Discover Kilternan: Hiking, skiing and golf

Kilternan combines outdoor activities with a church and a venue that offer visitors additional cultural points of interest. The Dublin Mountains Way, skiing, golf and shorter hikes shape the options for travelers interested in outdoor activities. When looking for a hotel in Kilternan, consider which activity will define your stay: a long-distance trail, shorter circular routes, winter sports or golf.

Compare hiking trails and routes

The Dublin Mountains Way is a waymarked long-distance trail measuring 42.6 kilometers. In Kilternan, it passes through the grounds of the former Kilternan Sports Hotel and by the ski slope. Nearby, two shorter circular trails can be compared by length and walking time: the easy Barnaslingan Pine Loop Trail is 0.9 kilometers long and takes 20 minutes to walk. The also-easy Lead Mines Way at Carrickgollogan measures 2.3 kilometers; the approximate walking time is 40 minutes. This gives you a choice between a shorter loop and a longer route with about twice the walking time.

Carrickgollogan is also home to a rocky viewpoint, accessible via a short climb, with views of South Dublin and North Wicklow. From Kilternan, a footpath runs along Enniskerry Road to Barnaslingan Wood. Before setting out on the Dublin Mountains Way, check official notices, as local diversions or access conditions may change. Before visiting, also check for any closure notices for the Lead Mines Way.

Skiing and golf in Kilternan

The Ski Club of Ireland operates the only artificial, or dry, ski slope in the Republic of Ireland; this national distinction may change if another facility opens. Skiing, snowboarding and tubing are offered for all ability levels.

Stepaside Golf Centre has a driving range with 28 standard and 12 automatic pop-up hitting bays, as well as a public par-3 course. Three freelance PGA professionals offer lessons there for golfers of all ages and skill levels. As staff details may change, check current lesson availability if it is important to your trip planning. Stepaside Golf Course is a public nine-hole course designed by Eddie Hackett.

Church, history and music

The Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Wayside was built and consecrated in 1929. It is an important part of the early 20th-century ecclesiastical heritage of south County Dublin. For travelers interested in architecture and local history, the year it was built and consecrated offers a specific point of reference.

The Golden Ball Kilternan pub is located in the foothills of the Dublin Mountains. Food is served seven days a week, and live music featuring local musicians is held regularly. If food or live music is important to your decision, check opening hours and event dates in advance.

In the wider destination of Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown

A large section of the Dublin Mountains Way passes through the wider destination of Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown, running from Shankill through Rathmichael, Kilternan and Glencullen to Ticknock; the route is connected via Marlay Park.

Discover more destinations: Tallaght, Rathmines, Ranelagh, Rathgar, Oldtown, Donnybrook, Carmanhall, Foxrock.

Back to the wider travel overview: Dublin.