Enjoy a relaxing stroll to one of our local beaches Clonea or Abbeyside
Abbeyside beach is located on the outskirts of Dungarvan. It is a lovely quiet beach with a recently refurbished promenade which is ideal for a stroll. At one end of the beach is Abbeyside Church which was built circa 1820. However, the remains of the original Augustinian abbey which dates back to the late 13th century can be accessed by walking to the rear of Abbeyside Church. Clonea Strand is located approximately 5km outside Dungarvan and it holds an International Blue Flag award. This long, wide sandy beach provides fantastic views and a delightful scenic walk.
Take in a Guided walking tour enjoying the history of Dungarvan
Pick up a town trail brochure from the tourist office and perambulate at your leisure. Alternatively, join local historian John M Young for an entertaining and informative tour of historical Dungarvan.
Stroll amongst some of our local Garden Trails
The Waterford Garden Trail features 15 different garden attractions ranging from the gardens of great old houses to smaller gardens and garden centres. The trail has something to offer everyone from the green of fingers to novices. Many of the gardens provide refreshments as well as toilets and parking facilities.
Drives
Take in the scenery of the Comeragh Mountains and the NireValley or enjoy the panoramic seascapes, cliffs, bays and coves of the Copper Coast. There are some lovely picnic spots dotted around these areas as well.
Do some gentle shopping in our wide range of local retailers
Enjoy the sights of Dungarvan Harbour and Grattan Square whilst browsing in the many family run and branded stores that are located throughout the town. Take a break and refuel in one of the many cafes and restaurants in the area. There is a farmers market in Grattan Square that sells local produce every Thursday from 9.30 am to 2pm. Also, there is a country market every Friday in Abbeyside between 10.30 am and 1.00. If the weather turns inclement you can always enjoy shopping in comfort in the climate controlled Dungarvan Shopping Centre.
Enjoy a traditional music night in some of our local bars
Dungarvan has a great selection of pubs ranging from traditional styles to more contemporary design. Many of the pubs serve food and a lot of them offer locally brewed Dungarvan Brewing Company’s beers on their menu. There is a vibrant music scene in the area and you’ll never be short of a trad session any night over the summer or throughout the weekend during the winter months.
Treat yourself to afternoon tea
Relax in the pleasant surroundings of the Park Hotel which is located close to the town centre overlooking the Colligan estuary. Sit in traditionally styled elegant seating, enjoy a range of sandwiches and savour the delightful pastries that are prepared daily by the hotel’s pastry chef.
Dungarvan and West Waterford Art Trail & Waterford County Museum
If you have a predilection for art and culture, why not browse the range of galleries, studios and workshops on the trail. The Waterford County Museum which is dedicated to preserving and promoting local history is also well worth a visit and admission is free.
Relax for an afternoon in our local library
As well as a comprehensive range of books the library provides daily papers, internet access and genealogy resources. The comfortable seating at the large windows overlooking the quay side makes the library a pleasant and relaxing place to go to peruse the local and national papers.
Take a visit to Lismore castle gardens and Lismore heritage centre and enjoy a tea/coffee
The heritage town of Lismore is a short drive from Dungarvan. Wander in the historic gardens of Lismore Castle which is laid out over seven acres. There is a wide variety of fabulously maintained plants and trees to enjoy as well as a permanent sculpture collection.
