The seaside town just minutes from Dublin city centre – with sandy beaches, wild wallabies & its own island
THE summer season is just around the corner, and if you are looking forward to a break away full of stunning beaches, breathtaking scenery and delicious food, we may have the perfect place for you.
Malahide is just a quick train ride from Dublin city centre and is a hive of activity packed with independent boutiques, charming pubs and, of course, is steeped in history.
The town provides a perfect balance of escaping into the great outdoors while still being conveniently located to a variety of dining options.
Pastel-painted houses will greet you as you make your way to Malahide beach, where you can choose to relax on the strand or head for a stroll along the Coastal Route to Portmarnock.
TRAILS
The 4km coastal trail is set on an elevated path with parkland on one side and the sea on the other, taking you past Velvet Strand and the Martello towers at Portmarnock and Robswall.
Walkers can also choose to head inland to the Robswall Park Hillside Hike.
The path allows walkers to explore the landscape and take in all that Malahide has to offer, from its green fields and animals to its incredible seascape views.
MALAHIDE CASTLE
Malahide Castle and Gardens estate is filled with walking trails that run through 260 acres of parkland.
Built over 800 years ago, the castle boasts incredible wooden sculptures and rare trees and has much to offer for all interests and tastes.
Visitors can embark on castle tours or even ghost tours for those feeling brave.
The landmark is also home to a spectacular butterfly house.
Located in the Cambridge Glasshouse in the Walled Garden, guests can admire the most colourful creatures on earth.
With over 20 species of butterfly housed at Malahide, it’s a paradise for both amateur enthusiasts and experienced lepidopterists!
CASINO MODEL RAILWAY MUSEUM
Just a ten-minute walk from the Castle is Dublin’s only model railway museum, the Casino Model Railway Museum.
It offers a close-up look at the exquisite workmanship of Cyril Fry’s hand-crafted models.
There are around 350 model trains, some of which run on tracks overhead.
And if your feet get tired after all that adventuring, you can always rely on Malahide’s very own road train named the Toots, which takes you through the village to the beach and back to the castle.
LAMBAY ISLAND
If you are planning on travelling to Malahide this year, then Lambay Island is most definitely worth a visit.
Home to Ireland’s only herd of wild wallabies, which were introduced in the 1950s and have thrived on the island ever since the island is the perfect place for some summer adventuring.
You will need to book a private group tour in advance.
RESTAURANTS
The pinnacle of any good sightseeing day is a fresh and tasty meal, and with plenty of options, Malahide is sure not to disappoint.
Old Street wine bar is one of the finest restaurants, with a menu packed with bistro classics like beer-battered fish and chips and steak ciabatta.
Déjà vu is another local favourite serving daily brunch featuring savoury crepes and pain perdu with maple syrup.
Down at the marina, there is plenty more on offer with a bustling street food scene, while at Picnic Park, a small gathering of trucks which serve wood-fired pizzas, loaded fries, gelato and much more.
HOTELS
The iconic four-star Grand Hotel Dublin, in the heart of Malahide, is a unique seaside retreat.
All of the Grand Hotel’s guests have complimentary access to the award-winning Arena Health and Fitness Club with 21-meter swimming pool, jacuzzi, steam room, sauna and state-of-the-art gymnasium, and room rates for two people sit at around €120 per night.
A range of other accommodation options are also available close by, such as Castle Lodge B&B, the Portmarnock Hotel and the White Sands Hotel.