7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Dublin

Dublin, is a vibrant city teeming with culture, history, and a bustling digital nomad community. While the city itself offers plenty to explore, sometimes a change of scenery is needed to refresh the mind and inspire new ideas. Fortunately, Dublin is perfectly positioned for a variety of weekend getaways, ranging from popular tourist spots to hidden gems off the beaten track. Here are seven destinations that are perfect for a short break from the city life.

Galway

Galway, known as the Cultural Heart of Ireland, is a harbor city on the country's west coast. It's famous for its vibrant arts scene, live music, and bustling streets filled with performers and markets. The city's Latin Quarter is lined with colorful shops and pubs, while the seaside suburb of Salthill offers a more tranquil experience with its promenade and beaches. Galway is also a gateway to the scenic landscapes of Connemara and the unique karst terrain of the Burren.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Galway from Dublin is by train, with services running regularly from Heuston Station and taking approximately 2.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to experience the Galway Market, held near St. Nicholas' Church every weekend, where you can find local crafts, foods, and fresh produce.

Where to Stay: The Galmont Hotel & Spa offers luxurious accommodations with stunning views of Galway Bay, while The House Hotel, situated in the Latin Quarter, boasts chic, boutique-style rooms.

Where to Eat: For a taste of local seafood, visit McDonagh's for their renowned fish and chips, or enjoy contemporary Irish cuisine at the Michelin-starred Aniar Restaurant.

Wicklow Mountains

The Wicklow Mountains offer a peaceful retreat from the urban sprawl, with their rolling hills, deep glacial valleys, and pristine lakes. This natural playground is perfect for hiking, cycling, and photography, especially at the famous Glendalough Valley, with its medieval monastic ruins. The Wicklow Mountains National Park is a haven for wildlife and offers a variety of trails for all skill levels.

How to Get There: The Wicklow Mountains are easily accessible by car or bus from Dublin, with the journey taking about an hour.

Travel Tip: Make sure to visit the Powerscourt Estate and Gardens, which are considered some of the most beautiful in Ireland, with a remarkable waterfall to boot.

Where to Stay: Powerscourt Hotel offers luxury accommodation with a spa and golf course, while the rustic Glendalough Hotel provides a cozy stay closer to nature.

Where to Eat: The Wicklow Heather Restaurant offers a warm atmosphere and a menu featuring local ingredients, nestled in the heart of the mountains.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a medieval town known for its castle, cobblestone streets, and a rich history of craft and design. The Kilkenny Design Centre showcases the best of Irish craftsmanship, and the town's many galleries and studios are a testament to its creative spirit. The Kilkenny Castle and its extensive parklands provide a picturesque backdrop for a leisurely stroll or picnic.

How to Get There: Kilkenny is about a 1.5-hour train ride from Dublin's Heuston Station, with multiple services running daily.

Travel Tip: Explore the Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny, an interactive tour that delves into the history of Ireland's oldest ale.

Where to Stay: Butler House offers elegant accommodation in a historic setting, while the Pembroke Kilkenny boasts a central location with modern amenities.

Where to Eat: Campagne is a Michelin-starred restaurant offering exquisite French cuisine, while Kyteler's Inn provides a traditional Irish pub experience with a storied past.

Beara Peninsula

The Beara Peninsula is one of Ireland's best-kept secrets, with rugged landscapes, quaint villages, and a coastline that rivals the more famous Ring of Kerry. The Healy Pass winds through the mountains, offering breathtaking views. The peninsula is also home to the unique Dursey Island, accessible by Ireland's only cable car.

How to Get There: The Beara Peninsula is best reached by car from Dublin, with the journey taking around 4.5 hours, allowing for a scenic road trip through Ireland's countryside.

Travel Tip: Take the cable car to Dursey Island and enjoy the tranquility of this sparsely populated island, which is a haven for birdwatchers.

Where to Stay: The Beara Coast Hotel in Castletownbere offers comfortable rooms with sea views, while the charming Allihies Seaview is a cozy B&B nestled in the village of Allihies.

Where to Eat: O'Neill's The Point Seafood Bar serves fresh, locally caught seafood in a friendly atmosphere with stunning views of the harbor.

Lough Boora Discovery Park

Lough Boora Discovery Park is an enchanting escape into nature, where a former peat bog has been transformed into a biodiverse landscape of wetlands, wildflower meadows, and sculptures. The park's walking and cycling trails are perfect for a leisurely day out, and the diverse habitats attract a wide range of birdlife.

How to Get There: Lough Boora is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Dublin, with the route taking you through the heart of the Irish Midlands.

Travel Tip: Bring along a camera to capture the unique sculptures dotted throughout the park, which are especially striking against the natural backdrop.

Where to Stay: Nearby, the town of Tullamore offers various accommodations, such as the Tullamore Court Hotel, which provides comfort and convenience.

Where to Eat: The Blue Apron Restaurant in Tullamore offers a fine dining experience with dishes crafted from local produce.

Carlingford

Carlingford is a charming coastal town nestled between the Cooley Mountains and the waters of Carlingford Lough. This hidden gem is steeped in medieval history, with well-preserved castles and ancient town walls. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, sailing, and even oyster farming tours, while the town's quaint streets are perfect for a leisurely exploration.

How to Get There: Carlingford is about a 1.5-hour drive from Dublin, or alternatively, you can take a train to Dundalk and then a short taxi or bus ride to the town.

Travel Tip: Hike up to Slieve Foye for panoramic views of the lough and the surrounding countryside. The effort is well worth the reward.

Where to Stay: The Four Seasons Hotel offers stunning views of the lough and mountains, while Ghan House is a charming 18th-century Georgian house with a renowned restaurant.

Where to Eat: The Kingfisher Bistro is known for its delicious seafood and cozy atmosphere, while Magee's Bistro offers a modern twist on traditional Irish dishes.

Strangford Lough

Strangford Lough is an area of outstanding natural beauty, just a short journey from Dublin. This large sea lough is dotted with islands and surrounded by gentle hills, offering a tranquil setting for kayaking, birdwatching, and exploring the many historic sites, including the stunning Castle Ward, which served as a filming location for the popular TV series "Game of Thrones".

How to Get There: The best way to reach Strangford Lough is by car, with the journey from Dublin taking approximately 2 hours.

Travel Tip: Visit the National Trust's Mount Stewart House and Gardens, renowned for their exquisite landscaping and the unique collection of plants and trees.

Where to Stay: The Cuan Guesthouse in the village of Strangford offers comfortable rooms and is known for its warm hospitality and excellent food.

Where to Eat: The Lobster Pot in Strangford serves up fresh, locally sourced seafood in a quaint setting, perfect for a post-adventure meal.