From tranquil gardens to wild coastlines, ancient forests to meandering rivers, Waterford offers a welcome escape into nature. Whether you’re seeking stillness or adventure, here’s where you’ll find the wild heart of the Deise.
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Just ten minutes from Waterford City, Mount Congreve is a world-renowned garden paradise spanning over 70 acres of lush woodland and iconic magnolia trees. Designed to awaken the senses in every season, it’s home to one of the largest plant collections in the world. Whether you’re admiring spring rhododendrons or strolling the shaded walks of summer, it’s a sanctuary of colour, calm, and natural beauty. Don’t miss the on-site Stables café and Foxford shop.
Step into a storybook at this peaceful retreat in Tramore. The gardens trace the fascinating life of writer and wanderer Patrick Lafcadio Hearn, using themed gardens to reflect his life journey from Greece to Ireland, America to Japan. It’s a gentle, meditative experience with winding paths, koi ponds, bamboo groves, and traditional Japanese elements. Ideal for a quiet afternoon of reflection, reading, or sketching. With stunning views over Tramore Bay, it is a must-visit!
A geological wonderland and UNESCO Global Geopark, the Copper Coast stretches from Tramore to Dungarvan, offering dramatic cliffs, ancient rock formations, sea stacks, and hidden coves. Once the heart of a 19th-century mining industry, the area now tells a 460-million-year-old story through interpretive trails, rugged walks, and breathtaking seascapes. Perfect for photographers, geologists, and anyone who craves raw coastal beauty, 25km of scenic wonder!
The delightful collection of small gardens of Waterford showcases the variety and richness of Waterford’s private and historic gardens. From the Gothic glamour of Dromana House & Gardens to the riverside serenity of Cappoquin House, each garden has its own story and charm. Ideal for plant lovers, day-trippers, and slow travellers looking to experience Waterford’s hidden horticultural treasures.
Embark on more than just a walk with Celtic Ways; experience a spiritual and cultural immersion through Waterford’s sacred landscapes. These bespoke guided tours lead you from megalithic tombs and fairy forts to ancient pilgrimage paths. Each journey is enriched with mythology, ritual, and the rhythms of the land, making it ideal for visitors seeking a deeper connection to Irish heritage, folklore, and the natural world.
Top tip:
Wear sturdy footwear many trails include woodland paths, rocky terrain, or wet conditions. Layer up!
Irish weather can change fast, so bring light waterproofs and extra warmth.
Pick up garden maps and geopark trail guides online or at local tourism centres to plan your day efficiently.
Delve into Waterford’s layered past with Heritage Connection Tours, where passionate local historians bring ancient buildings, forgotten events, and hidden stories to life. From medieval ruins to coastal hamlets, each tour offers thoughtful insights and a strong sense of place, perfect for curious travellers eager to understand the people and places that shaped this region.
Led by foraging and biodiversity expert Andrew Walshe, these immersive nature walks introduce you to edible plants, local habitats, and regenerative gardening practices. Discover what’s growing around you, how to eat it, and how to protect it. Ideal for foodies, families, and aspiring wildcrafters.
Delve into Lismore’s extraordinary past on one of five themed walking tours, guided by local experts from the Heritage Centre. Wander through ancient streets and hear tales of:
These guided walks offer a deep, personal connection to the history and culture of this timeless town.
Overview
From tranquil gardens to wild coastlines, ancient forests to meandering rivers, Waterford offers a welcome escape into nature. Whether you’re seeking stillness or adventure, here’s where you’ll find the wild heart of the Deise.
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From tranquil gardens to wild coastlines, ancient forests to meandering rivers, Waterford offers a welcome escape into nature. Whether you’re seeking stillness or adventure, here’s where you’ll find the wild heart of the Deise.