Are you up for an adventure? Want to get closer to nature while challenging your physical limits? Then head out to Dalkey Quarry for a day of rock climbing fun.
Dalkey quarry was once used for extracting granite for the construction of the harbour pier in Dun Laoghaire and was connected to the town by a light railway. (As a point of interest, what remains of that route is now a popular walking path around Dun Laoghaire harbour known as The Metals). The disused granite quarry became part of Killiney Hill Park and quickly became a favourite spot for rock climbing enthusiasts.
Today Dalkey Quarry is one of Ireland’s most popular and accessible rock climbing crags. The excellent natural rock walls are well suited to climbers of all skill levels while the environment provides breathtaking views over the surrounding countryside and out to Dublin Bay.
Apart from the one path and steps leading to the quarry, the park has been left wild. Heavy forests, gorse and bramble thrive here and the thick vegetation is home to some amazing wildlife, including foxes and even Peregrine falcons.
Rock climbing for all levels
At Dalkey Quarry there are rock climbing routes to suit all levels of experience – from learn-to-climb training courses, rock climbing improvement courses and action packed 3 and 5 day rock tours. Saturday and Sunday night climbing is also available.
All courses have a safety-first approach and instructors are fully qualified and certified.
After an exhausting and exhilarating day of climbing, many climbers head to the nearby pubs to quench their well-earned thirsts, relive the thrills, and plan their next climbing adventure. There is a great sense of achievement and camaraderie that rock climbers experience after a climb that can only be experienced to be believed!
Whether you’re a beginner or a rock climbing pro, Dalkey Quarry promises to be a fun outdoor experience that you’ll never forget.
