Dublin & The Wicklow Way In Style

Arrive in Ireland’s capital, a relatively small and compact city, and an essential part of any visit to the Emerald Isle. From the traditional Dublin pubs to the gorgeous 18th-century Georgian architecture, to its strong literary culture and interesting museums, Dublin truly packs a punch!

Settle into your welcoming hotel that is ideally located in the town centre before exploring the city's foodie scene and lively Temple Bar area, known as Dublin’s “left bank” where you can join the locals, grab a pint of Guinness and listen to live music. Is there a better way to celebrate the start of your trip?

Make the most of your visit to Dublin and join a privately guided walking tour (duration: 2h30m) to get to know the highlights of the city, such as Trinity College, Dublin Castle, and Christchurch Cathedral. The tour is organised by one of the city's best-known local historians, Pat Liddy. You will also explore some hidden gems; a church that is not a church, an entertaining representation of a Da Vinci painting, and the story of a mailbox that symbolizes Ireland’s road to independence.

This afternoon there is more time for sightseeing at your own leisure and for those who have Irish roots, the Irish Emigration Museum (EPIC) is a must-visit. Foodies can eat and drink their way through the best food vendors, seasonal produce, and craft beers at one of Dublin's artisan food markets, or explore the cafe culture to get your barista fix.

With a large choice of things to see and do, you may wish to spend an extra night!

This morning a private transfer (duration: 40m) will bring you to Kilmashogue Forest, where you start your walk to Enniskerry. Hike through fragrant woodland and out to the open hillsides south of Dublin. Make sure to pause and turn around to enjoy views of the city and its harbour. The walk begins with a steady ascent into Glencullen Forest, the perfect warm-up for the legs, and continues through the peaceful Glencree Valley. 

Reach the Powerscourt Estate one of Wicklow's most iconic attractions south of Enniskerry. This is one of the absolute highlights of this trip and the real draws are its remote countryside setting, the perfectly manicured gardens that stretch over 47 acres, and the expansive views of Sugarloaf Mountain. Settle into your luxe hotel and spend the next 2 nights here with plenty of time to unwind.

Ascent/Descent: +494m/565m

A private transfer (duration: 25m) takes you to Lough Tay, keep your camera at the ready as this dramatic dark lake is a sight to behold. Created in the Ice Age the lake is surrounded by steep slopes and a white beach on the northern side. The white sand was imported by the Guinness family whose estate runs through part of the area. With a little bit of imagination, the shape of the lake combined with the white beach makes it look like a pint of Guinness, hence its nickname Guinness Lake.

Set off on your hike today with magnificent panoramas surrounding you in each direction. A gradual incline brings you across the exposed shoulder of Djouce Mountain, and then onto Powerscourt Waterfall, Ireland's highest at 121m. Follow the trail back to your hotel where you may wish to relax your tired muscles in the spa and wellness center (bookable and payable online or locally).

Ascent/Descent: +359m/675m

A private transfer (duration: 35m) will take you to Glendalough, meaning 'Valley of Two Lakes'. World-famous for its impressive remains of a monastic settlement, it is one of the main reasons visitors travel to Wicklow. We recommend spending some time exploring this ancient site and visiting the information centre which allows you to step back in time to when St Kevin made it his home. 

Walk through the wild and remote Glenmalure Valley heading deeper into the Wicklow Mountains. This walk takes you through a lush and leafy woodland with gushing waterfalls. Admire views of Wicklow's highest peak, Mt Lugnaquilla (925m), and pass the Poulanass Waterfall with its clear green waters.

Tonight you will stay in Brook Lodge & Macreddin Village, a country-house hotel situated in an area of great historical significance. St Kevin also founded a monastery here, proving he created settlements in the most beautiful of places.

Ascent/Descent: +438m/-431m

Enjoy a relaxing morning with plenty of time to explore your surroundings, the hotel is in essence a small village! Set off on a gentle local walk named "The Macreddin Trail" which takes you through the Wicklow countryside and the surrounding hills. Alternatively, you can choose to spoil yourself and take it easy. There are two swimming pools, Finnish baths, outdoor hot tubs, and mud chambers, as well as a variety of spa treatments that we recommend booking in advance (please note that these are not included in the price). There’s also a par-72 golf course and a 'food village' which includes an organic bakery, pub, café, and much more.

Enjoy an included dinner in the Strawberry Tree Restaurant, an outstanding country-style restaurant serving certified organic food such as their own smoked salmon, delicious wild sole, and Glenmalure venison.

After your final breakfast, an included private transfer brings you to Dublin city centre (duration: 1h30m) or Dublin Airport (duration: 1h20m) for your onward journey. If you wish to spend some extra time in Dublin, we can organise this for you.