Hidden gems in Dublin you should definitely drive to this weekend

Since it's going to be a summer of outdoor activities, we thought we would highlight some Dublin hidden gems that you may have never been to, but should absolutely check out.

You'll be surprised how many underrated beaches, parks, walks and other hidden gems there are in and around Dublin. So, we have teamed up with DACIA to bring some of them to you and inspire you to hop in the car and make the most of the outdoors this summer. Red Rock Beach, Sutton Whether you decide to reach this beach by hiking the whole of Howth Head or by walking from Sutton, it's a wonderful little spot that won't be jammed full of people on a sunny day. You can park just before the Howth Head Cliff Walk trailhead or in Sutton and if you time it right, you'll reach Red Rock Beach just as the sun sets for an absolutely magical swim. Distance from city centre: 38-minute drive. Shelly Banks Beach, Irishtown Nature Park Considering how central this beach is, it's surprising how quiet it can be. In fact, the whole park is a bit of a Dublin hidden gem. While many will be walking along the Great South Wall, this place should also be on your list. Distance from city centre: 20-minute drive https://www.instagram.com/p/COvcmfDpTSF/ Swords Estuary Considering how close it is to the village of Malahide, which is an ultra-popular spot on the northside, Swords Estuary doesn't tend to be too busy. That's a bit shocking, as the views from here are pretty gorgeous. Distance from city centre: 32-minute drive https://www.instagram.com/p/CNkx-sLAR6t/ Blessington Street Basin This is perhaps the definition of a 'secret garden' or in other words, a 'hidden gem'. Located just off Berkely Street, it's a drinking water reserve that also features sweet-scented flowers, mature trees and swans on the water. With a walkway and benches, it makes for a lovely little afternoon escape from the city, in the city. Distance from city centre: 8-minute drive https://www.instagram.com/p/COak1ESnTAf/ Shankill to Scalp Loop An 11.7-kilometre loop trail located near Shankill, County Dublin, this moderate walk consists of beautiful wildflowers and some pretty delightful views along the way. It's well worth driving out to if you fancy something a little different for your weekend adventure. Distance from city centre: 43-minute drive https://www.instagram.com/p/CHhxEsHAvi-/ Baldoyle Racecourse Park Once you enter, it looks like a pretty standard park. But if you keep walking through and cross a narrow road into another more rugged park, you'll discover an expanse of walking routes by which you may come across some farm animals. Distance from city centre: 38-minute drive https://www.instagram.com/p/CA_ZdERnlk1/ Teaming up with Dacia to celebrate the launch of the All-New Sandero and the All-New Sandero Stepway, we are buzzing to jump in the car and discover the bits of Dublin that we never have before. With the All-New Sandero, Ireland's most affordable new car, it’s got all you need for your summer road tripping. Standard equipment is exceptional for the price of only €12,990 RRP (€39 per week on the road), including air conditioning, cruise control, speed limiter, central locking, DAB radio, Bluetooth and lots of standard safety equipment. But Dacia's values remain the same with every new model: simple, spacious, and reliable motoring at a shockingly affordable price. Fancy something a little bigger? The All-New Sandero Stepway is available from €15,990 RRP (€49 per week on the road), All-New Stepway features innovative patented modular roof bars that cleverly convert into a roof rack to carry loads up to 80kg. Additionally, All-New Sandero models are covered by Dacia’s comprehensive three-year, 100,000km Warranty and Roadside Assistance. To find out more, head here.