Staff Picks
Mahon Falls and the Comeragh Mountains - Recommended by our Maintenance Manager
This picturesque walk is suitable for all ages and fitness levels due to a nearby carpark, however adventure seekers and experienced hikers can do a longer route. The Mahon waterfall and walk allows for scenic mountain views, and you might be lucky enough to see some sheep and goats! You can read more about it on the Visit Waterford website
here
Anne Valley Scenic Walk
This peaceful walk is one of Waterford's hidden gems, featuring marshland and views of the ruins of Dunhill Castle. You might spot some fairy doors along the way too..... The walk is very accessible with benches dotted along the way, and is suitable for most wheelchairs and prams/buggy's. You can read more about it
here.
Activate - Recommended by our Reservations Manager
Activate is an indoor family fun centre with activities such as bowling, mini golf, roller skating, laser tag and more. Perfect for those rainy days and only a 5 minute drive from the Island Resort. Read more and
book here.
Hook Lighthouse - Recommended by our Marketing Assistant
The drive is itself an adventure, taking in the nearby Passage East Car Ferry (a little bigger than our own Mary Fitzgerald!) and stunning coastline views.
Hook Lighthouse is the oldest working lighthouse in the world and is open for tours. Hook is about 45mins drive from the Resort, depending on the departing Passage East ferry times, which can be
checked here.
Inistioge - Recommended by a Member of our Reception Team
Pronounced "in-ish-tee-guh" - this small village in nearby Kilkenny has a lot to offer. Kilkenny boasts scenic lakeside walks. The Woodstock Gardens and historic Jerpoint Abbey are also closeby. The village is about 40 mins drive from the Resort, and you can find more about things to do
here.
Waterford Treasures Museums - Recommended by a Member of our Reception Team
The Waterford Treasures consists of five museums located in the historic Viking Triangle area of Waterford City Centre. Together they tell the story of Waterford, Ireland's Oldest City and founded by Vikings in the 9th Century. The Medieval Museum features an impressive collection of medieval artefacts, however the enchanting 13th Century Choristers Hall is likely to be the highlight for many. The Bishop's Palace recreates life in a 18th Century townhouse, and has recently added a new state of the art 3D experience which brings to life the fascinating story of glass making in Waterford. Reginald's Tower is Ireland's oldest civic building with hundreds of years of history within its walls. The newly opened Museum of Time and Museum of Silver began welcoming guests in 2021, and offer even more for guests to see and discover. Read more about the museums and plan your visit
here.
Guest Favourites
House of Waterford Crystal
The world famous glass factory and tourist attraction remains the most popular attraction with our guests. Our reception team are on hand to assist with bookings, or for more information visit
their website.
Tramore
This small seaside town on the scenic Copper Coast is a firm family favourite, and located just 20mins drive from the Resort. The town features a Blue Flag Beach with a number of surf schools, an amusement park (open seasonally), an indoor swimming pool with a fun aqua park and stunning cliffside walks. While there, we recommend to eat at our new sister property
One the Waterfront, offering beach access, a spacious outdoor terrace, panoramic sea views and an informal atmosphere.
Waterford Greenway
Opened in 2017, the magnificent 46km route has quickly become one of the most popular attractions in Ireland's Ancient East. The impressive route takes in tunnels, historic viaducts and seaside views. There are a number of bike rental companies in Waterford City, our reception team are happy to assist. Read more about the Greenway and
plan your route here.
Mount Congreve
These extensive gardens are home to one of the largest collections of plants in Ireland. The gardens have over 16km of walkways with curiosities such as a Chinese Pagoda and a Greek-style temple, and over 3,000 different varieties of trees and shrubs. Visit their website
here.
Hidden Gems
Axe Junkies
If you really want to try a unique activity in Waterford, a visit to Axe Junkies Waterford City is a must! Strictly over 18's and with rigorous safety measures in place, axe throwing is described as "think of it as darts...but with an axe". While it may not be for everyone, it's certainly an experience you will never forget! Visit
https://axejunkies.ie/ for more information
Ballysaggartmore Towers
This hidden gem is popular for photographers and social media, especially Instagram. The fairytale stone towers were built in 1850 by a wealthy estate owner for his wife. It is located near Lismore in west Waterford and you can find directions
here.
The Sea Gardener
Perhaps the most unique experience in Waterford - join Marie Power (better known as The Sea Gardener) foraging for seaweed on the beautiful Waterford coastline or a seaweed cookery class. Learn about the different uses and benefits of Irish seaweed - from dining to health, beauty and gardening. You can read more
here.
Blackwater Distillery
The modern distillery produces popular brands of gin and Irish whisky which you can taste in both our Fitzgerald Bar and Kings Channel Clubhouse. The gin in particular is a popular souvenir or gift, with Irish infusions such as Wexford strawberry or Barry's Tea. Tours of the distillery, located about an hour away in Ballyduff, are available for adults and children aged 9 and up. You can book on their website
here.
Waterford Castle Resort
Can we name ourselves as a hidden gem? We think so! From the unique ferry crossing to the rich history of the Castle and grounds (from its time as a monk settlement, to the family home of the Fitzgerald family - to its time as a farm!), the Island Resort is not just a hidden gem, but a jewel in the crown of Ireland's Ancient East.