Wicklow · 8–9 hours
Glendalough & Wicklow Mountains private tour
An ancient monastic valley, mountain passes, a lake shaped like a pint of Guinness and a cosy pub on the way home.
Less than an hour from Dublin, the Wicklow Mountains feel like another world. Wander St Kevin's 6th-century monastic city, walk to the Upper Lake, cross the wild Sally Gap, then warm up by the fire at Ireland's highest pub.
This is the easiest full day out of Dublin and one of the loveliest. The drive is short, the walking is gentle, and the scenery changes around every bend, from forest and lakes to open moorland that looks like it belongs in a film. Several of them, in fact.
It suits every age, and with your own chauffeur you can take it as slowly or as briskly as you like. Pack a picnic for a mountain stop, or save your appetite for Johnnie Fox's.
Your day, stop by stop
- 01 Collection from your hotel or address in Dublin.
- 02 Glendalough. The round tower, cathedral ruins and Celtic crosses, then an easy 30-minute walk to the Upper Lake, or the trail to Poulanass Waterfall.
- 03 The Sally Gap drive across Wicklow Mountains National Park, with stops at Lough Tay, the 'Guinness Lake', and Glenmacnass Waterfall.
- 04 Film fans can spot locations from Braveheart, P.S. I Love You and Vikings along the way.
- 05 Johnnie Fox's, Ireland's highest pub, for a drink, a coffee or a full Irish lunch by the fire, if you'd like.
- 06 Back to your door in Dublin, full of stories.
Good to know
How much walking is involved?
As much or as little as you like. The walk from the monastic site to the Upper Lake is about 30 minutes there and back, and longer trails are there for keen walkers.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes. The monastic site, the lakes and the mountain drive are lovely for all ages, and the pace is set by you.
How far is Glendalough from Dublin?
About an hour's drive from the city centre, which is why it makes such a relaxed full day.
