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.

Randers Tropical Zoo features the largest artificial rain forest in Europe, with mirroring the three rainforest continents: South America, Asia and Africa. Observe giant lianas, roaring waterfalls, and more than 450 different tropical plants, and 250 species of animals, and more than half of them walk around freely. If you are brave, you can also get very close to the snakes in the Asian snake yard, or to an armadillo or a green anaconda, which is the heaviest boa constrictor species in the world. For having a break from this wildlife experience, you can take it low with traditional Danish farming animals at the playground, or with a drink and a snack at the cafe.

Near the city center and the harbour environment, GAIA museum offers the unique opportunity to experience art mainly made by artists with mental or psychic handicaps. The works are not characterised by a special style or school but are the truest expression of spontaneity and great talent. Head here for opening your mind.