Nature & Outdoor Activities

Dalkey Island

Dalkey Island is located off the coast of South Dublin , near the village of Dalkey. Its name has its origin in Viking times when it was named Dalk eyja, meaning ‘Thorn Island’ as its shape resembles a thorn. This became Deilg Inis in Irish and was later anglicised to ‘Dalkey’. Dalkey Island is a very important historical site where there is evidence of continuous settlement from the Mesolithic period through to the Early Christian period. There are remains of two churches on the island, one dating to the 7th century.

Dalkey Castle

This stark castle is one of several in Dalkey, a humble port town to the south of Dublin’s bustling city centre. In previous years, it was crucial as a place of protection for imported goods as Dalkey’s port used to be the heart of Dublin trade. Since then, it’s turned a new leaf as a popular historical attraction with a stunning 6th century church and graveyard as well as exhibits celebrating Irish literary figures and Dalkey through the years.

The Jeanie Johnston

Famine and immigration are a key part of Ireland’s history, defining the 19th century and shaping the future of Irish descendants. The Jeanie Johnston Tallship, a mid 1800s wooden ship that transported Irish immigrants to Quebec, New York and Baltimore, has been restored to its former glory and transformed into an exploration of Ireland’s past through its rich exhibits.

Casino Marino

Cast aside thoughts of gambling, Casino Marino hearkens back to the original root of the word ‘casino’: meaning ‘little house’. This stunning neo-classical building on the Marino House estate is a huge change from the stark stone castles around Dublin and remains an important part of Irish architectural history, dating back to 1775.

Ardán Garden

One of the most spectacular gardens you'll see, well worth a visit for anyone with an interest in horticulture, sculpture or garden design. The planting and design of Ardán Garden are a direct response to its coastal hillside location close to the summit of Howth, a popular scenic peninsula on the north of the Dublin Bay Biosphere. It is situated on half an acre (2000m2) of what was rugged mountainside when Nuala and Conall initiated the garden in 2003. The twin themes of creating a vibrant place of aesthetic beauty and embracing the environmental conservation status of the peninsula, has dominated and influenced Nuala and Conall’s approach to gardening at Ardán.

Dalkey Garden School

At the Dalkey Garden School you can enjoy an introductory lesson about gardening before enjoying the idyllic scenary of Mornington Garden. Originally planted in the 1930's the garden is an oasis of calm with a strong focus on nature and sustainability.

Howth Day Trip from Dublin

Meet your group at Barnardo Square, after which you take a short train ride to Howth, a historic fishing village north of Dublin.

In Howth, explore the village including its lighthouse, Martello Tower, and Howth Castle (home to a megalithic tomb). The tour continues with a walk along the sea cliff, where guillemots and seals are often spotted.

After taking in the dramatic scenery, visit the boyhood home of Irish poet W. B. Yeats. This seaside village is known for its fresh seafood and traditional pubs.

The tour includes round-trip train tickets, but you can remain in Howth to explore independently after the walking tour finishes.

https://bit.ly/2Nu82lf

Howth Safari Hike

Immerse yourself in nature by sharing in a Time Trek Howth a treasure of the Dublin Bay UNESCO Biosphere. Attune your senses and spirit to the outdoors. Feel a real connection with the land and people around you. A gnarly and beautiful coastal adventure in any season. Discover Howth off-road with passionate and expert local guides, nobody knows it better. Be ready for 10 kms to 15 kms (6 to 9 miles) in about 4 hours. Relive history as we walk through the ages and explore unique habitats that vary by day and season.

Submit to the ancient romance and resonance of Aideen's Grave, a druidic altar and gateway to the Otherworld, as old as the pyramids. Climb to HG Wells' most beautiful view in the world. Clear your mind and ignite your creativity with the salty air and cool breezes on your cheeks. Follow WB Yeats' Fairy Road down to the sea and the cliffs. Surrender your ears to the soughing of the forest and the gentle tunes of the trees. Sometimes embrace wild storms, crashing waves and lashing seas. Panoramic views of The Baily Lighthouse from the clifftops. Exercise your body and soul. Digest the myths and intimate tales, legends and history of 6000 years. The real high comes from the group, roving through enchanting territory, air and light from one inspiring place to the next.

https://www.shaneshowthadventures.com/en

Coastal Walk and Chowder Trail

Immerse yourself in the amazing atmosphere and flavours of this ancient and famous Dublin village. Visit the stunning grounds of Howth's very own 800 year old medieval Castle. Follow the secret paths and trails through the woodlands and heathlands. Explore the charming harbour and historic picturesque coastal village of Howth through the eyes of a local. Walk through time in the footsteps of an astonishing history, enjoying the breathtaking views, taking in the sights, sounds and aromas of a bustling port. Stroll along the piers hearing about the history which inspired many famous writers, artists and our local rock stars! With taste buds awakened after the fresh salty air, visit our friend's restaurant and taste the award winning delicious local deluxe seafood chowder, traditional Irish bread, a glass of wine, guinness or whatever you fancy.

Meet your local guide and fellow guests at 12:00 at Howth Train Station Visit the amazing grounds of Howth's 800 year old Castle Follow the secret paths and trails through the woodlands and heathlands Stroll though Howth Village visiting St Mary's Abbey on the way which was founded by the Viking King Sitric in 1042 Take in the world famous cliff path views and amazing views of Howth Harbour, Ireland's Eye and Lambay Island. Explore the charming harbour learning about it's famous history Visit our friend's restaurant and immerse yourself in the amazing atmosphere.
Enjoy the warm local hospitality and Dublin's best award winning deluxe seafood chowder, traditional Irish bread, guinness, wine or whatever you fancy.

https://www.shaneshowthadventures.com/en

Howth Walking Tours

Journey through time along the cliff path with stories of folklore myth and legends whilst experiencing some of the best views of the east coast of Ireland before returning to historic Howth village with a story that only John can tell... John is a Locally qualified Guide taking you through the historic village of Howth we take in the Cliff path walk old tramline and St Mary's Abbey. https://www.howthwalkingtours.com/

Killiney Hill Tour

The Killiney Hill Tour, we take you from the City Centre along the coastal route through Dun Laoghaire to Dalkey Town and stop at Dalkey Castle where you will be taken back in time in their spectacular guided tour of the Tudor days and then on to Killiney Hill to see the spectacular views of Dublin Bay and Bray Head. Then on for a bit of shopping and lunch at Avoca Handweavers before finishing off with a pint of the black stuff at Johnnie Fox’s, Ireland’s Highest Pub in the Dublin Mountains

https://www.sightsofdublin.com/

Dun Laoghaire Pier

Dun Laoghaire’s elegant Victorian piers (there are two – the popular East Pier and the slightly wilder, and marginally longer, West Pier) have been draws for generations of Dubliners. Whether you come for a chat, a breath of fresh air, a blast of exercise or super sea views, the 2.6km return trip has a little something for everyone. Trips can be bookended by a visit to the playground and weekend markets at the People’s Park, or a soft-serve ice-cream cone.

Bull Island and Dollymount Strand

Until 200 years ago, Bull Island didn’t exist. It only rose up, in fact, when sea walls were built to combat silting problems in Dublin Bay. Dubliners have embraced it ever since, and it has given handsomely in return – from swimming spots to a nature reserve teeming with tens of thousands of birds. The UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that began here was in 2015 extended to the Bay as a whole, in recognition of the area’s unique ecological habitat and biological diversity. Bull Island’s main attraction is, of course, Dollymount Strand, a long sandy strip now a firm favourite of kite-surfers.

Killiney Hill

Want a view to savour? Take a hike up Killiney Hill, one of the handsome humps bounding Dublin Bay to the south. It’s topped by an obelisk that looks like a white wizard’s hat and, given the right conditions, you’ll often see hang-gliders floating like exotic birds overhead. This is a terrific spot for a 360-degree take on Dublin – stretching from the Wicklow Mountains to the south via the city sprawl to Howth Peninsula further north. After soaking up the summit, reward yourself with a cuppa and a cake at the Tower Tearooms.

Malahide to Portmarnock

UNESCO Biosphere Reserves are noted not just for their habitats and wildlife, but for the communities that live and work sustainably within them. Portmarnock and Malahide are two top examples of those on Dublin Bay – and the 4km coastal walk between them is a peach. An elevated stretch bordered by parkland on one side and beach on the other, it’s perfectly suited to walkers, joggers and buggy-pushers looking to take in fresh air and fab views. At Portmarnock, the walk joins the Velvet Strand – a smooth strip from which Charles Kingford Smith took off on his daring flight to Newfoundland in 1930. With its grassy dunes and gentle waters, it’s the perfect spot for a paddle or stroll.

Howth Harbour and Village Tour

Explore the charming harbour and historic picturesque coastal village of Howth through the eyes of a local. This is a wonderful 2 hour walking tour. Nobody knows it better! Walk through time in the footsteps of an astonishing history enjoying the breathtaking views taking in the sights, sounds and aromas of a bustling port. Visit the East Pier; shipwrecks, pirates and smugglers. Learn about the Abbey; saints, scholars and vikings. View the Lighthouse and hear the history of the Asgard, the Howth Guns and 1916 Rising. Visit Tower Hill, steeped in the history of the Normans and the Napoleonic Arms Race. Stroll down the the West Pier and Kings Landing with the wonderful cafes and restaurants alongside the working fishing fleets.

Whether you are culturally curious, enjoy history, want to immerse yourself in local life, enjoy breathtaking scenery or take great photographs there is something for everyone.

https://www.shaneshowthadventures.com/en

Dublin Coastal Hike & Pints

See Howth through the eyes of a Local & his Dog. Leave the city behind and discover the beauty of the Emerald Isle on this 3.5 hour Hidden Howth Adventure - This experience will let you live, feel & breathe the real Ireland as though you were a native!

Leave the city behind and discover the beauty of the Emerald Isle on this 3.5 hour Hidden Howth Peninsula experience - See Howth through the eyes of a local, it will let you live, feel & breathe the real Ireland as thou you were an inhabitant. We start our journey through time, hearing tales of Viking and Norman invasions and learning about the history of the 700-year-old castle. Immerse yourself in Irish culture as we walk through the ruins of St. Mary's Abbey (Built in 1042) and visit sites known only to locals (Hidden Howth). Along the way, we stop to meet the local colony of harbour seals and the wide variety of seabirds that have made Ireland's Eye their home. From their, we ascend to the majestic Cliffs of Howth and take in the most amazing views of Ireland's Eye, Lambay island and Dublin bay, stopping along the way for photos and Irish folklore. We finish in the local Irish pub for a complimentary pint of beer, which will be well deserved after our adventure.

Ancient Village Adventure

See Howth through the eyes of a local. This experience will let you live, feel & breathe the real Ireland as thou you were a native.

We start our journey through time, hearing tales of Viking and Norman invasions and learning about the history of the 700-year-old castle. Immerse yourself in Irish culture as we walk through the ruins of St. Mary's Abbey (Built in 1042) and visit sites known only to locals (Hidden Howth).

There will be plenty of time for photographs, as you stroll through this picturesque fishing village and meet the local colony of seals and the huge variety of seabirds.

Whether you have a passion for Irish history, or prefer listening to the myths and legends you have come to associate with ancient Ireland, there is something for everyone.

City Kayaking

City Kayaking Dublin operate from a base at Dublin City Moorings, where the Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship is tied up. Situated on the River Liffey beside the IFSC right in the heart of Dublin City Centre, and the only operators offering adventure activities on the River Liffey in Dublin City Centre. City Kayaking Dublin is one of the best things to do in Dublin both during the day and in the evening!

Explore Dublin’s most famous river, take in some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and see the city from a completely different angle with City Kayaking Dublin. The company will kit you out with all the relevant safety gear and you’ll be on your way before you know it. There is qualified guides and safety boats to ensure the highest standards of safety while you’re on the water with us!

The company operates sit-on-top kayaks which are very stable. These kayaks are double seaters which are really safe and easy to use. It is advisable that you bring a change of clothes with you. Changing rooms on site with facilities for you to leave your belongings too. http://citykayaking.com/

Dublin Under Sail

DublinUnderSail.com

Join us from March through to November as we take you out sailing on our beautiful gaff rigged ketch across Dublin Bay!

We will show you how to man the wheel, heave the ropes, put up the sails, all the while teaching you about our incredible Unesco designated Biosphere! As we set sail you can't fail to be impressed by our pirate style traditional boat. A must for adults and children alike, and if you are feeling even more adventurous, week-long and overnight charters are available, allowing us to go further afield and explore more of Ireland's fantastic coastline! We also do Competent Crew and Day Skipper Training, so keep an eye on our website or Instagram for the next available date.

Our awesome crew are dedicated to providing the best experience imaginable and are keen to share their expertise.

Call us on 085 866 7787, email us on info@dublinundersail.com or book directly at Book Now | Dublin Under Sail

Go Sail!

Are you Adventurous? Do you want to Challenge yourself? Do you want Fun? go sailing Dublin Bay is a new and exciting sailing adventure in which you can take an active part. https://www.gosailing.ie/

Surfdock

From windsurfing to kayaking, stand up paddle boarding to kite-surfing, surfing to wakeboarding and sailing, you'll find your thrill at the Surfdock Centre. Activities take place both in the Dock and on Dublin’s surrounding beaches, with the centre located on the Grand Canal Dockyard in Ringsend, just five minutes from Dublin’s city centre. Surfdock has been offering water sports equipment and lessons in the Grand Canal Basin for the last twenty years. They also offer junior courses and corporate nights. http://www.surfdock.ie/

Kayaking.ie

Join us on our award-winning kayak tour to meet the famous Dalkey Island seals in their natural habitat. This is one of the most authentic and special things you can do in Dublin. Our kayak tours run every day, are suitable for beginners and you can book online. We are passionate about nature and wildlife. We will show you the best views of Dublin Bay from the comfort of your kayak. Our friendly guides absolutely love kayaking. We can't wait to meet you! Book today!

Wakedock

Wakedock offers wakeboard tuition, ride the cable, group session and kids boarding school. The wakeboard cable replaces the boat and pulls the rider along a course. The wakeboard cable is perfect for beginners to learn wakeboarding and more advanced riders are guaranteed lots of fun hitting the obstacles. Wakedock's location in the Grand Canal Dock is easily accessible by car, on foot from the city centre or by public transport. We have changing rooms, shower facilities and free parking for customers on site and all equipment is available to rent . No previous experience wakeboarding is required to go on the cable. http://www.wakedock.ie/

Panoramic E-Bike Tour

Cycle to the most breath taking views in Ireland without getting out of breath. Our e-bikes are great fun, easy and trusty on the tarmac or the trails. We mix the insider tracks and tales of this truly amazing peninsula on a 3 hour tour while taking you to unrivalled panoramic views away from the crowds surrounded by nature and beauty. We travel on grass and loose gravel paths on and off road.

https://www.shaneshowthadventures.com/en

Harbour Splash

Harbour Splash, Dublin’s first inflatable aqua park will be open at Dún Laoghaire’s west pier again from 1st May to 30th September 2020. An obstacle course over water including trampolines, climbing frames, slides, monkey bars offers guaranteed fun, whether you are coming with a few friends or in a big group. Anyone from age 6 upwards can enjoy the park.

Pure Magic

Welcome to the magic world of Pure Magic where our Motto is #LIFE IS PURE MAGIC

Our mission is to share with you our passion for Watersports. Our company is much more than just a sport, a culture or a lifestyle. When you enter Pure Magic, your Life will change! Whatever your needs, from taking lessons in kiting or Stand Up Paddle boarding, from total beginner to most advanced rider, from buying the latest gear and equipment to organizing an afternoon activity with your mates, we’re here to answer all your questions and give you an unforgettable and unique experience