Find The Perfect Balance in Dublin

With rolling mountains to the north, over 15 beaches along the coast, two lazy canals and the River Liffey cutting through it all, Dublin has much to offer its 1.2 million inhabitants. And its relatively small size means you’re never far from the great outdoors as our above illustration shows. From a leisurely cycle around the grounds of an 18th-century castle to windsurfing along the coast, there’s plenty to experience in the city’s suburbs. One thing is certain, no matter where you decide to set up home in Dublin, you won’t be short of things to do. Even better, if you fancy leaving your car at home, you can avail of the city’s many transport links for an enjoyable journey to the activity of your choice.

By The Sea

Want some sea air? Dublin’s coastline is dotted with charming seaside villages easily accessible by Dublin Bus, Irish Rail or the commuter-friendly DART service. Indeed, the pretty town of Howth offers some of Dublin’s best sailing, with regular boat races occurring throughout the year. Or if you don’t fancy getting wet, grab a coffee and stroll down to the harbour to take in scenic views of Ireland’s Eye and Lambay Island. Then finish off with some of the freshest seafood you’ve ever tasted at one of the neighbourhood’s delicious seafront restaurants.
Perhaps you’re in search of something a little more adventurous? If so, grab your wetsuit, hop on the train or motorway and try your hand at windsurfing in the coastal town of Skerries. Or build an appetite with a bracing swim in the Forty Foot, an open-air swimming space in the charming town of Dun Laoghaire. Brave this freezing dip on Christmas Day and you won’t be alone – this is a beloved Irish tradition enjoyed by a great number of locals on the morning of December 25th, with many donning Santa hats in the process!

By The Mountains

Get away from the crowds and escape to nature by hiking one of the many trails around Dublin. A trip to Killiney along the DART line, followed by a climb to the top of Killiney Hill offers stunning views of the Irish Sea and the Wicklow Mountains. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of neighbouring Wales on a clear day.
If you’re looking for a longer trail, the Dublin Mountains Way offers marked trails through forests and valleys with the promise of breath-taking views when you reach the summit. Or why not defy gravity while you get to grips with some of the best rock climbing terrain in the country at Dalkey Quarry?

Journey Inland

Families flock to Phoenix Park to spend leisurely Sundays jogging, rollerblading or biking around its 707-hectare green space. Situated just 2km west of Dublin City – easily reached with a journey along Dublin’s light-rail system, the LUAS – this park is one of the largest enclosed recreational spaces within any European capital city.
Home to the President of Ireland, Dublin Zoo and a herd of roaming deer, there is plenty to keep you busy. In the summer, you can enjoy open-air yoga at weekends. While in winter, you can soak up the festive atmosphere in Farmleigh’s enchanting themed courtyard.
If you want to explore further afield, bring your bike or avail of the nearby Dublin Bikes’ stands! Cycle out of the Phoenix Park towards the village of Lucan and watch the city disappear in the blink of an eye as you make your way along winding country roads. While you’re there, rent a kayak and paddle down the River Liffey past the beautiful weeping willow trees.
No matter where your interests lie, you can find your perfect place to live here in Dublin.
Find out more information about moving to Ireland and Dublin today.