Description
This day trip to Wicklow blends Irish culture, history and the natural world to give you a variety of wonderful experiences. It starts at the Molly Malone statue in Dublin and travels to some remarkable places.
Situated in the "valley of the two lakes", Glendalough is a historic gem surrounded by breathtaking scenery. This monastery was founded in the sixth century by Saint Kevin. Walking through the remains of the ancient town, visitors can discover Ireland's spiritual and historical heritage. You can also enjoy lunch in a nearby restaurant.
Hollywood, the former Californian colony that bears his name, combines historical intrigue with picturesque views. A playful tribute to its well-known predecessor, Wicklow's Hollywood sign is well worth seeing.
The demonstration of a sheepdog on a typical Irish farm highlights various aspects of farm life, such as raising sheep and growing organic vegetables. The demonstration of a shepherd using his dogs to guide his sheep is the highlight and gives a unique insight into day-to-day activities in Wicklow.
The stops on this tour are all designed to offer visitors an immersive view of the natural beauty, rich history and farming lifestyle of the Wicklow area.
Itinerary
9:30 Meeting point: Molly Malone Statue
(Please Arrive 15 minutes before Departure time)
10h30 Glendalough
Stop: 90 min
12:15 Time to eat (1 hour)
Road: 30 min
13:30 Hollywood
Stop: 30 min
Road: 10 min
14:30 Sheepdog demonstration
Stop: 60 min
15h15 Road: 1h15
Arrive at 16h30
*Glendalough
Arriving at Glendalough, your guide will give you plenty of time to explore the monastic site and the surrounding lakes.
Glendalough is home to one of the most important monastic sites in Ireland. This early Christian Monastic settlement was founded in the 6th century by St. Kevin, most of the buildings that survive today date from the 10th through to the 12th centuries. Despite attacks by the Vikings over the years, Glendalough thrived as one of Ireland's greatest ecclesiastical foundations and schools until the Normans destroyed the Monastery in 1214 A.D.
With more than 10 points of interest to visit in Glendalough Valley, including Poulanass waterfall and the upper lake you will be blown away with its unique beauty and history.
Take a stroll and enjoy this magical place, you won't be disappointed.
*Hollywood
On the way to the village of Hollywood, we will make a stop at the Wicklow Gap, an iconic photo stop. We will NEXT make a short trip into Hollywood, also known as 'the original Hollywood', a small village in Wicklow that boasted the name long before Hollywood in California even existed. Your guide will take you for a walk through the valley where St. Kevin made his pilgrimage to Glendalough.
Look to the hillside, and see if you can spot Wicklow's version of the Hollywood sign
*Sheepdog demonstration
The last stop of our Wicklow day tour is to a working sheep farm. Meet a friendly local farmer who will delight in introducing you to rural life on the farm.
You will be introduced to their working sheepdogs; they will explain the breed of dog used and show you how they are trained to carry out their duties.
The farmer will also talk about the different breeds of sheep in Ireland and what they are used for.
Then finally the main event, a sheepdog demonstration. This is a truly unique experience and gives you a great insight into how dogs are used to herd sheep, be it in the hills or in the fields using voice and whistle commands.