Summer has finally begun in Waterford and since the change in time, we’re loving the longer days and brighter evenings. While we’re never guaranteed warm or dry weather in the South East of Ireland, this is the season get outdoors! Outdoor activities in Waterford are plentiful and suitable for all ages and abilities so get out and make the most of the long days while we have them. After a day of exploring the great outdoors, return to the comfort of Viking Hotel Waterford where a delicious dinner, a cool drink and a warm welcome always await you. Book your stay on our website to enjoy our best available rates, guaranteed.
1. WATERFORD GREENWAY
Waterford Greenway is one of the most magnificent outdoor activities in Ireland. The Greenway is a 46km walking, running or, most popularly, cycling route that takes 6 hours from start to finish. Enjoy sights like hills and valleys, bridges and mines, ancient architecture, and history on this magnificent route, seeing parts of Ireland inaccessible by car. You can start or stop on your bike at any point along the Greenway so it’s not as big a commitment as it sounds. Bike rental spots are plentiful in Waterford, and you can even rent an electric bike to make your life a little easier! Viking Hotel has secure bike parking if you want to bring your own wheels.
2. WATERFORD COASTLINE
While it’s not yet sunbathing weather (is it ever in Ireland?!), Waterford’s coastline is always an impressive site. Close to Waterford City, you can enjoy seaside towns like Tramore, Brownstown or Newtown Swimming Cove if you fancy a dip in the cold but refreshing water. Our closest beaches are 20 minutes away by car or some buses will take you there in no time. Enjoy a picnic with your family or someone special on the beach or take a walk along the promenade enjoying the crashing waves. You can grab an ice cream if you’re lucky enough to visit on a warm day or a hot coffee to warm you up. If you’re caught in a shower, there are shops, cafes and amusement centres to keep you sheltered until it passes.
3. DUNMORE EAST ADVENTURE CENTRE
Lovers of adventure visiting Waterford will love Dunmore East Adventure Centre, a 20-minute drive south of the city centre. Here you’ll find activities for thrill seekers suitable for families, groups of friends, stag & hen parties and team building for businesses. Enjoy activities such as sea safari, aquapark, kayaking, sailing, archery, caving and lots more, customisable to your skill level. Their latest activity addition is high ropes mixing balancing, crossing bridges and climbing through obstacles, all with the safety of a climbing harness. They have everything you need for an energetic day out, with accessible activities available for most ages and abilities. They get particularly busy for school holidays so book well in advance if you’re planning a visit.
4. COMERAGH MOUNTAINS
From beaches to mountains and everything in between, Waterford has some of the most stunning scenery just outside of the city centre. The Comeragh Mountains stretch from Dungarvan in Waterford to Clonmel in Tipperary but you don’t have to take it all on at once. The walks and hikes around the mountain range offer views that are truly spectacular and they’re very popular with hikers and climbers. You’ll see scenery that looks straight from a postcard and beautiful stops like Mahon Falls and the Coumshingaun Lake. If you’re planning a long day, following your hearty breakfast, why not order your packed lunch with the team in the Viking Hotel and some lunch to make sure you’re well-fuelled.
5. GOLFING IN WATERFORD
If hiking is not your idea of a fun outdoor activity, golf is a much more easy-going alternative. Waterford has some excellent courses to practice your tee from local family-run courses to champion courses where legends have been made. There are more than ten golf courses within a 30-minute drive from Viking Hotel so you’re spoiled for choice. Take your choice between Waterford Golf Club, Tramore Golf Club and Williamstown Golf Club in the local area or the magnificent PGA Golf Course at Mount Juliet in Kilkenny a little further afield. As well as quality and challenging courses, you can enjoy the scenery of Waterford from a unique vantage point on the course.
Waterford has some of the best outdoor activities in Ireland, and we’d love to hear what you got up to during your stay. Book our Dive Into Waterford packages for Summer break in Waterford on our website and enjoy exclusive discounts and special offers.
Author Bio: Katie McGarr is a resident writer for Viking Hotel Waterford, a modern hotel located 4km from the historic Waterford city, the oldest city in Ireland. Aside from traveling itself, this lady also enjoys writing friendly tips and tricks about travel, food, and lifestyle.