The commercialised corners of Dublin got me into exploring the nooks of the Country in search of true Ireland and its culture! It usually meant renting a car and driving for at least 4 hours and the days that I had no motivation in doing so, got me into venturing the places close by using public transport! Just a bus/train ride or a walk away from Dublin lies some of its impressive and easily accessible gems, which are ideal for a short getaway to make the most of your weekend! Here are some wonderful spots that serve as a perfect escape from the busy city just a train ride away!
Malahide Castle Walk
Only 30 minutes away from Dublin is the handsome Malahide Castle Walk. Catch a dart from either Pearson Street Station or Tara street Station in the City Center, from Malahide Station the castle is only a 20 minute walk. Purchase your tickets at the information center to enter the castle or just enjoy the walk by the castle for free!
With the ticket you get a castle tour and entry to the magnificent 260 acres garden and butterfly house. I did not purchase tickets to go inside the Castle. Instead, we enjoyed the walk in the park up front which is exquisite for reading a book all day, or taking a nap! One of the most convenient getaways near Dublin.
Greystone to Bray Cliff Walk
Definitely my most favorite weekend getaways near Dublin! The stunning views, the calming walk, the heavenly ocean and fresh air, I can’t imagine a better start to my weekend! Catch a train from City Center to Greystone, which by itself is an experience. You will be welcomed by the beguiling sight of the Atlantic Ocean, Howth on the other side and the mesmerizing cliffs on one. I would prefer going to Greystone instead of Bray as the cliff walk is easier from Greystone with better views!
Grab a delicious brunch at Happy Pears and then start your 2 hour worth of a peaceful Cliff Walk. Once you’ve made it to Bray, reward yourself with mouth-watering food by the beach with tons of options to choose from.
Poolbeg Lighthouse
I remember coming here for a walk after a rough day at work. I was in a desparate need of fresh air and to be surrounded by water! Ireland is indeed a perfect place for that. You can catch bus no 14 from Dawson street and then bus no 53 to Irish ferry terminals. From here it is about an hour and a half worth of a walk to the light house.
Taking a stroll by Pulbeg lighthouse was like walking into the ocean. The water gushing on the pathway, ships cruising around and a big light house right in front of you! I was surrounded by stunning views as I walked down the south wall. My love for peaceful walks like these especially after work or on weekends is unconditional. Captivating sights like these quadruples the joy of strolling around, leaving you satisfied.
A Day tour to Wicklow & Glendelough Valley
I took a day tour to Wicklow and Gelndelough Valley as I was in no mood to drive and worry about the rain! It only cost me 30 Euros which wasn’t a bad deal. I was glad that I didn’t drive, it rained all the way to the mountains. However, it luckily stopped at one of the most awaited location of the trip, Lough tay. Sally Gap is one of the most scenic drives although the roads are narrow and have sheep all over them! Keep an eye out for Lough Tay, famously known as Guinness Lake not only because it is owned by the Guinness Family, but because of the imported white sand along the top designed to make it look like a big pint of Guinness! I saw all the viking fans going crazy here!
We then left for Glendelough Valley which is half an hour away from Wicklow Mountains. We were given only 3 hours which frankly speaking weren’t sufficient enough to cover the whole place that had many interesting attractions to cover. Including the upper lake, the Poulanass waterfall is a difficult hike of 1.7km, but totally worth the effort. The hotel in the valley serves good food if you are hungry or looking for a coffee.
Star gazing in Howth harbor.
It was one of those spontaneous nights where you just get up and leave with the hope of getting mind blown! We booked a go car nearby and drove to Howth. The weather was perfect, the sky was clear and we had good music with us. It was late in the night with no one around other than us. We sat at the harbor enjoying the calmness, the sound of the ocean water gushing the shore, the mildly warm air, the clear sky and the twinkling stars. It was one of the most surreal nights in Dublin! Finding your own privacy is not an issue in Ireland!
A day walk in Dun Laoghaire Harbor front
Dun Laoghaire is one of my most favorite places near Dublin. I love the super refreshing walk to the light house and the outstanding view of the entire village from 40 foot. After the walk to the lighthouse, enjoy some solitude near 40 foot at night and head to the 40 foot bar later for some drinks and food!
Glasnevin cemetery followed by lunch in the washerwoman
Cemetery’s in Ireland are Idyllic! Glasnevin Cemetery near Drumcondra is one such beauty. Walk around the picturesque graveyard and you are sure to find your inner peace. It holds the graves and memorials of several notable figures, and has a museum. The Cemetery does offer the tour of the museum which is a trust museum and includes a cafe. After a tranquil walk, hop on to Washerwoman for some delicious lunch!
Killeny Hill Park with white rock
This is a small public park which has eye-catching view of Dublin city to the northwest, the Irish Sea and the mountains of Wales (on a clear day) to the east and southeast, Bray Head and the Wicklow Mountains to the south. It is a perfect place for hiking on a weekend to soak in the fresh air!
Vico Bathing place
I was actually surprised to see a bathing place in Ireland. Considering how cold it is most of the time, I would not dare to step into the water. The most secluded spot in town, a dreamy place to perch and ofcourse the best cure for hangover according to Dubliners is taking a plunge into freezing cold water. However, in summer this is the best place to take a splash and is only a dart ride away from Dublin.
Be a tourist and drink like the Irish in Dublin
If you are in Dublin for the weekend, you have to drink like the Irish. With so many options around you, you are bound to get wasted! Hop on to my post here to explore some of the must try bars in Dublin.
Take a stroll in Bull Island
I was very low when I decided to visit Bull Island. I drove here to have a nice walk by the beach and was welcomed with an unbelievable view of Poolbeg light house on the right and Howth on the left! The ambience here was a much needed solitude that I was looking for so I could introspect. It is a soothing long walk and during summer is perfect for family parties or picnic!
Go Shopping in Kildare Village
Catch a bus from Sheelin Memorial landmark, the bus is cash only (7 euros one way) and at every 30 minute frequency. It is about an hour worth of a ride and hence you can easily go in the morning and come back by evening. We decided to stay, if you do as well then Kidlare house is a good option to crash for the night.
Kildare village is a small shopping village with tons of brands to choose from. I would definitely suggest dining at L’Officina by Dunne & Crescenzi after you are done with your shopping or if you are hungry in between for the best authentic Italian food. Enjoy this tiny shopping village and
Experience the spooky streets of Kilkenny
I fell in love with kilkenny’s spooky street, the medieval vibe, the hole in the wall bars and its artistic church. When in Kilkenny, you have to explore its uncanny streets which is for sure to take you back in medieval time! Enjoy some delicious Irish coffee in “hole in the wall” bar, grab some dinner at witch restaurant and get your groove on in one of the bars in the town. Do not forget to check out the Kilkenny castle next day if you stay overnight, it is well worth your time! It is definitely one of my favourite getaways near Dublin.
Hope you enjoy and make time to explore some of these jewels not too far from Dublin and have as much fun as I did!
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