Between Loughshinny and Rush in North Dublin lies a secluded secret: Drumanagh Promontory. The area is a small peninsula surrounded by the Irish Sea on three sides and features a 19th-century Martello tower. It is an important archaeological site in which several Roman artefacts have been found and it's of huge significance in terms of Ireland's relationship with the Roman world. Fingal County Council acquired the site for €1 million in 2016 in hopes to preserve the place and protect it from vandalism. But guess what? Barely anyone actually knows about it.
You can enter the site through Loughshinny Beach through a stairs on the far end.
Once you're up the stairs, you have a great panoramic view of Loughshinny Beach and Harbour. You are then greeted by two handsome gatekeepers. Don't worry, they'll let you through.
From here onwards, take caution as there are cliffs with no protection to keep you from falling into your impending doom. This is where you can really get some incredible pictures. And did I mention this is a 10 minute drive from my house? Gotta love Ireland!
From here on, we hit a snag. Because this place is not well known about, it's also not looked after too well. The cliff path is very overgrown with nettles and we were all wearing shorts so we were forced to turn back - despite me doing anything for a photo and wanting to soldier on, even if that meant violent hay fever attacks and legs covered in nettle stings. Not to worry though, the site can also be entered from a country road just opposite St. Catherine's estate before you reach the town of Rush. This entrance doesn't include a cliff walk but it does get you to the Martello tower quicker and unharmed. You can also see Lambay Island which is just opposite the peninsula.
Due to the miraculous sunny spell we've been having for the past two months (please don't end!) spots such as Howth, Sandymount and Killiney can get quite crowded over the weekend. If you're looking for somewhere to explore this weekend and don't want too many crowds, this is a great alternative. Beach, cliffs, ancient architecture, you've got it all!
Until next time!
Tom
<3 <3
ReplyDelete