Witnessing the unexpected sight of Tom Hanks and Bono, U2’s lead singer, strolling together through an Irish village without being mobbed by selfie-seekers may seem improbable. Yet, there they were, engrossed in conversation while locals respectfully afforded them space. Nearby, one could find Bono’s bandmates, the Edge and Larry Mullen Jr., alongside British actor Stephen Fry and esteemed authors like Colm McCann, Roddy Doyle, and Richard Ford, among numerous other luminaries from the realms of art, hailing from Ireland, the UK, and the US.
Contrary to the glitz of Cannes or the glamour of the Oscars, the Dalkey Book Festival, nestled in the serene coastal village south of Dublin, stands out for its unassuming charm. Embraced by none other than Salman Rushdie, who dubbed Dalkey “the best little festival in the world,” this premier literary event has earned a place on the calendars of globetrotters seeking cultural enrichment.
What began as a modest pop-up event in 2010, predominantly featuring Irish authors, has blossomed into a four-day cultural extravaganza running from June 13 to 16. With a rich tapestry of music, comedy, film screenings, and more, the festival now draws around 20,000 attendees. Preceding Dalkey is The Borris House Festival of Writing and Ideas, held from June 7 to 9 at an 18th-century estate in Carlow. Together, these festivals transform Dublin into a hotbed of cultural activity throughout June, capitalizing on the allure of extended daylight hours, balmy temperatures, and bustling pub life.
For those seeking upscale accommodations during these events, the Westbury Hotel, nestled just off Grafton Street, stands as Dublin’s most luxurious option, albeit with starting rates reaching $2,000 per night. Boasting a prime central location and a warm Irish hospitality, the Westbury competes with historic establishments like the Shelbourne and the InterContinental Dublin in the affluent suburb of Ballsbridge.
The Westbury’s afternoon tearoom and the Sidecar cocktail lounge serve as social hubs frequented by festival attendees. The hotel’s modern rooms exude a timeless charm, featuring signature teacups adorned with Tiffany Blue stripes, marble bathrooms, luxurious Liddell linens, and expansive windows overlooking Balfe Street. Notably, the Westbury recently unveiled 18 opulent new suites, including a grand suite named after the hotel’s founder, PV Doyle.
Having settled into the Westbury, visitors with literary interests can embark on a brief stroll to Trinity University, an esteemed institution founded in the 16th century. Trinity’s main attraction is the renowned Book of Kells, housed in the historic Long Room library alongside works by celebrated Irish authors such as Bram Stoker, Oscar Wilde, and Jonathan Swift.
Adjacent to Trinity, Grafton Street leads to St. Stephen’s Green, an enchanting 18th-century park adorned with benches, duck ponds, and statues commemorating Irish historical figures. Both the park and the university offer serene respites from the bustling luxury retail district.
While classic attractions such as the Guinness Storehouse, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Dublin Castle appeal to first-time visitors, off-the-beaten-path gems like the Iveagh Gardens, Powerscourt Center, and the Hugh Lane Gallery at Trinity provide immersive cultural experiences. Moreover, the city’s burgeoning fine-dining scene offers gastronomic delights at acclaimed establishments like Liath and Chapter One, complemented by quintessential pub experiences at local favorites such as The Confession Box, The Bleeding Horse, and The Celt.
For a change of scenery, a ferry ride to Howth, accessible from Dublin’s quays, transports travelers to a charming fishing village characterized by excellent seafood restaurants like Aqua, overlooking the picturesque Irish Sea.
Further south, the coastal enclave of Dalkey, retaining its village allure, serves as a haven for literature enthusiasts during the Book Festival. With bustling pubs, cozy cafes, and charming bookstores, Dalkey embodies the quintessential Irish charm.
At last year’s Dalkey Book Festival, attendees were treated to engaging presentations, comedy skits, readings, and talks by celebrities like Tom Hanks and physicist Brian Cox. Similarly, the Festival of Writing and Ideas at Borris House offered a medley of thought-provoking discussions and literary readings amidst the historic grounds of the Irish mansion.
While not on par with the Monaco GP or the Met Gala in terms of glitz, Dublin offers unparalleled opportunities for highbrow mingling minus the crowds, making it a top choice for cultural enthusiasts seeking a rewarding experience without the fuss.
