmouth & others in the UK. Continue via Pembroke, Holyhead, Fishguard, Liverpool or Cairnryan to Rosslare, Dublin or Belfast in Ireland. See list of Routes from Continental Europe & Ireland to UK Ports
  • Travel by Train via the UK From Paris, Brussels, Rotterdam or Amsterdam to London via Eurostar Rail & Sail from UK to Ireland
  • Travel by Bus via the UK From Europe to London / Manchester From London to Dublin From Birmingham to Dublin From Glasgow to Belfast From Glasgow to Donegal From Glasgow to Belfast From Scotland to Northern Ireland

Public Transport

  • Bunclody Public Bus
  • Tinahely Train to Rathdrum
  • Rathdrum Train to Rathdrum
  • Laragh Private bus from Dublin Airport to Bray And then St Kevin's bus to Laragh
  • Enniskerry Private bus from Dublin Airport to Dublin City Centre And then a public bus to Enniskerry

Most starting locations can easily be reached by train or bus, but some may require the use of a taxi.

Please use this link for information regarding current bus and train services.

Departing from Laragh, Enniskerry or Dun Laoghaire/Dublin after your tour:

There are regular transport services that link Laragh, Enniskerry or South Dublin with Dublin City/Dublin Airport

Travelling by car?

If you would like to leave your car at the first or last accommodation on your tour, for the duration of the tour, then you can directly contact the accommodation owners before the start of your tour to check that this is possible. We will provide contact details for the accommodation provider.

  • About Our Tours

Tour Grading

How to book, don't forget.., during your tour, about our ireland hiking tours.

Antrim is located in Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom (UK). The currency used in Northern Ireland is Pound Sterling (£) and not Euros (€).

If you are entering Northern Ireland directly by ferry or plane, a passport is required. If you are an EU Citizen, a national identity card will not suffice, as the UK is no longer in the EU.

Travelling to Northern Ireland from the Republic of Ireland: Under the Northern Ireland Protocol, the island of Ireland will continue to have no land border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. This means that people can travel freely between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland without any land border check.

A self-guided hiking tour gives you the freedom to enjoy the wonderful Irish countryside at your own pace.

Hillwalk Tours will provide you with all the resources you need to successfully complete the trail alone or in the company of good friends. We’ll plan your route, transfer your bags and show you all the best places to visit but you decide whether you want that extra hour in bed in the morning! All this gives you the freedom to enjoy the trails and the wonderful countryside at your own pace.

Find out more about the benefits of a self-guided hiking tour in comparison to a guided tour here .

Choosing the right hiking tour can be tricky. It’s important to consider the balance of physical challenge and comfort level that you require. To make your decision easier, we have drawn up a menu of Gentle, Moderate and Challenging hiking tours.

Before we explain the difference between the various grades, it is important to note that each hiking tour within a specific region follows the same official hiking trail. For example, if you choose to go walking in Kerry in Ireland, it doesn’t matter whether you pick a ‘Gentle’ tour or a ‘Challenging’ tour – you will still be walking along the official ‘Kerry Way’ trail. To make these walking trails more accessible to all walkers, we have either 1) picked out the sections of the walking trails that are less demanding or 2) shortened the average daily hike between accommodations.

  • Same Trail, Easier Sections: For example, on the Kerry Way in Ireland, our ‘Gentle’ tours are restricted to the less demanding sections of the trail while our ‘Challenging’ tours cover the entire trail including the most difficult sections.
  • Same Trail, Shorter Distances: For example, on the Hadrian’s Wall Path in England, you can walk the entire trail on a 8-Day Challenging Tour, a 10-Day Moderate Tour or a 11-Day Gentle Tour. However, while the Challenging tour requires you to keep up a brisk pace of 23km (14.5 miles) per day on average, the Moderate tour has a more leisurely average of 18km (11.25 miles) per day and the Gentle tour only requires an average walking distance of 15km per day.

Below is a general overview of each tour grading level. Note that the figures for ‘Average Daily Hike’ and ‘Hiking Time’ may vary between regions. Poor weather conditions can affect the average hiking time which is based on a person of normal fitness walking at a moderate speed of around 4km/h (2.5 mph). The hiking time takes into account the terrain covered but not the time required for lunch stops, photos, etc. For more details on daily distances, the level of ascent and the terrain the trail crosses; refer to the itinerary page of each individual tour.

12-18km (8-11 miles)  3-6 hours

Our Gentle Hiking Tours are designed with the part-time hiker in mind. While you can still expect some climbs, these tours offer the shortest average daily hikes, which in turn means less ups and downs. This will give you plenty time to enjoy the sights and scenery, take photos, have a long lunch and, if necessary, negotiate the more tricky sections of a walk.

 16-23km (10-14 miles)   4-7 hours

Challenging

 22-30km (14-19 miles)   5-9 hours

Our core purpose at Hillwalk Tours is to create experiences that make people happy. Some of the ways we try to achieve this, and ensure you have the best possible experience with us, include;

The biggest choice of itineraries for the trails we offer, guaranteed –  We want you to explore these areas of outstanding natural beauty at your own pace, with nearly 400 itineraries to choose from across 21 different trails (and we’re always looking to add more).

We book your tour direct, always –  We don’t book third-party companies to organise tours for our customers. We don’t resell tours from other third-party companies. We always directly book and operate all of our tours ourselves.

Creating memorable self-guided hiking tours is all we focus on, nothing else! –  We just focus on creating and organising self-guided hiking tours, and nothing else! And we’ve been doing it for quite some time (since 2008), with over 20,000 hiking tours taken with us so far, and growing…

You can access your tour information easily –  You will receive a designated Hillwalk Tours account where you can login to access all your tour documents, trail GPS file, and other important details. Access your tour information anytime, anywhere, and on any device.

We don’t do off-the-shelf guidebooks  – We personally walk each trail we offer & create our own detailed route notes. By doing so, it allows us to provide you with more itineraries, route options and alternatives than any other walking tour company!

We come highly recommended by other hikers  – Our tours & service have consistently received 5* reviews from walkers. Check out our reviews on  Google ,  Facebook  &  Tripadvisor .

You can start your tour on any day / date you like  – We don’t confine you to book your tour on specific dates. Instead, you can book your tour to start on any day / date you like during the walking season.

We have itineraries to match your fitness levels  – We provide 3 levels of hiking; ‘Gentle’, ‘Moderate’ & ‘Challenging’, which are designed to suit all types of fitness levels and abilities of hikers.

You can walk at your own pace  – As all our tours are self-guided, you can walk the trails at your own pace as opposed to adhering to a strict schedule, allowing you the freedom to enjoy the beautiful nature & surrounds.

We’re here to support you 24/7  – You can reach us by phone 24/7 if you ever need additional support while on the trail.

We have a very low booking deposit  – Our booking deposit of £100 is one of the lowest, if not the lowest, in the industry.

Guided hiking tours are not available from Hillwalk Tours.

However, don’t be put off doing a self-guided hiking tour. With help from the documentation that you are provided in advance i.e. Route Notes & Directions, Local History & Attractions, Places To Eat / Evening Meal Suggestions etc., you are well prepared, making it perfectly manageable to complete the trail by yourself – and without missing out on any of the local information & history as you walk along the trail!

You can start your hiking tour on any day / date you wish within the walking season. Generally, the walking season for most of our hiking tours takes place between March to October, but there are some exceptions. Please see the individual trail pages for further information on the start and end dates of the walking season for each individual trail.

Our 7-Day tours include 5 days of hiking. The first and last days of all our hiking tours are travel days used to transfer to/from the town where your hike will begin/end. If you would like to hike for 7 days, simply select one of our 9-Day tours.

Our 7-Day tours include 6 nights of accommodation – specifically the first 6 nights on your hiking tour. Your tour finishes on the seventh day when you check out of your last B&B.

A single supplement is an additional charge for walkers booking single accommodation (a room for one person).

This is due to the fact that most accommodation providers price their rooms for double occupancy, meaning that they don’t discount the rooms even if they are only occupied by one person. Furthermore, accommodation providers have outlined that the cost of cleaning the room is the same regardless of how many people are in it, and also the potential cost of giving up a double occupancy (or more) sized room for just one person at a cheaper rate, when they could sell the room to more than one person at the normal rate, is too high.

Therefore, the total tour price for individuals who request a single room is “the price per person plus the single supplement”. This added supplement covers the extra costs associated with accommodating a single person in their own room.

It is not possible to bring your dog on a Hillwalk Tours hiking holiday. Unfortunately, the majority of our accommodation providers do not accept pets of any kind. Furthermore, on many of the trails you will pass through farmlands where livestock are present, and where dogs are not permitted as a result.

Yes, most bus and train tickets can be purchased online in advance of your trip. Specific transport information is available on the tour pages of each hiking region. See the Travel Info section for each tour for more information.

Upon booking you will also receive a step by step public transport guide which will outline some potential public transport options you can take in order to get you from your arrival airport to the start location of your tour.

We can generally arrange for you to park at your first accommodation.

If you are bringing your car, please contact us in advance.

About Luggage Transfers and Accommodation

No, on all our Irish hiking tours your luggage will be transported to your next accommodation each day as you walk and will arrive before 4pm. Weight limits apply to each piece of luggage, and vary from trail to trail, so please refer to your walking pack documents and communications sent to you in advance of your tour for the maximum weight limit allowed per bag on your selected tour.

You will mostly be staying in traditional Irish Bed & Breakfasts (B&B’s) / Guesthouses and small Hotels during your hiking trip. B&Bs / Guesthouses are often private lodging houses, where the friendly hosts welcome travellers into their homes. To ensure your comfort, most accommodation you will stay in has been personally checked by a member of the Hillwalk Tours team. At your accommodation, you can expect a warm welcome, en-suite facilities (where available) and a tasty breakfast each morning (but usually no other meals).

For more details on the types of accommodation you can expect to find on a Hillwalk Tours walking holiday, read here: Accommodation on your Walking Tour

Yes, you will receive a list of all accommodation that you will be staying in prior to the departure of your travels. Once final payment for your tour has been received, you will be sent an email with a digital PDF copy of your walking pack documents such as your route notes, accommodation details and evening meal suggestions etc. It’s within PDF copy of your walking pack documents that you’ll be able to find what accommodation you will be staying in each night*. You will also be posted a walking pack (either to your home address or the first accommodation on your tour) which will include essential physical items for your tour such as the required maps for the trail and luggage tags.

*If you’d prefer to receive a physical copy of your full walking pack documents too, it’s essential that you reply by email within 48 hours of booking your tour in order to let us know.

In general, we try to book accommodation which is as close to the local amenities as possible. If you are staying in a remote location (where access to local pubs/restaurants is not feasible), the owner of the B&B / Guesthouse or Hotel that you are staying at will ensure that you are well fed.

Please be aware that occasionally, due to the limited supply of accommodation, we may have to make reservations for you at a nearby B&B / Guesthouse or Hotel and arrange transfers to and from the walking trail accordingly. In most locations, this is not a concern but in certain places, availability can be an issue. For more information, just have a chat with the person who is booking your tour.

A ‘twin’ room is a room for two people with two separate beds. A ‘double’ room has just one large bed (for two people).

For more detailed information on the different room type options, please see the following page: Room Types

About Your Walking Pack

Once final payment for your tour has been received, you will be sent an email with a digital PDF copy of your walking pack documents such as your route notes, accommodation details and evening meal suggestions etc. You will also be posted a walking pack (either to your home address or first accommodation on your tour) which will include essential physical items for your tour such as the required maps for the trail and luggage tags*.

A breakdown of the documents and items you can expect to find in your walking pack are as follows; – Route notes (prepared by a member the Hillwalk Tours team who has walked every step of your tour) – Detailed hiking map(s) – A high-quality waterproof map-case – Full details of your accommodations and where you will be staying – Our tips on the most interesting attractions to visit along the trail – A look at fascinating local history – A guide to the best places to eat and drink – Safety information, emergency contact details & the country code for walkers

You will find GPS coordinates for each overnight accommodation on your tour in your walking pack. Please note that while we are reasonably confident that the tracks are correct and up-to-date, we recommend that they are not used as the only tool for navigation. The most important means for navigation should be the way markers along the trail, our route notes and the maps we provide in the walking pack.

Once final payment for your tour has been received, you will be sent an email with a PDF copy of your hiking documents. This PDF document can then be forwarded to as many people within your walking group as you’d like.

For the walking pack which includes physical items such as luggage tags, map-case, maps etc. and which will be posted to you (or awaiting at your first accommodation) – one walking pack will be provided per four people. Therefore, for a group of 1 – 4 people, one walking pack will be sent. For 5 – 8 people, two walking packs will be sent, etc.

The contents of your walking pack (route notes, accommodation information, history, etc.) will all be in English .

About Fitness Levels

We try to provide trail itineraries that cater to a large range of hikers & abilities. To achieve this, we provide 3 different levels of difficulty i.e. Gentle, Moderate, and Challenging itineraries. The difference between each level of difficulty is in the average distance that you will walk each day. It does not differ in relation to the elevation, as the exact trail will still be followed. Therefore, the same elevations (the up’s and down’s) of the trail are usually present regardless of the level of difficulty. Depending on the trail, you may find in your route notes some alternative & easier route options for sections of the trail in order to help you navigate & bypass more difficult parts of the trail, but this isn’t always the case.

It’s important to note that levels of difficulty provided by Hillwalk Tours should only be used as a guide against where your own level of fitness is at, and what you feel you will be able to manage on a daily basis. At the end of the day, it’s you that knows your own level of fitness best. We strongly encourage you to review the distances & walking times for each itinerary that you may be considering, along with any additional notes on the specific tour page, in advance of booking.

The difference between these tours is the distance that you will hike each day:

  • Gentle tours cover an average of 12-18 km (8-11 miles) per day
  • Moderate tours cover an average of 16-23 km (10-14 miles) per day
  • Challenging Tours cover an average of 22-30 km (14-19 miles) per day

For a more detailed breakdown of how we grade our hiking tours, please see the following question: Tour Grading

Yes, we are more than happy to organise an additional night for you at any location along your tour.

For example, if required, we can book you extra nights in Dublin, at the picturesque seaside village of Dún Laoghaire which is only a short 25 minute train journey from Dublin City Centre, or also in the popular cities of Galway and Belfast.

Suggestions on interesting places to take a rest day are available on the tour pages of each hiking region. See the ‘Extra Days/Activities’ section of each tour for more information.

About Money, Flights and Insurance

ATMs (cash machines) are available in most larger cities, towns and villages. Remember that your home bank will likely charge you for withdrawing money overseas. Additionally, if you have a debit card, you can often get cash through the ‘cashback’ system at some shops and pubs when you make a purchase with the card (ask for ‘cashback’).

Credit and debit cards can now be used for payment almost everywhere. However, there are still some smaller businesses that may only accept cash, such as smaller shops, B&Bs (for packed lunches) or taxis (for transfers to or from restaurants). We therefore recommend that you carry some cash (local currency) with you as a back-up.

Contactless card payments are also increasingly accepted in many places (please check daily card limits in advance of use).

The currency used in the Republic of Ireland is the Euro (€). Therefore, if you are taking any hiking tour in Ireland (except the Antrim Glens & Coastline tour), you will need Euros.

Flights and transport to the start and from the end of your hiking tour are not included on our tours. However, we do provide a detailed step-by-step guide of suggested options on how you can make it to the start location of your hike by public transport from numerous major airports. In addition, for further travel information, see the ‘Travel Info’ section on the individual tour page for each trail.

Although travel insurance is not required to take a hiking holiday, we strongly encourage you to take out adequate insurance cover prior to travel.

Unfortunately 3rd party travel insurance is not available through Hillwalk Tours, and must be booked separately.

Which Ireland Hiking Tour Should You Choose?

Choosing the right hiking tour can be tricky. It’s important to consider the balance of physical challenge and comfort level that you require. To make your decision easier, we have drawn up a menu of Gentle, Moderate and Challenging hiking tours.

Before we explain the difference between the various grades, it is important to note that each hiking tour within a specific region follows the same official hiking trail. For example, if you choose to go walking in Kerry, it doesn’t matter whether you pick a ‘Gentle’ tour or a ‘Challenging’ tour – you will still be walking along the official ‘Kerry Way’ trail. To make these walking trails more accessible to all walkers, we have either 1) picked out the sections of the walking trails that are less demanding or 2) shortened the average daily hike between accommodations.

Below is a general overview of each tour grading level. Note that the figures for ‘Average Daily Hike’ and ‘Hiking Time’ may vary between regions. Poor weather conditions can affect the average hiking time which is based on a person of normal fitness walking at a moderate speed of around 4km/h (2.5 mph). The hiking time takes into account the terrain covered but not the time required for lunch stops, photos, etc. For more details on daily distances, the level of ascent and the terrain the trail crosses; refer to the itinerary page of each individual tour.

1. Browse through our website to find your preferred hiking trail.

2. Choose the type of hiking tour you want to take: ‘Gentle’, ‘Moderate’ or ‘Challenging’.

3. Next, identify the number of days you want to spend on your hiking tour.

4. Click the ‘Make a Booking’ button on the top right of our webpage.

5. Finally, fill out our booking form and make a €100 deposit per person.

Deposits and Final Payments can be made using:

1. Credit Card – through PayPal, for Euro Payments, or through Stripe, for Sterling Payments

Paypal is used by 180 million people worldwide to make secure online credit card payments. Please note if you have opened a PayPal account at any stage in the past, you must log in to your account in order to make the payment.

Stripe is a quick and secure way to accept credit card and debit card payments online. Stripe handles millions of transactions every year for businesses around the world and is now the preferred payment partner for many major companies.

2. Bank Transfer – Instructions & account details on how to make a bank transfer payment can be found on our booking form and also within the final payment email. Alternatively, you can contact us directly for the required account details.

1. If you paid by credit card or debit card, you will receive an e-mail within 24 hours verifying receipt of your booking form and deposit payment.

In this email, you will be asked to confirm your tour details. If you paid by bank transfer, payment will take a few days to reach us. Therefore you will receive your email confirmation and request to confirm your tour details shortly after we have assigned the bank payment to your booking form. In this case, you may receive an automatic email outlining that a booking form has been received, but no deposit has been received – you can disregard this email.

2. Once your confirmation is received that all details on your booking form are correct, we will begin making the arrangements for your tour. Therefore, the sooner you send us this confirmation, the sooner we can start to book your tour.

3. After all the arrangements for your tour have been confirmed (this process can normally takes between five to ten working days) you will be sent a breakdown of the balance outstanding for your tour and a due date for payment.

4. Once your final payment has been received, we will send you an e-mail confirming receipt.

5. PDF soft copies of your walking pack will then be sent to you by email which will include all your tour details, and physical items required for your tour (e.g. maps, luggage tags etc.) will be posted to your home address, or to the first accommodation on your tour where it will be waiting for you on arrival. Alternatively, if you have requested that your full walking pack be printed, this will also be either sent to your home address or to your first accommodation on the tour where it will be waiting for you on arrival.

6. You will receive an automated email from us, one week in advance of your tour start date, providing you with some additional information to help with your preparation before travel.

7. During your tour, if you have any issues, you can reach us 24/7 on our emergency contact number which is found in your walking pack.

8. After your tour has finished, we will send you a feedback form in relation to your tour and how it all went. We place a huge importance on our customers feedback and experience of our tours, so when you have some free time, we strongly encourage you to fill out this feedback form as it helps us to continue to provide a high quality service and to further improve where necessary.

9. Lastly, if you would like to tell others about your experience with Hillwalk Tours, you can leave an online review on our Google , Facebook or Tripadvisor pages.

ESSENTIALS:

Please note: A detailed ‘Recommended Equipment L ist’ will be included in your walking pack

◻ WATERPROOF JACKET AND OVER-TROUSERS  – You never know when you will need protection from wind and rain – so prepare for unpredictable weather by packing a waterproof, breathable jacket and over-trousers. You may not need them, but you will be happy to have them if you do.

◻ BASE LAYER  – This is what you wear against your skin and the best options are breathable and wicking fabrics instead of cotton. They will move moisture away from the skin so that you feel more comfortable when you are walking.

◻ FLEECE – It keeps you warm in the cooler months and on top of the hills, and will allow you to shed layers when you are working hard in the summer.

◻ LIGHT AND COMFORTABLE TROUSERS – Make sure you choose trousers that are stretchy or allow enough space to move your legs freely.  Jeans / Denims are not suitable for hill walking and dry very slowly once they get wet.

◻ WICKING SOCKS – Choose non-cotton socks that fit well and will move moisture away from your feet to stop them feeling sweaty. Some people wear two pairs: a sock liner against the skin and wool or wool-blend socks over that. This will help to reduce the likelihood of blisters and ‘hot spots’. Our tip: Apply a little Vaseline or a similar anti-blister ointment each morning and then put on your socks, this reduces rubbing and helps to prevent blisters.

◻ FOOTWEAR – We recommend that you bring comfortable, waterproof, lightweight shoes or boots, that provide good ankle support and offer good grip on rock, grass and mud. Remember that the trails in many of our regions, but especially along the west coast of Ireland, can become quite wet and muddy, after periods of rain. Additionally, if you are taking a walking tour in the Burren, the West of Ireland or Dingle, we recommend you choose your footwear carefully and bring something suitable to prolonged sections of asphalt hiking. Our tip: If you buy new boots for your holiday make sure to try them out on one or two longer walks before your tour!

If you are taking a walking tour in the Burren, Connemara & the West of Ireland , or on the Dingle Way , we recommend you choose your footwear carefully and bring something suitable for prolonged sections of hiking on asphalt or hard packed dirt.

House Shoes: Some B&Bs don’t allow boots or shoes in the house, so you may wish to bring some ‘house shoes’ i.e., slippers, flip-flops, etc.

◻ GAITERS – By covering your upper boot and lower leg these help to keep your feet and trousers dry in wet grass and boggy terrain. We recommended you bring gaiters especially for our tours along the western coast of Ireland and the Cotswold Way, but they are a good thing to have on your feet wherever the ground gets especially wet.

◻ BACKPACK / RUCKSACK (with Waterproof Cover or liner) – To store all your essentials and keep them dry – including extra layers of clothing, your waterproofs, first aid kit, camera and your lunch, snacks and drinks. Don’t forget how important it is to stay hydrated and bring at least 1 – 2 litres of water per person each day, depending on the weather! Also, make sure to bring some emergency snacks, to help keep your energy up!

◻ WARM HAT & GLOVES – Essential, even in summer, at higher altitudes and on exposed places.

◻ CASH – Bring enough for the duration of your tour/hike as ATM/cash machine & credit card services may be limited (see your Welcome Letter for more details) .

◻ FIRST AID KIT – It’s a good idea to have a small, basic first aid kit to deal with little injuries such as sprains, scrapes, cuts and blisters. Good things to bring are plasters & wound dressings, sterile cleansing wipes, pain killers, tweezers (for splinters & ticks), bandages and, zinc oxide tape.

◻ WHISTLE – This standard piece of hiking equipment is for the very unlikely event you need to signal for help (the standard signal is three long blasts).

◻ HIGH VISIBILITY VESTS & TORCH – Many trails, particularly in Ireland, have sections that follow roads. For those hikes you may wish to bring a High Visibility Vest which will increase your visibility, especially in bad weather or if it gets dark when your walk takes longer than expected. A torch can help on off-road sections.

◻ PLUG ADAPTER (CONVERTER) – 3-square pin plugs are used in Ireland and the UK – voltage is 230V.

◻ MOBILE PHONE – We strongly recommend that you bring or purchase a mobile/cell phone. It will allow you to contact your accommodation and transfer providers from the trail and call for help in an emergency.

  • Visitors from other European Countries: European mobile phone users can use roaming in Ireland and Northern Ireland without additional costs but be sure to check this with your operator before you travel.
  • Visitors from the United States, Canada and elsewhere: If your phone is unlocked and GSM/UMTS compatible, you can also purchase an Irish or UK SIM card from a variety of mobile phone stores and supermarkets and use it in your own phone. Alternatively, you can purchase a cheap pre-pay phone when you arrive. It is often possible to buy a very basic pre-pay phone for as little as €20 or £15. You can then top-up with vouchers or a credit/debit card. If you phone supports digital eSIM cards, you may be able to purchase a separate plan from your phone network provider for use abroad or a prepaid plan from local network provider in your destination country.
  • To make international calls in Europe you must dial 00 as the international access code (and not 011 as in the US or Canada). If you are dialling from a cell phone, enter + instead of 00, or simply hold down the 0.
  • Make sure your phone is fully charged before you start your walk. Please note that you might not always have a phone signal on the trail but, in general, the level of coverage is quite good.
  • If you have a smartphone, we recommend you have a mapping app like Google Maps installed and your location/GPS service turned on. This will let us better help you should you need assistance while on the trail by identifying your location.

ADDITIONAL SUGGESTIONS:

◻ SUN CREAM, SUNGLASSES AND SUNHAT  (April to Sept) – Let’s hope you’ll need those!

◻ MIDGE/INSECT REPELLENT & MIDGE NET (May to September only) – can also be useful for other regions.

◻ CAMERA  – Vital for capturing photos of the stunning scenery along your trip, which help you brag to your friends about your holiday.

◻ COMPASS  – A compass (and the ability to use it) is a good idea but not a requirement for our Irish tours.

◻ WALKING POLES  – Assist forward movement, reduce impact on your knees, and help with balance in difficult terrain. A pair is best but many hikers also just use one.

◻ EARPLUGS  – We know how important it is to get a good night’s rest. However, as there may be other guests in the guesthouse with different plans for their night, we recommend bringing a pair of earplugs to ensure sweet dreams!

Your room will be ready each day from 4pm at the latest and sometimes sooner.

Check-in times to your accommodation is generally not before 4pm. You may be able to check-in a bit earlier (e.g. around 3pm), but this is not guaranteed. To request an earlier check-in time, please contact your accommodation host in advance to discuss.

If you expect to arrive later than 6pm to your accommodation, please inform you accommodation hosts in advance (in particular B&B’s & Guesthouses). Reasons for this can be that your flight is delayed, that you are still on the trail or because you might have stopped for food or a drink before check-in. By letting them know in advance, it allows the hosts to plan accordingly and to also put their minds at ease that you are OK.

Check-out time is usually 10am , but it can vary, therefore it’s often best to discuss check-out times with your accommodation hosts directly.

Your luggage will arrive by 4pm each day.

A tasty breakfast is important to prepare you for the day of hiking & adventure ahead. At your accommodation you can find either, a hot breakfast, a continental breakfast, or perhaps even both!

In some cases, where we have no other option but to book you into accommodation where no breakfast is served, we will deduct the cost of the breakfast from your tour price which can instead be used to purchase breakfast in a nearby café / restaurant.

Most accommodation hosts will always try and cater for dietary requirements as best they can, provided they are notified in advance. Therefore, if you do have any dietary requirements (e.g. vegan, vegetarian, etc.) please let us know in the “Any Dietary Requirements/Allergies?” field on our booking form when booking.

Please note, not all businesses may readily accommodate dietary requirements, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, etc., especially in more remote and rural areas. If you require a specific diet, we recommend you enquire in advance or talk to your hosts. You may also find it useful to download an app such as Vanilla Bean or Happy Cow , both available on Android and iOS, to help you find a venue which meets your needs.

In your Route Notes, we list places where you should expect to find at least one café, pub, shop or restaurant along each day’s hike. However, opening times can change, some places may only open in afternoon, and businesses can close unexpectedly. We therefore recommend you also check with your accommodation hosts where you can get lunch the next day, either along the route or at the start of the hike.

If it is unlikely that you will be able to purchase food or drink during the day, you may wish to purchase a packed lunch before you start in the morning, especially if it is a long hike. If there are no shops nearby, your host will be able to provide a packed lunch at a reasonable price on request.

You can generally buy an evening meal in one of the local restaurants, cafes or pubs close to your accommodation. If there aren’t any restaurants/cafes/pubs in the local area, evening meals can be obtained from your host.

The majority of accommodation hosts will be able to assist you in drying your clothes and boots.

1 kilometre = 0.62 mile 1 mile = 1.61 kilometres

In Ireland, many of the hiking trails can pass through private farmland. This means that farmers can have their livestock (such as cattle, sheep, goats etc.) grazing in the same fields that you walk through. Some livestock may look intimidating. However, don’t worry, you will find these animals are actually quite timid. Continue walking in a normal fashion (do not run) and you should have no problems. In addition, take note of any signs which the farmer may have put up.

You can find more information on how to deal with animals on your hike in the Safety Information & Country Code document you find in your walking pack.

Most areas have mobile / cell phone reception, even while you are hiking. However, you may pass through some remote areas where reception will be either limited or unavailable entirely.

It is important to note that, if you are ever in an emergency, mobile/cell phones can still contact the emergency service numbers even without mobile/cell phone reception.

Yes, in most accommodation Wi-Fi is available, however it’s not guaranteed. In addition, due to the remote locations of some accommodations, the Wi-Fi quality may not always be the best.

Yes, in general most routes are very clearly way-marked with a marker directly before and after each turn. If you are ever in doubt, you can also check the Hillwalk Tours route notes or maps provided in your walking pack. Sections of the Antrim Glens & Coastline are poorly way-marked.

Yes, it is possible that your tour may include taxi transfers to bring you to and from the trail. The reason for this is;

  •  Due to limited accommodation options in some locations on your tour, we may need to book you into an accommodation which will require transfers to/from your hike start/end point.
  •  Due to limited accommodation options or no availability in accommodation, we may need to book you into the same accommodation for more than one night to cover multiple locations, in which case taxi transfers will be required to bring you to and from the trail.
  •  Due to minimum night stay requirements in accommodations on certain trails, we sometimes have no other option but for you to stay multiple nights in the same location and use transfers to get you to and from the trail.

The cost of these taxi transfers bringing you to and from the trail is covered in the tour price, and they will not affect your tour itinerary i.e. you will still walk the exact route as listed.

Ireland, known as the Emerald Isle, enjoys a mild, maritime climate, due to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf Stream. The warmest months are July and August with temperature averages between 16 and 20°C. Rain falls throughout the year and the weather in Ireland can change very quickly. Annual rainfall in the mountains and the west can be more than 2,000mm, but many other areas receive an average of less than 1,000mm. The driest months are April, May and June.

wicklow mountains tour

Ultimate Guide to Hiking the Wicklow Mountains

The Wicklow Mountains is an area of continuous rolling hills and majestic mountains in Ireland. The 70km (or 43.5 miles) long-distance trail is located in County Wicklow, just South of Ireland's capital, Dublin. This area is Ireland's largest extensive mountain range with more than 500km2 above 300 metres. The land stretches from the north of Dublin, to the border with the counties of Wicklow and Carlow in the south.

Johnnie Fox's pub on the Wicklow Way

6 Irish villages & towns along the Wicklow Way

Rich mountain paths, expansive moorlands and green valleys – the Wicklow Way takes walkers through some of Ireland’s most beautiful natural areas. In...

Wicklow_Way_Hillwalk_Tours

The History of Wicklow & The Wicklow Way

In a previous post we introduced you to the highlights of the Wicklow Way. This national trail brings hikers to the...

Wicklow Way Hillwalk Tours

Hillwalk Stories: Learning life lessons on the Wicklow Way

This week, our Hillwalk Stories series features the adventures of Brook Rajnowski, a young student from Colorado, who brought her...

Jack and Matt

Our experience walking Ireland’s Wicklow Way

In May and June 2019, Matt and Jack, two friends from New Jersey, US, walked the Wicklow Way with Hillwalk...

Hikers on St Kevin's Way in Wicklow

The 10 Best Spots Along The Wicklow Way

In 1966, J.B. Malone planned a long-distance trail that would become the Wicklow Way National Trail. The first section of...

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wicklow mountains tour

"A DAY OF ADVENTURE AND LAUGHTER" Bus BOOK YOUR TOUR "THIS IS BY FAR

THE BEST TOUR WE HAVE BEEN ON"

"A TOAST OF JAMESON,

TO NEW FOUND FRIENDS WAS A MAGICAL TOUCH"

The Original Wild Wicklow Day Tour

During one magical day, you’ll see why Wicklow is known as “The Garden of Ireland.” Explore the Wicklow mountains on this tour from Dublin.

WILD WICKLOW TOURS

For over two decades, Denis O’Reilly successfully helmed the award-winning Wild Wicklow Tour, establishing a legacy of excellence since 1997. With a strong partnership established over the years, Denis entrusted the business to Tony Doyle Coaches Ltd in 2023.

We believe your holiday time is precious and we want to make sure you have a truly memorable day with us.

Explore one of the most famous and enchanting places in Ireland, Glendalough. The spectacular hidden mountains and barren boglands at Sally’s Gap will leave you breathless.

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Irish day tours

08:30: Departure from Dublin 

The tour to Glendalough and Wicklow mountains departs from the Molly Malone statue on Suffolk Street at 8:30 (Please Arrive 10 minutes before Departure time )

Beyond the Trees, Avondale

We arrive at our first stop, Beyond the Trees, which is a breathtaking attraction nestled in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains. This eco-tourism destination offers a unique experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The attraction boasts a thrilling boardwalk adventure, taking visitors on an exhilarating ride over stunning landscapes, valleys, and forests.  Beyond the Trees also offers the opportunity to venture up to their viewing tower that stands at 38 meters, from where you can admire the spectacular scenery and if you are feeling brave, you can take the slide down the viewing tower at an additional cost.

Glendalough Monastery

Arriving at Glendalough in the afternoon has distinct advantages as most tours come here in the morning. You have an hour and a half to explore the monastic site and the surrounding lakes. The Monastery itself was founded in the 6th century by St. Kevin, but most of the buildings date from between the 11th and 12th centuries. Glendalough Monastery has many buildings; the tower and St Kevin’s Kitchen are the most complete all the rest are in disrepair to differing extents. The setting amongst the mountains and the lakes is what sets this monastery apart from every other. Take a stroll and enjoy this magical place, you will be transported to a tranquil peaceful place.

Holywood Village

We will take a short trip into Hollywood, also known as 'the original Hollywood, a small village in Wicklow that has boasted the name long before Hollywood in California even existed. your guide will take you for a walk through the valley here. See if you can spot Wicklow's version of the Hollywood sign.

Working Sheep Farm

The last stop of our day tour is to a working sheep farm in garden county, county Wicklow.  Meet the friendly local farmer who will delight in introducing you to rural life on the farm. you will be introduced to their hard-working sheepdogs, they will explain and show you how they are trained to carry out their duties. Then finally the main event, a sheepdog demonstration. This is a truly unique experience and gives you a great insight into life in rural Ireland.

5:30 PM: Arrive in Dublin 

All good things come to an end, and we will set off back to Dublin remembering the best moments we have experienced and with the latest explanations from our guide. Remember to recommend the Glendalough and Wicklow Mountains day tour.

All times are approximate and subject to change based on traffic conditions

8.30 am at the Molly Malone Statue, Suffolk Street View on map

(Please arrive 10 minutes before departure time)

5:30 pm in the same place where you took the bus in the morning.

Things to bring

Raincoat – just in case it rains!

Headphones to listen to the commentary on the multilingual app

Charging cable and power bank to keep your devices charged (some buses do have charging ports but not all)

Spending money / credit card to pick up souvenirs & tip your driver!

Appropriate shoes for walking on rough terrain

Inclusions/exclusions

Inclusions:

Professional driver/guide

Modern comfortable coach transportation

Wifi (onboard vehicles, where fitted)

Exclusions:

Cancellation policy

In the event of a cancellation, a transferable voucher or credit note will be issued to be redeemed at a later date. 

If you cancel your day tour within 24 hours you can choose to change your tour to another date (subject to availability).

If you are late for the bus in the morning or are a no-show, you are not entitled to a refund and will be charged in full for the tour.

This policy applies to all of the EI travel group web shops which include but are not limited to; www.cliffsofmohertours.ie , www.giantscausewaytours.ie , www.irishdaytours.ie and www.daytours.ie .

A minimum number of 6 passengers is required to operate a tour. We give until 3 pm the day prior to the tour to reach this number and will then contact customers with details of cancellation.

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Irish day tours

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City Sightseeing Dublin 24hr Tour

Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough Day Tour From Dublin. (Includes Sheep Farm & Dog Trials)

Full Guided Day Tour

Explore Authentic Ireland

Transport & All Admissions

2023 TripAdvisor Travelers Choice Award for Northern Europe – Wild Rover Tours listed in the Top 20 Activities and the only tour company to be awarded this honour.

Visit Kilkenny City originating back to the 6th century monastery built in honour of St Canice and capital of Confederate Ireland 1642-1649.

Enjoy a 45 minute guided walking tour of the narrow streets and the grounds of the magnificent Norman castle dating from 1172. Learn of its storied history, the site of the earliest recorded witch trial, the battles with Oliver Cromwell's “roundheads”, the Vikings presence to it now being referred to as the Cultural Capital of Ireland.

Travel through the stunning landscape of the Wicklow Gap and Wicklow Mountains film location of movies such as Braveheart, Excalibur, PS, I Love you and the TV series Vikings

Discover the beautiful Glendalough valley and walk the twin lakes in Irelands largest national park. Enjoy a 30 minute guided walking tour in the ruins of St Kevin’s Monastery and see the spectacular 11th century granite round tower standing over 30 meters in height. It was constructed my the monks as protection from the marauding Vikings.

Why Choose this Tour

Reviewed the number 1 tour company in Ireland every year between 2014 and 2023 with multi-year awards every year across Europe and rest of the world.

We are the only day tour operator to employ a separate driver to ensure safety and a separate guide to entertain.

Our guides are experts in Irish history, folklore and culture. Entertainment is guaranteed as we travel to Ireland’s top attractions.

Guided tour of Kilkenny City and Glendalough’s Monastic City included. Purely optional to participate in.

We guarantee the maximum time at featured attractions. For example, 2 hours and 30 mins in Kilkenny and 2 hours plus at Glendalough.

We do not accept 'soft commission' ensuring no time-wasting or low-interest stops for our customers.

Comfort breaks are built into the itinerary of the day.

Wild Rover Tours has the newest fleet of vehicles with unlimited 4G wifi on board.

We guarantee you the very best of customer service at all times. Once our customer you are always our valued customer.

Tour Details

Adult: €43.00 Child / Student (with valid ID) : €38.00

We apologise but tour is not suitable for children aged two and under.

Book 2 tours with our new BUNDLE and receive 10% off both tours, or 12.5% off if you book 3.

AVAILABILITY:

Every day, all year round

8:10 AM  - Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin, 23 Upper O'Connell Street, D01 C3W7 8:20 AM - Bus Stop, 33 College Green / Dame Street, D02 DD76 (50 metres from the front gates of Trinity College overlooking the street fountain) 8:30 AM  - Leonardo Hotel Dublin Christchurch, D08 RWK7 (Formerly Jurys Inn)

6:20 PM – Bus Stop, Westmoreland Street, DO2 HR67

Admissions to all attractions, transport and guides.

NOT INCLUDED:

Lunch. You will have the opportunity to have lunch during our stop in Kilkenny.

ABOUT THE VEHICLE:

Luxury air-conditioned coaches with 4G WiFi

CANCELLATION POLICY:

Full refund up to 24 hours cancellation notice in advance of the date of the tour. That is prior to 12.01am on the day before the tour date.

Cancellation notice must be given by email, if no cancellation notice is given, the refund policy is then at the discretion of the reservations department.

Our payment gateway requires Strong Customer Authentication (SCA). If you are having difficulty with SCA you will need to contact your card issuer or bank.  Please note your reservation is not confirmed until you receive a booking confirmation via email. If you have not received a booking confirmation please contact us .

KILKENNY CITY

45 Minute Guided Walking Tour

Visit Medieval Kilkenny Castle

wicklow mountains tour

During the winter months (Nov- Feb) and on Sundays, we will go to Glendalough and the Wicklow Mountains first, and will visit Kilkenny City in the afternoon.

Arriving at 10am, the first stop on our day tour from Dublin is Kilkenny, a city as historic as it is charming. Your 45- minute guided walking tour of Kilkenny City  will take you through the narrow and winding cobbled streets and under the city’s many medieval arches. There are plenty of tales to be told by your entertaining guide along the way; from kings and sieges to witch trials and murder.

After the walking tour, you will have a further 1 hour 45 minutes to  explore Kilkenny at your own leisure . The city’s compact nature means that all the points of interest are easily accessible by foot and you will have plenty of time to visit an attraction if you wish (admission is not included). You may choose to visit the  famous 12th century Kilkenny Castle , in the heart of the city on the banks of the River Nore. Alternately, you could visit  Rothe House , a magnificent example of a wealthy silk merchant’s home containing multiple medieval exhibits; including priceless Viking artefacts and a medieval garden.

Kilkenny has a  proud food heritage  and you will have the opportunity to enjoy lunch while in the city, your tour guide will be happy to make some recommendations.  Depart Kilkenny at 12:30pm.

WICKLOW MOUNTAIN TOUR

Journey Through Wicklow Mountains

Visit Film Locations

wicklow mountains tour

After lunch, we travel through the county of Carlow into the  wild and rugged Wicklow Mountains  and the  Wicklow Gap . The landscape on your Wicklow Mountains tour will change from  lush green rich pasture  with gentle valleys, to the dramatic and the  breathtaking ancient glacial valleys  of the Wicklow Gap. The journey through the mountains will bring you through spectacular locations where famous movies such as Braveheart and PS I Love You were filmed.

Enjoy a 20 minute stop for a stroll and  photographic opportunities  on top of the Wicklow Mountains overlooking the glens and valleys of County Wicklow.

GLENDALOUGH

Explore a Glacial Valley

Visit Glendalough's Monastic City

wicklow mountains tour

Continuing over the Wicklow Mountains, we arrive at the  heritage site of Glendalough  (Glen of two lakes)  at 14:30pm .

On arrival in Glendalough, you can join your tour guide on a  30-minute guided tour  of  Glendalough’s Monastic City . The Monastic city dates to 600 AD and is heralded as a  national monument of immense importance  having played an important role in reintroducing Christianity to Northern and Central Europe after the Dark Ages.

Our guides will leave you with some of the folklore and legendary stories of Glendalough’s past and direct you towards the stunning  Upper Lake . You will have ample time to take a walk and fully appreciate the beauty of the area’s natural wonders.

GLENDALOUGH: SHEEP FARM AND DOG TRIALS

See a Shepherd at Work

Journey Through the Highest Village in Ireland

sheep farm

When on tour, you have the opportunity to join a real Irish Shepherd at work together with his best friend the Border Collie sheepdog.

The dog, listening to the whistling sounds from the Shepherd, will herd the sheep across fields, through gates and fencing into corrals, out again over ditches around trees to your feet. Depending on the time of the year you will also have the opportunity to  hold and feed a baby lamb . This is an experience not to be missed!

Departing at 17:10 , we journey through the highest village in Ireland known as Roundwood. From there you can see the  Sugarloaf Mountains , which prior to the Ice Age were higher than the Alps. You can also catch a glimpse of the  Powerscourt Estate  and the  Glen of Imaal  just before reaching Kilmacanogue.

Now it’s time to sit back and relax as we begin our return journey and arrive  back in Dublin city at approximately 6:15pm .

wicklow mountains tour

Special Offers

Four bundles from dublin.

cliffs of moher

10% Off. Cliffs Of Moher & Galway + Giant’s Causeway & Belfast (2 x Tours)

wicklow mountains tour

10% Off. Cliffs Of Moher & Galway + Wicklow & Kilkenny (2 x Tours)

Glednalough

10% Off. Belfast & Giant’s Causeway + Wicklow & Kilkenny (2 x Tours)

wicklow mountains tour

12.5% Off: 3 Tour Saver. Cliffs of Moher (with Bunratty) + Belfast + Wicklow

What our clients love, about wild rover tours, wild rover tours.

Shopping Centre, Day Trips & Tours Ticket Kiosk, Saint Stephen's Green, Dublin 2

  • Stefan Herlein ★★★★★ 3 months ago Did the Northern Ireland highlights day trip from Dublin. Amazing experience. Fantastic day spent learning about the troubles, exploring castle ruins and wondering the giants causeway. Perfect way to spend a day in Ireland! The Company was great, the tour guide and bus driver were professional and so much fun. A little more time at the deluce castle would have been nice, but time was limited. 100% … More recommend this experience.
  • Elizabeth Bradley ★★★★★ a week ago This tour was exceptional. We learned a considerable amount of information from our very sweet guide Rory. He is so knowledgeable. Now I know why they are called the fighting Irish! We had an excellent time at the Cliffs, even though it was very windy. Had a really excellent meal while there and shopping. Stunning views, but the puffins don’t come out till April. Then we went to Galway, did some thrift … More store shopping, ate lunch and had wine at a real Italian restaurant then bummed around. It’s a vibrant atmosphere. The stops are timed perfectly and they are very patient and kind with getting everyone organized. I give this 10/10!
  • Katharine Young ★★★★★ a week ago We loved it! Our tour guide Rory and driver Steven were great. Gave us amazing recommendations for both Galway and Dublin, and overall provided a great experience for my friend and I! It was our first time in Ireland and I definitely would recommend this tour!
  • Natalia Ivanjko ★★★★★ 4 months ago We had a really lovely tour through Northern Ireland visiting Belfast and Giant Causeway. I would absolutely recommend black cab tour with local taxi drivers. Besides, the northern coastline landscape is absolutely stunning. Our guide Sean was extremely helpful and funny. P.S. Great playlist :) We really enjoyed this tour!
  • Cari Gray ★★★★★ in the last week Our tours were great! We had guide Una with driver Patrick to Belfast, Dunluce Castle, and Giants Causeway, then guide Kevin with driver Marko to Cliffs of Moher. Ennis, and Bunratty Castle (we chose Ennis because the pics of Galway looked crowded). Our guides were friendly, entertaining, and were very knowledgeable of Irish history and the areas we visited. Our drivers were nice and got us to all … More our destinations safely. We ended up arriving to Ireland a day late and had no problem changing our tour dates. We highly recommend Wild Rover Tours!
  • Dan Jones ★★★★★ 2 months ago This was a fantastic trip. I took the Belfast / Giants Causeway for the day. Our driver Warren, was friendly and drove very safely. Our guide for the day, Una was incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, funny, and genuinely pleasant to spend the day with. This tour combined excellent sites. I really enjoyed it.
  • acid pro ★★★★★ 3 months ago My wife and I were on the trip from Dublin to Galway through the cliffs of moher. We were very pleased and satisfied and got our money's worth. The coach was comfy and clean, our driver Pete and guide David were very professional, friendly and helpful. We will recommend this to our friends and family and we would definitely take another trip with Wild rover next time we visit.
  • Kelly F ★★★★★ 4 weeks ago Booked the Cliffs of Moher/Wild Atlantic Way/Galway trip and it was worth every penny! Our tour guide (Maurice) and driver (Krishna) were fantastic, keeping us safe and entertained. Heed the advice of your guide because they know what’s best. In Galway’s get your fish at McDonagh’s, chips at Prátaí and ice cream at Murphy’s.
  • Ebru Talak Baştürkmen ★★★★★ 4 weeks ago The tour company we chose for Giant Causeway and Cliff of Moher tours and we were extremely satisfied. Since you don't have a Cork tour, I had the chance to experience another tour company. I can sincerely say that Wild Rover tour company is very interested. Everything they explained was very interesting and informative. It was a tour that we were 100% satisfied. I would definitely recommend it. … More Do not think of any other alternative. Note to Wild Rover, please organize a Cork tour as soon as possible. We want to go there again with you. All the best
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Flexible 100% Refund Policy.

Glendalough, Wicklow and Kilkenny Full-Day Tour

Multi-award winning tour

Professional tour guide & separate coach driver

Voted top 3 best experiences in Ireland

Glendalough upper lake on a beautiful day surrounded by green trees, hilltops and blue sky

Fáilte! Explore Ireland on our multi-award winning tour

Experience first-hand Ireland’s natural beauty and join us as we travel across the Emerald Isle’s spectacular landscape. Sit back, relax and discover ‘the Garden of Ireland’ and why it’s one of Ireland’s most beautiful visitor destinations.

The stunning Wicklow Mountain range

Medieval Kilkenny & its intriguing history

6th-century monastic settlement & round tower

The world famous Glendalough valley & glacial lakes

Movie locations such as Braveheart & P.S. I Love You

Click the tabs to find out more

Tour details, guide, coaches and driver.

Adults €40 Seniors €40 Youth (12 – 17) €40 Children (3 – 11) €40

Departure time

08:45 Depart O’Connell St. Upper (in front of the Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin)

Arrive back in Dublin

18:00 Arrive back in Dublin – drop off point Westmoreland Street (near Trinity College)

Availability

Operating every day, all year round

  • Transport to and from Dublin City on award-winning 5-star luxury touring coaches
  • Live commentary provided in English
  • Wicklow Mountains tour
  • Separate professional tour guide on board
  • Guided walking tour through Glendalough Valley and monastic settlements
  • Guided historical walking tour of Kilkenny City
  • Entry to Glendalough Monastic Settlement and Wicklow Mountains National Park

Not included

Lunch, entrance to Kilkenny Castle

What to bring

Warm clothing, comfortable footwear, camera & umbrella

Experience Ireland’s natural beauty and join us as we travel across the spectacular Wicklow mountain range to Glendalough . Glendalough in Irish means ‘valley of the two lakes’ and is also home to the 6th century monastic settlement. Discover medieval Kilkenny and its famous castle and find out why it’s also dubbed one of Ireland’s most cosmopolitan cities. Our professional, caring guides are there throughout the whole tour to provide information and to answer any questions. So relax on our 5-star coaches and immerse yourself in the immense natural beauty that Ireland has to offer.

Itinerary breakdown: 08:45 Depart O’Connell St. Upper (in front of the Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Hotel) 10:15  Arrive Glendalough 11:30 Travel across the Wicklow Gap (photo opportunities) 13:15 Arrive Kilkenny 16:15 Depart Kilkenny 18:00 Arrive Dublin City Centre (Westmoreland Street ,near Trinity College)

Glendalough

Glendalough is one of Ireland’s most iconic regions. Here, beauty and landscape meet the history and legends of Ireland’s Golden Age . For thousands of years people have been drawn to ‘the valley of the two lakes‘ for its spectacular scenery, rich history, archaeology and abundant wildlife .  Our knowledgeable guides will take you on a walking tour of the 6th-century monastic settlement. These early Christian ruins were founded by St. Kevin and from this developed the “ Monastic City ”. Most of the buildings that survive today date from the 10th through 12th centuries. Next to the most famous of all the landmarks in Glendalough – the Round Tower . It stands 33 metres above the ground and was built almost 1000 years ago by the monks of St. Kevin’s monastery. Lastly, a short walk from the settlement lies the stunning Glendalough Lake. Surrounded by the rolling green mountains, here also lies the cave that St. Kevin called home for 7 years on the banks of the glacial waters. There will be plenty of time for pictures and to soak up the valley’s natural beauty , so come and discover why Glendalough is one of the best places to visit in Ireland.

Wicklow Mountains National Park

Known locally as the Dublin Mountains, the 40 kilometres journey from Dublin along the spine of the Wicklow Mountains is an awe-inspiring sight which stretches over most of County Wicklow on Ireland’s east coast. This tour will take you across the naturally wild Wicklow Gap through some of Ireland’s most spectacular and varied scenery. The winding mountain roads, natural ruggedness and the fast-flowing aibhneacha (Irish for rivers) are only a few reasons to bring your camera along! The tour sets aside special opportunities for photos.

Kilkenny City

From Dublin to Kilkenny, Ireland’s medieval capital is the last stop of the day. Quietly sitting on the banks of the River Nore, Kilkenny is where modernity meets history. With its narrow winding streets, brightly coloured shop fronts and ancient castles and ruins, it’s as picturesque as it is full of rich, intriguing history . The town also has deep religious roots and many well-preserved churches and monasteries, including the famous St. Canice’s Cathedral and the Black Abbey Dominican priory, both dating back from the 13th century. Here, we will take a guided walking tour to explore the city through the medieval side streets. The highlights include the ‘Black Abbey’ and castle gardens and there’s always time to fit in a pint – touring can be thirsty work!

Tour Guides

With a wealth of knowledge and the famous Irish smile, we believe that the tour guide is the most important element in a successful touring day, bringing everything to life and giving meaning to every part of the visit. This is why we have a separate tour guide in addition to a professional coach driver. This allows the guide to escort you on the tour and on the various visits. Our tour guides are all approved and have completed all the necessary qualifications and training courses. They all have many years experience and are always delighted to assist you in any way possible during the tour.

Our fleet of 5-star executive coaches are the most luxurious in Ireland, custom built and equipped to the highest possible standards to ensure you enjoy the ultimate travelling experience. Our impressive fleet consists of modern, high quality, air-conditioned 5-star touring coaches which are custom built to ensure our passengers enjoy the ultimate travelling experience. The average age of our touring fleet is less than 2 years. All of our vehicles offer complimentary WIFI, USB charging points, air-conditioning, reclining leather seats, entertainment system, footrests, armrests, tinted windows, fridge, carpets, extra legroom, courier seat and curtains.

Our drivers are all fully qualified, professional coach drivers and they all receive extensive in-house training in customer service and health and safety to ensure your safety and comfort on your day tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hot drinks or hot food are not allowed. However, cold drinks with screw caps are perfect.

We don’t have a toilet on the bus, but there are sufficient bathroom opportunities during the day.

90% of the coaches used on our Glendalough, Wicklow and Kilkenny Day Tour have USB charging points on board so you can charge your phone and camera on the move. For all other day tours, USB charging points may not be available.

Please refer to the Trip Details section for our pick-up location. Feel free to contact us if you require any further assistance.

All of our coaches have 4G wifi aboard.

Check out what our guests are saying

Moisy53 | may 2023.

What a day! Pat and Alec were tops! Pat’s history and good sense of fun was wonderful. He treated us to the best day outside the city of Dublin but with information to Dublin’s best points of interests. Alec was an amazing driver and got us to our places of Irish history safely and in a timely manner. We would highly recommend Collins Tours for your next visit to Dublin.

Denise K. | May 2023

Pat and Alec made this tour just amazing. Excellent driving and Pat’s knowledge and love for Ireland gave us everything needed for a tour. Would absolutely recommend this tour over any other

its m | May 2023

The tour was amazing, with the best tour guide and bus driver!! Pat and Alec, thanks for the amazing experience!! We were entertained through the whole experience and we learned a lot about Ireland and it’s amazing wonders! 5 out of 5 and thumbs up for Pat and Alec!

Schalk S. | May 2023

We really enjoyed the entire day. The scenery was gorgeous and there was an awesome sense of history at each site we visited. Pat was an excellent host and guide and Alec ensured that the drive was comfortable and smooth. 10/10 would recommend. I wish all guides were like this.

Patricia B. | April 2023

Our tour guide was fantastic – so knowledgeable & hails from County Kildare! Lots of stories – not like someone who has memorized a script – would definitely recommend to others to book with Collin tours!

Angela J | April 2023

Pat our guide was fabulous, so knowledgeable and a good sense of humour, he really went the extra mile in ensuring we had a great trip. My 13 year old son also loved it! Thanks also to Arnes our bus driver, some of those roads were narrow and you navigated them very well!

Looking for more? Read our blog!

Top things to do in kilkenny, glendalough – what makes it so beautiful.

wicklow mountains tour

Wicklow Mountains

Private day tour, breath in the fresh mountain air..., the wicklow private day tour choices.

Choose the length of your day tour. The longer you have the more activities we can pack into your day. Below are some suggested options.

* All Timings & Itineraries are flexible

Half day tour - wicklow mountains national park.

- Depart Dublin 9.30am

- Visit The Wicklow Mountains & Glendalough

- 1.5 Hours in Glendalough

- Drive through The Wicklow Mountains

- One selected activity

- Return Dublin 3:00pm

Full Day Tour - Wicklow &

Two activities .

- Two selected activities

- Return Dublin 5:00pm

Wicklow Activities Menu

Enhance your Wicklow Mountains Tour experience.

Craft your journey to Wicklow with a choice from our selection of activities along the way.

Heritage Activities

- Powerscourt Estate & Gardens

- Powerscourt Waterfall

- Avoca Handweavers & Shopping

Cultural Activities

- Enniskerry Village

- Sheep Dog Demonstrations

- Russborough House & Parklands

Adventure Activities

- Horse Riding in Wicklow Mountains

- Trek The Wicklow Way

Wicklow Mountains Private Tour Highlights

Wicklow mountains national park.

The Wicklow Mountains National park covers approximately 50,000 acres of forest, wetland, bogland, heath, rivers and lakes only a short 45 minute drive from the heart of Dublin city. Our tour will take you deep into the national park to some of the best sights like the Wicklow Gap, Laragh and Glendalough. The drive truly showcases the best of Ireland with rolling green fields, stone walls, small cottages, fairy trees and lots of animals like donkeys, sheep and if your lucky you might get a glimpse of the wild mountain deer and goats.

Immerse yourself in 'The Garden of Ireland'.

Glendalough

Glendalough is a preserved early christian site in the heart of the Wicklow mountains national park. Its Anglicised name is 'the valley of the two lakes' and is without doubt one of the most tranquil and spirtual locations in Ireland. When you sit at the lakes or walk the paths you can feel a special energy in the valley and it was this that attracted the early christian missionaries like the founder St Kevin. The ruined remains of one of the three most important ecclaeastical sites in Ireland offer a fascinating insight into one of the most influential parts of Ireland's history - The time of the land of saints & scholars.

Join us on a guided tour of the area and fantastic walks by the lakes.

Wicklow and Hollywood

Due to it's stunning scenery and it's close proximity to the Ardmore film studios in Wicklow, the Wicklow mountains feature in many great blockbuster movies as well as some lesser known gems.

We will drive to the bridge made famous in everyones favourite - PS I love You, where you will enjoy stunning views of the Guinness lake whilst in search for that handsome Irish farmer! We will also take a journey along the Braveheart drive to some of the locations used by Mel Gibson in his Hollywood blockbuster sensation. 

Choose Your Activity

Choose from our selection of fantastic activities to enhance your experience., powerscourt estate & gardens.

The famous Powerscourt Estate located in the beautiful town of Enniskerry in the Wicklow mountains is a large aristocratic country house that was originally built on top of the sight of a 13th century castle. The current house is mainly of 18th century decoration and boasts one the world's most beautifully sculpted gardens.

Our tour of Powerscourt will take us around the gardens and into the house where you can do some bespoke luxury shopping of some fine Irish made craft and knitware. We will also visit the Avoca tea rooms for refreshments.

Activity Price      :       € 9 - Adult / € 8 - Student, OAP / € 5 - Child

Activity Time      :      Approx 1.5 Hours

Powerscourt Waterfall

Powerscourt Waterfall

The powerscourt waterfall at 121 meters is the highest waterfall on the island and is located on the estate of Powerscourt. Around the waterfall are surroundings of woodland shrubbery and rivers. Keep your eyes out for the Japanese Sika deer that inhabit the area.

Activity Price      :       € 6 - Adult / € 5.50 - Student, OAP / € 3.50 - Child

Activity Time      :      Approx 1 Hour

Avoca Handweavers and Shopping

Avoca began life in Wicklow in the early 18th century as a mill for grinding corn to make bread, as well as a place for spinning and weaving wool.  

It remains the oldest surviving business in Ireland and still manufactures fine clothes to this day.  The area is home to stunning gardens, a top class restaurant and some boutique shopping.

Activity Cost      :      Free 

Activity Time     :      Approx 1.5 Hours

Enniskerry Village

A tour of Wicklow would not be complete without a visit to the quaint town of Enniskerry for a bite to eat and a stroll around the tiny town. Home to around one thousand inhabitants the beautifully preserved town enjoys some of the best coffee and tea rooms in Ireland. Also an opportunity to support local community with some fine shopping.

Activity Time     :      Approx 1 Hour

Enniskerry Village

Sheep Dog Demonstrations

Wicklow sheep dog demonstration

This great demonstration of skill and the marvellous working relationship between the Irish farmer and his dog is showcased in the beautiful fields of Wicklow. Watch these astounding dogs do their work while being commanded by their master using a variety of pitched whistles and impressive techniques.

This fascinating activity gives you a chance to experience the workings of farm life and will make you think very differently about 'mans best friend'!

Activity Price      :       € 5 Per Person 

Russborough House & Parklands

Overlooking the elegant lakes of Blessington, this Palladian House is said to be 'the most beautiful in Ireland' with a gracefully long facade and  intriguing interior.  Activities here include magnificient parkland walks, informative exhibitions, interesting art displays and authentic craft demonstations

This marvelous mansion has survived two occupations, two fires and four armed robberies, not to mention numerous local events and is sure to be still standing when you get here.

Activity Cost      :     €12

Activity Time     :     1-3 hours

Russborough House & Parklands

Adventure Activities

Horseriding.

Another wonderful way to enjoy the beauty of the Wickow Mountains is by horseback. This tour will take you across the hills of Wicklow with stunning panoramic views across Dublin bay and Dublin city with the perfectly peaked Sugar Loaf Mountain acting as backdrop.

The fully professional instructors and guides cater to everyone, beginners and experts alike and will tailor the trek to suit your desires. This is a great way to immerse yourself in the nature of Ireland and is a great excursion for all the family!

Activity Cost:        € 40 Each

Activity Time:       2 Hours

Horseriding in Wicklow

Trek The Wicklow Way

Wicklow Mountains National park offers lots of opportunities for some of the best treks and walks in the country. The Wicklow Way is a seven day hike through the heart of the Garden of Ireland and we will guide you along part of this remarkable trek on our day tour.

Make your way through the heather, the bogs and across the hills that offer majestic views of Wicklow and Dublin whilst keeping your eyes out for wild deer, mountain goats and soaring birds of prey.

Activity Cost     :      € 15 per hour 

Activity Time    :      Varies

BOOK YOUR TOUR

Contact us with your chosen preferences and we will create the tour specially designed for you..

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A Tour of the Wicklow Mountains, including Glendalough

The autumn colours providing a pop of colour at Lough Tay Co Wicklow

I’ve visited the Wicklow Mountains many times but not as much as I should have, given that I lived only about 30 mins away for much of my life! So I was delighted get the chance to visit recently on a tour of the  Wicklow Mountains & Glendalough , thanks to  PrivateTour.com .

Disclosure :   This is not a paid or sponsored post. All opinions are my own, based on my experience on the trip.

Wicklow Mountains Tour

After getting picked up from O’Connell Street in Dublin city centre, we soon left the hustle and bustle of the city behind as we headed south to the Wicklow Mountains. Before long the drone of traffic, the busy motorways and drab buildings were replaced by green fields, mountain peaks, autumn coloured trees and quiet country roads. We were headed right to the heart of Wicklow, to the Wicklow Mountains National Park. 

Boasting over 20,000 hectares, Wicklow Mountains National Park is the largest of the six National Parks in Ireland. As it covers such a vast area, one of the best and recommended ways to experience the National Park is to take a scenic drive through it.

A house surrounded by autumnal trees in Glendalough

Autumn colours at Glendalough

There’s plenty of opportunity to appreciate the expansive vistas and wilderness of the National Park on the trip. Much of the landscape is made up of blanket bog and heath, which you can clearly see as you pass through places like the famous Sally Gap and also on the distant slopes and rounded peaks of the Wicklow Mountains.

I haven’t done many bus tours in Ireland, as I usually just make my own way around. So, it made a nice change to have someone else doing the driving. I could just relax and take in the views as our guide Richie took care of navigating the narrow winding roads. Not to mention, I didn’t have to worry about taking wrong turns and getting lost, something I can be a little prone to!

Glencree Valley – Stop 1

Our first stop was at the Glencree Visitor Centre. Nestled in Glencree valley, just at the edge of Wicklow National Park, Glencree is a very scenic area with a rich history.

Glencree was once a site of military occupation. Barracks were built here in the early 19th century after the Irish Rebellion of 1798, for the purpose of hunting out guerrillas hiding out in the mountains. The buildings were later used as a reformatory school, a prisoner of war camp during World War I and a temporary Refugee Centre from 1945 – 1950.

Glencree Centre for Peace and Reconciliation in Wicklow

Now the Glencree Centre for Peace and Reconciliation, the buildings are used to facilitate engagement between groups involved in and effected by violent conflict, both in Ireland and internationally. There are free exhibitions with more information of the history of Glencree or you can enjoy a bite to eat or purchase local crafts and gifts in the Armoury Café.

I took a little wander outside the grounds to have a look at the Lourdes Grotto and German Military Cemetery nearby.

Grottos are a familiar sight all over Ireland, often found just at the side of the road or at junctions. The Glencree Grotto is a good example of a typical grotto and is located in a very picturesque wooded area in the valley, beside the Glencree River. Though Ireland is no longer as deeply religious as it once was, you will find that a lot of grottos are still well cared for, often with fresh flowers in place. 

A man stands in front of the grotto in Glencree Valley, Co. Wicklow.

The German Military Cemetery

The German Military Cemetery at Glencree contains 134 graves. Six of the burials are soldiers from World War I and 128 are from World War II. The majority are German Air Force or Navy personnel who died in aircraft crashes or were washed up on the Irish shoreline. Many of those buried have never been identified. An impressive Celtic High Cross overlooks the cemetery from the hilltop above.

The German Military Cemetery with a Celtic High Cross on the hilltop above.

The P.S. I Love You Bridge – Stop 2

Wicklow has been used as a location for many movies and TV series and in fact it’s one of the biggest industries in Wicklow. Our next stop was a location from the movie P.S. I Love You. It has become popular with fans of the movie as it’s the bridge where Holly (Hilary Swank) meets Gerry (Gerard Butler) for the first time in the movie. Spoiler alert: They fall madly in love!

Sitting on the PS I love You Bridge in Wicklow Mountains National Park

Waiting around for Gerard Butler! Photo credit: Marlon Franco / www.enterireland.com

If you’re not a fan of the film or haven’t even seen it and have no idea what I’m talking about, don’t worry. This is just a short photo stop and still a good chance to soak in the rugged beauty of the area. The bridge also makes for a picturesque photo opportunity regardless of it’s recent fame! This was pretty clear from the length of time I had to wait to get a shot without anyone else in it!

Lough Tay (Guinness Lake) – Stop 3

Next we headed to a viewpoint overlooking stunning Lough Tay. The lake is known as the Guinness Lake thanks to it’s dark water, distinctive shape and the bright white sandy beach at the top, which makes it look like of a pint of the famous black stout. It didn’t always look quite like it does now. The white sand was imported by the owners of the estate, who just happened to be the Guinness Family! 

Standing in front of Lough Tay or Guinness Lake

Photo credit: Marlon Franco / www.enterireland.com

Lough Tay is undoubtedly one of the most popular and most photographed views in the park, for good reason. As well as the lake itself there are also stunning views over the Wicklow Mountains. Whatever the weather or time of year, it’s always a spectacular sight. This occasion was no exception with the autumn colours in the trees providing a beautiful pop of colour.

A row of people lined up to photograph the views at Lough Tay in Wicklow

Lining up for the shot at Lough Tay

Beautiful view over the mountains from Lough Tay

Fans of the TV series Vikings, may recognise the scene before them as that of Kattegat village, the home of Ragnar Lothbrok and his family.   Lough Tay is just one of many locations in Wicklow used for the show.

Glendalough – Stop 4

Once everyone had their fill of selfies and photos, it was onwards to Glendalough. Often described as the jewel in the crown of Wicklow National Park, Glendalough is a beautiful valley popular with both international and Irish visitors. It is the most visited destination within Wicklow National Park.

It’s not hard to see why. Glendalough is famous for the Monastic City, which includes a round tower but is also an area of outstanding beauty with lakes, a stunning glacial valley and some outstanding walking and hiking trails.

Two granite arches which were part of a larger gateway to Glendalough

Two arches, once part of a larger gateway to the monastic site.

The Monastic City at Glendalough

Entrance to the monastic site at Glendalough

We had two hours to explore Glendalough. You can choose to do your own thing or go for a hike with your guide. My advice is chose the hike! Richie took us on part of the St Kevin’s Way pilgrim walk which took us to the upper lake. Along the way we had lovely views of the monastic site and lake through the trees. The scenery is just beautiful this time of the year with the autumn colours and everyone commented on just how peaceful and serene it was on the walk.

Hiking through the trees in Glendalough

After the hike we still had time to take in the beautiful scenery around the upper lake and stop for a look at the monastic site as we made our way back to the carpark at the visitor centre.

A duck emerging from the Upper Lake in Glendalough

The beautiful Upper Lake at Glendalough

The round tower at Glenalough viewed through the trees.

Avoca Village – Stop 5

Fitzgerald’s traditional irish pub.

Having worked up an appetite after our efforts at Glendalough, it was definitely time for a feed! We headed to Fitzgerald’s Pub, a traditional Irish pub in the picturesque village of Avoca. The food was delicious and reasonably priced, with some meals deals available for the tour group. We also got a complimentary sample of whiskey or Baileys. Now, it’s not like I haven’t tried it before but I’ll never say no to a Baileys!   Once I had the taster, I couldn’t resist the Baileys cheesecake for dessert either. So worth it though!

Fitzgerald's Pub in Avoca Village

With an hour stop in Avoca, you could still have time for a quick look around the village after eating.

Handweaving

The village is famous for its handweaving. Avoca Handweavers is based in the village and is home to the oldest working mill in Ireland. Dating from 1723, the water from nearby Avoca River was used to power the mill. The company, now usually referred to simply as Avoca has numerous stores around Ireland but this is where it all started. According to Wikipedia, it is Ireland’s oldest surviving business.

Like other areas within the Wicklow Mountains, Avoca also had a rich mining history with copper being mined in the area. The Avoca mine site closed in 1982.

Ballykissangel

Around the village you may also notice “Ballykissangel” on signs and buildings, as on the image of Fitzgerald’s above. Ballykissangel was a BBC drama series which ran from 1996 to 2001. Avoca was used as the location of the fictional town of Ballykissangel, with Fitzgerald’s Pub, the shops, church, post office and Garda station used extensively. A young Colin Farrell starred in the series from 1998 to 1999 before breaking into film.

Overview of the Wicklow Mountains Tour

As with most bus tours, your guide can make or break it. Luckily for us, our guide Richie was really great. His enthusiasm was infectious and he kept us entertained along the way with lots of stories, songs and tips for other things to do in the area. We were also very impressed by his ability to reverse our large bus about 500m back down a narrow country lane when we came head to head with a logging truck!!

Richie stopped the bus several times to point out places of interest or deer in the fields when he spotted them! The stops on the tour are well spaced so that you’re not on the bus for too long at any time. The longest stretch was on the way back, returning from Avoca to the city centre. However, after a full day of activity I found myself nodding off (I don’t think I was the only one!), so the drive was over in no time.

I met some lovely people and even as a (kind of!) local, I learnt a lot on the tour and am happy to have finally made it to Glencree, as I hadn’t been before. I would have liked to spend a little more time there as I didn’t get to check out the exhibitions but I think we lost a little time due to traffic leaving the city and our logging truck friend! So there would usually be an extra15 mins, which would make a difference.

Having said that, I think that was a better option that cutting time from Glendalough, which is really the highlight of the trip. Despite having been numerous times, it’s not a place that you tire of easily. The walk with did with Richie was a route I hadn’t taken before either and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Add the autumn colours at this time of the year too and it really is something special.

The tour runs daily all year round, with the exception of St Patrick’s Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. So if you’re looking for an enjoyable day-trip to the Wicklow Mountains , check it out.

Happy exploring!

Other Wicklow Posts:

Glenmalure valley – walks, stunning scenery and a wonderful way to wind down, bosca beatha – the mobile sauna experience that’s pure bliss, lough ouler – ireland’s heart-shaped lake, share this:.

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Further Reading...

feature image - balloon flies over the telescope at Birr Castle

Irish Hot Air Ballooning Championships – Birr 2018

wicklow mountains tour

Kilbeggan Distillery – Ireland’s oldest licensed distillery

Sunrise on Curracloe Beach, Wexford

A Sunrise Adventure at Curracloe Beach

wicklow mountains tour

george cody

My great Aunt Julia Hayde, came from Roundwood in County Wicklow, and after arriving in America (Philadelphia) in the 1870’s, married a man from Bar Harbor Maine. He died before my Aunt could visit Bar Harbor. Many years later her niece brought her to visit Bar Harbor and it’s Acadia National Park. She was amazed at how similar Acadia was to the Wicklow Mountains, and convinced her niece (My Aunt) to build a summer home on the island.

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Exploring inis oírr - the smallest of the aran islands, 10+ irish gift ideas for nature lovers and adventurers, @allaroundireland.

wicklow mountains tour

(Morning) Glendalough & Wicklow Mountains Half Day Tour from Dublin

  • (Morning) Glendalough & Wicklow Mountains Half Day Tour from Dublin
  • Tours of Ireland
  • Day Tours from Dublin

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  • This tour is a bestseller and is likely to sell out . We recommend securing tickets at least 24 hours in advance where possible.

Why choose this tour?

See all of the highlights in one half day (morning)

Ireland's most luxurious fleet

Ireland's most experienced guides

Ireland's highest rated operator

Free 4G unlimited WiFi & USB ports

Risk Free - 100% Refund up to 24 hours before tour

Pick-up Points

  • 08:00am - Paddywagon Office, 34 O'Connell Street Lower (The Spire)
  • 08:10am - Molly Malone Statue, Suffolk Street

Depart Dublin City

Glendalough, travel through a real life movie set, wicklow mountains, alternative routes.

If this popular route is sold out you may wish to consider one of these...

(Afternoon) Glendalough & Wicklow Mountains Half Day Tour from Dublin

Kilkenny and wicklow tour from dublin, what's included.

  • Local guide

Additional Info

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Free Cancellation

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour's start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour's start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour's start time will not be accepted.
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    We make our way over the Wicklow mountains to Glendalough (minimum 1,5 hrs stop) - the valley of the two lakes. Enjoy a relaxing walk to the Upper Lake and explore the monastic ruins of St Kevin's monastery including its round towers, Celtic crosses and much more. ***** TRIPADVISOR CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE 2012 - 2023 *****.

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  12. Wicklow Mountains, Dublin

    Dublin & Wicklow Mountain Pub Tour (small group Pub Crawl Max 15) 138. Discover Ireland's famous pub culture during this full-day, small-group tour to the Wicklow Mountains just outside Dublin. Drive through the Irish countryside to visit a handful of rural pubs for drinks, pub food, and traditional Irish music.

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    Wicklow Mountains Private Tours Escape the bustle of Dublin to the south for the natural beauty of rolling hills and you'll soon discover why its affectionately known as the "Garden of Ireland". Get lost in the peaceful air of your surroundings with a passionate private guide from ToursByLocals.

  14. Glendalough & Wicklow Mountains Tour from Dublin

    The tour to Glendalough and Wicklow mountains departs from the Molly Malone statue on Suffolk Street at 8:30 (Please Arrive 10 minutes before Departure time ) Beyond the Trees, Avondale. We arrive at our first stop, Beyond the Trees, which is a breathtaking attraction nestled in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains. This eco-tourism destination ...

  15. From Dublin: Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough & Kilkenny Tour

    Enjoy a walking tour of Kilkenny and see its impressive medieval castle. Embark on a guided day trip through the lush pastures of Ireland from Dublin. Tour the vast Wicklow Mountains and see the monastery of Glendalough. Lose yourself in the medieval lanes of Kilkenny. Depart from Dublin and set off on a luxury bus to Glendalough.

  16. Kilkenny, Wicklow & Glendalough Day Tour

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  20. Wicklow Mountains Private Day Tour from Dublin

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    The tour travels through the Wicklow mountains and arrives at Glendalough at around 10.15. Guided walking tour and you may continue to the lakes. Depart there at 11.45 - stop at Wicklow Gap for a photo and arrive Kilkenny around 1.30 pm Following free time for lunch, walking tour of Kilkenny and free time for personal sightseeing, the tour ...