Tucked away beneath the Dublin Mountains, and on the southern fringes of Dublin Bay, lies Dun Laoghaire, a popular seaside town, and the administrative capital of the Dun Laoighre-Rathdown. Follow the DART line seven miles from Dublin city and you'll reach the resort that became the city dwellers' destination of choice when the railway arrived in 1834.
The town's rather more ancient name comes from Dun - Irish for fort - and King Laoghaire (pronounced Leary) who was said to be the 5th century son of St. Patrick's captor, Niall of the Nine Hostages.
Before the railway came the harbour - and another stepping stone in the town's status. Built in the early 19th century of nearby Dalkey granite, its East and West Piers jut out like giant pincers embracing the Irish sea. Take a stroll along the East Pier and treat yourself to ice-cream from Teddy's - a bit of a local institution.
Evidence of Dun Laoghaire's Victorian origins also includes elegant seafront terraces, the People's Park and a beautifully restored cast iron fountain. Its unofficial title of Dublin's Riviera is further bolstered by the fine array of celebrities who have made the town, and surrounding countryside, their home. Famous Irish writers James Joyce and Samuel Beckett are also associated with the area. Beckett was born in nearby Foxrock and Joyce set the opening chapter of Ulysses in Sandycove's Martello Tower - now the small James Joyce Museum dedicated to his life and works.
The 19th century County Hall clock tower is a local landmark and, near the train station, you'll find the modern Pavilion Centre with its shops, restaurants, bars and Pavilion Theatre. Dun Laoghaire's sailing status is further represented by the Ferry Terminal complex (with Stena sailings to Holyhead), 700-berth Marina (Ireland's largest), several yacht clubs and the National Maritime Museum.
Further along the coastline is the heritage town of Dalkey. A beautiful and chic seaside destination, it is home to many famous faces such as Bono, The Edge, Neil Jordan, author Maeve Binchy and singers Lisa Stansfield and Van Morrison.
With plenty going on to fill your memory card and fire your imagination in this historic and vibrant area, we suggest you book an overnight (or two) in one of the hotels, guest houses and B&Bs to fully explore the area. And with DART, Luas and Dublin Bus routes available you have no excuse to miss out on all that's on offer.
To find out more about the area's highlights - including the Airfield Trust, Marlay Park, Cabinteely House and Killiney Bay - visit the Ferry Terminal's Dublin Tourism Information Office or log onto www.dlrtourism.com.