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Luscious woodlands, vast mirror lakes and rugged coastline are not usually sights you’d associate with a city break to Dublin, right? You’ll never run out of things to do in Dublin between the busy city centre to the scenic surroundings a short drive from the action.
Take a break from shopping, nightlife and city culture on your trip to Ireland’s capital and enjoy a day trip from Dublin. There is so much heritage and beauty within a short drive of the city limits, ideal for a day trip. Return to great value accommodation in Dublin when you stay in DCU Rooms in the leafy suburb of Glasnevin.
1. Glendalough – 60-minute drive
Explore one of Ireland’s most treasured and important ancient monastic sites when you take the 60-minute drive from Dublin to Glendalough in County Wicklow. Glendalough Valley is located in the Wicklow Mountains National Park and has many attractions, from its world-famous Monastic Site to the beautiful Valley of the Two Lakes. The walk around the lakes is well marked and accessible for all abilities. Make sure to bring your camera to capture an image of the beautiful mirror lakes. On your way home, stop into Avoca Kilmacanoge to enjoy their treasure trove retail store and two award-winning restaurants.
2. Powerscourt Estate House and Gardens – 44 minutes drive
Powerscourt Estate, House and Gardens in Enniskerry County Wicklow, is a place you’ll never forget. The magnificent 47-acre gardens (voted 3rd best garden in the world), has formal gardens, sweeping terraces, statues and ornamental lakes, secret hollows and rambling walks. The beautiful estate contains a magnificent 800-year old house, a hotel, Powerscourt Distillers, Powerscourt Golf Club, beautiful gardens and more.
A highlight of your visit is sure to be Powerscourt Waterfall, the second-highest waterfall in Ireland. The stunning 121 metres high waterfall is located at the base of the Glensoulan Valley on the River Dargle near Enniskerry and is overlooked by the peaks of Djouce and Maulin mountains on either side.
3. Bray to Greystones – 40-minutes drive
If you’d love to take in a little of the Irish Coastline on your trip, the Bray to Greystones hike is ideal. It’s a very manageable trail taking about an hour each way between the seaside town of Bray to the affluent suburb of Greystones. Start in Bray admiring the Martello Tower, the promenade and the pretty painted houses. Grab a coffee in one of the many cafes, restaurants and bars along the seafront before settling off for a cliff walk with some of the best views in the country. When you reach Greystones, stop for a spot of lunch in one of the cute cafes before heading back the way you came. You could also get the Dart back to your starting point.
Also Read: Taste of Ireland’s Ancient East: 8 Best Foodie Experiences in County Carlow
4. Belfast – 1h 48m Drive
Did you know that driving for less than an hour from our accommodation in Dublin will bring you to a new country? Visit Northern Ireland’s capital Belfast and discover for yourself why it is one of the most popular attractions on the island of Ireland. Enjoy excellent shopping, fantastic nightlife, and a foodie paradise while walking the city streets and meeting friendly locals. Attractions include the historic Crumlin Goal, the colourful murals & peace wall and the epic Titanic Visitor Attraction telling the story of the ill-fated ship from the people who survived. It’s worth the short drive to explore a city like no other.
5. Giant’s Causeway – 3 hours
While you’re up that far, drive a little further north and enjoy one of the greatest wonders of the world – The Giants Causeway, located on the northern coast, close to Bushmills. This magnificent, jagged promontory of neatly packed columns of hexagonal basalt rocks was created over 6 million years ago by a flow of basaltic lava. This architectural marvel looks man-made, but the formation is entirely natural. Take a guided tour and hear about how this unique landmark got its name from the legend of the giant Finn McCool.
After enjoying a day trip, retire to comfortable, affordable accommodation on the skirt of Dublin City. DCU Rooms offers a range of accommodation types from twin and single rooms to luxury suites. Book our lowest available rates when you visit our website or book via our friendly team.
Author Bio: Katie McGarr is one of the passionate writers for DCU Rooms, a cheap accommodation in Dublin for frugal travelers who’d love to experience the astonishing beauty of the city on a budget. This travel buff enjoys writing and sharing articles about money-saving hacks on accommodation, airfare, dining, and getting around the city.
