Caroline Holland, our Trinity College Dublin and US Ambassador shares her top tips for travel around the city – from day trips to seaside villages to dips in the Irish Sea…
You’ve pulled a pint at the Guinness Storehouse, you’ve seen the Book of Kells, now what? After a thorough exploration of Dublin’s City Centre, it’s time to set your sights a little further afield. Here are some suggests for things to see and do that are just outside of Dublin, with easy access by public transport…
Bray to Greystones Cliffwalk
A pilgrimage of sorts, this popular 7km walk takes you right along the Wicklow coast between the charming seaside towns of Bray and Greystones. From Dublin city centre, it is easiest to get to Bray by DART and start your walk from there. Greystones and Bray are known for their many restaurants and cafes, but you have to try The Happy Pear. This cafe has gained a cult following for its delicious vegetarian and vegan food, along with its great coffee and treats. After you’ve refueled, you can take the DART from Greystones all the way back to the city.
Powerscourt Estate and Gardens
You’ve got to check out why National Geographic recently voted Powerscourt as #3 in the World’s Top Ten Gardens! Walk around the gardens, see Ireland’s highest waterfall, and enjoy a cup of tea on the Avoca Terrace. The 44 bus can take you to Enniskerry which is the closest village in Wicklow. From there, it’s about a 25 minute walk to the Estate.
Howth Head
This fishing village just north of Dublin city is also accessible by the DART. The popular walking route allows you to take in Ireland’s Eye, a Martello Tower, and the Baily Lighthouse. You’ll see Dublin from a new perspective, with the boats weaving in and out of the Bay. Once back in Howth village, stroll along the pier and if it’s the weekend, check out Howth Market.
Dive in at the 40 Foot
Brave the Irish Sea by making your way to the Forty Foot in Sandycove. Dubliners flock to these steps all year round, come rain or shine! No matter how great the weather is, you should expect the water to be…nippy. Make sure to bring lots of warm clothes and a towel to bundle up in after. The Sandycove & Glasthule DART stop is a ten minute walk from the 40 foot. If you’re not ready to go home yet, a walk around Dun Laoghaire is a perfect way to spend the rest of the afternoon. Hopefully you’ll have warmed up by then, as no dip in the sea is complete without a Teddy’s ice cream! There is also a Dun Laoghaire DART stop to take you back to the city.