Mingle with celebs by the seaside.
Alighting at Killiney DART station allows visitors to experience a small but idyllic seaside resort, which is also one of the most sought after addresses in south Dublin.
Lying north of Shankill and south of Dalkey, a vast proportion of Killiney village was owned for centuries by the Talbot de Malahide fmaily who settles in the area soon after the Norman invasion of 1170.
Its Irish name 'Cill Iníon Léinín' translates as 'Church of the Daughters of Léinín.' On the original 6th century site of this church in west Killiney, the ruins of an 11th century structure can be seen today.
Killiney Hill Park was opened as a public park in 1887, then named Victoria Hill Park in honour of Queen Victoria’s 50 years on the throne. His Royal Highness, Prince Albert Victor of Wales, performed the official opening.
This land, donated for the public park, was once part of the estate of Killiney Castle. The original house, Mount Mapas, was built in 1740 and it was enlarged by its new owner, Robert Warren, around 1840 and renamed Killiney Castle. The property is now Fitzpatrick’s Castle Hotel.
Killiney Hill Park boasts breathtaking views spanning Killiney Bay, Bray Head and Great Sugar Loaf, one of the Wicklow Mountains.
At the peak of the hill, 170 metres above sea level, there is an obelisk among other structures dotted around the park.
Both the population and the popularity of Killiney grew from the late 1940s onwards due to its proximity to the growing capital city and the post-Victorian pastime of holidaying at the seaside.
Itsfabulous beach, only a short walk from the DART station, is often compared to the Bay of Naples in its style and coastline. It is no surprise then that there are a spread of Mediterranean names on the surrounding roads and streets including Vico, Sorrento, Capri and San Elmo.
The exclusive area is home to some of Ireland’s best known stars including singer Enya, Bono and The Edge, members of U2
Only a short trip from Dublin city centre, the quaint village is perfect for weekend breaks, a day at the beach, a hillside walk or a pleasant meal before heading back to the hustle and bustle of the city.
To explore more in Killiney click here.