Activities & Attractions in Waterford, Ireland
Activities & Attractions in Ardmore & Waterford
To plan your Ardmore & Copper Coast activities, please contact our Head of Concierge, Les Walsh via concierge@cliffhousehotel.ie
Contact Concierge
Walking & Hiking
Easy Local Walks: Of the walks from our hotel’s front door, the Ardmore Cliff Walk (5km, 60 mins) is highly recommended. Cunnigar – a long sandy strip across the mouth of Dungarvan Bay is another excellent nearby route (6km, 90 mins), and Lady Louisa’s Walk from Lismore Castle (2 km, 30 mins) takes in the River Blackwater. Mahon Fallƒs is a horseshoe walk around a waterfall near Bonmahon (4km, 120 mins).
Comeragh Mountain Guided Day Hikes: At Cliff House Hotel we can provide guided hiking through the Comeragh Mountains. The expansive Comeragh mountain range provides a variety of walking opportunities, catering to both serious hikers and casual Sunday strollers. Driving time: 35 minutes
Fishing
Fly-fishing: River Blackwater’s exceptional salmon fishing, which some deem the best in Ireland, requires advance booking. Driving time: 35 – 90 minutes.
Saltwater Fly-fishing: Local Richie Ryan operates the first-ever licensed saltwater fly-fishing boat in Ireland out of the second largest natural harbour in the world. Driving time: 60 minutes.
Rock Fishing: There is rock fishing at Ardmore Head where wrasse, conger, pollock, codling, coalfish and mackerel are all common. From Ardmore pier, also within a short walk from the hotel, you can line-fish for bass.
Please ask reception for complimentary fishing equipment.
Deep-Sea Fishing: Numerous local fishermen offer half- and full-day deep-sea fishing excursions on boats out of Youghal, Dungarvan, Helvick and Ballycotton. Please enquire at reception and we will advise on availability. Driving time: 60 minutes.
Blue Shark Angling: Dungarvan is one of Ireland’s blue shark angling centres, with the fish usually plentiful from mid-June to mid-October. Dungarvan Charter Boats are specialists. Driving time: 25 minutes.
For avid anglers, we also offer a unique self-catering residence on the meandering waters of the River Blackwater.
Golf
Golf: Cliff House Hotel is well placed for golfing holidays in Ireland. Worldclass championship courses include Old Head of Kinsale with its 300ft cliffs, and Mount Juliet – both a 90-minute drive from Ardmore. Fota Island Golf Club and Waterford Castle Golf are challenging, picturesque courses and within an hour’s drive of our hotel.
Local courses for a quick round include Youghal Golf Club, Dungarvan Golf Club, The Gold Coast and West Waterford Golf Club. At the hotel, we also have a golf tee box in the gardens allowing you to hit an environmentally-friendly golf ball towards a floating pontoon out in Ardmore Bay.
Horse Riding & Racing
Horse riding: Horse riding in Ireland takes in the beaches, back-country trails and mountains on short rides and treks. We can arrange horse riding with local equestrian centres.
Horseracing: Horseracing in Ireland is a must-see activity, from the most famous course, The Curragh — a two-hour 20-minute drive from our hotel — to local point-to-points at Lismore (30 minutes), Ballyduff (35 minutes) and Tallow (15 minutes). Cork Race Course at Mallow is a one-hour 20-minute drive away. Our reception can advise on race meetings.
Kayaking & Paddle Boarding
Kayaking & Stand Up Paddle Boarding: Explore Ardmore from a different perspective on the water, where the calm of the bay meets the rhythm of the open sea. Kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding offer a gentle yet immersive way to experience this stretch of coastline, with its hidden coves, rugged cliffs, and ever-changing light.
Equipment hire and guided experiences are available nearby, and our team will be happy to assist with recommendations and arrangements.
Discover the Copper Coast & County Waterford
At Cliff House Hotel, we would love you to explore the vibrant Crystal County Waterford, a region rich in history, culture, and beautiful landscapes. Wander along the Copper Coast, a UNESCO Global Geopark with dramatic cliffs and hidden coves, or explore the serene Waterford Estuary, where tranquil waters and charming coastal villages await. Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Gaeltacht na nDéise, where the Irish language and culture thrive, or journey through the picturesque Blackwater Valley, known for its lush countryside and historic riverside towns.
For adventure, heritage, or simply a taste of authentic Ireland, Waterford offers an exceptional experience at every turn. Please click below for our comprehensive guide to County Waterford: