From the fantastic Waterford Greenway to the stunning copper coast, there are walks, cycles, rambles and strolls to suit every age and ability here. Enjoy the great outdoors in Waterford, following our handy guide and stopping to refresh & refuel in our brand new coffee dock. The Wooden Pestle is open from 11.00am for tea, coffee and light bites. Enjoy our brand new seating area outside or take advantage of our free car parking and takeaway service. Here are some highlights for outdoor adventure in Waterford.
Waterford Greenway
There’s not much to say about the wonderful Waterford Greenway that we haven’t already said. Plan your outdoor adventure, deciding whether to walk or cycle the 46km greenway starting at the Quays of Waterford, journeying through areas of great cultural and natural significance to the gorgeous town of Dungarvin. Cross bridges, pass viaducts and tunnel from river to sea along the way, stopping to admire historic churches, houses, parks, and gardens along the way. You can hire bikes in the city centre and cycle at your leisure. The cycle should take about 4 hours and you can hop on a bus back with your bikes. It’s a must do when visiting the Crystal County and should be on everyone’s Irish bucket list.
Walking Trails and Hikes in Waterford
Walking comes in many forms in Waterford ranging from steep climbs to beachside strolls. Some of our favourite walks and hikes in Waterford include:
- The Copper Coast Geopark – Irelands only UNESCO Global Geopark
- Mount Congreve Estate and Gardens – Named ‘one of the great gardens of the world’.
- Comeragh Mountains and Lake Walk – A remarkable mountain range stretching from the Waterford coast near Dungarvan as far as Clonmel in Co. Tipperary.
- The Mahon Falls Walk – A 4km looped trail that features a magnificent waterfall
- Ardmore Cliff Walk – Cliffs, beaches and glorious coastal scenery dotted with history and heritage
- Waterford Greenway – Can be cycled or walked in sections.
Beaches in Waterford
Beaches in Waterford are the jewel in our crown. Popular with both tourists and locals, our gorgeous coastline is especially popular in warmer weather but are great for a relaxing walk at any time of the year. Enjoy a morning, midday or evening stroll along the golden sands of Tramore, Dunmore East, Clonea or Bunmahon beaches bringing a picnic and enjoying a meal al fresco. If you’re brave enough and love the idea of a refreshing dip in the Irish Sea, bring your togs and a towel and make sure you have a warm lift home to Viking Hotel!
Dunmore East Adventure Centre Waterford
Waterford outdoor activities are very much weather dependent, especially in the cooler months. If you love organised adventure, why not head for Dunmore East Adventure Centre Waterford, an adventure park where you’re getting wet whether you like it or not! Book a day in the adventure centre to enjoy a sea safari, kayaking, the aquapark, stand up paddleboarding sailing, archery, climbing and abseiling – and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. It’s a fun and exciting day out for families, couples and groups including stags and hens.
Refresh & Refuel
After a long day of outdoor exploring in Waterford, refresh and refuel in our new coffee dock where you can enjoy a refreshing cool drink or a hot tea or coffee along with some delicious sweet treats. If you’re lucky enough to be visiting on a Sunday, we have a very special menu which includes some delicious ‘Sunday Roast’ dishes. Enjoy a slow roasted rib of beef with all the trimmings or a delicious loin of bacon with cabbage and mash. We also have a lovely kids menu and a great selection of homemade desserts – if you can fit any more in!
If you’d like to make a booking in Viking Hotel for an overnight or weekend stay in Waterford, or a booking for a fantastic Sunday lunch, call our friendly reservations team. We offer you our best available rates when you book directly using our official website. You can also pop into our coffee dock any time from 11am for a refreshing drink or a spot of lunch. We look forward to welcoming you.
