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Arrive in Lismore, a picturesque heritage town set along the banks of the River Blackwater. Begin your exploration at Lismore Castle Gardens.
Set within the castle’s historic defensive walls, these 10-acre gardens are among the oldest cultivated in Ireland, unfolding across three distinct areas, from the medieval Reilig Garden to the formal Upper Garden and informal Lower Garden. With seasonal planting, centuries-old features and contemporary sculpture throughout, they offer a beautiful blend of history, nature and art.
During your visit to the castle, you can enjoy a picnic within the grounds. Picnic baskets can be arranged, featuring freshly made cakes, scones and savoury treats prepared by the castle chef, along with apple juice from the orchard, a simple and memorable way to dine in this historic setting. Do remember to order your picnic at least two days in advance.
Continue to Lismore Heritage Centre. Set within a beautifully restored courthouse in the heart of the town, the centre brings Lismore’s rich history to life through immersive experiences, including guided walking tours and a unique virtual reality glimpse inside Lismore Castle.
It’s a wonderful place to deepen your understanding of the area, offering insight into the people, stories and traditions that have shaped this historic corner of Waterford.
Just a short stroll away, you can also visit St. Carthage’s Cathedral, where centuries of craftmanship are on display. Highlights include remarkable 9th-11th century stone carvings, the elegant Cotton Library built in 1851, and the McGrath Tomb, widely regarded as one of the finest examples of 16th century stone carving in Ireland.
Check into the eco glamping pods at Blackwater Eco Tours (approx. 20 mins drive), set along the banks of the River Blackwater and offering a peaceful, nature-filled retreat.
Enjoy a relaxed dinner nearby before heading out for the evening.
Once you have refuelled, head to The Booley House (approx. 25 mins). There, you’ll be immersed in an evening of lively traditional Irish music, song, dance and storytelling, bringing local culture and heritage to life in a memorable and engaging way.
Wake up to the peaceful surroundings of the river and begin your day with a guided experience from Blackwater Eco Tours. Their guided river boat tour offers a unique perspective on the Blackwater Valley, combining gentle exploration with rich storytelling. As you travel along the river, you’ll learn about the area’s history, wildlife, and natural landscape, with plenty of opportunities to slow down and take it all in.
Return to shore and take some time to relax and enjoy the calm pace of your surroundings. Perhaps have a light lunch nearby before continuing your day.
Spend your afternoon exploring some of the region’s most beautiful private gardens.
Visit Tourin House & Gardens (approx. 20 mins drive). Known for its colourful planting and riverside setting, Tourin offers a relaxed and picturesque garden experience, with sweeping views across the Blackwater.
You may also wish to visit Dromana House and Gardens (approx. 10 mins). Here, you can explore both the gardens and the historic house itself, with guided tours offering insight into the estate’s rich history. Take your time to wander through the gardens and appreciate the house’s unique position on a bend in the Blackwater River.
Make your way back to Waterford City (approx. 1 hour drive), where a change of pace awaits after your time in the Blackwater Valley.
Check in at the Viking Hotel, a comfortable and welcoming base on the edge of the city, offering a relaxed setting to unwind after a day of exploration.
Enjoy dinner at the hotel, where you can settle in for an easy and enjoyable evening without needing to venture far.
You may wish to time your visit to coincide with some of the region’s most distinctive cultural events, each offering a unique way to experience the heritage and creative spirit of the Blackwater Valley.
Often described as Ireland’s summer opera festival, this unique event brings world-class opera, concerts, and recitals to some of the region’s most beautiful historic settings, from Lismore Castle to grand country houses, churches, and open-air venues across the valley.
With a programme that includes large-scale productions, intimate recitals, and free outdoor performances, it offers something for both seasoned opera lovers and those discovering it for the first time.
Also held annually in Lismore, this thought-provoking festival celebrates the life and legacy of Robert Boyle, one of Ireland’s most influential scientists. Through a programme of talks, discussions, and cultural events, it explores the intersection of science, history, philosophy, and society, all set within the town’s rich historic surroundings.
Celebrating the art of storytelling and exploration, Immrama is a unique festival dedicated to travel writing in all its forms. Bringing together writers, thinkers, and readers, the festival features talks, readings, and discussions that explore journeys both real and imagined. This festival is a natural fit for those drawn to stories of place, people, and experience.
Three days of heritage, folklore, and timeless landscapes in County Waterford
From grand estate and riverside walks to traditional music and local storytelling, this itinerary invites you to slow down and experience Waterford through its history, culture, and sense of place.
LismoreLismore CastlePortlawVillierstown
Lismore
Lismore Heritage Centre is tucked away in a quiet quarter of Waterford at the foot of the Knockmealdown mountains and was opened in 1992 to share insights into Lismore’s formidable history and heritage. Lismore is bursting with fun things to do, activities to explore and a chance to visit hidden places otherwise inaccessible. Lock yourself into our Robert Boyle escape room, join us on our walking tours of one of the prettiest towns in Ireland, and immerse yourself in our virtual reality tours of Lismore Castle.
Ardmore
The Ardmore Round Tower, built in the 12th century, is a well-preserved 30-metre-high structure that served as a refuge and bell tower for monks. Nearby, the medieval Ardmore Cathedral features carvings and Ogham stones, and is linked to St. Declan, one of Ireland’s earliest saints.
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Three days of heritage, folklore, and timeless landscapes in County Waterford
From grand estate and riverside walks to traditional music and local storytelling, this itinerary invites you to slow down and experience Waterford through its history, culture, and sense of place.
