Dublin Bay
On the north shore is Bull Island, which was formed during the construction of the docklands and now supports one of the most important nature conservation sites in Ireland.
Northwards are the two pretty coastal towns of Malahide and Howth, both of which have an easy, seaside feel.
On the south, meanwhile, lies the pretty town of Dalkey and the surrounding area of Killiney, which has its own bay overlooked by the Vico Road and has been likened to the Bay of Naples. Dun Laoghaire, also on the south, has two Victorian piers that draw visitors in droves.
The Dublin Mountains
The Dublin Mountains, with all their walking and scenic driving opportunities, are only 30 minutes from the center of Dublin.
The Fingal region
Fingal takes its name from the Irish Fine Gall, meaning fair-haired foreigner, and is a historic region with old world and rural charm.