Waterford city is Ireland’s oldest city, founded by Vikings in 853AD. The surrounding area boasts stunning coastlines, beautiful river valleys and breathtaking mountain ranges. It is an area often overlooked by visitors who tend to head straight down to Cork and Kerry, but although on the surface of it Waterford may not offer as much as their favoured counterparts there is something special about this city that you are unable to get anywhere else.

Take time to trawl through the narrow medieval streets, admire the Georgian atmosphere and soak up some of the famed nightlife and entertainment on offer. Still one of the busiest ports in Ireland, Waterford has undergone a transformation in recent years following extensive archaeological excavations in the centre, adding new character to the historic quarter by the quays. There are new shopping centres, lively pubs and gourmet restaurants to entice visitors.

The most noticeable evidence of Viking settlement in county Waterford are the city walls. There are still some well preserved areas, most noticeably around the watch tower.

There are an abundance of churches and cathedrals to visit whilst here, including the Holy Trinity and Christ Church cathedrals, both designed by Architect John Roberts, who designed many of the city’s finest Georgian buildings.

Spraoi festival which features music, street performers and parades held in August. The light opera festival in September and the Hullabaloo children’s festival are noticeable events for the city.

County Waterford has some enticing beaches especially around Dunmore East, Stradbally and Ardmore. The charming fishing village of Dunmore East has a bustling harbour, red sandstone cliffs, and some beautiful walks. Stradbally and Clonea Strand have some excellent blue flag beaches and the area has recently been designated a UNESCO Geopark due to its rich geological heritage. Ardmore is an alluring village with long beaches and grassy headlands but the attraction for many is the religious history associated with St Declan including the round tower and cathedral.

Dungarvan is one of many excellent coastal attractions in county Waterford. It sits on a beautiful bay and Dungarvan itself has plenty of charm, with quaint shops and attractive outlooks.

In the North of the county the mountain ranges of the Comeraghs and Knockmealdowns have some stunning views and scenic walks