Dublin: Mountains and Megaliths Trek offers an inviting escape from the city’s buzz, taking you into the tranquil, scenic Dublin foothills. This guided adventure is perfect for those who want a balance of light activity, stunning vistas, and a touch of Irish mythology—all within a manageable day trip.
What we really appreciate about this tour is how accessible it is; you don’t need to be a seasoned hiker to enjoy it, and the local guide’s storytelling adds a layer of charm and authenticity. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy a rustic, locally-sourced lunch in a cozy café makes it feel genuinely Irish.
A small caveat? It’s a full day of walking and exploring, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable on their feet. If you’re after a relaxed, nature-focused outing with a bit of history and mythology tossed in, this trek hits the mark. It’s particularly well-suited for those interested in Irish culture, outdoor activity, and scenic views—just note it’s not designed for very young children or those with mobility issues.
Key Points
- Accessible and close to Dublin — yet feels worlds away from city life.
- Stunning vistas over Dublin, Wicklow, and the Irish Sea from mountain viewpoints.
- Rich in archaeology and mythology — visit ancient tombs and learn Irish stories.
- Leisurely pace with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, wild berries, and local food.
- Includes transportation and a personalized digital souvenir for a memorable keepsake.
- Ideal for active travelers who enjoy light hiking, history, and scenery.
A Practical Guide to Dublin’s Mountains and Megaliths Trek
This seven-hour outing, organized by MyBikeorHike, is a thoughtfully paced mix of walking, storytelling, and scenic stops. It’s designed to take you through some of Dublin’s most beautiful natural and archaeological sites while avoiding the crowds that often gather closer to city center.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Dublin County.
Transportation and Logistics
The journey begins conveniently at Dundrum LUAS station, a familiar Dublin transit hub. From there, a local bus whisks you through backroads of the Dublin foothills—away from typical tourist spots—arriving in a quiet mountain village. This private group experience, with a live guide, ensures a tailored, immersive day. The tour includes public bus tickets, making transportation straightforward and cost-effective.
After returning, the tour offers a different but equally scenic route back to Dundrum, allowing you to enjoy more of the Irish countryside without doubling back. This thoughtful routing is especially appreciated by those who like variety in their sightseeing.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Stop 1: Dundrum outside Luas Station.
This is the easy starting point, close to transportation links, and a good place to meet your guide. It’s a short walk to the bus, which takes you into the hills.
Stop 2: Glencullen — Scenic Pause and Hike.
The first major stop offers a chance to stretch your legs and acclimate to the mountain air. The views here are spectacular, with vistas stretching over Dublin and surrounding landscapes. The guide’s storytelling kicks off here, giving context to the area’s ancient sites and Irish legends.
Stop 3: Three Rock.
A quick photo stop, but don’t underestimate it. The views from this vantage point are great for snapping scenic shots and soaking in the Irish landscape.
Stops 4-6: Fairy Castle, Tibradden Mountain, and the Mountain Path.
These stops are where the magic happens. You’ll walk along the Dublin Mountains Way, passing through forests and along ridges with sweeping views. Depending on the season, you might gather wild berries—an authentic touch that adds to the charm of the day. The guide shares insights into the area’s mythology, including stories about the ancient tombs and the mountain for which the local stone circle is named.
Stopping at Ancient Megalithic Sites
One of the highlights is visiting two ancient burial sites—an impressive wedge tomb from around 2000 B.C., and a stone circle. These archaeological sites give a tangible connection to Ireland’s long-ago inhabitants and evoke a sense of timelessness. We loved how the guide’s storytelling made the stones come alive with tales of Irish mythology and history.
Lunch at a Rustic Local Café
After a scenic and historical walk, the tour culminates in a visit to a family-run café, serving local produce and simple, hearty Irish fare. Many reviews commend the quality of the food and the cozy atmosphere, making it a perfect reward after a day of walking.
The Walking and Biking Experience
The walking is leisurely and mostly on mountain trails and forest paths, but a reasonable level of fitness is recommended. Previous hikers mention that “previous hiking experience is preferable but not essential,” and the terrain is manageable for most. The guide’s storytelling and the stunning scenery help make the walking feel less like exercise and more like a journey through Irish history.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Views and Natural Beauty
Expect breathtaking panoramas of Dublin city, the bay, and Wicklow Mountains. From mountain summits, you’ll see the city’s skyline blending into the rolling hills and distant sea, a view that never gets old. The forests are lush and provide a peaceful foil to the mountain vistas, while the wild berries—season dependent—are a delightful bonus.
The Food and Souvenirs
Many guests have complimented the delicious local food served at the café, often citing it as a highlight. The chance to add wild berries to cream or ice cream later is a lovely Irish touch. Plus, the option to receive a free personalized digital souvenir adds a memorable keepsake to the experience.
Overall Value
For around the price, you’re getting transportation, a knowledgeable local guide, access to historic sites, and a hearty Irish lunch—all in a day filled with fresh air and stunning scenery. It’s an activity that balances affordability with authentic experiences, especially when compared with more commercialized tours.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trek is perfect for active travelers keen on combining outdoor activity with cultural learning. It suits those who appreciate scenic views and want to explore beyond Dublin’s city limits without committing to a multi-day trek. It’s also ideal for history buffs, mythology lovers, or anyone seeking a peaceful break from urban life.
However, it’s not suitable for children under 15, those with mobility issues, or anyone needing wheelchair access. A reasonable fitness level helps, but previous hiking experience isn’t mandatory. If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic, and story-rich escape close to Dublin, this tour delivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the trek?
The whole tour lasts about 7 hours, including transportation, stops, and the lunch break.
What should I bring?
Bring snacks, hiking shoes, rain gear, a daypack, and a reusable water bottle, as you’ll be outdoors most of the time.
Is it suitable for children?
No, this tour is not suitable for children under 15 years old, mainly due to the walking involved.
Are there any physical requirements?
Participants should be in good health and have a reasonable level of fitness. Previous hiking experience is preferable but not essential.
What’s included in the price?
The tour includes public bus tickets for transport, a live guide with storytelling, and a personalized digital souvenir. Food and drinks are not included.
Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible planning.
Final Thoughts
The Dublin: Mountains and Megaliths Trek offers a well-paced, scenic, and culturally enriching way to explore Ireland’s ancient past and stunning landscapes without straying far from the city. You’ll come away with a sense of connection to Ireland’s history, some memorable views, and perhaps a few wild berries in your pocket.
It’s best suited for active travelers who want a mix of outdoors, history, and local flavor, and who don’t mind a day on their feet. The combination of ancient tombs, panoramic vistas, storytelling, and hearty Irish food makes this a genuine, rewarding experience—not just a walk in the woods, but a walk into Ireland’s soul.
Whether you’re visiting Dublin for the first time or seeking a different perspective on the Irish countryside, this trek offers authentic scenery and stories that will stay with you long after you leave.
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