House of Waterford Crystal
Waterford Crystal used to be one of the largest employers in Waterford- the manufacturing of the Crystal has been moved to Slovenia in recent years, however, the House of Waterford Crystal continues to be a favourite of international and national guests staying in Waterford Business and leisure hotels. The House of Waterford Crystal is located in the heart of the Viking Triangle. The factory tour brings you through time-honoured processes behind the creation of the crystal. In addition, the Waterford Retail Store has the largest collection of Waterford Crystal in the world; where you can purchase your own piece.
Mount Congreve Gardens
Located in Kilmeaden Co Waterford; just outside the city. The gardens comprise of approximately 70 acres of planted woodland, 4 acres walled garden and 16 kilometres of walkways. The gardens also hold events throughout the year and ‘Gardeners clinics are held on certain dates. The gardens are quite impressive and certainly worth a visit. There is fantastic accommodation in Waterford; The Viking Hotel is the perfect base when visiting the surrounding attractions of the city as is on the outskirts.
The Copper Coast
Comprises of 25 kilometres of beautiful unspoilt coastline. The Copper Coastline gets its name from the 18th & 19th centuries where Copper Mining was taking place along the coastline. The Copper Coast Geopark located in Bunmahon is open Wednesday to Sunday. The Geopark contains a local mining and environmental heritage exhibition, walking trail guides and leaflets as well as a café.
Curraghmore House
Based in Portlaw less than 15 kilometres from The Viking Hotel. The House itself is one of the last four castles built by the de la Poer family after their arrival in Ireland in 1167. The castle is quite stunning with a beautiful Courtyard at the front of the house. The House has a reputation as one of the most important country houses in Ireland. The gardens surrounding Curraghmore House are equally as stunning. The Formal Gardens are also home to another hidden gem ‘The Shell House’ which is also worth a visit containing shells from far-flung regions of the World’s oceans. There are tours available in the high season of The House, Shell House and Gardens. More recently; Curraghmore Gardens is home to the newest music, spoken word and comedy festival to Waterford; ‘All Together Now’. This festival takes place on the August Bank Holiday weekend. Attendants can choose to camp for the weekend or purchase day tickets. The festival has proven to be very popular. There are 16 stages and plenty of areas to wander around and enjoy with something for all the family.
The Waterford Greenway
Consists of 46 kilometres of Walking and Cycling track though beautiful countryside with scenic mountain views and gorgeous beaches. This is a fantastic amenity for all the family. Bikes can be rented locally and like other Irish Hotels, the Viking Hotel has recognised a need for secure bike storage and so has just that, with the new Greenway Hub onsite! The greenway can be enjoyed whether it’s a short or long walk/cycle that suits you best. The trail from Waterford to Kilmacthomas creates the perfect break with The Coach House Café in Kilmacthomas which serves speciality coffee, lunch options and sweet treats. The trail from Kilmacthomas to Waterford showcases the coastline beautifully as you enter Dungarvan. Shuttle Buses are also available from Waterford, Kilmacthomas & Dungarvan.
This is just a slice of what this part of the country has to offer; if you are planning to stay at Hotels in Waterford; The Viking Hotel is a good choice! Viking Hotel has recently been refurbished and now has a contemporary, cosy Restaurant & Bar (The Wooden Pestle) which boasts high-quality food at affordable prices. The Hotel is a stones’ throw from the greenway and a short drive from the city centre. Book your room by calling our friendly reservations team on 051336933 or log onto our website; www.vikinghotelwaterford.ie.
