Embracing Dublin’s unique mix of coastal and city experiences is now easier than ever with the launch of the new Dublin Coastal Trail. Developed by Fáilte Ireland in partnership with Dublin City-County Council, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, Fingal County Council and Irish Rail, the trail will open up access to the Dublin coastline and encourage visitors to explore the towns, outdoor activities and attractions that lie within easy reach of the city centre.
Fáilte Ireland has invested €700,000 into the trail, which begins at Skerries and runs to Killiney, with signage installed in 11 towns and villages along the route, highlighting key visitor attractions and experiences along the way.
The Dublin Coastal Trail is the culmination of a 4-year orientation programme with key industry stakeholders and will enable visitors to better navigate and explore everything that Dublin city and county has to offer. Visitors will be able to walk, cycle or take a rail service along the route, with way-finding signs in six languages to ensure accessibility for international visitors. The new trail will encourage domestic and international tourists to explore Dublin’s coastal region, immersing themselves in the coastal villages and increasing time spent in the region.
Lord Mayor of Dublin Alison Gilliland said “Dublin City Council is delighted to partner with Fáilte Ireland to support the development of the Dublin Coastal Trail, which will throw fresh light on Dublin’s bountiful coastal amenities, all located just a short hop from Dublin’s city centre. In highlighting the connection between city and coast, we are delighted to remind locals of, and welcome visitors to the wide range of scenic features we have bordering our beautiful Dublin Bay; whether it be the Bull Island Nature Reserve, a haven of local and visiting wildlife, the cultivated charms of St. Anne’s Park and Rose Gardens, or the historically rich treasure trove of Sandymount Strand, the Great South Wall, and the Poolbeg Lighthouse.”
Commenting on the launch, Minister for Tourism Catherine Martin TD said:
“Unique and memorable experiences lie at the heart of great tourism destinations. The new Dublin Coastal Trail will not only help visitors discover and experience the diverse range of cultural and historical attractions, outdoor activities, and stunning nature along Dublin’s coastline, it will also strengthen the appeal of Dublin as a destination to new markets and demographics both internationally and at home in Ireland.”
CEO of Fáilte Ireland Paul Kelly added:
“The launch of the Dublin Coastal Trail is a fantastic addition to the Dublin portfolio and adds to its appeal as a vibrant city break destination – where city living thrives side by side with nature. Improved visitor orientation from the city and out to the Dublin coastline will crucially enable visitors to better immerse themselves in local experiences which will spread the economic benefits of Dublin tourism across a wider geographical area.”
