Dublin to Kilkenny, Wicklow, Glendalough, Laragh Sheep Dog Trial

When considering a way to experience some of Ireland’s most iconic sights without the hassle of driving yourself, a guided day tour might be just what you need. This particular trip from Dublin covers a lot of ground—Kilkenny’s medieval charm, the sweeping beauty of Wicklow’s mountains, and the historic tranquility of Glendalough, plus an authentic sheepdog demonstration. From what we’ve gathered, it’s highly rated, with thousands of travelers praising its value and the engaging guides.

Two things that stand out about this tour are the variety of stops and the expert guidance. You’re not just ticking off a list of sights—you’re getting stories, history, and a taste of rural Ireland’s working life. The second is the comfort and convenience: a climate-controlled coach with unlimited Wi-Fi, making the long day easier and more connected.

A possible downside? The schedule can feel a little packed—especially the long time spent at Glendalough, which some reviews suggest might test your patience if you’re not keen on walking or don’t want to spend that much time in one place. This tour is best suited for those who love diverse experiences, don’t mind a full day on the bus, and want a broad glimpse of Ireland’s countryside and history.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive day out, enjoy storytelling and scenic views, and appreciate local culture, like sheepdog trials. It’s particularly great if you’re after a hassle-free way to cover a lot of ground without renting a car.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: covers city, mountains, historic sites, and farm life.
• Comfortable travel: climate-controlled coach with Wi-Fi.
• Rich stories and guided tours: in Kilkenny and Glendalough, with expert guides.
• Authentic farm experience: sheepdog demonstrations and lamb interactions.
• Good value for money: for around $52 you get multiple stops, guided insights, and transportation.
• Time management: some reviews note longer stops at Glendalough could be trimmed for a better balance.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This day trip is a solid choice for travelers who want a taste of Ireland’s history, scenery, and rural life without the stress of planning every detail. The tour begins early, with pick-up options from convenient spots in Dublin, and heads out on a comfortable coach equipped with Wi-Fi—handy for sharing photos or making notes.

Kilkenny: A Medieval Marvel

Your first major stop is Kilkenny, one of Ireland’s most charming towns, famous for its medieval roots. The highlight here is the Kilkenny Castle, built in the 12th century, surrounded by expansive grounds that invite exploration. The tour includes a guided walk through the city’s narrow, cobbled streets, with stories of its history and architecture. Some reviewers appreciated the guided tour, saying guides like Caroline brought the town’s past to life, while others used their free time to wander independently, visiting the Black Abbey or cozy cafes.

With around 2.5 to 3 hours here, you get enough time to soak in the atmosphere, snap photos, and browse shops. The castle itself is a must-see and is accessible with open grounds, giving you the chance to imagine what medieval life might have looked like.

One reviewer said, “Great way to see Kilkenny, see the castle, and climb the narrow tower.” This suggests that, while the time is adequate, it’s a fairly quick visit—ideal if you prefer not to spend hours in one place.

Scenic Drive Through Wicklow: Mountains and Passes

After Kilkenny, your journey continues into the Wicklow Mountains, a landscape of rolling hills, ancient passageways, and lush greenery. The highlight here is the Wicklow Gap, one of the highest mountain passes in Ireland. The views are incredible, and if weather permits, you’ll have a chance to stroll and take photos. Several reviews mention the scenery as breathtaking—”spectacular views of the Wicklow Mountains” being a common praise.

This stop is brief, about 10 minutes, but it’s enough to appreciate the rugged beauty of the area. The road itself is interesting, with an old passageway connecting east and west Wicklow, and is a filming location for movies like Braveheart and series like Vikings. For fans of landscape and movie buffs alike, this is a memorable snapshot.

Laragh Sheep Farm: A Taste of Rural Ireland

Perhaps the most unique part of this tour is the sheep farm visit. Set in a picturesque valley beneath the mountains, the farm hosts a sheepdog trial, where border collies demonstrate herding skills. This live demonstration is interactive—you’ll see the dogs work through the fields, guided by the farmer and his loyal dogs.

Reviewers consistently say this was a highlight, with one mentioning, “The sheepdog demo was so interesting, and holding the lambs was a wonderful experience.” The setting is described as “magical,” and visitors get a chance to chat with the farmer and ask questions. It’s a chance to step into Ireland’s rural working life and see the skills of the herders firsthand.

Glendalough: Monastic Ruins and Lakes

The final main stop is Glendalough, a 6th-century monastic settlement founded by Saint Kevin. This area has drawn visitors for centuries with its spectacular scenery, archaeological sites, and abundant wildlife. You’ll get a guided walk around the ruins—round towers, old churches, graveyards—and the nearby lakes, which are stunning.

While some reviews mention the stop at Glendalough is a bit long—over two hours—it’s generally appreciated for its tranquility and historical significance. The walk encourages reflection, and the scenery makes for incredible photos. One reviewer said, “The walk around the lower lake and exploring the old monastic site alone is worth the day,” emphasizing the location’s appeal.

The Return and Overall Comfort

The entire day wraps up around 6:15 pm, with drop-offs near the starting points. The coach’s amenities, like Wi-Fi and climate control, ensure travelers stay comfortable, even after a long day. The group size (up to 63) is manageable, and the guides are praised for their knowledge and storytelling.

What the Reviews Say

Feedback for this tour is overwhelmingly positive—many describe it as “beautiful,” “educational,” and “full of great stories.” Guides like Liam, Caroline, and Paul are frequently praised for their engaging personalities and insights. Visitors say the sheepdog demonstration and Kilkenny Castle are highlights, with one noting how holding baby lambs during the farm visit was “heaven.”

Some reviews point out that the long bus ride can be tiring, and the time spent at Glendalough might be longer than some prefer. One reviewer mentioned the bus ride felt rough at times, but praised the overall value and the well-chosen sights.

The trip offers a well-balanced mix of history, scenery, and rural life, making it ideal for those who don’t want to drive but want to see a lot.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a comprehensive day out that hits Ireland’s key highlights—medieval towns, stunning mountains, monastic ruins, and authentic farm life—this tour is a strong contender. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy guided storytelling and scenic drives but don’t want to worry about logistics.

It works well for those who appreciate history and architecture, love seeing the countryside, and are open to sharing their day with a group. If you’re interested in experiencing rural Irish culture in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, this trip checks all those boxes.

FAQ

• How long is the tour?

It lasts approximately 10 hours, starting early in the morning and returning around 6:15 pm.

• What is the cost?

The tour is priced at about $51.87 per person, which includes transportation, guided tours, and the sheepdog demonstration.

• Is Wi-Fi available on the coach?

Yes, the coach offers unlimited 4G Wi-Fi, helping you stay connected during the long drive.

• Are food and drinks included?

No, meals and beverages are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy at stops.

• Can I customize my experience at Glendalough?

The time at Glendalough is scheduled for about two hours, enough for a walk around the ruins and lakes, but not for extensive extra activities.

• Is this tour family-friendly?

While not explicitly marketed for children, the activities—like petting lambs and watching sheepdogs—are suitable for all ages, making it a fun outing for families.

• What should I wear?

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for Glendalough and the farm, plus layers for changing weather in the mountains.

• Will I have free time to explore?

Yes, especially in Kilkenny, where you can browse shops or visit sights independently.

• Are there any restrictions?

Children under 2 are not allowed, and the tour requires participants to be on time for pickup.

• What’s the best way to book?

Booking in advance is recommended—this tour is often booked about 34 days ahead—and you’ll receive a mobile ticket for easy access.

Final Thoughts

This Dublin day trip offers a well-rounded glimpse of Ireland’s historic towns, wild landscapes, and rural traditions. With engaging guides, scenic views, and authentic activities, it’s an excellent choice for travelers eager to see Ireland beyond Dublin’s city limits without the stress of planning multiple trips.

If you’re looking for a value-packed day that combines history, nature, and countryside charm, this tour is tough to beat. Just keep in mind the schedule might be a bit full, and some stops are longer than others—perfect for those who enjoy a mix of guided and free exploration.

Whether you’re into medieval castles, mountain vistas, or cuddling lambs, this tour promises a memorable Irish adventure—designed to satisfy curious travelers seeking a taste of the country’s soul.