Explore 3 stunning walks in the Dublin Mountains

Distance: 6km, time: 1.5 – 2 hours

If you fancy a short walk that takes in wonderful views of the city and the sea, head to the Dublin Mountains Way and start your trek in Shankill village. Hike through the leafy forests at Rathmichael Wood and Carrickgollgan Wood, see the old Lead Mines Tower and take a trip down the orange marked path, to enjoy the peace of Barnaslingan Woods. Emerge at the stunning 'Scalp' viewing point, stand still and drink in the incredible views.

Keep an eye out for badgers, rabbits and birds and spot magnificent trees including the Noble Fir, Scot Pine, Birch and Larch. Explore the historical and interesting sites, don’t miss the ancient megalithic Dolmen.

Getting there: It takes about 40 minutes to get to the starting point from the city centre. Hop on the DART at Connolly Station to Shankill and start your hike from Brady’s of Shankill, a pub in the village.

Distance: 8km, time: 2 – 2.5 hours

Media captionTake in the epic views from the Dublin Mountains.

For a more challenging hike, take on the trail at Ticknock Forest. Start at Carthy’s Green just off the Ballyedmonduff Road in Ballinteer, and hike through a stunning forest of Japanese Larch, Sitka Spruce, Scots, Monterey, and Lodgepole Pine, spot the wonderful fauna and wildlife.  

Soak up the spectacular views as you climb Three Rock Mountain and check out the triple rock formations that give the mountain its name. These formations were once thought to be man-made but are actually a result of natural weathering. Continue on to the Two Rock moorland and discover the romantic Fairy Castle ruins. This cairn is the highest point of the Dublin Mountains at 537m, admire the breathtaking views of the city below.

Get back on the trail and head north-west towards Tibradden Mountain to find another cairn before walking a further 30 minutes. Pick up some picnic fare and dine on a mountain top or head to the famous Lamb Doyle’s Pub for a bite to eat and a drink.

Getting there: Jump on the green Luas line to Dundrum and catch a 44b bus straight to Ballinteer.

Distance: 6km, time: 1.5 - 2 hours

Media captionHiking through scenic Ticknock Forest in the Dublin Mountains.

This route is known as the final stage of the Dublin Mountains Way, start at Cruagh Wood and head on to Featherbed Forest, you’ll emerge at Piperstown Hill. Admire the gorgeous Glenasmole Valley, an area of conservation as you walk along the River Dodder. 

Note the Bohernabreena Waterworks which were built in 1887 to supply water for the mills along the river, you'll learn about the rich history of this area. Spot the whooper swans, moorhens and little grebes and follow the path to Kiltipper Park, make sure you look back at this point and check out the incredible views of the Dublin Mountains.

Continue on to Sean Walsh Park in Tallaght where a map board marks the end of the Dublin Mountains Way.

Getting there: Dublin Bus have routes that link to various points on or near the trail. Sean Walsh Park is a five minute walk from the Tallaght Luas stop. 

From forest-covered mountains to long stretches of coastline, there's plenty more of Dublin’s nature and wildlife to explore.