The beautiful seaside town that tourists can't pronounce the name of
The town was a major holiday resort back in Victorian times, and with its handsome terraces fronting the harbour, the pier's elegant bandstand and the rejuvenating gardens of the People's Park, it's easy to see why.
A beautiful town just south of Dublin has been hailed as a perfect hidden summer getaway spot - but visitors often struggle to pronounce where they are.
Dun Laoghaire, pronounced Dun Leer-ree, sits on the coast just 12km from the Irish capital and has garnered rave reviews for its picturesque pier and a wealth of activities for all the family.
The town was a major holiday resort back in Victorian times, and with its handsome terraces fronting the harbour, the pier's elegant bandstand and the rejuvenating gardens of the People’s Park, it's easy to see why.
Dun Laoghaire actually has two piers, offering dramatic views and stunning photo opportunities, particularly the harbour in the golden hour.
The People's Park is located just south of Dún Laoghaire town between the R119 and R831 roads and is a great place to unwind.
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The nineteenth-century site boasts handsome fountains, a raised roofless band stand as well as a cafe-cum-restaurant with toilet facilities nearby.
For foodies, there's a well-known market near the harbour on the weekends, so you can grab some delicious local fare and take it for a picnic in the park.
Dun Laoghaire is also a hub for sailing and outdoor activities, with the Irish National Sailing School in Dun Laoghaire offering courses aimed at total novices.
Another popular spot is the Forty Foot, a promontory on the southern tip of Dublin Bay at Sandycove.
People have been swimming in the Irish Sea from the spot for over two centuries, and Dubliners regularly travel to the spot for a refreshing dip.
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The town also has a rich literary history, offering visits to James Joyce Tower and Museum.
The Martello Tower, located in Sandycove, is where the celebrated author of Ulysses spent six nights in 1904 and entry is free.
In fact, the opening scenes of Joyce's most famous novel at set there allowing you to step into his work.
If that wasn't enough, Dun Laoghaire has some great places to eat and drink with standouts including Toscana, Hartley's, and Gourmet Food Parlour.
You can also take a walk down to top notch pubs like Buck Mulligan's, The Two Foxes, or The Lighthouse, among others.
If you're looking to take to take in the scenery, Dublin Bay Cruise are available from Dun Laoghaire in the south of the county to Howth in the north offering a unique view of Dublin city on the way.
