Walk on the wild side this Bank Holiday Weekend and explore some of Dublin's most beautiful walks
Cruagh Woods
Located in the ins, Ticknock has a number of walks that you can go on time and time again and never get sick of. You feel like your exploring the wilderness of the countryside when in reality you’re only in Sandyford, just a 30-minute drive from Dublin city life. s,lx,My favourite Ticknock route is the 6k Fairy Castle looped trek. To begin with this walk is all uphill, so make sure you bring water, but as you make your way up, it’s worth the heightened heart rate as you take in some pretty incredible views of Dublin and Wicklow. klow. low. ow. w. .
Ticknock
Located in the Dublin Mountains, Ticknock has a number of walks that you can go on time and time again and never get sick of. You feel like your exploring the wilderness of the countryside when in reality you’re only in Sandyford, just a 30-minute drive from Dublin city life. My favourite Ticknock route is the 6k Fairy Castle looped trek. To begin with this walk is all uphill, so make sure you bring water, but as you make your way up, it’s worth the heightened heart rate as you take in some pretty incredible views of Dublin and Wicklow.
The Fairy Castle trail definitely isn’t appropriate for those travelling with buggies and parking can be tricky, so get there sooner rather than later in the day if you can.
Poolbeg Lighthouse
If you really want to stretch those legs and breathe in the fresh sea air, then add the Poolbeg Lighthouse to your weekend agenda. Prepare yourself for the elements, as it’s an open coastal walk, so if there’s even an inkling of wind, you’ll feel it. But with the right gear it should be a walk in the park. Steeped in history, this walk begins at Sandymount Stand and you’ll see in the distance the iconic twin tower chimneys of Dublin’s Poolbeg Power Station. If you follow the trail, you'll slowly but surely come closer to the chimneys and you’ll then make your way to the Great South Wall before reaching the Half-Moon Battery and onwards to the lighthouse itself at the far end of the peninsula. It reaches right into Dublin’s Bay with some pretty spectacular views in sight along the way.
This trek isn’t strenuous but is around 5km each way. If you’re travelling with a buggy, it can become a bit difficult at times but is manageable.
The River Dodder from Donnybrook
Don’t be put off, but the River Dodder is 26km long and manoeuvres through many Dublin suburbs such as Tallaght, Templeogue, Milltown, and Ballsbridge to name a few. But one of the river-side walking trails worth mentioning is The Dodder path from Donnybrook, which is not only the perfect route for walking but also for the running elite. A good starting point indicator is the location of Farmer Brown's in Donnybrook, where you’ll find a footpath for walkers and cyclists on the other side of the river. As the river flows along, expect to see waterfalls, exposed rocks, sweeping trees and plenty of dogs. As you reach Classon’s Bridge in Milltown, next to The Dropping Well, you know you’re well on your way when you spot the resident inhabitant, a bronzed life-sized Rhino on a plinth in the middle of the river. As you follow the route, you’ll end up at a river crossing that leads you to Bushy Park.
This route is around 6km one way but given the Dodder can be accessed at various points, you can make the outing shorter or longer depending on what takes your fancy.
Killiney Hill
If you’re looking for a leisurely walk that’s not too strenuous then Killiney Hill is the walk for you. As the name suggests, it’s uphill, but it should take no more than 20 minutes to reach the summit of the hill which offers pretty amazing views of the Wicklow Mountains and the sea.There’s a car park past the main entrance to Killiney Hill Park but on a busy day it can prove difficult get parking so arrive early.
The Hell Fire Club and Massey’s Wood
Located in the Dublin Mountains, The Hell Fire Club is perfect for those who like a challenge and a bit of adventure too. The moderate 4km walk will bring you uphill to the top of Montpelier Hill to the ruins of the alleged Mountpelier haunted house which became known later as the Hell Fire Club. It’s a great viewing point to see the city of Dublin. Now, if you’re really looking for a challenge and want to make a day out of it, add on the Massey Woods Nature Walk, which works out at around 9km. If it’s a nice day, it’s also the prefect location for a picnic, provided you’re well wrapped up. Parking can be accessed via the Hell Fire car park.