Ireland · Rural Experiences

Glendalough, Wicklow and Kilkenny tour from Dublin including Sheepdog Trails

11 Hours Round trip from Dublin Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Scenic drive through the Wicklow Mountains
  • 02 Explore Glendalough’s lakes, monastic ruins, and waterfalls
  • 03 Watch a traditional sheepdog and sheepherding demonstration
  • 04 Enjoy around 2 hours of free time in Glendalough
  • 05 Spend around 2 hours discovering medieval Kilkenny
  • 06 See Kilkenny Castle, Black Abbey, and other historic sights
  • 07 Travel by air-conditioned coach with live commentary
  • 08 Full-day tour from Dublin with an English-speaking guide

Discover some of Ireland’s most memorable landscapes and heritage sites on this full-day trip from Dublin. Travel through the Wicklow Mountains, explore the lakes and monastic ruins of Glendalough, and enjoy time in medieval Kilkenny with its cobbled streets, historic landmarks, and famous castle.

A special highlight of the day is the sheepdog and sheepherding demonstration, where you can watch a local farming tradition in action against the beautiful backdrop of the Irish countryside. With transport by air-conditioned coach and live commentary on board, this tour offers a relaxed way to experience Wicklow and Kilkenny in one day.

Discover some of Ireland’s most memorable landscapes and heritage sites on this full-day trip from Dublin.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 11 Hours
Tour type Shared
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Not included
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Not applicable
Cities Dublin, Kilkenny, Wicklow
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Wicklow Mountains - Pass by without stopping

We travel into the Wicklow Mountains. With spectacular panoramic views of the landscape, with amazing scenery stretching as far as the eyes can see.

Glendalough - around 2 hours

Glendalough is a secluded and wonderful spot just south of Dublin. Truly one of the most beautiful sights you will see on a day tour from Dublin, Glendalough promises to impress with magnificent scenery and much more. Explore the lakes, monastic ruined city, waterfalls, and other attractions the area has to offer. 

Sheep dog and Sheepherding show

Sheepdog herding is a tactic used by Shepherds to help them herd sheep and it is also a competitive dog sport. A sheepdog is an integral part of farming culture and we want our passengers to experience this on our tour. 

The beautiful views of Glendalough create the perfect backdrop and a genuine atmosphere where you will be engrossed in the Irish countryside. This demonstration is a must see for all. You will witness the intelligence of these sheepdogs as they follow the commands obediently. The sheepdog possess qualities like loyalty and being hard working which makes a sheepdog the perfect farm companion.

Kilkenny - around 2 hours

In Kilkenny, you can visit the Norman Kilkenny Castle that dates back to the 1100's. After exploring the gardens, you can watch a short film about the castle for free or spend the extra few euros to take a guided tour of the castle. 

Alternately, you could pay to visit the Rothe House, a magnificent example of a wealthy silk merchant’s home built in 159. 

Or you can just enjoy a walk on the cobbled streets of Kilkenny. Or visit the Black Abbey, the cathedral and much more. Kilkenny also has a proud food heritage and you will have the opportunity to enjoy lunch while in the city. 

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Dublin 3 cities · 11 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Kilkenny City
  • Kilkenny Castle (small optional fee)
  • Wicklow Mountains
  • Visit the Monastic site of Glendalough
  • Professional guide
  • Live commentary on board
  • Transport by air-conditioned coach
  • Luggage compartment

What's Not Included

  • Food and drinks
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Pets

Know before you go

  • Not recommended for small children or those with walking disabilities (a fair amount of walking involved)
  • Not recommended for participants with back problems, with heart complaints, pregnant women or other serious medical conditions
  • Wear comfortable clothing
  • Suitable clothing for any weather
  • Comfortable shoes

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Dublin, IE
Tour start
Dublin, IE
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 11 hours finish where they began, in Dublin.

Watch the tourHQ film Watch the film

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