Sample Half Day Tours

CRYSTAL AND COUNTY WATERFORD CRYSTAL FACTORY, GALLERY & VISITOR CENTRE

Waterford has been producing superb hand-cut crystal since 1783 and visitors to the modern 'Waterford' complex will gain a fascinating insight into the making of this prized glassware and how this global and legendary brand continues to develop. You'll see master craftspeople demonstrate the timeless techniques of glass blowing, cutting, polishing and engraving. After the factory tour you'll have adequate time to enjoy the impressive Crystal Gallery, which is not only a stunning display centre showing the latest pieces in the range and many exhibition items, but also has comprehensive shopping facilities. There is a 20-minute audio-visual presentation for those who may not wish to take the factory tour (30 minutes walking, all flat).

INVADER, TRADER AND EMIGRANT WATERFORD MUSEUM OF TREASURES, CITY WALK OR DUNBRODY FAMINE SHIP
At Waterford the riverside granary houses the 'Treasures' exhibiting an extensive range of rare and beautiful artifacts that are brought to life by the latest technological innovations.

The personal sound guide device allows each visitor to encounter the past at their own pace, to stop and marvel at the fascinating artifacts and to explore them in depth through a series of interactive and audio-visual presentations. 1,000 years of Ireland's oldest city is encountered during your visit.

A walking tour of 1 hour duration, through the regional capital and Ireland's oldest city. The tour includes two cathedrals, four national monuments, and a gallery of rogues and rascals. It is delivered in a witty, entertaining style, by a master story teller with a deep knowledge of his subject.

At New Ross walk the timbers of a full-sized reconstruction of the 176 foot long, three masted famine ship Dunbrody and relive the horror of mass 19th century emigration.

Sample Full Day Tours
SOPHISTICATED SOUTH EAST

Waterford Crystal, Kilkenny City and Castle Inistioge Nore and Barrow Valleys

A visit to Waterford Crystal promises a sparkling start to a day which then takes route on the Blackwater Valley to Kilkenny - medieval capital of Ireland. Enjoy the ambience of this attractive city and a visit to its sturdy Castle. Lunch in Langton's unique restaurant before returning south with a relaxing drive through the verdant Nore Valley stopping at picturesque Inistioge - setting for a number of films including Circle of Friends and Widow's Peak.

IRELAND IN A NUTSHELL!
LISMORE, CASHEL, KILKENNY CITY & CENTRE
Cover Ireland in a day - well, a good slice of it! Indeed its greenest and most fertile corner. After a drive of Waterford City the route heads west to the heritage town of Lismore to enjoy refreshments. View its stately Castle before crossing the Comeragh Mountains on the spectacular Vee Pass opening up the Golden Vale and a view suggesting you are looking into the heart of Ireland. Visit the Rock of Cashel and enjoy a traditional lunch close by. The afternoon is spent in the medieval city of Kilkenny returning via the Nore Valley topping off an unforgettable day in the rich variety of Ireland's South East.

LIGHTS AND GUNS
The name, Duncannon, derived from an Iron Age fortification, which once occupied the site of the present imposing fort. The current structure dates mostly from 1588 - when it was built because of fears of the Spanish Armada - with some later, modern additions. Restoration work is in progress.

Waterford Harbour is Ireland's most historic waterway hosting the earliest invaders - Celt, Viking, Norman - in the making of Ireland. Hook Light winked at them all. Duncannon Fort - a later 16th century vintage - was built to keep others out (the Spaniards) who never came but victor and vanquished from the Battle of the Boyne (Kings Williams and James), sailed from here.