Exploring the stunning Wicklow region and the historic Glendalough Monastic Settlement is a must-do for visitors to Dublin. This guided tour takes travelers on an immersive journey through the captivating landscapes, offering a chance to experience the thrill of horseback riding in the picturesque countryside. With a knowledgeable guide providing insightful commentary, visitors can explore the rich heritage and natural beauty of the area. From charming villages to breathtaking national parks, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you eager to discover more.
Key Points
- Comprehensive full-day guided tour from Dublin to Wicklow Mountains National Park and Glendalough Monastic Settlement, with a horse riding experience.
- Explore the charming Enniskerry Village Square, Guinness Lake, and Sally Gap during the tour.
- Small group size of up to 8 travelers ensures a personalized and intimate experience.
- Knowledgeable guide provides insightful commentary on the history, culture, and natural wonders of the Wicklow region.
- Convenient pickup and drop-off in Dublin, with comfortable transportation to and from the tour destinations.
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Tour Overview
This full-day guided tour takes travelers from Dublin to the picturesque County Wicklow and the Glendalough Monastic Settlement, allowing them to explore the natural beauty of the Wicklow Mountains National Park and enjoy a horse riding experience through the countryside.
Visitors will have the opportunity to discover Enniskerry Village Square, Guinness Lake, and Sally Gap, as well as the historic Glendalough site.
The tour lasts approximately 8-9 hours and is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. Throughout the journey, a knowledgeable guide will provide insightful commentary, enhancing the overall experience.
Highlights of the Tour
Kicking off the tour, travelers will embark on a thrilling horseback riding adventure at Killegar Stables, seeing the stunning Wicklow countryside. The next stop is the charming Enniskerry Village Square, where guests can indulge in a delightful lunch.
| Wicklow Mountains National Park | Guinness Lake | Sally Gap |
|---|---|---|
| Explore the breathtaking vistas of this vast protected area | Admire the deep green hue of this iconic lake | Marvel at the stunning panoramic views from this high mountain pass |
The tour then ventures deeper into the Wicklow region, visiting the Glendalough Monastic Settlement and the serene Upper Lake, providing a glimpse into Ireland’s rich cultural heritage.
Duration and Group Size
The tour lasts approximately 8-9 hours, providing ample time for travelers to explore the Wicklow region in depth.
The group size is limited to a maximum of 8 participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience. This allows the guide to cater to the needs and interests of each visitor more effectively.
The tour’s duration offers a well-paced itinerary, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the Wicklow Mountains and the historic Glendalough Monastic Settlement without feeling rushed.
The small group size also facilitates better interaction with the guide, who can provide more detailed commentary and insights throughout the journey.
Pickup and Drop-off
The tour offers convenient pickup and drop-off at a central location in Dublin, making it easily accessible for travelers.
Participants are transported in comfort from the city center to the Wicklow region and back, allowing them to fully focus on the sightseeing experience without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads.
This arrangement ensures a seamless start and end to the day, as guests are picked up from a well-known spot in the heart of Dublin and returned there at the conclusion of the tour.
The tour provider handles all the transportation, so guests can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic journey through the Wicklow Mountains to the historic Glendalough Monastic Settlement.
Guided Commentary
Throughout the tour, a knowledgeable guide provides engaging commentary on the history, culture, and natural wonders of the Wicklow region. They share insights into the significance of the Glendalough Monastic Settlement, the natural features of the Wicklow Mountains, and the local folklore and traditions.
Guests can expect a seamless, informative journey as the guide’s narration brings the destinations to life. The guide’s expertise and enthusiasm ensure that travelers gain a comprehensive understanding of the sites they visit, from the ancient monastic ruins to the stunning landscapes.
With the guide’s guidance, the tour becomes an immersive and enriching experience, offering a deep appreciation for the beauty and heritage of this remarkable region.
Horse Riding Experience
Kickstarting the tour, guests embark on a delightful horseback riding experience at Killegar Stables, seeing the picturesque Wicklow countryside.
Experienced instructors guide participants through scenic trails, allowing them to fully appreciate the region’s natural beauty from the saddle.
The horse riding excursion offers a unique and memorable way to explore the Wicklow Mountains National Park, providing a serene and leisurely pace to soak in the stunning landscapes.
From lush rolling hills to charming wooded areas, the horseback ride offers a truly immersive and enjoyable experience, setting the tone for the rest of the guided tour through the captivating highlights of Wicklow and Glendalough.
Stops Along the Way
After the tranquil horseback riding experience, the tour heads to the charming Enniskerry Village Square, where guests can enjoy a leisurely lunch and explore the quaint local shops and cafes.
Following this, the tour takes visitors through the breathtaking Wicklow Mountains National Park, stopping at the serene Guinness Lake and the iconic Sally Gap. These picturesque locations offer stunning views of the rugged Irish countryside.
The final stop on the tour is the Glendalough Monastic Settlement, a 6th-century Christian settlement nestled in a glacial valley. Guests can wander through the ancient ruins and discover the tranquility of the Upper Lake.
Throughout the day, the knowledgeable guide provides insightful commentary, ensuring a truly immersive experience.
Included and Excluded
The tour includes a driver/guide, the horseback riding experience in the Wicklow countryside, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
However, it doesn’t cover food, drinks, or admission tickets, as most sites offer free entry. This ensures that the tour is affordable and flexible, allowing travelers to customize their spending according to their preferences.
The driver/guide’s expertise and the included activities, such as the horse riding, provide a well-rounded and immersive experience in the stunning Wicklow Mountains and Glendalough Monastic Settlement.
While the exclusions may require some additional budgeting, the overall value of the tour makes it an attractive option for those seeking an adventure-filled day trip from Dublin.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Horse?
No, participants cannot bring their own horses on this tour. The tour includes a guided horseback riding experience at Killegar Stables, where the horses are provided as part of the tour package.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Horse Riding?
The tour company typically has a minimum age requirement of 8 years old for the horse riding activity. Younger children may be allowed with adult supervision, but this should be confirmed with the tour operator prior to booking.
How Experienced Do I Need to Be for the Horse Riding?
The horseback riding doesn’t require prior experience. The tour guides provide instruction and safety gear, ensuring even beginners can enjoy the ride through the Wicklow countryside. All skill levels are welcome to participate in this part of the tour.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
You can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour does not include these, so you’re free to pack a lunch and any beverages you’d like during the day.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Gear for the Horse Riding?
For the horse riding portion, participants don’t need to bring any special gear. The tour company provides all necessary equipment like helmets, boots, and riding gear. Guests just need to dress comfortably for the outdoor activity.
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Recap
This guided tour from Dublin offers a comprehensive exploration of the stunning Wicklow region and Glendalough Monastic Settlement.
Highlights include a thrilling horseback riding adventure, a visit to Enniskerry Village, and immersion in the breathtaking Wicklow Mountains National Park.
With a knowledgeable guide, the tour provides an immersive and enriching experience, allowing visitors to deeply appreciate the heritage and landscapes of this captivating area.
