48 HOURS IN... Ireland
You’ll find spectacular scenery, gourmet food and a luxurious spa on the Irish south coast
Why go
With its picturesque wide bay and verdant hills that fall away into the sparkling sea, the village of Ardmore, on the coast of County Waterford, is a joy to discover.
The pretty fishing village attracts visitors in all seasons, who come to amble around its streets lined with pastelcoloured houses, and enjoy its crescent-shaped beach.
This part of Ireland has a stunning coastline, so make sure you venture out on walks to enjoy it. And, for a luxurious stay, you can retreat to the five-star Cliff House Hotel, which overlooks Ardmore Bay.
Incredible scenery
The marked-out cliff walk is a popular way to enjoy fabulous scenery and get closer to nature, too.
It leads you around the dramatic Ardmore Head, which affords wonderful views of the coastline and where dolphins are often spotted in the bay. The path then leads you back towards Ardmore. The fishing village, with its houses of different hues, is a haven for artists and there are many galleries where you can buy paintings, pottery and textiles.
Indulge your tastebuds
This part of Ireland is blessed with outstanding local produce, from the rich and creamy Harty Oysters from Dungarvan Bay to the delicious locally-caught Helvick cod.
The culinary star of the show, however, is the Michelinstarred House Restaurant at the Cliff House Hotel, and its Tasting Menu showcases incredible plates of food.
Alternatively, you’ll find the popular White Horses Restaurant on Ardmore’s Main Street, which is known for its delicious fish dishes. Or visit the Ardmore Gallery and Tearoom for tea and cake while admiring the artworks.
Perfect for families
Running around on Ardmore’s wide sandy strand and going rock-pooling on its craggy edges is fantastic fun for children.
This beautiful stretch of coast is filled with fabulous beaches and coves to explore, and part of the fun is getting in the car and finding them.
My family and I had brought our bikes with us as we travelled with Irish Ferries, so we decided to explore the area on two wheels, too. We headed to the nearby harbour town of Dungarvan, which is at one end of the Waterford Greenway, a spectacular 46km trail along an old railway line between Waterford and Dungarvan. While there are some hills along the way, the route is fairly flat and smooth and it's brilliant for children to be able to explore on their bikes away from the traffic. It’s also a very popular spot with walkers.
Another great attraction for families is Ardmore Open Farm and Mini Zoo. There are lots of animals to see, from Shetland ponies and barn owls to raccoons and meerkats. There are plenty of indoor activities too, including a soft-play area – perfect if the weather isn’t in your favour!
Recharge your batteries
We stayed at the Cliff House Hotel and waking up to gaze out at the sea lapping against the rocks below, it’s impossible not to feel serene and refreshed.
The bliss continued at The Well By the Sea Spa, named after the ancient Holy Well that is just a stone’s throw from the hotel, where I enjoyed an Ocean Leaf Facial. It used marine botanicals to cleanse and tone my skin before a mask made of strips of seaweed was applied, and as it worked its magic I was treated to an incredibly relaxing head and shoulder massage.
The spa is proud of its Irish products and one popular treatment is called ‘Peat for the Feet’. It’s a pedicure with a twist – your feet are smothered in a mask made from rich peat mud.
Book it now
The Cliff House Hotel offers Deluxe Sea View rooms from €199 B&B per night, based on two people sharing. Packages are also available: The Cliff Break includes two nights’ B&B and one dinner in The House Restaurant from €270pp. Book at cliffhouse hotel.ie or call +353 24 87800.
Irish Ferries offers return crossings from Pembroke to Rosslare from £307 for a car and family of four. Book at irishferries. com or call 08717 300 400.