A weekend in County Dublin
This post, the ninth in a series of 32 covering the entire island, offers a few ideas for things to do on a weekend in Country Dublin. The following is just one sample itinerary based on the information in our book Exploring Ireland: a guide to the Irish outdoors, where you will find plenty more details, ideas and inspiration.
WALK TICKNOCK
Ticknock Forest covers the northern slopes of Three Rock Mountain, which is named after the granite tors on its summit. The forest has one mountain bike trail and one signposted walking trail, the 5.2km Fairy Castle Loop (green arrows), which climbs through the forest to the large cairn at Fairy Castle before descending via Three Rock.
EXPLORE SHENICK ISLAND
This tiny island lies offshore just south of Skerries. At high tide it’s separated from the mainland by 800m of water but at low spring tides it’s possible to walk out to it along the sand. Needless to say this can be dangerous and care must be taken to ensure that you aren’t caught by the flooding tide which moves very quickly. The flat, grassy 6 hectare island’s only feature
is the Martello tower which sits on its highest point.
VISIT FORTY FOOT
Probably the best known swimming spot in Dublin and immortalised in Ulysses. The main swimming area, which is on the east side of the Martello tower, is exposed and deep at all tides. There are a number of rocks to jump off, check the depth first.
On the more sheltered west side of the tower is Sandycove beach (53.2883, -6.1144). The small patch of sand is almost completely covered at high tide and gets busy on sunny days. Lifeguard during the summer.
EAT THE BLUE LIGHT
This old-school pub on the lower slopes of Three Rock mountain has a spectacular view over the city. The traditional interior is a maze of small rooms and outside there is plenty of seating where you can soak up the view and a few pints.
STAY SUTTON MARTELLO TOWER
