Due to travel restrictions during Covid19, I have taken the opportunity to focus on local attractions in Dublin city. The saving grace during this difficult time has been getting out to exercise and the amazing weather we experienced throughout April and May in Ireland helped enormously. Spring is a beautiful time to travel to Ireland. We are lucky to have the Phoenix Park, the largest urban walled park in Europe on our doorstep in Dublin city. It’s circumference is 10kms, ideal for biking and running. It is home to Dublin Zoo, the President of Ireland and the American Ambassador.

The current Irish president, Michael D Higgins resides in Áras an Uachtaráin which was built in 1751 and acquired for use by the British viceroy until Irish independence in 1922. In 1938 it became the official residence of the Irish President. The position of the President is as a Head of State elected by the people to serve a seven year term in office.

To virtually take a tour inside the house, visit https://president.ie/en/explore-visit/interactive-tour

Tours visit the house on Saturday mornings from the Phoenix Park visitor centre. They are free of charge and fully guided by the OPW. If you’re lucky you’ll might meet the President himself or his two Bernese mountain dogs named Bród and Síoda (Pride and Silk).

Enjoy this beautiful space when you visit Dublin – there are beautiful walks, ancient trees, formal gardens and fallow deer to encounter on your journey.