Part of the fun of living abroad is having access to a whole new realm of exotic travel possibilities. Unfortunately – just like back home – life can get in the way of our plans. Happily, I live in Dublin; a bustling capital city just several miles away from some beautiful and refreshingly natural sights. Here, three low hassle yet high payoff Dublin area day-trip destinations:
Howth
Salty sea air and stretches of moody Irish coast seem worlds away from the madness of City Centre. Howth, a lovely fishing and yachting village, is located on Howth Head on the North side of Dublin Bay. First invaded by the Norse in 819, Howth eventually became a trading port after the 14th century. Browse fish restaurants, pubs, boutiques, and fish markets; visit the cliffs, the abandoned abbey, the rocky bird sanctuary, and the 15th-century Howth Castle.
Suggestion: Have a bite at The Bloody Stream. This charming – albeit a tad touristy – pub is purportedly built upon the site of one of the 12th century battles that took place during the Norman Conquest of Ireland. Enjoy a fine pot of mussels alive alive-o and delicious seafood chowder; piping hot, brewed with savory salmon and dill.
Howth can be reached by the DART or by Dublin City Bus 31/31b from Eden Quay.
Powerscourt
Powerscourt is a stunning heritage property located among the famed Wicklow Mountains in the small town of Enniskerry.
Enniskerry
The Co. Wicklow estate began its life as a 13th century Anglo-Norman castle owned by the le Poer family. Since then, it’s been held by several other powerful British and Irish families. In the 18th and 19th centuries, a succession of extensions and fantastic gardens were built, including Japanese and Italian gardens, a dolphin pond, a waterfall, and a pet cemetery. A golf course and Ritz-Carlton hotel can also be found in the area.
Take an easy hike to the estate along the backdrop of the Wicklow Mountains.
Looking down from the manor
Suggestion: Give yourself an ample amount of time to explore. The estate spans 47 acres and all 47 of them are all beautiful.
From City Centre, Powerscourt may be reached by Dublin bus. Catch the 44 at Hawkins Street to Enniskerry, or the 185 from Bray DART to Enniskerry.
Malahide Castle
It’s hard to believe that just 14km of modern Dublin lies a 12th century castle. The Talbot family lived in Malahide Castle from 1185-1976, with the exception of the years between 1649-1660, when it was granted to Miles Corbet following the Cromwellian conquest of Ireland. A gentle hike through a forest path brings you to the grounds. Guided tours are available through the opulent rooms, decorated with centuries-old furnishings and portraits.
Suggestion: Tread lightly, for ghosts are said to haunt the castle. Among them, the ghost of Miles Corbet – believed to ride his horse across the castle grounds on the anniversary of his death – and Puck, a tiny, mischievous fellow who has earned his own mini doors, visible at various points throughout the castle.
Take the 32a bus from Eden Quay in City Centre to Malahide Village and follow the signs through the forest path to the castle grounds.
Taken any of these day-trips? Share your photos in our galleries!
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