This walk hugs the DART line by the route of a railway which conveyed Dalkey granite, to build Dunleary harbour in the early 19th century. Remnants of the line are known as, “The Metals”, a term the locals call the whole route.
During short winter days, suburban walks help to maintain personal fitness. Blackrock is an interesting place for strolling. Sea views, parkland and Georgian and Victorian architecture contrast with modern shopping centres.
Near Cornelscourt and Cabinteely village, a park of about 45 hectares is an oasis in suburbia. In 1984, the county council acquired part of estate lands owned by Joe McGrath of Sweepstakes fame and fortune. The parkland around Cabinteely House retains the English-style landscape features of such Georgian properties, including informal groups of trees which create depth and perspective.
Scotland's vibrant capital is an ideal city for walkers. Stroll in Princes Street Gardens between Georgian vistas and the old town. The classical National Gallery adds a continental backdrop. Climb to Edinburgh Castle (pictured) and visit museums and historic sites. Enjoy spectacular views northwards.
Lutyens's gardens and monuments remember the Irish killed in both world wars. The park, managed by the OPW, is adorned with fountains, pavilions, monuments and floral displays is an interesting place for walking.
At the heart of the Wicklow Mountains National Park, Glendalough is a scenic amenity and heritage site. There were monastic settlements in the valley since St Kevin's time in the early Christian era. The OPW administers the interpretative centre and the historic core which attracts visitors to the national monuments, including the Round Tower.
The capital of West Flanders, Bruges, is accessible from Brussels on Belgium's excellent road and rail network.
The Westaston Estate at Kilmacurragh was owned for almost three centuries by the Acton family. They developed parklands in the Victorian era and planted an arboretum. That is now the main attraction at Kilmacurragh, managed for the OPW by the National Botanic Gardens.
East of the Glen of the Downs near Delgany, Kindlestown Wood is a public amenity. Because of inadequate signposts, we got lost on the way. Negative reactions to our enquiries for directions showed that many locals do not know about the wood.