Explore the captivating Howth coastline on this guided hiking tour from Dublin. Venture along less-travelled trails, taking in picturesque heathlands and vibrant wildflowers. Discover a traditional fishing village, panoramic viewpoints, and the iconic Baily Lighthouse as local experts share fascinating stories about the area’s history and ecology. With comfort and preparation in mind, this 3-hour tour promises an immersive outdoor experience just a short distance from the city center.
Key Points
- A guided 3-hour excursion along Howth’s coastline, featuring less-travelled trails, heathlands, and scenic viewpoints.
- Stops at a traditional Irish village, the Ben of Howth, Baily Lighthouse, and the Howth Cliff Walk and Balscadden Bay.
- Opportunity to explore Howth Harbour at the end of the tour.
- Insightful narratives from expert local guides on Howth’s history, fishing traditions, and ecological significance.
- Recommended preparation includes comfortable shoes, water, rain gear, and snacks for the hiking tour.
Overview
The Dublin: Howth Coastal Hiking Tour offers a captivating 3-hour guided excursion along the picturesque coastline of Howth.
Priced from $42.53 per person, the tour is conducted in English and is likely to sell out. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a "reserve now, pay later" option is available.
The tour starts at Bodega Coffee in Howth and includes stops at a traditional village, viewpoints, the Ben of Howth, Baily Lighthouse, the Howth Cliff Walk, Balscadden Bay, and Howth Harbour before concluding at Harbour Rd, Howth.
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Itinerary Highlights
Starting at the Bodega Coffee in St Marys Abbey, Howth, the tour follows a route featuring less-travelled trails, heathlands, wildflowers, and panoramic views.
The tour’s guided stops include a traditional village, a viewpoint, the Ben of Howth, the Baily Lighthouse, the Howth Cliff Walk, Balscadden Bay, and Howth Harbour.
Guided stops on the tour include a traditional village, viewpoint, the Ben of Howth, Baily Lighthouse, Howth Cliff Walk, Balscadden Bay, and Howth Harbour.
Visitors can expect to spend around 20 minutes at each stop, learning insider stories from expert local guides.
The 3-hour tour concludes at Harbour Rd, Howth, Dublin, providing opportunities to explore the fishing harbour and village further.
Guided Stops
This guided tour features several stops that allow participants to enjoy Howth’s natural and historical landmarks.
The first stop is a traditional Irish village, where hikers can explore for 20 minutes. Next, the group visits a viewpoint offering panoramic vistas.
At the Ben of Howth, they’ll spend 20 minutes taking in the dramatic cliffs. The hike then continues to the Baily Lighthouse for another 20-minute stop.
The Howth Cliff Walk and Balscadden Bay provide 30 minutes each of scenic hiking.
The tour concludes at Howth Harbour, allowing 20 minutes to explore the fishing village.
Discovering Howth’s Fishing Harbour and Village
As part of the Dublin: Howth Coastal Hiking Tour, visitors have the opportunity to discover Howth’s charming fishing harbor and vibrant village.
The tour guides lead participants through the quaint streets, pointing out local landmarks and sharing insider stories. Visitors can explore the bustling harbor, taking in the sights and sounds of the working fishing boats and seaside shops.
The knowledgeable guides provide insights into the history and culture of this coastal community, giving participants a deeper appreciation for Howth’s rich maritime heritage.
The knowledgeable guides offer insights into Howth’s rich maritime heritage, cultivating a deeper appreciation for this coastal community.
This portion of the tour offers a captivating glimpse into the heart of this picturesque Irish town.
More Great Tours NearbyInsider Stories From Expert Local Guides
The knowledgeable guides on the Dublin: Howth Coastal Hiking Tour draw from their deep understanding of the local area to share captivating insider stories with participants. These expert guides regale hikers with tales of Howth’s rich history, colorful characters, and natural wonders. Through their engaging narratives, visitors gain a profound appreciation for the unique culture and heritage of this charming coastal town.
| Insider Stories | Delight | Insight |
| — | — | — |
| Legends of Howth Castle | Enchant hikers with mythical tales | Uncover the manor’s storied past |
| Fishing traditions | Reveal the community’s maritime heritage | Appreciate the local seafaring lifestyle |
| Migratory bird sightings | Thrill guests with wildlife encounters | Educate on Howth’s ecological significance |
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Hiking to Panoramic Views
Hikers on the Dublin: Howth Coastal Hiking Tour are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views that inspire awe and wonder.
The tour leads them to the Ben of Howth, which offers sweeping vistas of the Irish Sea and rugged coastline. Along the Howth Cliff Walk, they’ll marvel at the dramatic ocean cliffs and spot seabirds soaring overhead.
At Balscadden Bay, they can gaze out at the picturesque fishing harbor and surrounding hills.
Throughout the hike, the guides share insights about the natural beauty and history of these remarkable landscapes that have captivated visitors for centuries.
Nature, Wildlife, and Storytelling
What makes the Dublin: Howth Coastal Hiking Tour so captivating for nature enthusiasts?
The routes feature less-travelled trails through heathlands and wildflowers, offering panoramic views that impressed even the renowned author H.G. Wells.
Less-travelled trails through heathlands and wildflowers, offering panoramic views that even impressed the renowned H.G. Wells.
Along the way, expert local guides share insider stories, bringing the area’s rich history and natural wonders to life.
Hikers can spot a variety of wildlife, from seabirds to seals, while seeing the tranquil coastal landscapes.
The tour concludes with recommendations for local dining, providing a well-rounded experience of Howth’s natural beauty and local culture.
Preparation and Recommendations
To participate in the Dublin: Howth Coastal Hiking Tour, guests should meet at the main entrance to Howth Market, opposite Howth Train Station, at 12:00 PM, arriving 10 minutes early. The tour requires comfortable shoes, water, rain gear, a backpack, and snacks. Unfortunately, the hike is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments.
| What to Bring | Why |
| — | — |
| Comfortable Shoes | For uneven terrain |
| Water | To stay hydrated |
| Rain Gear | For changing weather |
| Backpack | To carry personal items |
| Snacks | For energy during the hike |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Discounts Available for Group Bookings?
The tour information doesn’t mention any discounts for group bookings. However, it’s worth contacting the tour provider to inquire about any potential group rates or special offers that may be available.
Does the Tour Accommodate Specific Dietary Requirements?
The tour doesn’t specify any dietary accommodations. However, guests can bring their own snacks and meals to enjoy during the hike and at the conclusion in Howth Harbour.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Personal Interests?
While the tour follows a set itinerary, guides are flexible and can customize experiences to suit personal interests, like focusing more on local history or wildlife spotting. Guests are encouraged to communicate their preferences to the guide.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for Last-Minute Changes?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing flexibility for last-minute changes. Customers can also take advantage of the reserve now & pay later option.
Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size Requirement?
There’s no minimum group size, but it’s limited to a maximum of 15 people. This ensures a personalized experience and allows the guide to provide attentive support throughout the hike.
The Sum Up
Embark on the Dublin: Howth Coastal Hiking Tour for a captivating 3-hour guided excursion along Howth’s stunning coastline. With expert local guides, participants’ll discover less-travelled trails, picturesque heathlands, and vibrant wildflowers, as well as a traditional village, panoramic viewpoints, and the iconic Baily Lighthouse. Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and prepare for changing weather conditions to fully enjoy this immersive coastal hiking experience.
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