Dun Laoghaire

Dublin’s vibrant lifestyle extends beyond its city environs to the far reaches of the county borders. Just south of the city are the elegant and lively neighbourhoods of Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County. The area is brimming with cultural ‘to-dos’and every entertainment imaginable, but there is a perfect balance with the relaxation of the costal line and rural amenities.


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.


While there why not learn more about the medieval life of this town at the Dalkey Castle and Heritage Centre, where live performances are played out in a 15th Century fortified Townhouse.The town, with its small cobbled streets is also a haven for boutique style shopping, and there are plenty of enticing cafes and restaurants to keep you satisfied. If visiting at the weekend indulge your taste-buds at the CoCo Farmers Markets held every Fri, Sat and Sun at Dalkey, Marlay Park and the People's Park respectively.


Dundrum has become synonymous with Dublin people as shopping mecca with Europe’s largest shopping centre. However, just a stones-throw away is the Airfield Trust. The large grounds include Airfield House and gardens, and a working farm, all in the middle of the sprawling metropolis. It is a perfect stop off (the Luas Line) for the family, as there are many kids events organised and there's a chance to visit the farm itself.


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.