Dublin: Glendalough, Wicklow, Kilkenny and Sheepdog demonstration

Exploring Ireland Beyond Dublin: A Deep Dive into the Glendalough, Wicklow, and Kilkenny Day Trip

If you’re visiting Dublin but craving a taste of Ireland’s legendary countryside, this tour from Finn McCools Tours could be just what you need. It promises a full day of scenic views, historic sites, and charming villages—all without the hassle of driving yourself. We’ve looked into what makes this trip so highly rated (a perfect 5.0 from over 1,600 reviews) and want to share what you can expect, along with some honest insights.

One of the things we love about this experience is how well it balances sightseeing with genuine local encounters. From the panoramic drives through Wicklow’s mountains to the interactive sheepdog demonstration, it offers a mix of photo-worthy moments and hands-on fun. Plus, the guide’s commentary is consistently praised for being informative and entertaining, making the journey informative without feeling overwhelming.

A potential consideration is the duration and pace—it’s a full ten-hour day, which means a fair amount of time on the bus. If you prefer a more relaxed, less packed itinerary or have mobility issues, this might feel a bit hurried. But overall, it’s a well-organized trip that suits those who want a comprehensive taste of Ireland’s rural charms without having to rent a car or map out their own route.

This tour is particularly attractive for first-time visitors or those wanting to see key highlights without the stress of planning. It’s also ideal if you’re traveling with a group and appreciate a guided, safe experience that covers a lot of ground in one day.

Key Points

• Cost-Effective: At $34.58, the tour offers great value for a full-day adventure.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Combines natural beauty, historic sites, and Irish culture.
• Expert-Guided: Well-reviewed guides enhance the experience with stories and local knowledge.
• All-Inclusive Transportation: No need to worry about driving or parking.
• Flexible Free Time: Ample opportunity to explore each stop at your own pace.
• Family-Friendly? Not specifically tailored for children, but suitable for those comfortable with bus travel and walking.

Journey Through Ireland’s Heartland: What to Expect

This trip offers a well-rounded look at Ireland outside the city, with carefully curated stops that showcase the country’s history, scenery, and rural life. Here’s what you can anticipate at each stage.

Departure from Dublin and Scenic Drive

Starting early at 8:00 AM from Hugh Lane Gallery, the tour kicks off with a scenic drive out of Dublin. You’ll pass iconic landmarks like Trinity College, Temple Bar, the Guinness Brewery, and Kilmainham Gaol—all from the comfort of your coach. This initial stretch sets the tone, as your guide shares colorful stories about Dublin’s past and present. The drive itself is part of the experience, with a chance to see how the landscape transforms from urban streets to lush, rolling countryside.

Glendalough Monastic Settlement

Your first major stop is Glendalough, known as The Valley of Two Lakes. It’s renowned for its serenity and ancient ruins—some of the best-preserved monastic sites in Ireland. The guide will lead you on a walk through the monastic city, pointing out highlights like the iconic Round Tower and the Cross of St Kevin. These ruins tell stories of early Irish monks and their solitary lives, and it’s easy to imagine the spiritual atmosphere that once thrived here.

We’ve read reviews praising the site as “one of the most beautiful and isolated valleys,” and it’s easy to see why. The peaceful setting amid Wicklow’s mountains makes it a perfect spot for a relaxed exploration. You’ll have time to wander at your own pace after the guided portion—so feel free to soak in the scenery, snap some photos, or sit quietly by the lake.

Wicklow Mountains National Park

Next, the tour takes you to Wicklow Mountains National Park, with a brief stop at Wicklow Gap. The view from the viewing platform down to Dublin Bay is spectacular, especially on clear days, and the wildflowers and sheep grazing nearby add a touch of rural charm. This is a quick 15-minute stop but offers a real sense of Ireland’s rugged beauty and open landscapes.

Sheepdog Demonstration at Ballybought Farm

One of the most praised elements of this tour is the Sheepdog demonstration. At Ballybought, you’ll see a talented shepherd and his trained sheepdogs in action. It lasts about 45 minutes and is both entertaining and informative. Reviewers consistently mention how “interesting and fun” it is to watch the dogs work so skillfully, and some even get to hold a lamb or learn about Irish sheep farming.

The demonstration also provides insight into Ireland’s agricultural roots—farming here goes back over 5,500 years—and shows the deep bond between farmer and animal. It’s an authentic rural experience, and many reviews call it a highlight of their day.

Kilkenny: Medieval Charm and History

The final stop, before heading back to Dublin, is the historic city of Kilkenny. You’ll have about two hours here, giving you time to walk its cobbled streets, peek inside Kilkenny Castle, or explore medieval sites. The town’s architecture and atmosphere are often described as “beautiful,” and some reviews mention discovering haunted pubs and stories of old witch trials.

While some found the time limited (“not sufficient to do everything”), others appreciated having just enough to get a sense of Kilkenny’s charm. The guide often shares stories about the city’s past, adding color to your exploration.

Return and Whiskey Tasting

On the way back to Dublin, around 6:00 PM, there’s a bonus: a complimentary whiskey tasting. This is a great way to unwind after a long day and savor Ireland’s famous spirit. The tasting is available for guests over 18 and adds a lovely cultural touch to the overall experience.

The Practical Details

The tour runs daily, with most travelers booking about a month in advance, which indicates its popularity. At $34.58, the price reflects good value—covering transportation, guided commentary, and key attractions. Since food and drinks are not included, you might want to bring some snacks or plan to purchase at stops.

The group size is capped at 53, which helps maintain a friendly vibe. The coach is air-conditioned, making the long day more comfortable. Keep in mind, the tour involves a fair amount of walking and some sightseeing on uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are a good idea. The tour isn’t recommended for those with walking difficulties or serious medical conditions, but most visitors seem to find it manageable with reasonable fitness.

Criticisms and Downsides

Some reviews note the two hours in Kilkenny could be too brief to fully explore, which is fair. If you’re a history buff or love wandering through towns, you might wish for more time here. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit, as the tour involves walking and some uneven paths.

Weather is always a wildcard in Ireland, and the tour requires good weather to be fully enjoyable. If canceled due to rain, a different date or a refund is offered, so it’s worth keeping an eye on the forecast.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This full-day trip from Dublin is best suited for those eager to see Ireland’s countryside without the hassle of self-driving. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate a guided experience, want to learn about Ireland’s rural traditions, and love scenic views. The mix of natural beauty, history, and interactive demonstrations makes it engaging for a wide age range—especially if you’re comfortable with a full day of bus travel.

If you’re looking for a packed itinerary that covers a lot in one day, this tour delivers. It’s a good option if you want to avoid the complexity of planning your own trip, and the high review ratings suggest it’s consistently well-run with friendly guides. Keep in mind the timing, dress for potential weather, and be ready for a day full of Irish sights and stories.

FAQ

Is food included in the tour? No, food and drinks are not included, but you can purchase food at some stops if needed.

What is the starting point for the tour? The tour begins at Hugh Lane Gallery, Charlemont House, Dublin 1, at 8:00 AM.

Is this tour suitable for children? It’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, and the tour involves some walking and uneven terrain. If children are used to bus travel and walking, you should book a seat per child and bring a child seat if necessary.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately ten hours, ending around 6:00 PM with a return to Dublin.

What’s included in the cost? Professional guide, live commentary, an air-conditioned vehicle, and a whiskey tasting for those over 18.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancelling less than 24 hours before the start loses the fee.

Are there any accessibility issues? The tour isn’t recommended for those with walking disabilities or serious medical conditions due to the walking involved.

Is there a dress code? Bring comfortable clothing, shoes suitable for walking, and a rainproof jacket, as weather can be unpredictable.

This tour offers a taste of Ireland’s countryside through a well-organized, engaging day trip. It’s especially good for first-time visitors or those wanting to see a mix of natural beauty and historic sites without the stress of self-driving. Expect friendly guides, stunning views, and a glimpse into Ireland’s rural traditions—just be prepared for a busy, full day.