The Great South Wall

What Although you'll pass through a scruffy industrial area to reach this walk, it's still one of the best places to escape from Dublin city. When completed in 1795, it was one of the longest sea walls in the world and offers 2km of rough promenade stretching out to the bright red beacon of Poolbeg Lighthouse. Views include the North Bull Island, Dollymount Strand, Howth, with the Baily Lighthouse perched on its cliffs, and the Sugar Loaf in Wicklow. Keep your eyes open for everything from brent geese to Arctic terns and razorbills. At about the halfway point, you'll see the Half Moon Swimming and Water Polo Club. The structures were once home to a gun battery. These days, its shelter provides a great place to soak up the peace and warmth of a sunny day and break out the picnic.

Start/Finish In front of the twin red-and-white-striped towers of the Poolbeg Power Station.

Getting there At the roundabout on the road leading south from the Eastlink Bridge, take the opposite exit. Take the first left onto Pigeon House Road, and then the sharp right turn. Follow the road to the South Wall.

Level While the walk is flat, the granite blocks are bumpy so it's not buggy friendly. Avoid the pier if the seas are stormy.

Length/Time 4km return/ 45 minutes

Pack Binoculars and The Birds of Ireland, A Field Guide by Jim Wilson which has photos and pointers on how to know each bird