STAYCATIONS have become the norm over the past few years, with many people realising just how much Ireland has to offer.
If you plan on staying relatively local this summer, we may have the perfect location for you.
Dalkey, situated just half an hour from Dublin’s city centre, is known for its spectacular scenery and has become a haven for celebs, with many deciding to make the seaside town their home.
Its narrow streets are nothing short of idyllic, lined with bookshops, cosy cafes and plenty of fantastic restaurants.
Whether you want to lace up the hiking boots and set off on a walk along the coast or strip off and head for a dip, there’s plenty to do in Dalkey.
WALKING TRAILS
Dalkey is home to some of Dublin’s best walks, with trails weaving through the village down to the coast, following the shoreline on Vico Road until you reach the top of Killiney Hill.
The track boasts stunning views and may even allow walkers to catch a glimpse of some of Dalkey’s A-list residents.
Hikers can head straight to Killiney Hill or stroll through the park, with several trails leading through meadows and woodland to be explored.
ROCK CLIMBING
For those looking for a bit of adventure this summer, Dalkey will certainly have something for you.
Just behind Killiney Hill, the old Dalkey Quarry has been converted into Dublin’s best rock climbing centre.
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The urban rock climbing venue boasts over 300 trad routes on quarried granite ranging from a few meters in length to multi-pitch routes on Tower Ridge.
Combine this with the incredible views of Dublin city from a unique perspective, and Dalkey Quarry is a must-visit location.
WATER ACTIVITIES AND ISLAND TOURS
If you love the sea, there are also plenty of activities for you.
Kayaking tours of the bay will allow you to get up close and personal with resident seals, or why not head for a romantic sunset paddle?
Visitors can also book a trip to Dalkey Island, where they will see plenty of goats and may even spot a visiting pod of dolphins.
NUDE-FRIENDLY BEACH
If you feel like taking in the sights in the buff, why not head to one of Ireland’s first nude-friendly beaches?
Arguably Dublin’s most picturesque stretch of coastline, Hawk Cliff is one of Ireland’s first official ‘clothing optional’ locations.
In April 2018, it was acknowledged as a naturist bathing area after the Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council agreed to display signage making people aware that this was a designated area for nude sunbathing and swimming.
HISTORY
Costumed characters are on hand at Dalkey Castle, recounting tales of medieval Ireland through lively demonstrations and storytelling.
Dalkey’s rich literary heritage is celebrated in the castle’s Writer’s Gallery, with exhibits on James Joyce, Samuel Beckett and Maeve Binchy, who lived nearby.
Tours of Mornington Garden, a private family dwelling where the owner will guide you through the plants, trees and flowers, is also a fantastic place to spend your time.
The garden was originally planted in the late 30s and is an incredible demonstration of well-thought-out landscaping.
CELEBRITY HOT SPOT
With all this to do, it’s no surprise that Dalkey has become a celebrity hot spot over the years.
Legends in the music business, such as Bono, The Edge and Van Morrison, have all made a home for themselves in the seaside town.
While actors such as Matt Damon, Pierce Brosnan, Mel Gibson and Russell Crowe have all rented in the area in recent years.
After spending a few months in Dalkey in 2020, Matt Damon declared it “one of the most beautiful places we’ve ever been”.
The iconic location has even attracted the attention of global superstar Harry Styles.
Last year, he was spotted at the famous swimming spot as he enjoyed the Irish sunshine.
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Harry sported a pair of black and white striped swimming shorts while carrying a Tower Records bag at the Vico Baths.
The star stripped down and swam amongst the gathering of locals there.
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