Kilkenny, Wicklow and Glendalough Sheepdog Trials from Dublin

About This Tour

Discover everything that makes Ireland unique on this full-day tour from Dublin, combining breath-taking scenery, rich history and authentic rural experiences. Begin in the medieval city of Kilkenny, where a guided walking tour introduces its historic streets, followed by free time to explore Kilkenny Castle and local shops. Continue into the Wicklow Mountains, the “Garden of Ireland,” with panoramic views and a scenic photo stop at the Wicklow Gap (weather permitting). Visit Glendalough, a stunning 6th-century monastic settlement set beside peaceful lakes, where a second guided walk brings Ireland’s early history to life. A highlight for many guests is the visit to a traditional sheep farm, where you’ll experience an authentic sheepdog trial and see highly trained dogs expertly guide their flock. Travelling from and back to Dublin by luxury coach with a dedicated guide and professional driver, this tour offers exceptional value and a complete Irish experience in one unforgettable day.

What’s Included

• WiFi on board
• Regular comfort and restroom stops included throughout the day
• Guided walking tours in Kilkenny City & Glendalough Monastic Site
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Scenic photo stop at Wicklow Gap, a high mountain pass with panoramic views (weather permitting)
• Dedicated expert guide and separate professional driver throughout the day
• Traditional sheep farm visit & live sheepdog trial demonstration
• Parking Fees
• Secure luggage storage space on all coaches

What’s Not Included

• Food and drinks
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• No restroom on board (regular comfort and restroom stops included throughout the tour)
• Gratuities are optional and at your discretion, but always appreciated if you enjoyed the tour.

Itinerary

1. This tour departs from Dublin between 8:10 AM and 8:30 AM, depending on the meeting point selected at the time of booking. The tour offers three convenient central meeting locations, and customers can choose whichever departure point suits them best. As you leave the city, your guide will share information about Dublin’s history, landmark buildings, and local folklore and stories about its people.

Schedule Adjustment: Please note that on Sundays and during the winter months (November to February), the itinerary changes: we start with Glendalough, the Wicklow Mountains, and a sheepdog demonstration; then visit Kilkenny in the afternoon, arriving around 2:15 PM. (20 min) 2. Travelling though the County of Kildare, rich land the home to Irelands thoroughbred race horse breeding industry.

The Curragh is extensive area and National Park, it is the home to wild life while also the military base, Irelands largest prison and of course the home of Irish flat racing. (pass by) 3. Our tour departs Dublin early in the morning, arriving in Kilkenny at approximately 10:00 AM. Upon arrival, you will enjoy a short guided walking tour introducing the city’s medieval charm, fascinating history, and key landmarks. During the walk, your guide will also share helpful recommendations for brunch or lunch, along with suggestions for shops, cafés, and attractions to explore during your free time.

Following the guided tour, you will have time to discover Kilkenny at your own pace. You may choose to visit the grounds and gardens of Kilkenny Castle. You will have free access to explore the extensive castle parklands and gardens. Entry to the castle interior is not included in this tour but can be purchased and visited independently if you wish.

Kilkenny’s compact and walkable layout makes it easy to browse artisan boutiques, explore historic streets, or relax and enjoy the lively atmosphere in one of the city’s many cafés or traditional pubs. (150 min) 4. Leaving Kilkenny at 12:30 PM, we enjoy a scenic drive through the stunning Wicklow Mountains, often called the “Garden of Ireland.” This peaceful route winds through rolling hills and lush countryside, giving you a chance to relax and take in the natural beauty. (pass by) 5. Travel through the breath-taking Wicklow Mountains, often known as the “Garden of Ireland,” as you journey along one of the country’s most scenic routes. If weather permits, we stop at the Wicklow Gap, one of Ireland’s highest mountain passes at 475 metres, where you can step out and enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the rugged landscape.

The dramatic scenery here has featured in several famous productions, including Braveheart, PS I Love You, and the TV series Vikings. (10 min) 6. Arriving at Glendalough at roughly 2:15 PM, you will have around 2 hours and 15 minutes to explore one of Ireland’s most remarkable historic and scenic locations, set within the Wicklow Mountains.

This early medieval monastic settlement was founded in the 6th century by Saint Kevin and has drawn visitors for centuries thanks to its unique combination of history, archaeology, wildlife, and natural beauty, often known as the “Valley of the Two Lakes.”

Your guide will offer an optional guided walking tour of the monastic site, sharing history, local folklore, and the stories behind the well-preserved ruins, ancient graveyards, and the iconic 30-metre round tower, originally built as a bell tower and place of refuge.

After the introduction, you will have free time to explore at your own pace. You may choose to walk to the lakes, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, take photos, or relax at the visitor facilities where light food and refreshments are available before returning to Dublin. (135 min) 7. Experience authentic rural Ireland with a 30-minute visit to our traditional sheep farm in Laragh, nestled in the heart of the Wicklow countryside.

Often described by guests as one of the highlights of the day, this stop offers a genuine insight into Irish farming life away from the usual tourist trail.

Watch skilled shepherds demonstrate impressive sheepdog trials, as highly trained dogs respond instantly to whistle commands and expertly guide the flock across the hillside, showcasing the remarkable bond between handler and dog.

You may also have the opportunity to meet the farmer, learn about local traditions, and, depending on the season, even hold and cuddle adorable little lambs.

This hands-on and memorable experience provides a rare glimpse into Ireland’s rural heritage and remains a favourite moment for many visitors.

Surrounded by rolling green fields and mountain scenery, this peaceful stop offers a calm and authentic break in the heart of Wicklow. (30 min) 8. The tour typically returns to Dublin at approximately 6:15 PM.

During the summer months, when the tour visits Kilkenny first and Glendalough in the afternoon, drop-off takes place on Westmoreland Street, Dublin 2, D02 PW96.

During winter months, drop-off takes place on D’Olier Street, D02 Y309.

Both drop-off locations are within easy walking distance of O’Connell Street and Temple Bar and are well served by public transport options.

Please note that return times may vary due to weather, traffic conditions, or unforeseen delays during the day. (10 min)

Meeting point: 3rd Meeting Point: Outside Leonardo Hotel Dublin Christchurch, Dublin 8, D08 REK7. (formerly Jurys Inn)

Grey coach with silver Wild Rover Tours dog logo. Please arrive 10 minutes early. Coach departs on time and cannot wait for late arrivals.

Good to Know

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Maximum group size: 63 travelers. Available in: en.