Dublin to Wicklow, Glendalough Small Group Tour with Horse Riding

Looking for a way to escape Dublin’s busy streets and breathe in Ireland’s beautiful countryside? This small-group tour to Wicklow and Glendalough promises just that—plus the thrill of horseback riding through some of Ireland’s most scenic spots. We’ve checked out the reviews and details to give you a clear picture of what to expect, so you can decide if this adventure fits your travel style.

There are a couple of standout features here. First, the intimate size of the tour—max eight people—means you’re not just another face in a crowd. Second, the horse riding experience is well-planned and praised for its safety, instruction, and the beautiful scenery it covers. On the flip side, the price point of around $145 per person** might seem steep for some, especially since it doesn’t include meals or hotel transfers. But if you’re into nature, history, and a bit of horse riding, this tour could be a real highlight of your Ireland trip.

One thing to keep in mind: this is all about outdoor activity, so the weather can influence your experience. Several reviews mention that weather can be misty or cloudy, which may obscure some views. Still, the scenery overall tends to impress, and the tour’s flexibility and local insights are often praised.

If you love scenic drives, historical sites, and a touch of adventure, this tour is most likely to suit you. It’s especially good for those who enjoy small groups, personal guides, and a mixture of activity and sightseeing. Now, let’s break down everything you need to know before booking.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Small group of up to 8 travelers makes for personalized attention and better interaction with guides.
• Diverse Highlights: Multiple stops — from scenic lakes to historic monastic sites — offer a well-rounded experience.
• Horseback Riding: Suitable for all able-bodied adults with moderate physical fitness; safety gear is supplied.
• Scenic Drive: The route covers key Wicklow sights like Guinness Lake and Sally Gap, with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Weather Considerations: The tour is weather-dependent; mist and clouds might limit visibility but not the overall experience.
• Value for Money: At around $145, it’s a good price considering the inclusions; but food and hotel pickups are extra.

A Deep Dive into the Wicklow Adventure

Starting off: Easy logistics and a cozy group

We love that this tour kicks off conveniently in central Dublin at the Molly Malone statue. Meeting at a well-known landmark makes logistics simple, especially if you’re staying downtown. The group size is limited to 8, which really enhances the feeling of a personalized trip. No giant buses here—just a small, comfortable vehicle and a knowledgeable guide ready to fill you in on the history and stories of the region.

The horseback riding experience

The highlight for many is the horse riding at Killegar Stables outside Enniskerry. You’re assessed beforehand to match you with a suitable horse, and the guides lead the way on a trail that offers great views of the Wicklow landscape. Multiple reviews emphasize how well-organized and safety-conscious the stables are—gear like helmets and boots are provided, and the instructors are friendly and helpful.

One reviewer mentions, “The horseback riding is well planned with a guide in front and in the rear of the group. Great instruction and beautiful ride.” Many say even beginners can enjoy it because of the relaxed pace and supportive staff. The horses are described as calm and well-trained, which is reassuring if you’re a bit nervous about riding.

The lunch stop in Enniskerry

After the ride, you’ll have about 45 minutes to grab lunch in Enniskerry Village Square. This charming Victorian-style village has several eateries, with Poppies Cafe being a favorite among travelers for its locally produced food. Keep in mind, lunch isn’t included in the price, so you’ll want to budget for that. Several reviews rave about the quality of the food—”Great mushroom and chicken pie at Poppies,” one reviewer notes. It’s a nice chance to relax, soak in some small-town Irish charm, and recharge before more sightseeing.

Exploring Wicklow’s natural beauty

The journey then continues through Wicklow Mountains National Park, a highlight for many visitors. The route covers iconic spots like Guinness Lake, which has even appeared in TV series and movies—think Vikings and Braveheart. The scenery here is genuinely breathtaking, with rolling mountains, lakes, and open skies. One reviewer described the views as “surreal,” and many mention the vivid colors of the landscape, especially if you’re lucky with the weather.

Sally Gap offers a panoramic view that’s perfect for photos. Several travelers mention how peaceful and expansive the landscape feels, making it a perfect spot for a quick stop and some Instagram shots.

Glendalough: Monastic ruins and lakes

No trip to Wicklow is complete without visiting Glendalough, a UNESCO Heritage site. The monastic settlement dates back to the 6th century, founded by St. Kevin. As you explore the area, you’ll see ancient ruins, stone churches, and the two beautiful lakes—Lower and Upper. It’s easy to see why this place continues to inspire visitors. One review mentions, “Glendalough was gorgeous, and I enjoyed my walk to view both lakes,” capturing the peacefulness and historical allure.

The free time here allows you to wander, soak in the scenery, or take photos. The lakes are particularly praised for their tranquility, and some travelers enjoy a short hike if they’re feeling energetic.

Returning to Dublin

After a full day of sightseeing, the bus transports you back to the starting point in Dublin. The reviews often mention how relaxing and scenic the drive back is, with guides sharing fun facts along the way. The total duration is around 8 hours—plenty of time for a taste of Ireland’s outdoors without feeling rushed.

Is It Worth the Price?

At roughly $145, this tour offers a lot in terms of variety—horse riding, scenic drives, historical sites, and small-group intimacy. Reviewers consistently mention that the value is good, especially considering the quality of the guide, the well-managed riding experience, and the beautiful stops. The lack of included meals might be a downside for some, but it also allows flexibility for personal preferences.

The tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or meals, so you’ll need to organize those separately. But the convenience of central Dublin pickup and the comprehensive itinerary make it a reasonable choice for a day trip.

Who’s This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic drives, and learning about Ireland in an intimate setting. It’s especially suitable if you’re comfortable or curious about horseback riding—beginners are welcome, but moderate physical fitness is recommended. If you love picturesque landscapes, history, and a bit of riding, this will hit the spot.

People who value small-group experiences and personal guides will find this tour particularly rewarding. Those expecting gourmet meals or hotel transfers might find it less ideal, but if you’re happy to explore on your own for lunch, you’ll find the overall value quite satisfying.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? No, the tour starts at the Molly Malone statue in Dublin city center. You’ll need to arrange your own transport there.

What’s the best age for participants? Children must be at least 14 years old and should be able to handle moderate physical activity.

Are helmets and boots supplied? Yes, the stables provide helmets and boots for the horseback riding.

Can I do this tour if I’ve never ridden before? Yes, many reviews mention that even beginners can enjoy the ride, as guides offer instruction and support.

What if the weather is bad? The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the horseback riding? About 1.5 hours on a trail near the stables.

Does the tour include any meals? No, you need to purchase lunch in Enniskerry separately.

Is this tour family-friendly? It’s suitable for able-bodied adults and teenagers over 14. It’s not specifically marketed as family-focused.

What are the main stops? Killegar Stables, Enniskerry village, Wicklow Mountains National Park, Guinness Lake, Sally Gap, Glendalough Monastic Settlement, and Upper Lake.

How large is the group? The maximum is 8 travelers, ensuring a personal experience.

Final Thoughts

This Dublin to Wicklow, Glendalough tour with horseback riding offers a balanced mix of active outdoor fun, scenic beauty, and cultural insights. It’s best suited for those who enjoy small groups, are comfortable with moderate physical activity, and want a memorable day exploring the Irish countryside. The horseback riding is a real highlight, and many reviews speak highly of the guides, the scenery, and the overall experience.

While the price might be a consideration for some, the combination of personalized service, diverse sights, and the chance to ride through Ireland’s stunning landscapes makes it a worthwhile outing. Just remember to check the weather forecast and dress accordingly—layers and waterproofs are a good idea.

If you’re craving a day away from Dublin that’s packed with natural beauty, history, and a bit of adventure, this tour could be a great fit. And if you’re a horse lover or a history buff, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. For us, it’s an experience that captures the spirit of Ireland—peaceful, beautiful, and a little bit magical.

More Questions?

What should I wear for the horseback riding? Jeans are recommended for comfort, and wear sturdy shoes. The stables supply helmets and boots.

Can I bring my camera? Absolutely. The scenery is stunning, and many travelers find the stops perfect for photos—just keep your camera charged!

Is there a lot of walking? There’s some walking at Glendalough and during the ride, but nothing too strenuous. It’s manageable for most able-bodied travelers.

Can I do this tour solo? Yes, solo travelers often join and find it a great way to meet others in a small group setting.

Will I see movies or TV show locations? Yes, Guinness Lake has been used as a filming location for series like Vikings and shows like Braveheart.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Ireland’s wild side—whether you’re into riding, exploring history, or just soaking in breathtaking views, it’s a well-rounded day out that many travelers recommend.