Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning Irish countryside, from the vibrant city of Dublin to the charming towns of Kilkenny, Wicklow, and Glendalough. This engaging tour offers a captivating glimpse into Ireland’s natural and cultural wonders, including a captivating sheep dog demonstration at a local farm. Prepare to be enchanted by the breathtaking scenery and immersed in the rich history of this remarkable region. What delights await as you explore this captivating itinerary?
Key Points
- This tour takes visitors from Dublin to Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains, and Glendalough, with a stop at a local sheep farm for a sheep herding demonstration.
- Highlights include exploring Kilkenny Castle, the Glendalough monastic settlement, and interacting with lambs at the sheep farm.
- The tour provides climate-controlled transportation with Wi-Fi, guided walking tours, and a high satisfaction rate of 97% based on over 6,100 reviews.
- Travelers recommend wearing warm clothing and comfortable shoes, and the tour has a maximum of 63 participants with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- The meeting location for the tour is on Westmoreland Street near Trinity College in Dublin, and the tour departs at 8:00 AM.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Overview and Highlights
This engaging tour from Dublin takes visitors on a captivating journey through the picturesque landscapes of Kilkenny, Wicklow, and Glendalough.
Boasting over 6,100 glowing reviews and a 97% traveler recommendation, the tour showcases key attractions like Kilkenny Castle, Wicklow Mountains National Park, and the 6th-century Glendalough Monastic Settlement.
Highlights include a sheep dog demonstration and interactions with lambs at a local farm.
Travelers enjoy climate-controlled transportation with unlimited 4G Wi-Fi and guided walking tours, ensuring a seamless and informative experience.
Detailed Itinerary
The tour departs from selected meeting points in Dublin at 8:00 AM, allowing participants to embark on their journey through the picturesque Irish countryside.
The first stop is Kilkenny, where visitors enjoy a guided walking tour. They’ll explore the city’s highlights, including the Black Abbey and Hole in the Wall tavern.
Next, the group visits a sheep farm to witness border collies herding sheep and interact with lambs during the seasonal demonstration.
Continuing on, they stop at the Wicklow Gap for stunning views of the Wicklow Mountains before exploring the 6th-century monastic settlement of Glendalough.
Key Attractions and Inclusions
The tour showcases several key attractions along the way.
Travelers will visit Kilkenny Castle, a 12th-century medieval castle known for its impressive architecture and history.
In Glendalough, they’ll explore the 6th-century monastic settlement, which features ancient ruins and natural beauty.
The tour also includes a stop at a local sheep farm, where visitors can witness a sheep dog demonstration and interact with lambs.
Throughout the journey, travelers will enjoy round-trip transportation in a climate-controlled coach with Wi-Fi access.
The tour is highly recommended, with a 97% traveler satisfaction rate and a Badge of Excellence.
Traveler Feedback and Recommendations
With an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on over 6,000 reviews, travelers have overwhelmingly praised this tour. Guests highlighted the knowledgeable guides and engaging experiences, including the sheep dog demonstration and beautiful scenery. To ensure a comfortable experience, they recommend wearing warm clothing and comfortable shoes due to the walking involved.
| Highlights | Recommendations |
|---|---|
| Sheep dog demonstration | Wear warm clothing |
| Breathtaking scenery | Wear comfortable shoes |
| Knowledgeable guides | Prepare for walking |
The overwhelmingly positive feedback and practical tips from past travelers suggest this is a must-do tour for those visiting Dublin and the surrounding areas.
Booking Information and Requirements
Though the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, travelers must book in advance, as the tour has a maximum of 63 participants.
Confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability. Children under 2 aren’t allowed on the tour.
Travelers should meet at the designated location on Westmoreland Street near Trinity College in Dublin.
The tour includes Wi-Fi, guided walking tours, admission fees, air-conditioned transportation, and a professional guide, but doesn’t provide hotel drop-off.
For an unforgettable day exploring Kilkenny, Wicklow, and Glendalough, travelers should secure their spots early.
Exploring Kilkenny
Kilkenny, the medieval city along the River Nore, captivates visitors with its well-preserved architecture and rich history.
The guided walking tour through the city center highlights key landmarks like the iconic Kilkenny Castle and the ornate Black Abbey.
Travelers wander the cobblestone streets, marveling at the 12th-century Gothic cathedral and the unique Hole in the Wall tavern.
The tour provides ample time to explore the city’s charming shops and cafes, soaking in the lively atmosphere.
From the medieval roots to the vibrant modern culture, Kilkenny offers an immersive experience that leaves lasting impressions on visitors.
Experiencing the Sheep Dog Demonstration
A highlight of the tour is the stop at a local sheep farm, where visitors witness a captivating sheep dog demonstration. The farmer expertly commands their border collies to herd sheep, showcasing the dogs’ incredible intelligence and obedience. Guests are amazed as the sheepdogs flawlessly maneuver the sheep through various obstacles and formations on the farm.
| Breed | Intelligence | Trainability | Versatility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Border Collie | Extremely High | Exceptional | Highly Versatile |
Visitors have the opportunity to interact with the friendly lambs and gain a deeper appreciation for the vital role sheepdogs play in the farmer’s daily operations.
Discovering Glendalough’s Monastic Heritage
After witnessing the impressive sheep dog demonstration, the tour moves on to explore the ancient monastic site of Glendalough.
Founded in the 6th century, the Glendalough Monastic Settlement was a renowned center of learning and spirituality. Visitors can wander through the atmospheric ruins, including the iconic Round Tower, St. Kevin’s Church, and the remains of several other medieval structures.
The scenic valley setting, with its two glistening lakes, adds to the serene and contemplative atmosphere. Guests have ample time to enjoy the history and beauty of this unique UNESCO World Heritage site.
We've Also reviewed these nearby tours and experiences
- Dublin Highlights and Hidden Gems Guided Walking Tour
- Dublin Jameson Distillery Bow St. Tour and Tasting 45 Mins
- Dublin to Dunluce Castle, Giants Causeway, Dark Hedges & Belfast
- Dublin to Glendalough, Wicklow and Kilkenny Full Day Guided Tour
- Dublin Book of Kells, Castle and Molly Malone Statue Guided Tour
- The Original Award Winning Wild Wicklow Tour Incl. Glendalough
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Is the Total Duration of the Tour?
The total duration of the tour is not explicitly stated in the provided information. However, the tour itinerary suggests it’s a full-day tour with multiple stops, likely lasting around 8-10 hours from the 8:00 AM departure time in Dublin.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Bus?
Passengers are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the bus. However, the tour company recommends enjoying meals and refreshments during the scheduled stops to fully experience the local offerings along the way.
Do We Have the Option to Extend Our Stay in Glendalough?
This tour doesn’t offer the option to extend your stay in Glendalough. The itinerary is fixed, with a specific amount of time allotted for exploring the Glendalough monastic settlement before continuing on to the next destination.
Is the Tour Guide Available for Additional Questions During Free Time?
The tour guide is available for additional questions during the free time in Glendalough. Travelers can approach the guide to get more information or clarification on the sights and history of the monastic settlement.
Can We Purchase Souvenirs at the Sheep Farm or Glendalough?
Yes, there are opportunities to purchase souvenirs at both the sheep farm and Glendalough. The tour includes time for visitors to explore these sites and browse any shops or stands selling local crafts, foods, and other mementos.
The Sum Up
This captivating tour from Dublin to Kilkenny, Wicklow, and Glendalough offers an immersive cultural experience. Explore the historic Kilkenny, witness the captivating Laragh Sheep Dog Trial, and discover the ancient Glendalough Monastic Settlement. With climate-controlled transportation and engaging activities, travelers will be enchanted by Ireland’s stunning landscapes and rich heritage throughout this unforgettable journey.
