You’ve toured the lovely island of Ireland.  You’ve driven through rolling green countryside, visited some relatives, perhaps, and popped into Gus O’Connor’s for a pint of Guinness.  Somewhere in there, you’ll have to make your pilgrimage Dublin – it’s expected, of course – and when you do, you’ll likely head over to the nearby town of Dun Laoghaire.

They don’t call Dun Laoghaire “Dublin’s Riviera” for nothing!  This town and harbor just 11 clicks from Dublin has some amazing history – not to mention a very pretty view.  It is also home to a rocky outcropping  towards Dalkey Island that makes a fine sort of beach.

Each Sunday, rain or shine, you’ll see many walk down past the marina to take their morning swim.  Togs must be worn – the signs are plastered as far as the eye can see.  And from rumor, it seems that the town means to enforce the rule (though you’ll see every bare bit of a man as he changes into those togs in the dressing room just above the rocks).

The water isn’t that warm – even, it would seem, in summer.  And the sun rarely pokes out from behind the clouds.  But still, each Sunday, the faithful come.  Some swim a few laps, some swim all the way to Dalkey – and some just sit outside and enjoy the sound of the water lapping on the rocks.  It’s a fine a way to spend a Sunday as any.

The rocks can be a bit jagged so water shoes are probably a good bet.  The current can be swift as well.  But there’s something about Dun Laoghaire that will keep calling you back.  Even if you have to buckle down and wear a pair of togs while you’re there.

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Photo courtesy of Kayt Sukel.