Five of the best autumn walks in Co. Dublin

With the warmer weather well and truly behind us and the days getting that little bit shorter, there are still so many reasons to get out and about and enjoy some fresh air. So why not reconnect with nature this October by checking out our favourite autumn walks around Co. Dublin.

Howth Cliff Walk

The  Howth cliff walk is one of our all time favourite walks in Dublin, with so many people coming from far and near to walk this well known scenic loop. It is enjoyable anytime of the year and offers breathtaking views of the wild cliffs as well as the sea. You will also be able to see the famous Bailey Lighthouse and will  have access to a number of beautifully remote beaches if you are a sea swimmer.  

The trail can be a little rugged and rocky in parts so we suggest you wear appropriate footwear and take care as there are also quite dangerous cliff drops  and sharp declines. The loop in total will take you about 3-3.5 hours to complete and is approximately 12km. This route is accessible via the DART and is about 25-30 minutes away  and only takes 15 km driving in your car. We promise you that this is a walk you won't regret.

The Phoenix Park

A stroll through Dublin’s famous Phoenix Park is a thing of beauty especially during the autumn season. The park is packed full of wildlife including squirrels, ducks, hares and foxes, they can be spotted roaming freely throughout the park and its wooded areas and grasslands.  

The park is also home to a heard of 600 wild fallow deer of which are an important part of biodiversity in the park and have been there for over 350 years.

This park is the largest enclosed public park in a European city and is open all year round with free parking. It is also home to Ireland's President Michael D. Higgins. The park is set on 1,752 acres and 2km west from the busy city centre and also includes Dublin Zoo and the park's visitor centre.

The Dublin Mountains

If you are looking to get away from the city for the day and enjoy a more intense hike, then a trip up the Dublin mountains might be for you. The drive is about 8km outside the city and offers a wide range of trails over 43km. We promise that an adventure through these mountains will be unforgettable so get ready to take in some amazing views of natural rich grasslands, abundant native wildlife and lots of fresh air. Getting out into the mountains is the perfect way to enjoy those fresh, crisp autumn days and get some exercise too.

St. Annes Park

St. Annes park is the perfect place to watch the leaves change and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature this time of year. Located on Dublin's Northside between Raheney and Clontarf, the park is popular all year round and stretches across 240 acres. If you are planning to visit the park you must pass through St. Annes woods where you'll find it packed full of native Irish trees and plants while the rose garden is also a must see for flower lovers. You can also spot a number of beautiful water features, plenty of recreational facilities as well as the Nanekin River which flows right  through the park from the Howth Road.

The Great South Wall Walk

The great south wall walk allows you the chance to take in all that Dublin bay has to offer. The walk starts in Irishtown which is 2km from Dublin city and takes you along the Great South Wall where you will reach the famous red Poolbeg lighthouse at the end.

While on this spectacular coastal walk you will be able to see Dublin Bay, the popular Poolbeg Chimneys, Dun Laoghaire Harbour and even Howth head. It’s the perfect walk for anyone who needs to clear the cobwebs out and is a popular spot for keen birdwatchers too. It is a coastal walk so remember to wrap up well before you go out so as not to freeze.
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Dublin City and county offers so many beautiful walks full of nature and scenery, the perfect way to spend days off or for making weekend plans with friends. So why not get out and enjoy the crisp, fresh autumn air before winter arrives.

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