Fingal is an area in north County Dublin . It boasts rural charm at the gates of Dublin City . A variety of amenities, both natural and man-made, are here to be savored and enjoyed. Beautiful beaches and fascinating wild fowl reserves as well as plenty of other activities such as golf, sight-seeing and equestrian centers ensures a visitor to Fingal is never short of something to do.
It is known that Mesolithic people hunted around the Dublin area some 7,000 years ago. The earliest monument, a dolmen known as St. Aideen's Grave, lies on the Hill of Howth and dates back 5,000 years. However it is the medieval period which offers most to see from a historical point of view. Dunsoghly Castle, north of Finglas, contains the last original 15th/16th century roof to survive in the country and it served as a model for the reconstruction of roofs at Bunratty castle in Co. Clare and Rothe House, County Kilkenny.
Other historical sites worth visiting are Howth Castle and Howth Transport Museum.
Fingal is blessed with a great selection of many golf courses for golf vacations in Ireland. Picturesque open countryside and a magnificent coastline are ideal environments against which to fashion golf courses. The golfing visitor is well catered for with suitable courses for both novice and experienced golfers. Elmgreen Golf Centre, Castleknock and the world famous Portmarnock Links Golf Course are just two of the fine courses available.
The character of Fingal's towns and villages has been forged from a variety of influences. Fishing has been a traditional livelihood along the coast from the earliest of settlers. Seaside villages, like Loughshinny, retain the gentle ambiance of another age. Above all, Fingal's strength lies in being able to have a rural holiday while being only minutes from the city.