This is a mini-obelisk and almost hidden from the main one on the top of Killiney Hill. You can find this if you find the stone Pyramid .....and this is to the right. Interesting find!
1 / 7

Killiney Hill Obelisk

4.7
·674 reviews·Killiney, Ireland

Historic Obelisk offering breathtaking panoramic views of Dublin Bay and the Wicklow Mountains. A short, steep climb through peaceful woodlands.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunny mornings or evenings

Best light & cooler temps

CrowdLow
Loading map...
This is a mini-obelisk and almost hidden from the main one on the top of Killiney Hill. You can find this if you find the stone Pyramid .....and this is to the right. Interesting find!

Killiney Hill Obelisk

Best Time

Sunny mornings or evenings

Best light & cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic Obelisk offering breathtaking panoramic views of Dublin Bay and the Wicklow Mountains. A short, steep climb through peaceful woodlands.

4.7
(674 reviews)

"The Obelisk is arguably the most beautiful place to be for Sunrise and Sunset. A picture perfect all-round view."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Wear Comfy Shoes

The walk to the Obelisk is short but steep. Good footwear is essential for the climb! :athletic_shoe:

☀️ Visit on a Clear Day

For the most spectacular views of Dublin Bay and mountains, a sunny day is a must. :sunwithface:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Obelisk

The Iconic Obelisk

Summit of Killiney Hill

A historic 1740s monument offering breathtaking 360-degree views of Dublin Bay and beyond. Perfect for photos and quiet reflection.

Reddit
Panoramic Dublin Bay Vista

Panoramic Dublin Bay Vista

Summit viewpoints

Gaze out at ships sailing, the Wicklow Mountains, and Dalkey. A truly stunning spectacle, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Reddit
Peaceful Woodland Trails

Peaceful Woodland Trails

Paths leading to the Obelisk

Wander through serene woodlands filled with native flora and fauna, including protected red squirrels. Enjoy the fresh sea air.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Views

Visit on a clear day for the best panoramic views of Dublin Bay and the Wicklow Mountains. Mornings or evenings offer cooler temperatures and stunning light, avoiding the midday heat. Reddit

Steep but Rewarding Climb

The walk to the Obelisk is a short but steep 10-minute ascent through peaceful woodlands. Wear comfortable shoes for the climb, and enjoy the sea air. Reddit

Best Times

When
Sunny mornings or evenings
Why
Best light & cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Clear autumn days
Why
Stunning colors & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Hi /r/Dublin, I want to propose to gf in Dublin, what is a good place to do so?

🎯 Wear Comfy Shoes

The walk to the Obelisk is short but steep. Good footwear is essential for the climb! :athletic_shoe: Reddit

☀️ Visit on a Clear Day

For the most spectacular views of Dublin Bay and mountains, a sunny day is a must. :sunwithface: Reddit

reddit.com

Safe spots to sleep in your car overnight?

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

The Obelisk and adjacent Pyramid are ideal for capturing memorable photos, especially at sunrise/sunset. :camerawithflash: Reddit

🧺 Picnic Paradise

Pack a picnic to enjoy at the top, surrounded by incredible scenery. A lovely way to spend an afternoon. :sandwich: Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Wear Comfy Shoes

The walk to the Obelisk is short but steep. Good footwear is essential for the climb! :athletic_shoe: Reddit

☀️ Visit on a Clear Day

For the most spectacular views of Dublin Bay and mountains, a sunny day is a must. :sunwithface: Reddit

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

The Obelisk and adjacent Pyramid are ideal for capturing memorable photos, especially at sunrise/sunset. :camerawithflash: Reddit

🧺 Picnic Paradise

Pack a picnic to enjoy at the top, surrounded by incredible scenery. A lovely way to spend an afternoon. :sandwich: Reddit

🐿️ Spot Red Squirrels

Keep an eye out for protected red squirrels and other native wildlife in the woodlands. :chipmunk: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(674 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Killiney Hill Obelisk for its absolutely stunning panoramic views of Dublin Bay and the surrounding landscape, making it a must-visit for its scenic beauty. The short, steep walk through peaceful woodlands is well worth the effort, and the free entry and parking add to its appeal. Some note that food options are limited to a nearby cafe, and a clear day is essential for the best experience.

"Beautiful , calmful spot with stunning views over Dublin Bay watching the ships sailing , and the Wicklow Mountains ,Dalkey at the other end.

The walk to the Obelisk is short but steep roughly 10 mins from parking , surrounded by peaceful woodlands and sea air. The Obelisk built in 1740's and the Pyramid adjacent is Great place for photos, picnics, or a quiet moment at the top. Free parking and a lovely café nearby. ennroute there is a nice cafe, washrooms at the gate, Lovely flora and fauna including the protected red squirrel and other native species to Killiney"

Jango Mallu

"Nice Clam place to visit
It’s a mountain loop need to walk
Plenty of parking available there
The view from the spot is so beautiful Choose a sunny day Morning time or Evening time to visit, its very Hottest during the Noon hours
Free entry and free parking available
No food stores available nearby"

Albin Sebastian

"It’s a good climb to reach the pinnacle and well worth the effort."

Joseph Settanni

What People Like

Stunning panoramic views
Peaceful woodland walks
Free entry and parking

What People Dislike

Limited food options
Steep climb can be challenging

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Killiney Hill is accessible by car with free parking available. You can also reach it via public transport; the DART train stops at Killiney station, followed by a walk. Reddit

Yes, there is plenty of free parking available at Killiney Hill, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

Absolutely! The walk from the parking area to the Obelisk is about 10 minutes, though it is steep. The surrounding woodlands offer pleasant walking paths. Reddit

For the best views, driving directly to the parking lot is easiest. If using public transport, the DART to Killiney station is an option, followed by a walk or bus. Reddit

While the DART is a popular option, local bus routes may also serve the area. Check Dublin Bus schedules for routes that stop near Killiney Hill. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Killiney Hill and the Obelisk are free to enter and explore. Enjoy the natural beauty and stunning views without any cost. Reddit

Killiney Hill is generally open from dawn till dusk. The Obelisk and surrounding parkland are accessible during daylight hours. Reddit

There's no need to book tickets; Killiney Hill is a public park and the Obelisk is freely accessible to all visitors. Reddit

The Obelisk is a monument and not designed to be entered. Visitors can admire it from the outside and enjoy the views from its base. Reddit

Generally, there are no specific restrictions beyond respecting the natural environment and other visitors. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy stunning views, take photos, have a picnic, walk through woodlands, and spot local wildlife like red squirrels. Reddit

The summit near the Obelisk offers the most spectacular panoramic views of Dublin Bay, the Irish Sea, and the Wicklow Mountains. Reddit

Yes, families can enjoy the walks and the open space. The short, steep climb might be challenging for very young children, but the views are rewarding. Reddit

Absolutely! The summit is a fantastic spot for a picnic with incredible scenery. Remember to take any rubbish with you. Reddit

You might spot protected red squirrels, various bird species, and other native flora and fauna in the peaceful woodlands. Reddit

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

There is a lovely café located nearby, en route to the Obelisk, offering refreshments. However, no food stores are directly at the summit. Reddit

No, there are no food stores available at the Obelisk itself. It's best to bring your own snacks or visit the nearby café. Reddit

A nice café is situated en route to the Obelisk. For more extensive dining, you'd need to travel to nearby Dalkey or Killiney village. Reddit

Yes, bringing a picnic is highly recommended as it allows you to fully enjoy the scenic spots. The café is also a good option for a quick bite. Reddit

While specific picnic tables might be limited, the grassy areas at the summit provide ample space for comfortable picnicking. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Sunrise and sunset offer the most beautiful light for photography, providing a picture-perfect all-round view of the sea and city. Reddit

The Obelisk itself, with the panoramic Dublin Bay vista as a backdrop, is arguably the most photogenic spot. Reddit

You can capture stunning landscape shots of Dublin Bay, the coastline, mountains, and the historic Obelisk. Portraits with the view are also popular. Reddit

Yes, it's considered one of the most beautiful places for sunrise and sunset photos, offering incredible light and expansive views. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A tripod can be useful for low-light sunrise/sunset shots. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Killiney Hill offers a fantastic outing for families. The short, steep walk to the Obelisk is manageable for most children, and the reward is incredible views that will captivate young imaginations. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the summit, turning the visit into a memorable family meal with a view. Keep an eye out for the red squirrels in the woodlands – a guaranteed hit with kids! Reddit

While the climb is rewarding, ensure children have appropriate footwear for the terrain. The open spaces at the top provide room for kids to move around safely after the ascent. It's a great way to introduce children to the natural beauty and history of the Dublin coastline in an accessible and engaging way. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walkers and Nature Enthusiasts

For those who love a good walk with a rewarding view, Killiney Hill is ideal. The woodland trails offer a pleasant, albeit short, hike, leading you through diverse flora and fauna. The main ascent to the Obelisk is steep but quick, ensuring you reach the panoramic viewpoints without an arduous trek. Reddit

Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to spot native wildlife, particularly the protected red squirrels. The combination of sea air, lush greenery, and expansive coastal scenery makes it a refreshing experience. It’s a perfect spot for a brisk walk followed by a moment of quiet appreciation of the natural landscape. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of the Obelisk

The Killiney Hill Obelisk stands as a testament to 18th-century landscaping and architectural ambition. Built in the 1740s, it was part of the estate of the wealthy La Touche family, who owned the nearby Bellevue estate. The Obelisk served as a prominent landmark and a focal point for the picturesque views they cultivated on their grounds. Its construction reflects the Georgian era's penchant for follies and grand vistas, designed to impress and provide a romantic backdrop for estate life. The adjacent Pyramid, though less prominent, adds to the historical intrigue of the site. Reddit

Today, the Obelisk is a beloved monument for locals and visitors alike, offering not just historical context but also unparalleled panoramic views. It's a place where history meets natural beauty, inviting contemplation and appreciation of both. The enduring presence of the Obelisk on Killiney Hill ensures its continued role as a significant landmark in the Dublin landscape. Reddit

Experiencing the Views and Nature

The primary draw of Killiney Hill is its stunning natural beauty and breathtaking views. From the summit, visitors are treated to a sweeping panorama of Dublin Bay, stretching from Howth Head to the south coast. You can watch ships sailing in the bay, admire the rugged beauty of the Wicklow Mountains in the distance, and see the charming town of Dalkey nestled below. The clarity of the view is often highlighted, with visitors recommending a sunny day for the best experience. Reddit

Beyond the vistas, the peaceful woodlands surrounding the Obelisk offer a tranquil escape. The paths are well-maintained, making for an enjoyable walk, even with the short but steep incline to the top. Keep an eye out for the protected red squirrel and other native flora and fauna that call Killiney Hill home. The combination of accessible natural beauty and historical landmarks makes it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or simply a moment of quiet reflection amidst the sea air. Reddit

You may also like