Dun Laoghaire
Dun Laoghaire 2
Bray
Bray 2
Along the East coast outside Dublin
Dublin is a bustling vibrant city with lots to do & see but just a few miles outside this cosmopolitan city there is a beautiful coastline with interesting towns & villages to explore.
Having visited the city of Dublin several time we decided it was time to venture outside of the city and discover some of the beautiful coastline along the East coast.
We booked a 3-day break in the city:
Day 1 & 2 spent heading south & exploring the East coast towns & villages of Dalkey, Killiney, Bray and finally Greystones.
Day 3 was spent re visiting old haunts in the city itself – see my blog
We picked up the Dart (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) train at Connolly station, it’s best to check online for ticket choices to suit your plans or ask at the station.
Day 1:
Dun Laoghaire (pronounced Dun Leery) – 30 minutes from Dublin by DART
The Victorians favoured Dun Laoghaire as an elegant seaside resort. It now has a contemporary vibe with its modern bars & restaurants, theatre and Farmers Market.
A walk around the walls of the picturesque harbour is a very pleasant way to while away an hour or so.
Other things to see & do in Dun Laoghaire:
- Peoples Park
- National Maritime Museum of Ireland which is housed in a 180-year-old building that was the Mariner’s Church
- James Joyce Tower & Museum
- Watersports
- Aqua Park
Hopping back onto the DART we made the short trip to
Dalkey – 35 minutes from Dublin by DART
This quaint and affluent town with its narrow streets, niche shops, bars, restaurants and stunning views is considered one of the prettiest in Ireland.
Hidden behind the palm trees are the homes to some of the richest playwrights, authors and musicians. Their elevated properties enjoy some of the most beautiful views in the area.
Things to do / see in Dalkey:
- Sea Kayaking
- Rock Climbing
- Dalkey castle
- Mornington Garden
- Beautiful walks
From Dalkey we walked along the Killiney Hill trail to Killiney, it is less than 2km and takes 30 – 45 minutes but may well take longer depending on how long you stop to take in the most stunning views & admire the beautiful homes for the rich & famous!.
Killiney – 40 minutes from Dublin by DART
Hikers & walkers have long favoured this area and for good reason, the views from Killiney Hill are amazing!
An affluent suburb, Killiney has been popular for its beach & stunning views since the 18th century.
Bray – 50 minutes by DART
This delightful town is known as the Gateway to the Garden of Ireland, it is the largest in County Wicklow and is one of the longest established seaside towns in Ireland.
What to see / do in Bray:
- The Victorian Promenade is one mile long and still boasts some of the original buildings & band stand.
- Bray Head – steep in parts but worth the walk for the stunning views of the city & mountains of Dublin
- Killruddery House – a 19th century house & gardens on the outskirts of Bray
Greystones – 1 hour from Dublin by DART
With it’s boutique shopping, trendy eating vibe, scenic walks, harbour and watersports this seaside town has something for everyone.
What to do / see in Greystones:
- Watersports
- Two Blue Flag beaches
- Walks with beautiful views
- Harbour
You could obviously visit all these places in one day but to do it justice, enjoy the walks & take in the stunning views, it really shouldn’t be rushed.
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