This full-day excursion avails of one of the few bus services that take you from Dublin's City Centre to the heart of the Dublin Mountains and back again. Trek through native and pine forests and look down on Dublin City. Hear the stories of how one of Ireland's wealthiest families went bankrupt and the sordid tales of the Hell Fire Club and their 18th Century antics, and lots more, on location!

Following a country road, pass a cemetery and church that date from the 5th Century AD before continuing through farmland and on through woodland trails. Now a rare habitat of native trees, it was once the grand estate of a wealthy family who fell on hard times through the profligacy of one of their members. Continuing along the only remaining intact surface of the old military road, constructed by the crown forces at the beginning of the 19th century, follow an uphill trail to the top of Montpellier Hill.

Returning via an alternative route to the native woodland, the trek continues through a 19th-century walled garden. Visit a rare megalithic wedge tomb before heading up along a tail through a coniferous forest. Pause to catch your breath and take in the stunning views of Dublin City, the bay area, and beyond.

The rest of the hike is all downhill, along trails, forest roads, and eventually a winding country road. Choose to indulge in a well-earned hearty lunch in a family run rustic cafe, or, if you prefer, tuck into a packed lunch al fresco! Return to the bus stop after a short 15-minute walk, to return to the city center.

Explore the heart of the Dublin mountains
Trek through native and pine forests and look down on Dublin City
Discover the sordid tales of the Hell Fire Club and their 18th Century antics

Distance: 14km / 9 miles
Please note that a minimum of 2 adults is needed for this tour to run
This is a moderate hike of approximately 4.5 hours duration. Therefore you're required to be in good health with a good level of physical fitness
Comfortable flat-soled shoes with a good grip are recommended (hiking boots ideally, or trainers). You should bring good quality rainwear (rain jacket essential and waterproof over-trousers preferable)
The minimum age required is 16 years