This summer, Visit Waterford is inviting visitors to experience Ireland’s oldest city and its surrounding county in an entirely new way with the launch of four immersive “Wild Ways” – thoughtfully designed routes that make it easier than ever to explore, slow down, and truly connect with the landscape, culture and communities of Waterford.
Rooted in the idea that “wild” means something different to everyone, these new routes offer a an accessible way to discover the city and county. Clare Barrett, Chair of Visit Waterford, said: “Wild means something different to everyone, and that’s exactly what makes Waterford so special. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape, a coastal adventure, or a deep dive into culture and history, you’ll find it here in one county. These Wild Ways make it easier than ever for visitors to explore at their own pace, to travel more sustainably, and to truly connect with our landscapes and communities. We’re inviting everyone to come and Find Your Wild in Waterford this summer.”
At the heart of the experience is a commitment to slow, sustainable travel. Waterford’s compact size, strong public transport links, greenway, coastal routes and heritage trails make it easy to explore without a car. From the Waterford Greenway to the coastal roads of An Rinn and Helvick Head, the Wild Ways encourage visitors to travel lighter, stay longer, and connect more deeply with the county, whether on a coastal escape, mountain adventure or city break. The four Wild Ways each offer a distinct perspective on the county.
The ‘Wild Coast Way’ unfolds as a two-day journey along Waterford’s dramatic and ever-changing coastline. Beginning in the city, the route leads west into the Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark, where visitors can explore striking geology. The journey continues towards Ardmore, one of Ireland’s oldest Christian settlements, where cliff walks, ancient ruins, and a relaxed seaside atmosphere invite a slower pace. The experience finishes on the quieter peninsula of Helvick Head, where rugged cliffs, oyster farms and wide open views create a sense of true escape.
The ‘Wild Sea Way’ captures the vibrant, playful energy of Waterford’s seaside towns. With Tramore and Dunmore East at its heart, this route is all about fresh sea air, long beaches and easy adventure. Visitors can move effortlessly from the city to the coast by bus, spending time walking along sandy shores, discovering hidden coves, or trying their hand at water sports. Tramore offers a lively atmosphere balanced by moments of calm in places like the Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens, while Dunmore East brings colourful harbour views, cliff walks and opportunities for kayaking, sailing or simply watching the tide roll in.
The ‘Wild Mountain Way’ shifts the perspective inland, guiding visitors from valley to peak through some of the most scenic landscapes in the southeast. Starting with a simple bus journey to Dungarvan, the route moves into the lush Blackwater Valley before climbing gently towards Lismore, a heritage town framed by castle views and riverside charm. From there, the landscape opens dramatically as visitors make their way to The Vee in the Knockmealdown Mountains, where panoramic views stretch across counties and, on clear days, out towards the coast. Combining cycling, walking and public transport, this route offers a deeper sense of immersion in nature while remaining accessible for those looking for a rewarding but manageable adventure.
The ‘Wild City Way’ brings the focus back to Waterford itself, a city where over 1,000 years of history meet a vibrant modern culture. Compact and walkable, it invites visitors to explore at their own pace over two or three days. From the Viking Triangle and its world-class museums to street art trails, galleries and a thriving food scene, the city offers layers of experience within a short distance. Visitors can move easily from historic landmarks to contemporary culture, from guided tours to independent exploration. Throughout the summer months, a lively programme of festivals and events adds to the atmosphere, making the city feel dynamic and welcoming at every turn.
In addition to the four curated routes, visitors can now make their experience even more personal with a new online tool available on the Visit Waterford website. This easy-to-use feature allows users to build their own “wild day out,” tailoring activities, locations and experiences to suit their interests, pace and travel style. Whether planning or seeking inspiration on arrival, it offers a simple way to create a bespoke Waterford itinerary.
Together, these four ‘Waterford Wild Ways’ form a connected and flexible network that showcases the very best of Waterford. For more information, visit visitwaterford.com and start planning your journey to Find Your Wild in Waterford.