With restrictions finally starting to ease and life slowly returning to the new normal, we are excited to welcome back leisure guests to Viking Hotel. We are still encouraged to spend as much time as possible outdoors to reduce our risk and, lucky for us, Waterford is full of walks, trails and hikes suiting all ages and abilities. Make the most of your staycation in Waterford and enjoy the great outdoors when you enjoy one of our featured walks and hikes near Viking Hotel.
The Copper Coast Geopark
Did you know that Waterford is home to Ireland’s only UNESCO Global Geopark that’s less than 15-minutes’ drive from the city? The Copper Coast Geopark is one of only 42 designated geoparks in Europe and serves as an outdoor museum of geological records. It tells the story of the rocks along the Copper Coast, which recorded different geological events over the past 460 million years – before Ireland was even formed. You can download trails and self-guided tours or take a guided tour during the summer months. It’s well worth a visit and you’re sure to learn something new. The park is suitable for children and people of all abilities with a stable, flat walking surface throughout.
Mount Congreve Gardens
A neighbour of Viking Hotel (less than 5 minutes from door to door), Mount Congreve Estate and gardens are described as one of ‘the great gardens of the world’. Here you can enjoy the extensive collection of plants, shrubs and flowers, take some pictures at the incredible Chinese Pagoda, visit the classical Temple and the beautiful rock waterfall. Make time to visit the stunning Georgian glasshouse, wander through the walled garden and admire the collection of 300 varieties of trees and shrubs in the woodland garden. Mount Congreve is a must-do when visiting Waterford.
Waterford Greenway
Although mainly known as a cycle route, the scenic Waterford Greenway can be walked or jogged for those with high levels of fitness and stamina. The 46km off-road trail follows an old railway line, bringing you from the quays of Waterford, through the historic port, past some of the most fascinating heritage sights in the county and ending in the seaside town of Dungarvan. Along the way, you can see Viking settlements, medieval ruins, castles, deserted railway stations, bridges, viaducts and a 400m tunnel. You can start or finish the walk at any point along the way making it more manageable. Read our previous blog for a more detailed look at the Greenway.
Waterford Beaches
Enjoying the great outdoors doesn’t always involve scrambling up the side of a mountain or getting lost in woodlands. Some of the most amazing outdoor spaces in Waterford are our beaches. Enjoy a morning run or an evening stroll along one of our gorgeous coastline, enjoying the view across the Irish Sea and the calming sound of the waves. One of the most popular beaches, Tramore Beach is only 15-minutes from the city centre and boasts cliffs, sand dunes and a surf school. The nearby town is a family paradise with amusements, slot machines, restaurants and cafes on every corner.
Comeragh Mountains
If you like a challenge, drive 30 minutes from Viking Hotel and take on the remarkable Comeragh Mountains, stretching from the coast near Dungarvan as far as Clonmel. Enjoy the 2.4km Crouhan Walk which offers some stunning views over Dungarvin and Helvick or the 8km Coumshingaun Lake Walk has a 250m ascent and gives you stunning views of the lake and surrounding cliffs. Make time to visit Mahon Falls, an 80m waterfall nestled in the Comeragh Mountains. A moderate level of fitness is required for these walks and it is not recommended for those with mobility difficulties.
When you return from a long day of discovering the best of Waterford’s great outdoors, enjoy a pick-me-up from our brand new outdoor coffee dock. We offer a selection of lunch dishes, sweet and savoury treats and most importantly, a freshly brewed cup of Bewleys Coffee to reinvigorate you. For our best available rates and exclusive special offers, make sure to book your stay on our official website. We are looking forward to a busy summer so book soon to avoid disappointment
