MALAHIDE STRAND

MAY 2008 VISIT TO MALAHIDE STRAND

As mentioned already I walked from Malahide to Portmarnock but my camera overheated and I had to stop photographing as I got close to High Rock. The weather was really hot, too hot for the Canon 1DsIII, and I was exhausted.

In May 2008, Malahide beach was a vast expanse of sand, stretching towards the horizon. A leisurely stroll from the town centre would lead you to the wide Velvet Strand, curving gently along the mouth of the estuary. Walking further, you'd reach Low Rock, a popular swimming spot, before encountering the more rugged terrain of High Rock. This rocky outcrop provided a challenging swim and stunning views of the Irish Sea.

Continuing past High Rock, the beach gradually transitioned into Portmarnock, where the sandy strand opened up once more. This coastal walk, though scenic, spanned a distance of 5 kilometres, so it was not for the faint-hearted.

High Rock itself was a distinctive feature of the coastline, its jagged silhouette standing out against the sky. It served as a natural landmark, marking the transition between the two beaches.

As you walked along the beach, you might have spotted yachts gracefully navigating a channel. These vessels would then sail parallel to the beach, following the coastline southwards. Their white sails against the blue sky added a touch of elegance to the seascape.

The development and improved transport links since 2008 have undoubtedly made Malahide more accessible. However, the timeless beauty of the beach, the allure of High Rock, and the spectacle of the yachts remain unchanged.