Wicklow Mountains & Glendalough Lake Adventure

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8 Hours
Availability : Jan 25 - Dec 25
Dublin,Kildare & Carlow
Dublin,Kildare & Carlow
Max People : 7
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Tour Details

Wicklow Mountains

The Wicklow Mountains are a breathtaking expanse of rolling hills, windswept moors, and quiet valleys just south of Dublin. Often called the “Garden of Ireland,” this mountain range offers peaceful landscapes rich in natural beauty and history. The air is crisp, the silence is serene, and the views are endlessly photogenic—especially in the early morning mist or golden evening light.

🛣️ Sally Gap

Driving through Sally Gap is like entering another world. This mountain pass, one of the most iconic drives in Ireland, weaves through remote uplands and offers sweeping views of blanket bogs, lakes like Lough Tay (the “Guinness Lake”), and rugged terrain. The road is narrow and wild, with few signs of civilization—making it ideal for dramatic photography and quiet reflection.

🌺 Powerscourt Gardens

Nestled at the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains, Powerscourt Gardens are a masterpiece of landscaping. Voted among the world’s top gardens, they blend formal terraces, walled gardens, and lush lawns with statues, ponds, and seasonal flowers. Highlights include:

  • The Italian Garden overlooking Sugarloaf Mountain.

  • The Japanese Garden with its serene paths and exotic plants.

  • The Tower Valley with a medieval-style tower you can climb.

The estate is also home to a charming café and an Avoca shop, perfect for a break.

💦 Powerscourt Waterfall

A short drive from the gardens, Powerscourt Waterfall is Ireland’s highest at 121 meters. Surrounded by woodland and picnic spots, it’s a tranquil place to relax, listen to the roar of water, and admire the raw power of nature. Deer and red squirrels are sometimes seen nearby, adding to the fairy-tale atmosphere.

🏞️ Glendalough Lake & Monastic Site

No trip to Wicklow is complete without visiting Glendalough, meaning “Valley of the Two Lakes.” This glacial valley is steeped in history and spirituality:

  • The Monastic Site, founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century, includes a round tower, ancient churches, and early Christian ruins.

  • The Upper and Lower Lakes are perfect for walking, with trails ranging from gentle boardwalks to challenging hikes like the Spinc Ridge.

It’s a place of reflection, beauty, and deep cultural roots.

🌿 Trip Summary

This day trip through the Wicklow Mountains offers a rich mix of nature, history, and tranquility. From the rugged wildness of Sally Gap to the refined beauty of Powerscourt Gardens, the awe-inspiring waterfall, and the sacred calm of Glendalough, every stop brings something unique. Whether you’re a photographer, a hiker, a nature lover, or a history buff, this journey is a must-do in Ireland.

**NOTE: Entry tickets to each Powerscourt Garden & waterfall is extra. Parking fee is included in the trip price.

Departure & Return Location

Dublin (Red Cow)

Carlow (Any Location)

Co.Kildare (Any Location)

 

(Google Map)

Departure Time

8 AM

Price Includes

  • Tour Guide
  • Parking Fees
  • All transportation in destination location

Price Excludes

  • Driver Service Fee
  • Any Private Expenses
  • Breakfast or Lunch
  • Entry Fee at the sight

Complementaries

  • Water bottle
  • Music on Demand
What to Expect

What to Expect on the Wicklow Mountains & Glendalough Adventure Tour

A Powerscourt – Glendalough – Sally Gap tour (often offered as a full-day excursion from Dublin) is a scenic and enriching experience that blends nature, history, and breathtaking views. Here’s what you can expect from such a tour:

🚐 Tour Overview

  • Duration: Typically 7–9 hours

  • Pickup: Usually from central Dublin in the morning

  • Transport: Comfortable coach or minibus with a guide

  • Group Size: Can vary (from small groups of 10–15 to larger buses)

🏰 1. Powerscourt Gardens

  • What to Expect:

    • Entry to one of the world’s most beautiful gardens.

    • Time to explore the Italian terraces, Japanese garden, rose gardens, and fountain-filled lake.

    • Optional shopping at the Avoca store or coffee at the estate café.

  • Tip: Bring your camera—views of Sugarloaf Mountain from the gardens are stunning.

💦 2. Powerscourt Waterfall (Sometimes Included)

  • What to Expect:

    • Ireland’s highest waterfall (121m) nestled in woodlands.

    • Time to walk around, take photos, or enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature.

  • Note: Some tours skip the waterfall to allow more time in other stops, so check in advance.

🛣️ 3. Sally Gap Drive

  • What to Expect:

    • A drive through the heart of the Wicklow Mountains via narrow, winding roads.

    • Sweeping views of heather-covered hills, valleys, and remote lakes (like Lough Tay, the “Guinness Lake”).

    • Several photo stops along the route—often the most dramatic scenery of the day.

  • Atmosphere: Quiet, wild, remote – feels like stepping into a movie set (many scenes from Braveheart and P.S. I Love You were filmed here).

🏞️ 4. Glendalough Monastic Site & Lakes

  • What to Expect:

    • Explore the 6th-century monastic settlement: round tower, ancient churches, and Celtic crosses.

    • A guided tour or self-guided time at the ruins.

    • Free time to walk to the Upper Lake or take a short forest hike.

  • Optional Hikes:

    • Flat lakeside walks or more energetic trails like the Spinc Ridge (though longer hikes aren’t typically part of short tours).

  • Atmosphere: Peaceful, spiritual, and surrounded by natural beauty.

🍽️ Lunch Options

  • Some tours stop at a local pub or café along the way.

  • Meals are usually not included, so bring some cash or card for food and drinks.

📸 What to Bring

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Warm, waterproof clothing (weather can change quickly)

  • Camera or phone for photos

  • Water and snacks (especially if you want more time to explore)

✅ Summary: What You’ll Experience

  • Natural beauty: Mountains, lakes, forests, and waterfalls

  • Cultural heritage: Ancient monastic ruins and aristocratic gardens

  • Dramatic landscapes: Especially on the Sally Gap drive

  • Relaxing pace with opportunities to explore, learn, and take in the views

  • Scenic Landscapes
  • Historic Sites
  • Elegant Gardens
  • Local Culture & Cuisine
  • Iconic Views
Itinerary

 

🌄 Full-Day Itinerary: Powerscourt – Sally Gap – Glendalough Trip

🕗 8:00 AM – Depart from Dublin

  • Start early to make the most of your day.

  • Take the M50/N11 south towards Enniskerry, the gateway to Powerscourt Estate (about 45 mins from Dublin city).

🌺 9:00 AM – Powerscourt Gardens

  • Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours

  • Highlights:

    • Italian Gardens, Triton Fountain, Japanese Garden, Rose Garden, and the Pepperpot Tower.

    • Stunning views of the Sugarloaf Mountain.

    • Avoca Café & Shop for coffee/snacks or a quick breakfast.

💡 Tip: If the waterfall is included in your plan, allow time to drive there after the gardens (15 mins drive).

💦 (Optional) 10:45 AM – Powerscourt Waterfall

  • Duration: 30–45 minutes

  • Ireland’s tallest waterfall (121m), located in a forested park with scenic picnic spots.

  • Walk around the base, enjoy nature, and take photos.

⏰ Alternative: Skip this stop if you prefer more time in Glendalough or along Sally Gap.

🛣️ 11:30 AM – Scenic Drive Through Sally Gap

  • Route: From Powerscourt via Glencree or Roundwood to Sally Gap (R759), then towards Lough Tay and onto Laragh.

  • Duration: 1–1.5 hours including stops

Key Photo Stops:

  1. Sally Gap Crossroads – Wild moorland, windswept beauty.

  2. Lough Tay (Guinness Lake) – Dramatic lake shaped like a pint of Guinness, bordered by the Guinness family estate.

  3. Glenmacnass Waterfall (optional detour) – Beautiful roadside waterfall en route to Glendalough.

🎥 Fun Fact: Scenes from Braveheart and P.S. I Love You were filmed here.

🏞️ 1:00 PM – Arrive in Glendalough

  • Lunch: Grab food at a local café in Laragh or the Glendalough Visitor Centre (some tours include a stop at a country pub).

🕰️ 2:00 PM – Explore Glendalough Monastic Site & Lakes

  • Duration: 2 to 2.5 hours

  • Highlights:

    • Monastic City: Round Tower, St. Kevin’s Church, cathedral ruins, Celtic crosses.

    • Visitor Centre: Brief historical intro and exhibition (optional).

    • Lakeside Walks: Walk to the Upper Lake (15–20 mins one way on flat path).

    • If time allows, do the Green Road Trail or short part of the Spinc Walk for elevated lake views.

🧘 Atmosphere: Peaceful, spiritual, and ideal for walking, photography, or quiet reflection.

🚐 4:30 PM – Depart Glendalough

  • Begin return journey to Dublin (~1h 15min drive via R755 and N11).

🕖 6:00 PM – Arrive Back in Dublin

Timetable

Time Activity Notes
08:00 Depart Dublin Take M50 → N11 → Enniskerry
08:50 – 10:20 Powerscourt Gardens Italian Garden, Japanese Garden, Walled Garden, café view
10:20 – 10:30 Drive to Powerscourt Waterfall 6–8 km
10:30 – 11:15 Powerscourt Waterfall Short walk, photos
11:15 – 11:55 Drive via R759 into Sally Gap Mountain scenery
11:55 – 12:30 Sally Gap scenic stops Lough Tay & Glenmacnass Waterfall
12:30 – 13:00 Drive to Glendalough Upper Lake Down through Laragh
13:00 – 14:30 Glendalough Lake & Monastic Site Walk lakeshore or short trail
14:30 – 15:30 Lunch in Laragh or Roundwood The Wicklow Heather is popular
15:30 – 15:45 Optional short walk (Poulanass Waterfall) 20–30 min loop
15:45 – 17:00 Drive back to Dublin ~1 hr 15 min
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