Whether you are travelling to Dublin for a long holiday, a short break or a hen/stag weekend, you should try and fit in a trip to the delightful coastal town of Bray, which is just over the Wicklow border, but a fairly short trip on the DART from Connolly Station. Bray is only about fourteen miles from central Dublin, and to miss this town from your holiday itinerary would be a real shame. The coastal walk from Bray to Greystones is a delight, if you have the time and energy.
My Journey
A few years ago, I went on a stag weekend to Dublin and after two days and nights of partying I decided I needed a break. We were due to catch an evening flight from Dublin Airport, so that morning, after checking out of the hotel, I left my bags in a locker in Connolly Station and took the DART to Bray.
A bit hungover, tired, and having half given up on that day, I immediately perked up when the DART began to find its way along the coast. With each wave that I saw crashing into the shoreline my spirits elevated. And then I arrived. As I left the station and took a big gulp of that sea air I knew that Bray would prove to be the best memory of that weekend break in Dublin.

I walked over to the mile-long promenade and climbed down the steps to the beach where I began a stroll towards the far end, and towards the Dublin mountains, which rise up out of, and overlook, the Irish sea – towards an invisible Welsh coastline.

When I came to the end of the beach, I climbed the stairs at the end of the promenade and found myself at the foot of the Dublin Mountains. There I found several well worn, winding paths that lead to the summit of Bray Head. The one I chose was surrounded by trees, bushes and other vegetation.

As I closed in on the summit, the greenery suddenly receded and a beautiful, blue vista of sparkling sea opened before me on the east, whilst to the south I could see the tall mountains of Wicklow.


I will always remember this view as the most pleasing during that weekend break in Dublin; and one of the best views I have seen during any trip or holiday I have had in Ireland, or anywhere else in the world.