Ardmore Travel Guide
Discover the enchanting village of Ardmore, Ireland with our comprehensive travel guide featuring the best things to do, places to stay, where to eat, and more.
- Introduction to Ardmore
- List of Places to Visit in Ardmore
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Ardmore
- Best Things to Do in Ardmore: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Ardmore
- Food and Drink Scene of Ardmore
- Where to Stay in Ardmore: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Ardmore: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Ardmore
- Best Time to Visit Ardmore
- Do’s and Don’ts of Ardmore
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Ardmore: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Ardmore
- Where to Go Next from Ardmore: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Ardmore
A captivating coastal village in County Waterford, Ardmore is steeped in history, renowned for its natural beauty, and is home to fantastic eateries, bars, and shops. Whether you want to explore its ancient ruins, hike scenic trails, or simply relax on sandy beaches, Ardmore has something for everyone.
List of Places to Visit in Ardmore
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- St. Declan’s Well and Oratory: Discover the legend of Saint Declan, explore the Holy Well, and take in the incredible views of Ardmore Bay.
- Ardmore Round Tower and Cathedral: An ancient tower and church perched atop a hill overlooking the village.
- Ardmore Open Farm: Fun for all ages with petting animals, zip-lining and a gorgeous garden.
Natural Attractions of Ardmore: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Ardmore Cliff Walk: A two-hour hike along a three-mile coastal path that boasts stunning views of cliffs, sea and the beach.
- Ardmore Beaches: With miles of sandy beaches and crystal clear water, Ardmore is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, swimmers, and sunbathers.
- Comeragh Mountains: Located nearby and perfect for an adventurous hike or bike ride through breathtaking landscapes.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Ardmore
- The Ardmore Loop Walk: This 5 km loop walk highlights the stunning scenery of the cliffside.
- The Cliff Walk to the Goat’s Path: A 10 km hike through towering cliffs and stunning seascapes, leading to the stunning Goat’s Path overlooking Whiting Bay.
Best Things to Do in Ardmore: Activities and Tours
- Surfing: Ardmore Surf School offers lessons for beginners and all-day rentals for seasoned surfers.
- Kayaking: Paddle around the coast on a guided tour or go out on your own with Ardmore Adventures.
- Horse Riding: Experience the Irish countryside on horseback with Ardmore Riding Stables.
Week-Long Itinerary for Ardmore
Day 1: Explore the picturesque village and its ancient ruins.
Day 2: Hike scenic trails along the coastline and enjoy the stunning views.
Day 3: Spend the day adventuring in the nearby Comeragh Mountains.
Day 4: Learn about the village’s history through a guided tour.
Day 5: Enjoy watersports on the beach.
Day 6: Take a kayaking or horseback-riding tour.
Day 7: Relax and unwind at a local café or pub, and sample some of the local cuisine.
Food and Drink Scene of Ardmore
Must-Try Dishes
- Seafood Chowder: A hearty soup made with fresh seafood, potatoes, and creamy broth.
- Black Pudding: A traditional Irish sausage made with pork blood, oatmeal, and spices.
- Fresh Fish: Sample the daily catch of fresh fish from the sea.
Local Beverages
- Whiskey: Sip on locally distilled whiskey at one of the charming pubs.
- Guinness: Enjoy a pint of Ireland’s most famous stout.
- Sunny Ireland Gin: A locally made gin offering refreshing crisp notes of fruits, berries, and botanicals.
Where to Stay in Ardmore: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- The Cliff House Hotel: An award-winning five-star hotel on a cliffside with panoramic views of the sea.
- Duncrone B&B: A warm and inviting bed-and-breakfast set on beautifully landscaped grounds.
- The Round Tower Hotel: A family-friendly hotel with a restaurant and bar offering delicious food and drink.
What to Buy in Ardmore: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Knit Sweaters: Traditional Irish wool products that will keep you warm and fashionable.
- Pottery and Ceramic Art: Handcrafted pottery and ceramics reflecting the colors and beauty of Ardmore.
- Irish Whiskey: A bottle of locally distilled whiskey for a taste of Ireland at home.
Local Culture and Customs of Ardmore
Ardmore has a rich culture steeped in tradition, which you’ll find expressed in the villagers’ warmth and hospitality. Traditional music and dancing also play a significant role in Ardmore’s cultural scene.
Best Time to Visit Ardmore
The best time to visit Ardmore is in the summer, between May and September when temperatures are mild and days are long. However, visitors are sure to have a lovely experience in any month of the year, with winter being the perfect time for hikes and wildlife watching.
Do’s and Don’ts of Ardmore
Do:
- Take a hike along the coastline
- Explore the ancient ruins
- Taste the local cuisine, especially the seafood
Don’t:
- Disturb the natural wildlife and ecosystem
- Forget to dress appropriately for outdoor activities
- Be disrespectful of local customs and traditions
Safety and Health
Safety in Ardmore
Ardmore is a safe place to visit with relatively low rates of crime. Visitors should be aware of the risks associated with outdoor activities, such as proper hiking gear and clothes. Visitors should also be aware of any beach warnings and keep track of the tides.
Health in Ardmore
Visitors have access to high-quality medical care in the nearby town of Dungarvan. Make sure that you have travel insurance before embarking on your journey.
Getting to Ardmore: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Ardmore
The nearest airport to Ardmore is Waterford Regional Airport, located approximately an hour’s drive away. The larger Cork Airport is approximately a two-hour drive away.
Bus Stations Near Ardmore
Buses depart frequently from Dublin and Cork to Dungarvan, and from there, Ardmore is just a short taxi ride away.
Other Options
Visitors can also drive to Ardmore or hire a private transfer.
How to Get Around in Ardmore
Ardmore is a small village that can easily be explored on foot. For visitors interested in exploring more of the surrounding areas, hiring a car and traveling around at your own pace can be a good option.
Where to Go Next from Ardmore: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Dungarvan: A historic town with a bustling harbor, quaint pubs, restaurants, and shops.
- The Waterford Greenway: A pedestrian and cycling trail that spans 46km along an old railway, highlighting beautiful natural scenery.
- Cork City: A vibrant city rich in history, culture, and art.
Conclusion
Ardmore is a picturesque village in County Waterford that offers not only stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures but also rich cultural and historical experiences. Whether you are looking for a romantic escape, a family holiday, or an adventure with friends, Ardmore has something to offer for everyone.
