Wicklow Wonders: Monks, Mountains & Manor Gardens

Early Christian settlement of Glendalough.

Tour Highlights

Then, it’s on to Powerscourt House & Gardens, a masterwork of 18th-century landscaping set against the backdrop of the Sugarloaf mountain.
Along the way, we can add diversions depending on your mood: a view of the Guinness Lake, a drive along the Vico Road, a visit to Dalkey’s seaside charm, or a forest walk off the beaten path.
A restorative day, shaped to suit your pace.

Duration

7 Hours

Meeting Point

Collection from your hotel or place of stay

Group Size

1-7 People

FLEXIBLE & PRIVATE

Your pace, your tastes, your day. We adapt in real time — weather, interests, energy.

Activity Details

We’ll visit the early Christian settlement of Glendalough—once a centre of learning and pilgrimage, now a serene valley full of whispers and wild beauty.

What's included

Expert tour guide
Transport

What's not included

Food/drink
Tip/gratuity for your tour guide

Itinerary

The tour start time is flexible, based on your wishes and will be agreed in advance prior to the tour

Tour Highlights:

Glendalough Monastic Site
Walk through one of Ireland’s most evocative heritage sites—founded by St Kevin in the 6th century and once a renowned centre of faith and learning. Explore the round tower and medieval cathedral ruins, Celtic crosses, quiet woodland paths and the stunningly beautiful twin lakes. Learn about and reflect on early Irish Christianity and the enduring pull of this sacred valley.
Powerscourt House & Gardens
Voted among the world’s top gardens for good reason. A harmonious blend of formal terraces, Japanese and Italian gardens, secret statues, and sweeping views. Optional time for a relaxed coffee or lunch in the café, browsing Irish design and craft in the onsite Avoca Handweaving shop. A peaceful stroll (or a bit of grand daydreaming) through the estate
The Guinness Lake (Lough Tay) (Optional)
A viewpoint straight out of a film—dramatic valley, still water, and a dash of black and white where the Guinness family estate meets the land. Quiet, scenic, and unforgettable.
Vico Road & Dalkey Village (Optional coastal route)
Return to Dublin via the sea, with a drive along the winding cliffside Vico Road—home to writers, rock stars, and one of the finest views in Ireland. A stop in Dalkey village offers pretty streets with cafés and boutiques along with historic towers and a real sense of coastal charm. Perfect spot for a pint, a gelato, and some people watching.

Availability

What our guests say

Rated 5 out of 5

Jim absolutely crushed the Dublin tour. The whole thing was incredibly well organized, and he deserves a ton of credit for putting it together. From the planning to the stops to keeping everyone on schedule, it felt like everything was handled. Honestly, Jim set the bar pretty high. 10/10 tour guide, 10/10 itinerary, 10/10 execution Huge job by Jim

Jim, Thank you for making our trip to Ireland such a wonderful experience. Michael and I have learned so much from you with all your knowledge and experiences of your beautiful country. We truly enjoyed spending time with you. Thank you for also being so attentive and understanding when it came to my health issues.Thank you for showing us how wonderful the people of Ireland are. We are sure to miss you! Like I said at the airport while tearing up it really did feel like I was saying good bye to our family member. Always remember us - the “O’Pellegrinos” from New Jersey. Until we meet again. Jennifer

My company from California, Singles in Paradise, have used Jim on four of our group trips to Dublin. I can only say great things about his dynamic delivery, sense of humor, and knowledge. Everyone in my group were quite impressed and fond of Jim. I can’t recommend him enough.

Jim was absolutely fantastic. He’s incredibly knowledgeable about the area and has a wonderful way of bringing every place to life. He tailored the itinerary perfectly for our group, making sure everyone felt looked after and engaged throughout the visit. His passion, professionalism, and friendly nature made the entire experience truly special. We couldn’t have asked for a better guide. Highly recommended!

I was lucky enough to join one of Jim’s recent Dublin walking tours, organised for a group of his former students. We explored some of the city’s oldest and most tucked-away corners - places you’d probably walk right past without Jim’s expert eye. His mix of deep knowledge and lively storytelling made the whole experience not just informative but genuinely fun. Easily one of the most enjoyable tours I’ve ever been on!