DUBLIN BUS TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Howth Safari: A Private 5‑Hour Coastal Hike Around Dublin Bay
A private, 5-hour guided hike that starts with homemade scones and carries you off-trail through woodlands, cliffs, hidden beaches and wildlife-rich habitats—this guide explains what to expect, where you meet, and how the route is chosen.
Howth Safari: A Private 5‑Hour Coastal Hike Around Dublin Bay.
Set on the peninsula of Howth, this private five-hour hike moves from village streets into a mosaic of woodlands, heath, cliffs and secret coves that overlook Dublin Bay and the Wicklow Mountains. The day begins over freshly baked scones and tea, then follows routes selected for weather, tide and season as you search out goats, highland cattle, dramatic lighthouses and sheltered rock pools within a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Homemade scones, tea and a village rendezvous
The day begins at the House Restaurant on Main Street with freshly baked scones, tea and coffee before the group sets off—an unhurried start that roots the hike in local flavor.
An unexpected safari of goats, cattle and coastal creatures
Along the peninsula you’ll encounter the Old Irish Goat herd, highland cattle and giant pigs, and scan rock pools and shorelines for marine life—part of the living landscape that makes this a true Howth ‘safari.’
Cliffs, Martello towers and lighthouse panoramas
Cliff paths lead to sweeping views of Dublin Bay and the Wicklow Mountains, with landmarks including the Baily Lighthouse and Martello Towers, plus hidden beaches and dramatic rock formations.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
This is a coastal day-hike that blends convivial village moments with variable off‑trail walking: a morning coffee and scone, then a route chosen for the day’s weather, tide and season, winding up through woodlands, heath and cliff-top paths to vistas and secret coves before finishing with a pub wrap-up and a downloadable video memento.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this private hike suits
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The experience is a five-hour outing; guides assess weather, tide and season on the morning to choose the best route.
The day begins with scones, tea and coffee provided at The House Restaurant; there’s a chance to grab last-minute provisions in the village before departure.
Meet at The House Restaurant, 4 Main Street, Howth (D13 V2F9) at the start time indicated by the operator.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Howth Safari Hiking Tour?
The private hike lasts approximately five hours.
Where do we meet for the hike?
You rendezvous at The House Restaurant, 4 Main Street, Howth (D13 V2F9) for scones, tea and coffee before departing.
Is there an age limit or suitability requirement?
The tour is suitable for participants aged 12 and over.
What happens if the weather or tide is unfavorable?
The guide assesses weather, tide and season on the day and chooses the best route to suit conditions.
What wildlife and features will we see?
Expect to see the Old Irish Goat herd, highland cattle, giant pigs, rock pools, secret beaches, Martello Towers and the Baily Lighthouse, among other habitats and coastal features.
Is anything provided after the hike?
Participants receive a downloadable video memento of the Howth adventure, including distance, time, elevation, photos and videos.