Ireland360
County Waterford’s coast is quieter than the Wild Atlantic Way and every bit as dramatic. It suits a long weekend, with a day on the Greenway, a day on the coast road and seafood every night.
Waterford Greenway
The Greenway runs 46 km from Waterford city to Dungarvan along an old railway line, so it’s almost flat and traffic-free. Highlights include the Kilmacthomas and Durrow viaducts and the Ballyvoile tunnel. Bike hire and shuttle buses mean you only need to cycle one way, and families often ride just a section.
The Copper Coast
Between Tramore and Dungarvan, the Copper Coast is a UNESCO Global Geopark named after its 19th-century copper mines. The coast road passes coves, sea stacks and old mine engine houses at Bunmahon. Stop at the beaches and lay-bys along the way.
Seaside towns
Tramore has a long sandy beach and surf schools. Dunmore East is a pretty fishing harbour with cliff walks. Dungarvan has a castle on the harbour and a strong food scene. Ardmore has a round tower, St Declan’s cliff walk and the Cliff House Hotel.
Into the hills
Inland, the Comeragh Mountains have Mahon Falls and the Comeragh Drive. Lismore, with its castle gardens, makes a good half-day trip.
Tip: the Greenway is busiest on sunny weekends, so start early or go midweek.
