Published By: Puja Sinha

Offbeat Things to Do in Dublin

Setting about exploring Dublin like an eccentric should be top on your bucket list

Some hitherto unthought-of ways to enjoy an Irish holiday revealed!

Dear Spotting Amidst Nature: If you are game for some thrilling, outdoorsy experience, hit Phoenix Park to catch a glimpse of a herd of deer congregating hither-tither. Fifteen Acres in Phoenix Park is a beloved dear spotting place. Here, you will also come across historical monuments such as a prehistoric burial chamber built over 5, 5000 years back whose artefacts are sheltered by the National Museum; Deerpark Lodge and The Papal Cross. Adjacent to Phoenix is People’s Garden blooming with beautiful plant species-- some brought from Europe and blossomed by Victorians.

Explore Revered Libraries: Dublin libraries are not just ecstatic for bibliophiles but architecture and history enthusiasts as well. Each library is unique in design and volume of collections. National Library of Ireland, Ballyfermot Library and Marsh’s Library offer an immersive, visual retreat. The splendid Marsh’s Library is designed in Gothic style and situated besides St. Patrick’s Cathedral-- almost reminding you of the picturesque Alice in Wonderland. Throughout its 300 years of existence the library has preserved rare gems in its dark-wood bookcases. A day to stroll around all the famous Dublin libraries is highly recommended!

Visit the Mummies: The crypts of St. Michan’s Church will send literal chills down your spine. Quite a few theories exist today justifying the corpses in the basement whose environment is strangely suitable for mummification. Few mummies have revealed themselves through the caskets after withstanding centuries of rot. Some coffins are so dilapidated that are falling apart. Four mummified corpses, known as ‘the big four’ are especially displayed to the public. Above the crypt, stands tall the church on the ground of a Viking chapel and somehow still has managed to retain its former glory. The crypts are known to have been visited by Bam Stoker—author of the classic Dracula. Need we disclose more?

Stroll to Poolbeg Lighthouse: An escapade into the serenity of Poolbeg Lighthouse jutting out into the vast, infinite Liffey under the blue sky is synonymous to pure magic. Built in 1768, it is Dublin’s renowned iconic landmark and offers spectacular sunset hues against the dreamy silhouette of the city; the calming and unwinding walk till here is a cherry on top. Perhaps what accentuates Poolbeg’s beauty is the juxtaposition of towering cityscapes against mighty mountains. Tourists opt for the longer trail to reach the lighthouse since it entails an awe-inspiring coastal pathway interspersed by cafes and eateries.