Admittedly, just about everything in Ireland is pretty charming, and no more so than the area around Dublin Bay, from Malahide in the north to Bray in the south. There is a lot to see and do — everything from enjoying the salty sea air to bustling city streets.
South of Dublin, the medieval town of Dalkey is one of the country’s most picturesque villages and is filled with culture, adventure and a wealth of places to eat and drink. From the main street, it’s a short walk to the Coliemore Harbour, where you can take a boat trip to Dalkey Island. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, go abseiling or mountain biking at Killiney Hill where there are fantastic views over Dublin Bay.
Another elegant stop is Dún Laoghaire, which boasts a gorgeous waterfront promenade that is still as popular with walkers today as it was in the Victorian era, when the town was established. Take a Segway tour, go sea kayaking, visit a museum and top it all off with an ice-cream cone on the pier.
Heading north from Dublin city centre, Howth, a foodie haven, and set amid magnificent coastal scenery. Discover its waterfront, piers and numerous walks, including a narrow cliff walk providing a breathtaking seaside adventure with superb views of the water and Dublin city.
There is an abundance of eateries in Howth, and it is no surprise that the coastline seafood is a speciality in the charming restaurants. The village’s cafés, delis, bars, grills and coffee shops also offer the chance to while away a couple of hours taking in the activities of the seafront.
Further north, Malahide is a beautiful heritage village full of old-world elegance with chic boutiques, bookshops, and antique shops. Don’t forget to tour the 900 year-old Malahide Castle set in 250 acres of parkland and gardens. Velvet Strand, along the coastline from Malahide to Portmarnock, is popular with wind surfers and kite surfers, and also vies for the title of Dublin’s best beach.
Head a little further out of Dublin Bay and you come to Skerries,ideal for seafront trails, woodland walks, exploring islands, great food and guided tours of two windmills and a watermill – one of Ireland’s foremost industrial heritage centers. Everywhere you go in Skerries and every path offers great views of the sea and surrounding nature. Make sure to have a pint of the black stuff in Joe May’s pub.
www.ireland.com; https://www.ireland.com/en-us/features/press-the-green-button/
