Discover Dublin: A Playground for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Ah, Dublin! From its vibrant history to its stunning landscapes, the capital of Ireland is bursting with outdoor activities that make the most of its lively culture and scenery. Whether you’re a local who thinks they’ve seen it all or a tourist keen to venture beyond Temple Bar’s cobblestones, Dublin offers a trove of outdoor adventures sure to please. Spoiler alert: you might even work up enough of an appetite to enjoy one of the famous bars in Dublin at the end of your day.
Stroll Along the Wicklow Way
If you’re up for a little hike (and by “little,” we mean a meandering 127 kilometers long), the Wicklow Way is just the ticket. Perfect for those who say “I love long walks” on dating profiles, this trail offers spectacular scenery, from lush forests to serene lakes. The trail starts just outside Dublin, making it an excellent choice for both committed hikers and enthusiastic beginners alike. Groomed but not too over-manicured paths, charming sheep herding on the side, and conveniently located pit stops make this hike both invigorating and entertaining.
Chase Adventure at Phoenix Park
Phoenix Park is Dublin’s answer to the urban jungle—and we mean that literally. Home to around 3512 acres of verdant bliss, it’s often referred to as the “lungs of the city,” providing refuge from those sneaky clouds of Dublin drizzle. Whether you’re cycling along its picturesque pathways, out for a casual stroll, or spotting a roasted marshmallow at a pop-up picnic spot, this park has it all. Rumor has it that it’s the only place where you can watch a duel between squirrels over a dropped chip while sipping on some afternoon tea in real-time.
Explore the Coastal Charm of Howth
Set a course for the picturesque fishing village of Howth, just a short train ride from Dublin city center. Here, the “sea-food” diet is real—you see food, you eat it. Take the cliff walk that offers views so stunning, you’ll understand why Irish eyes are always smiling. Scan the coastal horizon for seals, gawk at the occasional paddleboarder bravely facing off against the Irish Sea, and indulge in fresh, salty air. Once your illusions of becoming an expert marine biologist set in, head down to the village for some legit fish and chips.
Cycle Dublin’s Scenic Grand Canal
For those who prefer two wheels under them, the Grand Canal offers a cycle route that’s not just easy on the eyes but ideal for spotting local wildlife—not the Dublin night-out kind, mind you, but the swans and ducks variety. It’s a flat ride, so you won’t build buns of steel overnight, but you’ll certainly enjoy each pedal rotation along the tree-lined waters. Bring a camera because the sunsets here are Instagram-worthy, if not life-changing.
Unearth Hidden Gems in the Dublin Mountains
If the words “mountain air” sound like music to your ears, head on over to the Dublin Mountains which, though technically more like hills, provide that beloved ‘top-of-the-world’ feeling. Ticknock is a prime spot, complete with trails that make you wonder why they ever went and invented city blocks and traffic lights. Plus, there’s nothing like the smug feeling when you’re philosophizing on top of Fairy Castle amidst a chorus of birdlife with panoramic views of Dublin city below.
Wrap Up the Outdoors with Dublin’s Attractions
Once you’ve conquered a hike, nibbled your way through local fisheries, or found yourself pondering the deeper meanings of life in the Dublin Mountains, it may be time to sample the indoor attractions in Dublin. But don’t lose your outdoorsy fervor just yet. Plenty of Dublin’s indoor gems pay tribute to our love for the outdoors. Take the Guinness Storehouse tour, perfect for both refreshing your knowledge of hops—or hopping your way through Dublin later in a new appreciation of Irish brews.