What can you do in Waterford Ireland?

Overview

Snuggled in Ireland’s sunny south east, Waterford prides in being Ireland’s oldest city. Its stunning mountains have witnessed the rise and fall of its cozy villages, whilst its ancient coastlines still bear its majestic front. Founded as early as 914 by Viking traders, Waterford City still exudes that exciting medieval flavor. Its unhurried riverside fare patiently recounts a millennium’s worth of stories through its oldest buildings and museums.

Exploring the City

The county’s 147 kilometers of dazzling coastline is replete with dramatic mountain ranges, charming river valleys, and at least 49 alluring beaches, all of which are very much accessible. The city is composed of numerous districts. The main thoroughfare can be found in the county’s administrative capital, the Dungarvan, which is set in front of a broad bay. In between, tourists will find the lovely little villages of the Copper Coast Geopark, and countless seaside resorts. The city’s insurmountable pre-historic and historic sites can be found in the Houses & Gardens. The best way to see everything is through a bike, as Waterford is largely a cycling community.

Tourist Attractions

Before you head to see the pre-historic and historic buildings of Waterford, take time to bask in its glorious natural surroundings. The Copper Coast has been named as one of UNESCO’s GeoParks. The Comeragh Mountains form the spine of the county; the panoramic view of which can render any tourist breathless. Sightseeing includes the Clonmel and the Slieve na Mban. The best way to see all these is through horse riding along Mahon Falls and the Galty Mountains. Book your Waterford Hotels with Reservations.com.

Things to Do

Make sure to bring home a lifestyle product found only within the county, the Waterford Crystal. The gem is a result of the finest craftsmanship there is. Guests can also choose from the largest selection of crystals in the world at the House of Crystal Visitor Centre, and gain access through a factory tour. Join the enticing spectacle of the Tall Ships Race, where culture and music blends perfectly and attracts half a million people yearly. Waterford is also an excellent avenue for some of the best kite-surfing, sailing, kayaking, and diving available. The area serves as a natural playground for walking and horseback riding. Try your luck at the Laser Blast, a heart racing experience which is similar to the laser tagging. Visit the Pirate Adventure & Mini Golf for a variety of family-centered activities. Other equally interesting amusement parks you and your family can visit include Dunmore Adventure Center and the Tramore Amusement and Leisure Park.

Best Museums

A thousand year’s worth of stories has been perfectly documented by the Waterford Museum of Treasures. Tales of the construction of Reginald’s Tower and the Bishop’s Palace are told in a timely fashion by the museum. The Edmund Rice Heritage Centre is another alternative, which provides artifacts from Mount Sion. Walk through a thousand years of history at the Waterford Historic Quarter. Ireland’s oldest civic urban building is the Reginald’s Tower. The tower also doubles as a museum, which is also Europe’s oldest tower of mortared stone. Exhibits include a remarkable collection of colorful regalia.