The landscape of County Waterford is one of rich colours and grand scale, a smoothly sculptured coastline of bold proportions, low cliffs and large open bays. The county has 147km of dazzling coastline, with 49 beaches for holidaymakers to choose from. In the north of the county gradually expanding mountains offer travellers long walks, with amazing views over the plains and into Tipperary, whilst to the south, the hills rise from the lush valleys and coast, their slopes covered by plantations of plush fir trees.
Once described as 'a modern European port wrapped around an ancient Irish city', the county capital, Waterford, is the oldest city in Ireland. Significantly, it developed separately from the county which adopted its name; from the year 853 onwards Viking and later Norman settlements meant that the town thrived as an independent city state, prospering through trade with Europe, whilst the rest of the county concentrated on more traditional, rural farming and fishing activities along with a strong Celtic identity. Waterford City still enjoys its profile as an international destination, its historic architecture proving a significant attraction for visitors.
Things to do in County Waterford Two impressive, but accessible mountain ranges, the Knockmealdown and the Comeragh Mountains, are located on the border with neighbouring Tipperary, and are popular with both mountain climbers and hikers.
The long distance hiking path, known as the East Munster Way, runs for 47 miles from Carrick-on-Suir in County Tipperary, dipping briefly into Waterford, before ending back in Tipperary in the village of Clogheen.
A number of 'scenic drives' are promoted as a particularly efficient way for visitors to familiarise themselves with the best that Waterford has to offer. Whether you choose to explore the splendour of the Comeragh Mountains, the beauty of the East Waterford Peninsula, the climbing and dipping trail of the Lismore route, or the Suir Valley which borders the county with neighbouring Tipperary, these motoring excursions present some of the finest sightseeing to be found anywhere in Ireland.
Top Destinations
Waterford City – Most of Waterford's finest ecclesiastical and secular architecture dates from the 18th century, driven by the economic prosperity of the city. Ship building and glass making developed as important local industries over the following hundred years, with Waterford Crystal still giving the city an international profile today. The town enjoys a deep inland harbour, which helped the city to flourish as an important European port during the 16th and 17th centuries; the Quay runs for a mile through the city, and is still a major focal point for visitors. Adjacent to the Quay, and part of the original city walls and fortifications, the sturdy round form of Reginald's Tower is thought to be the oldest civic building in Ireland, and is now used as a museum.
Dungarvan – The administrative capital of Waterford owes its origins to the Anglo-Normans of the 12th century, although one of the Dukes of Devonshire can take much credit for substantially reconstructing the town during the 19th century. Set in the picturesque Dungarvan Bay, the town is an ideal base for anglers wishing to indulge their deep sea fishing requirements, whilst a number of excellent golf courses also offer superb opportunities.
Tramore – One of the leading seaside resorts in Ireland, Tramore is blessed with more than 5km of sandy beaches, and is a popular spot for surfers to test their skills; kite surfers and windsurf enthusiasts are also drawn to the town to enjoy the good breaks, big swells and consistent winds. Perched on a hill behind a sand spit which divides Tramore Bay, this former fishing village is now closely associated with the traditional seaside holiday experience.
Lismore – This small town on the River Blackmore is home to Lismore Castle, which was once owned by Sir Walter Raleigh; it was also the birthplace of 'the father of Chemistry', Robert Boyle. The Castle was built on the site of Lismore Abbey, an important ecclesiastical centre during the 7th century, although much of the current Castle architecture is attributable to the rebuilding work carried out in the Gothic (Revival) style by Sir Joseph Paxton for William Cavendish, the 6th Duke of Devonshire, during in the 19th century. The pointerly-spired Lismore Cathedral is dedicated to St Carthage, who is credited with founding the town.
17% off for a 21 nights holiday starting Wednesday, 29th of May
Oozing quality and character, these charming holiday cottages (refs W31921, W31922 and W31923) are set around a very pretty courtyard with central fountain. Valentine Cottage 1 (ref W31921), as its name suggests, offers a ...
Situated just a few minutes stroll from a beautiful sandy cove and the quaint village of Dunmore East, Fisherman?s Grove, one of a row, offers bright holiday accommodation. Dunmore East has numerous activities including ...
Surrounded by glorious countryside and overlooking fields leading down to the River Bride this charming property is on a peaceful cattle, sheep and fruit farm, 4 miles from the historic town of Lismore and 2 miles from ...
Set on the edge of the Knockmealdown Mountains, just 7 miles from Dungarvan, this charming cottage is adjacent to the owner?s country house B & B, and is surrounded by 11 acres with grazing horses and free roaming ...
Terraced house for 5. Seacliff is a development of delightful holiday homes nestling within the grounds of Dunmore East Golf Club which is on a headland above the ocean looking out towards Hook Head. Each of these ...
Picturesque seaside village. Detached cottage for 2/4. These quaint stone holiday homes are situated within a converted monastery which is adjacent to the ancient Round Tower of St Declan in the charming seaside village ...
17% off for a 21 nights holiday starting Saturday, 25th of May
These quaint stone holiday homes are situated within a converted monastery which is adjacent to the ancient Round Tower of St Declan in the charming seaside village of Ardmore. St. Declan founded Ireland?s earliest ...
This delightful detached holiday cottage is located just 5½ miles from the seaside town of Dungarvan, overlooking the countryside with horses peacefully grazing. Ideal for walking, the surrounding countryside includes ...
Picturesque seaside village. Detached cottage for 2/4. These quaint stone holiday homes are situated within a converted monastery which is adjacent to the ancient Round Tower of St Declan in the charming seaside village ...
In a romantic riverside setting, this detached single storey holiday property in a peaceful retreat nestles beside a river in the heart of the beautiful Nire Valley with a backdrop of woods and the Comeragh Mountains. It ...
17% off for a 21 nights holiday starting Saturday, 25th of May
These quaint stone holiday homes are situated within a converted monastery which is adjacent to the ancient Round Tower of St Declan in the charming seaside village of Ardmore. St. Declan founded Ireland?s earliest ...
Surrounded by glorious countryside and overlooking fields leading down to the River Bride this charming property is on a peaceful cattle, sheep and fruit farm, 4 miles from the historic town of Lismore and 2 miles from ...
Set on the edge of the Knockmealdown Mountains, just 7 miles from Dungarvan, this charming cottage is adjacent to the owner?s country house B & B, and is surrounded by 11 acres with grazing horses and free roaming ...
Two bathrooms. Detached single storey house for 4. Situated on the edge of the West Waterford Golf Club, this house makes the best use of its light and airy lounge. Well equipped and furnished to a very high standard, ...
Terraced house for 5. Seacliff is a development of delightful holiday homes nestling within the grounds of Dunmore East Golf Club which is on a headland above the ocean looking out towards Hook Head. Each of these ...
Situated just a few minutes stroll from a beautiful sandy cove and the quaint village of Dunmore East, Fisherman?s Grove, one of a row, offers bright holiday accommodation. Dunmore East has numerous activities including ...
Situated just a few minutes stroll from a beautiful sandy cove and the quaint village of Dunmore East, Fisherman?s Grove, one of a row, offers bright holiday accommodation. Dunmore East has numerous activities including ...
Panoramic views. Ground and first floor apartment for 3. Located in a peaceful lane only 1.5 miles from Tallow this delightful apartment makes a relaxing holiday retreat and is an ideal base for touring. The property is ...
Good touring base. Semi detached cottage for 4. This charming property is on a cattle, sheep and fruit farm surrounded by glorious countryside and overlooking fields leading down to the River Bride. The historic town ...
This delightful detached holiday cottage is located just 5½ miles from the seaside town of Dungarvan, overlooking the countryside with horses peacefully grazing. Ideal for walking, the surrounding countryside includes ...
This delightful detached holiday cottage is located just 5½ miles from the seaside town of Dungarvan, overlooking the countryside with horses peacefully grazing. Ideal for walking, the surrounding countryside includes ...
17% off for a 21 nights holiday starting Wednesday, 29th of May
Oozing quality and character, these charming holiday cottages (refs W31921, W31922 and W31923) are set around a very pretty courtyard with central fountain. Valentine Cottage 1 (ref W31921), as its name suggests, offers a ...
17% off for a 21 nights holiday starting Wednesday, 29th of May
Oozing quality and character, these charming holiday cottages (refs W31921, W31922 and W31923) are set around a very pretty courtyard with central fountain. Valentine Cottage 1 (ref W31921), as its name suggests, offers a ...
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