Falling in love with Howth

During my recent trip in Ireland, there was one particular place that captured my heart. As much as I enjoyed exploring the cobbled streets of Dublin, and had an absolute blast touring the Irish Highlands, passing along the rough roads of the Wild Atlantic Way, it was in Howth where I reawakened a real sense of adventure within me.

Only half an hour away from Dublin City centre via DART, which was free with our 3-day Leap Card, Howth is an ideal destination if you wish to explore beyond Dublin city but do not have the time to go very far.

An ideal destination if you wish to explore beyond Dublin City but do not have the time to go very far.

Finding an overgrown ruin near the castle

If you’re feeling adventurous and don’t mind getting your shoes dirty, the most recommended way to explore the coastal village is by following one of the hiking trails which will take you along its beautiful coast. We had a flight to catch and only had a few hours so we used the bus to explore the area especially as they accept the Leap Card too. We didn’t have to pay extra for this trip at all!

The first thing we visited was the Castle which was only a short walk away from the station. The castle has long been converted to a cookery school but the exterior maintains an air of charm and quaintness. It is definitely worth checking out especially as it is free.

Right after, we took a bus to the Summit. Only in Ireland have I ever hopped on a bus driven by a driver who was playing really loud rock music as if it’s the most natural thing in the world. Though it was short ride, it was certainly a thrilling one.

The wind began its violent assault, brisk and unforgiving, but we forged on and were rewarded by spectacular views of the sea.

the beach

Upon arriving, we headed to the pub to fuel up then proceeded on our adventure to find the Bailey lighthouse. As we reached the coast, the wind began its violent assault, brisk and unforgiving but we forged on and were rewarded by spectacular views of the sea. Somehow, we ended up joining one of the walking trails and found an obscure path which winds down a cliff, eventually leading towards a small patch of beach. We had lots fun taking photos amongst the rocks which were furiously attacked by the waves.

Pushed by time, we had to make the rigorous climb back up the cliff and continued our search for the lighthouse. Although we could see it from a distance, the only entrance we found was private however and we didn’t have enough time to look for another way to get near the lighthouse. We ended up going back to the train station soon after, cutting our exploration short.

Despite our visit being very brief, the warm hospitality of the locals who never failed to greet you with a kind smile or a cheery hello, along with astonishing breathtaking views, Howth undeniably won my heart and took the spot of being the most memorable location I visited during my Ireland trip.