Dalkey to Killiney: A Coastal Walk in Dublin's Wealthiest Area
This is a walk between Dublin's two wealthiest villages. When you see the views and houses, you'll understand why.
I run private guided tours of this walk, The Vista Tour, and I rightly call it the most scenic walk in Dublin.
It's a beautiful way to see more of local Dublin, even the train ride out is stunning.
This is a perfect half day trip from Dublin. Best of all, tourists don't know about this. They're all crowded into Howth.
The Details
Distance: 4km. It's on paved hills and not steep.
Time: You can walk the route in 90 minutes, but make a half day of it with lunch, a tour of Dalkey Castle or the boat to Dalkey Island.
Getting there: Southbound DART train to Dalkey Station, 30 minutes from Dublin city centre. Trains run frequently, no need to book ahead.
Getting back: Dart from Killiney Station, at the end of the walk. Same line, back to the city in 30 minutes.
The Route
Dalkey Station to Dalkey Village
Walk through this lovely village. Get a coffee in any of the fancy cafes here. Country Bake is my favourite. Get it to go with a pastry and enjoy it at Dillon's Park.
Dalkey Castle & the graveyard
A 600 year old castle that does an excellent tour with re-enactors. Here's my review of it. Book ahead since tours are timed.
Dalkey Island
Walk up Coliemore Road to Dalkey Island, just a 5 minute boat ride. Captain Neil will bring you over. It has 1000 year old church ruins and was home to the Vikings.
Dillon's Park
People stop at the harbour and don't know this park is 5 minutes further up the hill. It's got the best photo point across to Dalkey Island. There's a holy well here too. Have your coffee here.
Sorrento Park
Get ready for the reveal. You're about to learn why my tour here is called the Vista. It's more uphill steps, but the 360 degree views are worth it. That red ruin of a house below belongs to U2's The Edge.
Vico Road
The most expensive road in Ireland. Take it slow, stop often and the views get better the higher you go. The house prices go even higher. You'll pass the gates to Bono's house near the end.
The WW2 Eire sign
Cut into the cliffs during the war to warn bombers off neutral Ireland. Easy to miss, look for the small sign and walk down the narrow path.
The Vico Baths
Steps down to the water. Locals swim here year-round. If you want to swim, bring togs and a towel, changing facilities are basic. Cold water even in summer.
Killiney Beach
A stoney beach where you can look back at the route you just walked. A good spot to get a treat from Fred & Nancy's Airstream as a reward or warm up with the locals in the Hot Box Sauna on the beach.
Killiney Station
Take the train back to the city centre in 30 minutes.
Good to know before you go
- There is one bathroom halfway along the route and another at Killiney Beach car park.
- There are no shops between Dalkey & Killiney so bring water.
- Bring cash for Captain Neil if you're going to Dalkey Island. No reservations, just show up. It's weather dependent if he runs or not.
- Vico Baths has no lifeguard. Swim at your own judgement, especially outside summer months.
