Waterford & The East

A winner of many horticulture awards, Mount Congreve Gardens is an extensive collection of rare and native flora. The grounds are full of surprises, from a Chinese Pagoda to a classical temple. Historians will delight in spectacular views of Woodstown, the old Viking settlement, as well as the old Ice House - situated right next to The Rock Waterfall.

Explore the history of the various prehistoric farmers who settled in Ireland, from the Mesolithic period to the time of the Norman Invasion (1169). Reconstructed dwellings such as a mesolithic camp, a neolithic farmstead, a portal dolmen, a cyst grave, stone circle, medieval ringfort, monastic site, crannóg (ancient lake dwelling) and a Viking harbour are spread across 35 acres of parkland, estuary trails and wetland forest. The park also runs demonstrations on traditional rural life skills from blacksmithing to gold panning. This is a truly immersive experience exploring Ireland's roots and forgotten traditions.

The five-kilometre long golden stretch of Tramore was given the famous Blue Flag award in 2018, and is well worth a day trip, either for a scenic beach stroll, or to discover this lively resort town just a few kilometres south of Waterford.

This set of gardens pays homage to the life of Irish-born Patrick Lafcadio Hearn, who is famed for his travels and extensive works about Japanese culture. The place includes among others an American, Greek, and Stream garden: join a guided tour or take a stroll yourself.

Two distinct gardens spreading across seven acres are the perfect backdrop for a panoramic walk with views on the 12th-century landmark castle. The entrance ticket also gives access to the contemporary gallery Lismore Castle Arts.

Situated among the ruins of a former woollen mill along the River Dawn, this extensive garden features several interesting botanical specialties, from a lavender field to lily ponds in the North African corner.

Although the Blarney Castle is an hour's drive from Waterford, it is famous enough to be put on your to-do list during your visit: this medieval stronghold is home to the rock that gives the gift of eloquence to anyone who kisses it.

This driving route explores Waterford, Tramore, Dungarvan, Comeragh Mountains Loop, Lemybrien, and back to Waterford city. From hidden coves to mountain scenery, this loop passes Waterford’s coastal UNESCO-site, The Geopark, before venturing into the mountains to the spectacular Mahon Falls. The first stop along this smorgasbord of coastal and mountain scenery is Tramore, a quintessential Victorian seaside resort. Driving towards Newtown Head, look for the Metal Man perched on one of three pillars on the headland. From here, continue west (via R675) along the Copper Coast, a UNESCO European Geopark named for its 19th century mining heritage. It’s a hypnotic route, spotted with Blue Flag beaches, stunning views and pretty villages like Annestown and Stradbally. Finally you will arrive in Dungarvan. From Dungarvan, the R672 links with Ballymacarbry, where a right turn takes you through the walker’s wonderland that is the Nire Valley. Continuing east to the R678 and R676 crossroads, there are two options – turning north to Carrick on Suir before taking the N24 back to Waterford, or turning south (via R676) towards Mahon Falls, a 240-foot waterfall tumbling spectacularly off the glaciated range, towards Waterford via Lemybrien (via N25), spare a thought for William Crotty, a notorious highwayman hanged in the city in 1742. Crotty robbed coaches travelling along what is today’s N25, and his treasure is still said to be stashed amongst the corrie lakes in the Comeragh Mountains.

The 178km Vee Drive Tour unfolds one stunning vista after another. Setting off on the N25 from Waterford, this driving loop ducks between the Comeragh Mountains and Copper Coast following the N72 to its first stop, the dazzling heritage town of Lismore. Lismore’s showpiece is its castle, founded in 1185, which belongs to the Duke of Devonshire today. Leaving Lismore, follow the R668 as it twists and turns through the Knockmealdown Mountains culminating in breath-taking fashion at the Vee, a hairpin bend overlooking the Golden Vale. Journey from Cahir back to Waterford via the N24 stopping at the heritage gems of Cahir Castle and Ormond Castle. The Vee Drive also features two spurs, which you can use as detours if time permits. The first zips down to Ardmore, where a round tower, cathedral and hermitage captivate visitors to this day. The second spur detours, via St. Declan’s Way.