County Waterford Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around in County Waterford, one of the most beautiful regions in Ireland.


Introduction to County Waterford

County Waterford is a land of stunning scenic beauty, with its lush green hills, rugged coastline, and vibrant culture. Located in Southeast Ireland, the county is home to an array of attractions that draw tourists from all over the world. From the rich history and heritage to its outdoor wonders, County Waterford is packed with exciting places to explore. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at the best things to see and do in County Waterford.

List of Places to Visit in County Waterford

There are so many places to visit in County Waterford that it’s hard to know where to start. Here are just a few of the most popular attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre: This world-renowned manufacturer of fine crystal is one of the most popular destinations in Waterford city. Visitors can see the craftsmen at work and explore the retail store.

  • Reginald’s Tower: This medieval tower in Waterford city was once used to protect the city from Viking invaders. Visitors can explore the tower and learn about the region’s history.

  • Lismore Castle: This stunning 12th-century castle is set on a hill overlooking the town of Lismore. Today it is privately owned but the grounds are open to the public.

Natural Attractions of County Waterford: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Comeragh Mountains: This mountain range dominates the west of the county and offers incredible views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the many hiking trails and take in the beautiful scenery.

  • The Copper Coast Geopark: This UNESCO Global Geopark stretches along the rugged coastline of the county, with its cliffs and rock formations a highlight for visitors. GEO park offers visitors the chance to learn about the local geology and take guided walks and hikes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of County Waterford

County Waterford is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, with plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • The Waterford Greenway: This disused railway bed runs from Waterford city to Dungarvan, a distance of 46km. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is suitable for walkers and cyclists of all abilities.

  • The Comeragh Mountains: This mountain range offers a network of trails for hikers, with routes ranging from short walks to multi-day treks.

Best Things to Do in County Waterford: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, County Waterford has something for everyone. Here are just a few of the best things to do in the region:

  • Whale Watching: Visitors can take boat tours from the town of Dungarvan to see dolphins, whales, and other marine life in their natural habitats.

  • Copper Coast Surf School: Located on the County Waterford coast, this school teaches people how to surf in a fun and safe environment.

Week-Long Itinerary for County Waterford

Visitors to County Waterford will find that a week is not enough time to see everything. Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip:

Day Activity
1 Explore Waterford City, Lismore Castle, and Reginald’s Tower
2 Visit the Waterford Greenway and explore Dungarvan
3 Go whale watching and spend the afternoon at Stradbally Cove
4 Hike in the Comeragh Mountains
5 Take a tour of the Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre
6 Explore the Copper Coast Geopark
7 Visit the towns of Tramore and Dunmore East

Food and Drink Scene of County Waterford

The food and drink scene in County Waterford is diverse and exciting, with plenty of options for foodies. Here are a few of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Blaa: This locally-made white bread is a staple in Waterford and can be filled with a variety of ingredients including bacon and sausage.

  • Seafood Chowder: With its proximity to the coast, County Waterford is known for its delicious seafood chowder.

Local Beverages

  • Murphy’s Red Ale: This local beer is brewed in Waterford city and has a distinct caramel flavor.

  • Blackwater No.5 Gin: This award-winning gin is distilled in Cappoquin and includes a unique mix of botanicals.

Where to Stay in County Waterford: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Visitors to County Waterford have a range of accommodation options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel or a budget-friendly hostel, there’s something for everyone. Some popular options include:

  • Waterford Castle Hotel: This majestic castle is set on its own private island in the River Suir and offers luxurious accommodation.

  • Dooley’s Hotel: Located in the heart of Waterford City, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and a traditional Irish bar.

What to Buy in County Waterford: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to County Waterford will find plenty of unique souvenirs and locally-made products to bring home. Some popular options include:

  • Waterford Crystal: Visitors can bring home a piece of the famous glassware from the Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre.

  • Knitwear: County Waterford is known for its high-quality knitwear, and visitors can find locally-made sweaters, hats, and scarves.

Local Culture and Customs of County Waterford

County Waterford has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional music, dance, and art still alive today. Visitors to the region are encouraged to immerse themselves in the local culture, whether that means attending a traditional music session or tasting the local cuisine.

Best Time to Visit County Waterford

The best time to visit County Waterford depends on your interests. Summer is a popular time to visit for outdoor activities, while autumn is ideal for exploring the region’s rich heritage and culture. The Christmas period is also a magical time to visit, with plenty of festive events and markets in the towns and villages throughout the county.

Do’s and Don’ts of County Waterford

Before visiting County Waterford, it’s important to know some of the local customs and etiquette:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Be polite and courteous to locals and other visitors
  • Take in the stunning scenery and natural beauty of the region

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment
  • Be disrespectful to the local community
  • Overindulge in alcohol or drugs

Safety and Health

Safety in County Waterford

County Waterford is a safe and welcoming destination for visitors. However, as with any place, it’s important to take precautions to ensure your safety:

  • Stay aware of your surroundings, particularly at night
  • Avoid leaving valuables unattended
  • Take care when hiking or walking on uneven terrain

Health in County Waterford

Visitors to County Waterford are unlikely to face any health risks. However, it’s important to take basic precautions to stay healthy:

  • Drink bottled water or boil tap water before drinking
  • Wear protective clothing and use insect repellent to avoid ticks during outdoor activities

Getting to County Waterford: Transportation Options and Logistics

County Waterford is easily accessible by a variety of transportation options.

Airports Near County Waterford

The closest airport to Waterford city is Waterford Airport, with flights from Dublin and other major cities in Ireland.

Bus Stations Near County Waterford

Several bus companies offer services to County Waterford including Bus Eireann, JJ Kavanagh & Sons and CityLink.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach County Waterford by train, car, or ferry depending on their point of departure.

How to Get Around in County Waterford

The best way to get around County Waterford is by car, although there are also bus and train services available with Bus Éireann and Iarnród Éireann.

Where to Go Next from County Waterford: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

County Waterford is a great base for exploring the surrounding regions of Southeast Ireland. Some nearby destinations worth exploring include:

  • Kilkenny City: Known for its medieval heritage and lively arts scene, Kilkenny is a must-see destination.

  • Cork City: The largest city in Southwest Ireland, Cork offers a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of festivals and attractions.

Conclusion

County Waterford is one of the most beautiful regions in Ireland, with its stunning scenery, rich culture, and friendly locals. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures or immersing yourself in local history and heritage, there’s something for everyone in County Waterford. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your trip to this magical region of Ireland.

County Waterford (dark green) County Waterford (dark green) Ardmore round tower Ardmore round tower Lismore Castle Lismore Castle Reginald's Tower on Waterford city quays Reginald's Tower on Waterford city quays


    Ardmore
    Dungarvan
    Dunmore East
    Tramore
    Waterford