Award Winning Private Tour of Glendalough, Powerscourt & Wicklow

Discover the best of Wicklow with this private, award-winning tour from Dublin. Tailored for small groups, it offers a personalized experience amid Ireland’s most scenic spots, from ancient monastic ruins to breathtaking gardens. With a knowledgeable guide and flexible itinerary, this trip is ideal for anyone wanting to see iconic sights comfortably and without the crowds.

What we really love about this experience is the personalized approach — your guide customizes the day to suit your interests. Plus, the stunning scenery and historical sites deliver a full sensory experience that makes Ireland’s countryside truly come alive. However, the price point (around $735 per group) is a bit higher than standard group tours, but that’s reflective of the private, customized service you get.

A potential consideration is the vehicle size—most tours use a four-seat saloon, which can get a little cozy if everyone is tall or prefers more space. If comfort is a priority, request a minivan beforehand. This tour works best for travelers who value flexibility, expert guides, and a tailored itinerary—and it’s especially suited to those looking to see key sights without rushing or sharing a bus.

Key Points

• Private & personalized experience crafted around your interests
• Expert guides passionate about Irish history and culture
• Flexible itinerary with options to include or skip sites
• Stunning scenic drives through Wicklow Mountains and Sallys Gap
• Convenient hotel pickup and round-trip transfers
• Great value for a small-group, private experience

What to Expect from the Tour

This private day trip is designed to give you a flexible, relaxed way to explore the highlights of Wicklow from Dublin. The tour usually lasts about 6 hours, but with the ability to customize, you can spend more or less time at any stop. The entire experience is built around your interests, so you’ll work with your guide to craft a route that suits your preferences.

Elegant and Comfortable Transportation

Most tours use a private vehicle equipped with free WiFi, making the journey comfortable and connected. The vehicle size is typically a four-seater, which means you’ll get intimate and personal service. If a larger space is preferred, you can request a minivan. Pickup is offered from any Dublin location, making it easy to start your day stress-free.

Personalized Guides and Experience

All guides are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about Irish history. Many reviews highlight guides like Noel, Miriam, Jim, and Gerry, praising their punctuality, storytelling skills, and flexibility. Several reviewers noted how guides tailored the stops based on their interests, making the day feel bespoke rather than cookie-cutter.

The Stops and Sights

Your guide will coordinate with you to include the sites you’re most eager to see. Typical highlights include:

• Wicklow Gaol: An interactive tour of Ireland’s historic prison, led by actor guides who tell stories of prisoners and Irish roots. Reviewers have raved about the engaging storytelling and the chance to learn about Ireland’s darker past.
• Avoca Handweavers: Stop here for a taste of Irish craftsmanship. This historic company, founded in 1723, is also a great spot for buying authentic Irish throws, blankets, and souvenirs. Reviewers mention it as a must-visit for its quality and charm.
• Glendalough: The star of the tour—an ancient monastic site in a lush glacial valley. Founded in the 6th century by St. Kevin, it’s a mystical place full of history and wildlife. Expect to see the iconic Round Tower and ancient monuments. Visitors say it’s both scenic and profound, with many capturing memorable photos.
• Powerscourt Gardens: Voted No.3 in the world’s top gardens by National Geographic, these sprawling 47-acre gardens have formal terraces, ornamental lakes, and secret hollows. Reviewers describe it as “breathtaking” and a highlight of the trip.
• Additional scenic stops: Sallys Gap, Lough Tays (the famous Guinness Lake), Powerscourt Waterfall, and the Military Road are all on the table, depending on your interests and timing. Many reviews mention how guides often adapt the route to include hidden gems, like quiet waterfalls or scenic viewpoints.

Food and Shopping Options

While lunch isn’t included, your guide can recommend local pubs or cafes. Many travelers enjoy stopping at a traditional Irish pub for a bite and a Guinness, which is a great way to soak in local atmosphere. Also, a visit to Avoca is perfect for picking up unique Irish crafts, making shopping part of the experience.

The Verdict on Timing and Flexibility

Most reviews agree that the tour offers excellent value, especially given the private nature and custom route. Some guests did mention that, depending on the guide and traffic, the time at each site can vary. To get the most out of the day, it’s good to communicate your priorities upfront. The guides are flexible, and the tour can be extended or shortened based on your preferences.

The real value lies in the expert guidance and tailored itinerary. Many reviews highlight how guides like Jim, Gerry, and Noel made the experience more enriching with stories, humor, and local insights. The ability to skip less interesting places and focus on what excites you most is a big plus.

While the price might seem steep compared to group tours, it’s worth considering what you’re getting—a private, hassle-free experience with undivided attention, expert narration, and the luxury of customizing your day. For travelers craving flexibility, comfort, and authentic insights, this tour offers a lot.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

If you’re seeking a relaxed, personalized day outside Dublin with scenic drives, historical sites, and a knowledgeable guide, this tour is perfect. It’s especially good if you value comfort and flexibility over a rigid schedule or large group experience. Families with older children, couples, or small groups who want to share a bespoke day will find it ideal.

Note that the vehicle size might be tight for taller travelers, so requesting a minivan upfront can improve your experience. Also, if you’re keen on exploring Ireland’s top gardens, ancient monasteries, or historic prisons, you’ll love the carefully curated stops.

FAQ

Is this a fully private tour?
Yes, only your group participates. The vehicle and guide are dedicated to your party, giving you a personalized experience.

Can I choose the departure time?
Absolutely. The tour offers a choice of departure times throughout the day, which helps fit it into your schedule.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers the private guide, round-trip transfer from Dublin, bottled water, and some vehicles have free WiFi. Entrance fees to sites are extra.

What if I want to skip a site?
The tour is flexible. Your guide will work with you to customize the stops and durations based on your preferences.

Are the guides knowledgeable about Irish history?
Yes, all guides are passionate and well-versed in Irish culture, history, and local stories. Many guests praise their storytelling skills.

Can I get picked up from Dublin Airport?
Yes, pickup from Dublin Airport is available, though it may incur an extra fee.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, a camera, and some cash or cards for extra expenses like entrance fees or lunch.

To sum it up, this private tour of Wicklow’s highlights provides a flexible, comfortable way to experience Ireland’s natural beauty and historical sites. The guides’ local knowledge, combined with the ability to personalize your day, makes it a fantastic choice for travelers who want more than just a generic sightseeing bus. Ideal for small groups or couples seeking intimacy and a tailored experience, it’s a way to see Ireland’s scenic heart without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

If you’re after a scenic, insightful, and hassle-free day out of Dublin, this tour offers a worthwhile blend of history, nature, and Irish charm.