DUBLIN BUS TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Into the Garden of Ireland: A shore excursion that reaches deep into Wicklow’s mountains
A cruise-friendly, small-group day tour from Dun Laoghaire that takes you to Glendalough, Lough Tay and the Sally Gap — this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Into the Garden of Ireland: A shore excursion that reaches deep into Wicklow’s mountains.
From the harbor at Dun Laoghaire you slip inland aboard a smaller luxury coach and, in a single day, move from coast to peatlands, quiet lakes and the ruins of a sixth‑century monastic settlement. The Wild Wicklow Shore Excursion is designed for cruise passengers and is guided by local experts who lead you well beyond main roads into secluded valleys, dramatic viewpoints and the heart of the Wicklow Mountains.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Sally Gap, Lough Tay and heather‑covered peaks
The route pushes into the raw, rolling uplands of the Wicklow Mountains — boglands, heather fields and sweeping ridgelines at the Sally Gap framed by the dark surface of Lough Tay (the so‑called Guinness Lake). The smaller coach gives access to viewpoints not served by larger tours.
Glendalough’s monastic valley
At Glendalough you follow a guide through the ancient monastic settlement founded by St. Kevin, see the round tower and stone churches, and walk the valley between the upper and lower lakes on a 90‑minute visit that combines landscape and centuries of history.
Small‑group access and a local toast
This award‑winning shore format uses a smaller luxury coach to reach secluded corners of Wicklow and is led by expert local guides. The day finishes with a complimentary taste of Glendalough Whiskey at Lough Tay as a toast to the journey.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
Expect a steady, carefully timed rhythm: a short transfer from Dun Laoghaire to Glendalough, guided exploration of the monastic site and a lakeside walk, followed by lunch at a local pub and a deeper drive into the Wicklow Mountains — across the Sally Gap to Lough Tay — with stops for views and a final whiskey toast before the return to port.
THE LANDSCAPE
Sally Gap, Lough Tay and heather‑covered peaks
The route pushes into the raw, rolling uplands of the Wicklow Mountains — boglands, heather fields and sweeping ridgelines at the Sally Gap framed by the dark surface of Lough Tay (the so‑called Guinness Lake). The smaller coach gives access to viewpoints not served by larger tours.
THE HISTORY
Glendalough’s monastic valley
At Glendalough you follow a guide through the ancient monastic settlement founded by St. Kevin, see the round tower and stone churches, and walk the valley between the upper and lower lakes on a 90‑minute visit that combines landscape and centuries of history.
THE EXPERIENCE
Small‑group access and a local toast
This award‑winning shore format uses a smaller luxury coach to reach secluded corners of Wicklow and is led by expert local guides. The day finishes with a complimentary taste of Glendalough Whiskey at Lough Tay as a toast to the journey.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this shore excursion suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The excursion is scheduled for approximately 8 hours, though the exact length depends on docking and tendering arrangements.
Dress for changeable weather and bring layers; comfortable, non‑slip shoes are recommended for the walks between the Upper and Lower lakes.
The meeting location for the shore excursion is the Royal Marine Hotel in Dun Laoghaire; the format is designed to wait for tenders and return you to the port on time.
Lunch is taken in a traditional Irish pub in Laragh and is at your own cost.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Can I stay in Glendalough longer and skip the group lunch in Laragh?
Two hours should be enough for a good visit to Glendalough; if you prefer to stay longer you can ask your guide to arrange to meet you after lunch.
Is there an alternative to the complimentary Glendalough Whiskey for non‑drinkers?
Yes — the guides often have Irish apple juice available as a non‑alcohol alternative; check with your guide on the day.
What’s the difference between the Wild Wicklow Shore Excursion and the Original Wild Wicklow Day Tour?
The shore excursion waits for tenders to arrive from the ship and returns to Dun Laoghaire in time for the ship’s departure; the Original Wild Wicklow Day Tour departs from Dublin city centre and does not return to Dun Laoghaire.
How long does the excursion last?
The tour is approximately 8 hours in duration, depending on docking and tender schedules.
Where do I meet the group before departure?
The meeting point for this shore excursion is the Royal Marine Hotel in Dun Laoghaire.
Are meals included in the price?
No — lunch is taken at a traditional pub in Laragh and food is at your own cost.