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Tonight’s episode of Tracks and Trails follows scientist and author Luke O’Neill and presenter Doireann Ní Ghlacáin on a coastal walk from the Victorian piers of Dún Laoghaire to the village of Dalkey and the nearby island. The route packs seaside views, historic landmarks and popular bathing spots into a short, accessible outing from Dublin.
Route at a glance
- Distance: 4 km
- Starting point: Dún Laoghaire East Pier, Co. Dublin
- End point: Coliemore Harbour, Dalkey (for Dalkey Island ferries)
- Terrain: Promenade, coastal paths, village streets
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Best for: Coastal scenery, local history, families and day trips from Dublin
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The walk follows the shoreline south from Dún Laoghaire, passing the town’s elegant pier and sweeping seafront. Along the way you’ll encounter the rocky foreshore at Sandycove and the famous bathing spot known as the Forty Foot.
Dalkey itself offers a compact village centre with a castle, restaurants and outlooks toward the small island just offshore. The route is short enough for most walkers yet rich in variety and local character.
Trail tips
Navigation: The coastal path is straightforward and largely continuous, running close to the water as it heads toward Dalkey.
Dalkey Island access: Small passenger ferries operate from Coliemore Harbour on a seasonal basis. If you plan to land on the island, check timetables and fares with local operators before you travel; crossings are short but schedules vary.
What to bring: Sturdy walking shoes or trainers and a waterproof layer are sensible choices — the seafront can be breezy. Carry water and a snack for the short journey.
After the walk: Dalkey offers a good selection of cafés, pubs and restaurants, plus pleasant streets for a post-walk wander.
Getting there: Dún Laoghaire is served by the DART from Dublin city centre. There is also parking available for those travelling by car.
About Dalkey Island
Dalkey Island sits roughly 300 metres off the coast. It contains the remains of an early Christian oratory dedicated to St Begnet and a Martello tower dating from the Napoleonic period, both noted features under the care of the OPW.
The island has no permanent residents and is recognised as a Special Area of Conservation, reflecting its ecological and archaeological importance.
Tracks and Trails airs on Fridays on RTÉ One at 8:30pm. Episodes are available on RTÉ Player, and viewers outside Ireland can find episodes on YouTube.
