From Dublin: Wicklow, Glendalough, Waterfall & Sheepdog demo

Looking for a day trip that offers a little bit of everything—stunning scenery, historical sights, and a taste of Irish rural life? This tour from Dublin catering to visitors eager to explore Wicklow County might just be what you’re after. With a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 90 reviews, it seems to strike a good balance between natural beauty and cultural insight, all wrapped into a flexible day out.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see Ireland’s tallest waterfall, Powerscourt, in full flow, and to walk around the hauntingly beautiful Glendalough Monastic Site—both must-sees for anyone curious about Ireland’s landscape and history. Plus, the sheepdog demonstration is a real crowd-pleaser, offering a fascinating look at rural life that’s both fun and educational.

That said, a potential snag is the group size of up to 55 travelers, which can sometimes make the experience feel a bit rushed or crowded, especially at popular spots. Also, keep in mind that lunch isn’t included, so planning ahead for a snack or meal is smart.

Overall, if you’re somebody who appreciates a mix of sightseeing and hands-on local experiences—and you’re okay with a full day packed with stops—this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially suited for those who want a guided introduction to Wicklow without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining natural wonders, historic sites, and rural life.
• Comfortable transportation with amenities like WiFi and USB ports.
• Value for money at around $52 per person, including most activities.
• Moderate walking and outdoor activity, so be prepared for some walking on uneven trails.
• Good reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery.
• Not suitable for those seeking a relaxed pace or a very quiet experience, as the group size can be sizable.

Exploring the Wicklow Countryside

When you think about Ireland’s landscapes, rolling hills, lush forests, and waterfalls probably come to mind. This tour is designed to give you a solid taste of that, starting with a scenic drive from Dublin that immediately pulls you out of the city and into the countryside. It’s a nice way to settle in, relax, and get into a different headspace before the stops begin.

Powerscourt Waterfall — Ireland’s Tallest Waterfall

The first major stop is Powerscourt Waterfall, which drops an impressive 121 meters (or around 397 feet). It’s one of those sights that really hits you with its majesty—the water crashing down into a quiet, green valley surrounded by trees. The setting is photogenic, whether you’re snapping shots or just soaking it all in.

Many reviews mention how enchanting the area is. “Surrounded by lush woodlands,” as one traveler put it, it’s been a filming location and a peaceful spot for decades. Visiting here means you can walk along the trails, hear the soothing sound of water, and enjoy some fresh country air. It’s a highlight especially if you’re into natural scenery or want a break from city life.

Glendalough — A Historic Monastic Site

Next up is Glendalough, often called the “valley of the two lakes,” and for good reason. The site is not just scenic but historic—a 6th-century monastic settlement founded by St. Kevin. Walking around the ruins, you’ll see the remains of churches, crosses, and the famous round tower.

Many visitors have called this part of the trip “surreal,” and it’s easy to see why. You get a real sense of Ireland’s spiritual past amid stunning lake and mountain views. The site is accessible for most travelers, but some reviews suggest that stone trails can be challenging for those with strollers or mobility issues. It’s worth considering if you’re traveling with very young children or mobility aids.

The Historic Village of Hollywood and a Local Irish Farm

The tour also includes a stop in the historic village of Hollywood. Here, you can grab a bite or just enjoy the local village atmosphere. Following that is a visit to a working Irish sheep farm, which is a real highlight for many.

The farm experience is something special. You’ll meet friendly local farmers, learn about sheep breeds, and watch a sheepdog demonstration—a true crowd-pleaser, especially for those interested in rural traditions. Many reviews praise the “fascinating” dog training, with the dogs demonstrating how they herd sheep using voice and whistle commands.

Sheepdog Demonstration — A Hands-On Irish Tradition

This demonstration isn’t just for entertainment; it’s an insightful look into how dogs are trained to herd sheep in Ireland. The farmer explains the breed of dogs used and shows how they’re trained for work in the hills and fields. Visitors describe it as “mesmerizing” and “so fun to watch,” with energetic dogs showcasing their skills.

The sheep farm stop also offers a chance to learn about Irish sheep breeds and the challenges of farm life today. It’s a nice contrast to the more historic and scenic stops and offers a peek into rural Irish culture that many find memorable.

Full-Day Experience: What to Expect

Starting at 9:30 am from the Molly Malone Statue in Dublin, the tour lasts around 7 hours, ending back in the city around 4:45 pm. The transportation is air-conditioned, with WiFi and USB ports—a thoughtful touch to keep you connected during the ride.

The schedule is designed for a relaxed pace but still packs in a lot. Each stop averages about 45 minutes to 2 hours, giving you enough time to explore without feeling rushed. The itinerary includes breaks at service stations for snacks, restroom breaks, or just stretching your legs.

Tour Group and Guide

The group can be up to 55 travelers, which is fairly typical for bus tours but can sometimes make the experience feel less intimate. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, with one reviewer describing Flann as “funny, informative, patient, and kind.” Others have mentioned that the commentary was engaging and added value to the day.

However, a few reviews pointed out issues with the audio system or guide explanations, so don’t expect a perfectly polished experience for every traveler. Still, most found the guides to be friendly and helpful.

Value for Money

At $52.25 per person, including transportation and several activities, this tour offers good value. The admission to Powerscourt Waterfall and Glendalough is included, which adds to the overall worth. Keep in mind you’ll need to budget separately for lunch, as it’s not included.

Pros and Cons Based on Real Reviews

Pros:

• Beautiful scenery at Powerscourt Waterfall and Glendalough.
• Knowledgeable and friendly guides enhance the experience.
• Unique sheepdog demonstration offers insight into traditional Irish farming.
• Comfortable, modern coach with amenities like WiFi.
• Good value considering the number of stops and activities.

Cons:

• Some reviews mention confusing or poor communication from the guide or bus system.
• The size of the group might make some stops feel crowded or rushed.
• Heavy walking over uneven terrain at historic sites might be difficult for some travelers.
• Lunch isn’t included, so plan ahead or bring snacks.
• Occasional reports of late pickups or schedule changes—so be punctual.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Wicklow’s natural beauty and history without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s a good pick for those who enjoy outdoor walks, cultural sites, and interactive demonstrations.

Families with older children might find it engaging—especially the sheepdog demo—though the walking and uneven trails mean it’s less ideal for very young kids or those with mobility issues. The group size and busy stops are better for travelers comfortable with bus tours and guided experiences.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-rounded day trip from Dublin that combines breathtaking landscapes, ancient history, and rural tradition, this tour ticks many boxes. It offers a chance to see Ireland’s countryside, hear stories from friendly guides, and witness the skill of working farms firsthand.

While it might not be the most intimate or quiet experience, the combination of scenic beauty and authentic Irish culture makes it a worthwhile option for those wanting a taste of Wicklow without the stress of independent travel. It’s especially good for first-timers or those short on time but eager to see the highlights.

Just remember to bring comfortable shoes, some snacks, and a sense of adventure—your Irish countryside adventure awaits.

FAQ

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch isn’t included. The itinerary suggests packing snacks or planning to buy food at the village of Hollywood or other stops.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 9:30 am and returning around 4:45 pm.

Does the tour accommodate all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues or traveling with strollers might find some walking over uneven trails at Glendalough challenging.

What amenities are available on the coach?
The vehicle is air-conditioned and equipped with WiFi and USB ports, making the drive more comfortable and connected.

Are the stops suitable for children?
Yes, especially the sheepdog demonstration and scenic sites, but keep in mind the walking involved and stone trails that might be difficult with very young children or strollers.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum is 55 travelers, which can make the experience lively but potentially less intimate.

Is this a good value for the price?
At around $52, including transportation and major activities, it’s generally considered good value for a full day guided tour with multiple highlights.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations less than that may not be refunded, so plan accordingly.

In summary, this tour offers a solid introduction to Ireland’s scenic and cultural treasures outside Dublin. If you’re comfortable with a busy schedule, enjoy outdoor activities, and want to experience rural Ireland firsthand, it’s likely to be a trip you’ll remember fondly.