Day 1: The Copper Coast Drive
Morning: Coffee & Coastal Start in Tramore
Begin your journey in Tramore with a relaxed coffee and a light breakfast; ease into a day of slow travel along the coast.
Mid-Morning: Drive the Copper Coast
Set off along the Copper Coast towards Bunmahon and the Copper Coast Geopark (approx. 30 mins drive), a UNESCO Global Geopark known for its dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches, and rich geological history.
Here, join a guided Geoheritage Mining Tour with a trained local guide.
Beginning at the visitor centre in Bunmahon, you’ll spend the next 2 hours walking through Ireland’s only outdoor geological timeline. Along the way, you’ll:
- Discover how powerful natural forces shaped the coastline
- Learn about the copper mining boom that once defined the area
- Explore the dramatic site of Trá na mBó, where geology and history meet
Your tour finishes back at the visitor centre, where you can browse the gift shop, which features locally made crafts.
Late Morning: A Creative Interlude
Continue along the Copper Coast to The Art Hand, a small, independent gallery and studio. Showcasing a distinctive collection of glass paintings, mosaics, and sand art prints, it offers a chance to experience creativity up close in an intimate and welcoming setting. It’s a quiet, creative stop, offering a glimpse into the work of local artists.
Lunch: Refuel in Bunmahon
Pause in Bunmahon for lunch at The Engine House. Set within a beautifully restored building, it offers relaxed coastal dining and is the perfect place to refuel before continuing your journey.
Afternoon: Coastal Drive, Coffee Stop & Cultural Visit
Continue west along the coast towards Dungarvan, enjoying more scenic stops along the way.
Pause at The Railway Cottage for a quick coffee and pastry. This cosy, character-filled café is a lovely spot to slow down, enjoy a coffee, and take in the peaceful surroundings.
Late Afternoon: Joan Clancy Art Gallery
Set in the heart of the Gaeltacht at An Rinn, this intimate gallery is housed within Joan Clancy’s own home. Visitors are warmly welcomed into the space, where rotating exhibitions by Irish artists are brought to life through storytelling.
Joan shares personal insights from her life and experiences, including her connection to the legendary Clancy Brothers, creating a unique and deeply personal encounter with both art and local culture. You may even pick up a few words of Irish along the way.
Evening: Arrival in Dungarvan
Continue on to Dungarvan and check into The Park Hotel, Dungarvan. After a full day along the Copper Coast, settle in for a relaxed evening at the hotel’s Meladon Bar. Here, you can enjoy a casual but high-quality dining experience, with a menu featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty or light, it’s an easy and comfortable option after a day of exploring. After dinner, take a short stroll into town, or simply relax at the hotel and enjoy a quiet night.
Day 2: Coast, Culture & Slow Moments
Morning: Breakfast & A Choice of Pace in Dungarvan
Begin your day with a relaxed breakfast at your hotel before heading out to explore.
Mid-Morning: Choose Your Pace
After breakfast, choose how you’d like to spend your morning:
Option 1: Harbour Walk & Castle Visit
Stay in Dungarvan town and enjoy a gentle stroll through the town.
- Walk along the harbour, with views across the bay
- Continue towards Dungarvan Castle, a striking Norman structure set right on the water
- Take your time exploring the area at a relaxed pace
Option 2: Morning Gold by the Coast
For a more active start, head out to one of the area’s scenic courses:
Both offer a scenic and enjoyable round, perfect for easing into the day.
Lunch: Casual Dining in Town
Head to The Ormond Café for lunch. A warm and welcoming café known for its great coffee and freshly prepared dishes – ideal for a relaxed lunch before your afternoon plans.
Afternoon: Wellness by the Coast
After lunch, make your way to Solas Na Mara. This coastal wellness centre offers a deeply restorative experience, inspired by the natural surroundings.
Choose from:
- Holistic treatments, such as massage, facials, and reflexology
It’s the perfect opportunity to slow down, reset, and reconnect with the sea – a calm contrast to your time on the road.
Evening: Arrival in Ardmore
Continue on to Ardmore (approx. 30 min drive) and check into Cliff House Hotel. Perched dramatically above the sea, this luxurious coastal hotel offers breathtaking views and a truly special setting.
Spend the evening enjoying:
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A relaxed dinner featuring seasonal, locally sourced ingredients
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Drinks overlooking the ocean
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The peaceful atmosphere of the coastline at sunset
Day 3: Clifftop Views, Heritage & Craft
Morning: Breakfast with a View
Start your day with breakfast at Cliff House Hotel, enjoying the sea views before heading out to explore.
Late Morning: Ardmore Cliff Walk
Set out on the Ardmore Cliff Walk, one of the most scenic coastal walks in Ireland.
This route offers:
- Panoramic views over Ardmore Bay
- The historic lighthouse and lookout tower
- Dramatic cliffs, sea arches, and open ocean views
Lunch: Traditional Dining in the Village
After your walk, head to Round Tower Hotel. A charming and welcoming spot, perfect for a relaxed lunch with hearty, satisfying dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
Afternoon: Heritage & Local Craft
Take some time to explore Ardmore’s rich history.
- Visit the iconic Round Tower, one of the best-preserved examples in Ireland
- Wander through the village and soak up its coastal charm
Then continue to Ardmore Pottery & Gallery. Browse handcrafted ceramics and locally inspired artwork to connect with the creative spirit of the area.
Evening: Departure
From here, begin your journey home, taking with you a sense of Waterford’s slower, more scenic side.