Are you looking for a short trip to unwind in nature, a slightly challenging jog, or a hike? Do you want to see the panorama of Dublin Bay, the Irish sea and other surrounding areas or search for a nice place for a picnic? Or maybe you are a climber looking for a rockface on which to practise your skills.
If any of these tick a box for you, you’re in luck, as Killiney Hill, just a short drive by car or public transport from the Dublin city centre, a charming hilltop destination, promises a memorable experience. Join me as we embark on a scenic journey to discover the best of Killiney Hill!
Getting there
The quickest way to get to Killiney Hill is by taking a 55 min Dart from the city centre directly to either Dalkey or Killiney station, then it’s just a 15 minutes walk to the hill. If you want to extend your hike, and see some more of the surrounding area, you can also get the bus 7 to Killiney and then walk for about 40 minutes to reach the KIlliney Hill park.
The road to the top
Once you enter the park, you will be greeted by a map of the area indicating various trails you can take to the top and around the hill. The hike around the hill and surrounding areas itself won’t take too long, so you can easily see everything in one day and take time to appreciate the views. The area at the foot of the hill is fairly forested so you will be accompanied by squirrels, birds and a lot of dogs out and about on a walk!
The climb isn’t very challenging so you don’t need to worry whether you’re in good shape. Even if you feel like you need to rest, there’ll be plenty of spots to do so and admire the view.
If you are a sporty person looking for a challenge, there’s an old quarry area that has been transformed into a climbing rock face. When I visited last, I actually saw a couple in their 60s who were going up the vertical wall as if it’s nothing. I hope I will be in such good shape at that age!! If climbing is not your thing, I also witnessed people running up the hill to exercise.
The top of the Hill
Once you make it to the top of the hill – 153 meters above Dublin Bay , you will be greeted by a stunning view of the coastline and two historic landmarks: hill’s iconic obelisk, built in 1742 to mark a royal visit. And a Pyramid of Dublin, which despite an assumption one can make, is not an ancient structure.
It was built in 1852 and the legend has it that if you walk around each level of the pyramid from bottom to the top and look in the direction of the church on the Dalkey Island in the view – you will be granted a wish.
I have been to Killiney Hill twice so far, and loved it each time. By the way, there’s a shop with delicious ice cream if you need a delicious pick me up after the climb ! Overall this is a highly recommended trip as a solo traveller or as a group, as there are so many things to do.
