Kilmeaden sits right on the Greenway, with the rest of Waterford's coast, mountains, and heritage sites all within easy reach.
Waterford Greenway & Suir Valley Railway
Kilmeaden is the beating heart of the Waterford Greenway, Ireland's longest off road walking and cycling trail, running 46km between Waterford City and Dungarvan. The village station is also home to the Waterford Suir Valley Railway, a heritage narrow gauge train that follows the old line along the River Suir. Walking or cycling the Greenway costs nothing, while the railway is a paid ticket.
Curraghmore Estate, Portlaw
Just up the road in Portlaw, Curraghmore Estate is the ancestral seat of the Marquis of Waterford and one of Ireland's largest privately owned estates. Wander through 2,500 acres of woodland and parkland, with house and garden tours on select days between May and September.
Tramore Beach and Dunes
A short drive brings you to Tramore's award winning beach, a 5km stretch of sand backed by dunes, a seafront promenade, and an amusement park. Popular with surfers and families alike, it's an easy half day out from Kilmeaden.
Dunmore East
This colourful fishing village sits where Waterford Harbour meets the sea, with thatched cottages, cliff paths, and a working harbour serving up some of the freshest seafood in the county. Perfect for a coastal walk followed by lunch by the water.
Hook Head Lighthouse, Wexford
Across the harbour in County Wexford, Hook Lighthouse has guided ships into Waterford Harbour for over 800 years, making it one of the oldest working lighthouses on earth. Tours take you up 115 steps to the lantern room for sweeping coastal views. The grounds and visitor centre are free, with a ticket only needed for the tower tour itself.
Copper Coast, Bunmahon and Stradbally
Waterford's Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark runs for 25km along a dramatic stretch of coastline shaped by 19th century mining. Visit the exhibition centre in Bunmahon before following the coast road on to the quiet beaches around Stradbally.
Mahon Falls, Comeraghs
The Comeragh Mountains rise up behind Kilmeaden, and Mahon Falls is one of their best known sights, an 80 metre cascade reached by a gentle walk from the car park. It's a great introduction to the range, with longer mountain trails leading off from the same spot.
Kilkenny Castle Park
Head north to Kilkenny city for fifty acres of free public parkland surrounding Kilkenny Castle, complete with a rose garden, mature woodland, and a lake. It pairs easily with a wander around Kilkenny's medieval streets.
Castlecomer Discovery Park
Beyond Kilkenny city, Castlecomer Discovery Park offers 80 acres of woodland and lakes, Ireland's longest zip line, high ropes, and a coal mining heritage exhibition, enough to fill a full day out for the whole family. Entry to the park and woodland trails is free, with the zip line, high ropes, and exhibition charged separately.
Curracloe Beach and Raven Point, Wexford
Best known as a filming location for Saving Private Ryan, Curracloe Beach in County Wexford offers kilometres of unspoiled sand next to the Raven Point nature reserve. Walk in through the pine forest and keep an eye out for red squirrels and seals.
