A bicycle is the ideal way to explore Dublin’s gracious squares and quaint Georgian architecture. The Merrion, located in the heart of the historic 18th century city, is the perfect starting point for a leisurely two-wheeled tour. Experience a custom-designed excursion highlighting the city’s most treasured sights during your next stay in the Emerald Isle.
Each adventure starts with a consultation with the hotel’s head concierge, Sean Lally, to assist in planning your ideal itinerary. To ensure an enjoyable afternoon outdoors, you will receive a charming bicycle and helmet, a tote bag filled with necessary picnic implements, and a raincoat, just in case of a sudden downpour.
The 400-year-old St. Stephen’s Green Park is a verdant oasis in the heart of Ireland’s cosmopolitan capital city.
To make sure you take in Dublin's best sights, Sean recommends starting your ride on Upper Merrion Street and winding your way among the city's Georgian masterpieces, old cobblestone streets, and its parks and cycling paths spanning more than 500 kilometers of protected terrain. For a dose of Irish history along the journey, drop in to Dublin Castle, the seat of British rule in Ireland for seven centuries, or Ireland’s oldest university, Trinity College.
Sean's favorite stop on the tour is located on the Grand Canal bicycle path. He suggests pausing along the peaceful canal route, feeding the ducks, and sharing a bench with a statue of legendary Irish novelist, Patrick Kavanagh, overlooking the water.
Afterwards, spread out a picnic blanket and rest your legs at St. Stephen’s Green, a sprawling park in the city center. Sip on champagne, enjoying the view of St. Patrick’s Cathedral as you snack on fresh seasonal fruits from a picnic basket prepared by the hotel’s executive chef, Ed Cooney.
If you're thirsting for something a bit more lively, make your way over to Kehoe’s, an authentic Irish pub near Grafton Street dating back to 1803, which remains popular today among a diverse cross-section of Dubliners and out-of-towners. After a day of cycling return to the hotel for fish and chips or roasted organic salmon with parsnips in the warmth of the hotel's downstairs Cellar Bar, a converted 18th century wine cellar.
To learn more about The Merrion or to arrange a bicycle excursion during your next stay, please contact the concierge upon making a reservation.
