Gaeltacht and Ardmore Drive
Incorporating the Galltacht Drive
Leaving Dungarvan and heading westwards on the Cork road, you will soon come upon a signpost for An Rinn, the largest village in Waterford’s Gaeltacht area. This is an area in which Irish is still the predominant language.
Along with having a strong link with Irish traditions, this area is also synonymous with excellent pubs, restaurants and craft shops.
While in the area you can also take in An Coinnigéar which is a large tract of sand which reaches back towards Dungarvan and offers specatcular views of the bay.
You can also visit a famine graveyard which contains the remains of some of those people who perished in the Great Irish Famine which lasted from 1844 to 1849.
Whilst in An Rinn, one can also take in the Joan Clancy Art Gallery which houses several collections of emerging and established Irish artists.
As you travel west along the N25, you will see a signpost for the picturesque village of Ardmore where you can stop for lunch at the famous and world-renowned Cliff House Hotel. Ardmore is also famous for its round tower. Also in this area you can find other sites of historical interest including St Declan’s well and church as well as Fr O’Donnell’s Well which is said to have healing powers.
If you fancy a dip in the ocean while in the area, the beaches of Ballyquin East and Ballyquin West provide a tranquil setting for a swim. Situated 3 miles west of Ardmore, these beaches are wide and the sand is soft while a small car park makes it ideal for the traveller.
Leaving Ardmore and travelling in a Northerly direction will bring you towards the village of Clashmore which is famous for its brightly coloured houses which are unique in a rural area. Clashmore is also a great location for walking so you can park the car and stretch the legs here. The famous Kilmaloo walk begins at the Grotto in the village, bringing you out of the village in a southerly direction where you pass the historic O’Heeny Castle and the famous Ice Houses.
