How to Plan Your Day Trip to Kilkenny City, Glendalough, and Powerscourt Gardens

If you’re looking for a day trip from Dublin to explore some of Ireland’s most scenic landscapes and historical treasures, then the Day Trip to Kilkenny City, Glendalough, and Powerscourt Gardens is a must-do experience. This tour takes you on a journey through the beautiful countryside of County Wicklow, visiting the charming city of Kilkenny and admiring the stunning natural beauty of Glendalough and Powerscourt Gardens. Here is how to plan this day trip and make the most out of your experience.

Booking the Tour

The first step in planning your day trip is to book the tour in advance. You can easily book it online at viator.com on this link: Book the Tour Here. The tour departs from Dublin, and the meeting point varies depending on your location in the city.

What’s Included

The tour includes everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable day out. You’ll get bottled water, WiFi on board, and an air-conditioned vehicle to travel in. Lunch is also included, as well as gratuities for the Driver/Guide. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including families with infants, as infant seats are available.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour pickup points are flexible, allowing you to be picked up from your hotel, port, or any area in Dublin city. When booking the tour online, you can select your pickup point and receive detailed instructions on how to reach the meeting point. Pickup times vary depending on your location, so it’s essential to arrive at your designated pick up point on time.

What to Expect

The first stop on this tour is Kilkenny City, a renowned medieval town located in the heart of Ireland. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the famous Kilkenny Castle, which dates back to the 12th century and was home to the powerful Butler family. The town is also home to many other historic buildings and churches, including St. Mary’s Cathedral and the impressive Black Abbey.

After you have had a chance to explore Kilkenny, the tour continues to Glendalough, a picturesque glacial valley nestled in the Wicklow Mountains National Park. Here you’ll find the famous 10th-century monastic settlement of St. Kevin, with its iconic Round Tower and historic church ruins. The scenic surroundings make this stop an excellent opportunity for photographers to capture some stunning shots.

Finally, the last stop on the tour is Powerscourt Gardens, one of the most impressive gardens in Ireland, where you can admire the breathtaking beauty of the gardens and waterfalls. The gardens are home to many different types of flowers, including tulips, roses, and azaleas. A stroll through the gardens is a serene experience, allowing you to relax and soak up the beauty of the surrounding nature.

Cancellation Policy

It’s important to note that if you need to cancel the tour, you can do so up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. If you cancel within 24 hours of the start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded. Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Day Trip to Kilkenny City, Glendalough, and Powerscourt Gardens is a fantastic way to explore some of Ireland’s most impressive landscapes and historic sites. With everything included, this tour makes it easy to enjoy a comfortable and seamless day out. So if you’re planning a trip to Ireland, consider booking this tour for an unforgettable adventure.

Insider’s Guide to Kilkenny City: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Kilkenny may be a small city in southeast Ireland, but it is a vibrant and cultural hub that is perfect for a day trip. It has an incredibly rich history that dates back to the 6th century and has a range of experiences to offer tourists. Whether you’re interested in exploring castles, discovering local art, or enjoying traditional Irish meals, Kilkenny has it all.

Local Attractions

One of the main attractions in Kilkenny is Kilkenny Castle, which was first built in the 12th century. It underwent many renovations over the years, but its original essence is still intact. You can take a tour of the castle, see the many rooms filled with interesting collections, learn about its history, and enjoy the stunning views of the river and surrounding countryside from the top of the tower.

Another must-visit site is St. Canice’s Cathedral, which dates back to the 13th century. It is one of the most significant medieval buildings in Ireland, with a magnificent round tower and vibrant stained-glass windows. You can take a guided tour or simply explore the grounds and take in the awe-inspiring architecture.

Lastly, make sure you visit the Medieval Mile Museum, which chronicles Kilkenny’s history from its earliest times to the present day. You can see artifacts, weaponry, and clothing from several periods.

Dining Spots

Kilkenny has a variety of dining options, from cozy restaurants to charming pubs.

The Hole in the Wall pub, which dates back to the 16th century, is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. This pub’s charm is its low ceilings, wooden beams, and cozy fires, which create a relaxing atmosphere. Order a pint of Guinness and a traditional Irish stew to complete the experience.

For a more upmarket experience, visit the Michelin-starred restaurant Lady Helen, located within the Mount Juliet Estate. They serve European dishes made with locally sourced ingredients and offer stunning views of the estate gardens.

For a coffee, sweet treat, or light lunch, try Café La Coco, which sits on a picturesque street in Kilkenny. They offer a range of tasty sandwiches, salads, and pastries.

Cultural experiences

If you’re interested in the arts, make sure to visit the Butler Gallery, which is located in the castle grounds. They have a range of changing exhibitions featuring contemporary Irish and international artists.

Kilkenny is also famous for its annual arts festival, which takes place every year in August. The city is filled with music, poetry, and dance performances, which create a vibrant and energetic atmosphere.

Local History

Kilkenny was once the medieval capital of Ireland, and visitors can experience this history by exploring the many narrow streets lined with old buildings and shops. A great way to learn about the city’s history is to take a walking tour. Visit the Rothe House, a 17th-century merchant’s townhouse, which is now a museum. It provides insights into life in the city centuries ago.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

For the more adventurous, visit Dunmore Cave, located north of Kilkenny. This historical cave system is famous for its archaeological discoveries, including Viking and Norman artifacts.

If you’re looking to escape the city and enjoy nature, head to Woodstock Gardens in Inistioge, located south of Kilkenny. The park boasts stunning gardens, cascading waterfalls, and a peaceful river walk. It is an ideal spot for a picnic or a relaxing stroll in the Irish countryside.

Overall, Kilkenny is a perfect destination for a day trip, offering a variety of unique experiences and sites to explore. It has everything from medieval architecture, museums, and restaurants to stunning nature spots and cultural events. Don’t miss your chance to experience this charming city on your next Irish adventure.