Summer in the wondrous Munster Vales
This August Bank Holiday, experience exactly what Ireland’s most diverse region has to offer with a staycation in the wondrous Munster Vales.
The 1,100 kilometre stretch of olden routes and timeworn trails through the counties of Waterford, Tipperary, Cork and Limerick and across five mountain ranges is the perfect setting for your summer staycation. You won’t believe what you can see and do in three – four days. Hiking? Yes. Heritage? Of course. Great food? Absolutely. The perfect way to shake off the cabin fever built up over the previous few months.
Start your journey with a rejuvenating cycle along the Waterford Greenway, a spectacular 46km off-road cycling and walking trail along an old railway line between Waterford and Dungarvan. Take in the amazing scenery while you travel across eleven bridges, three viaducts and through the unforgettable 400m long Durrow Tunnel on this route that accompanies the River Suir to the Irish Sea.
You can then continue your cycle along the Suir Blueway from Carrick on Suir to Clonmel before a visit to Mitchelstown Caves near Burncourt in Tipperary. The cave is one of the largest and most complex cave systems in Ireland. Follow the ancient passageways as you are guided through half a mile of this world famous cave.
Kilmallock in Limerick is one Ireland’s best preserved medieval towns. Don’t miss the chance to learn all about the town’s 1,400 years of history by taking a walking tour around the great castles, monasteries and fortifications that witnessed rebellions, battles, treachery and corruption.
Of course, no trip through Munster Vales would be complete without stopping in Cork for a visit to Doneraile Park. The park comprises approximately 166 hectares, several water features and a number of deer herds which can be viewed along the many pathways within the park. Doneraile Court, the former residence of the St. Leger family, is situated within the park and has recently been reopened to the public following restoration works.
Exploring Munster Vales is an exhilarating adventure, where history and heritage blend seamlessly with modern Irish life in an unforgettable travel experience. What are you waiting for?
Check out the Munster Vales YouTube account for some videos of what you can experience during your stay: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCymZ017ZBOKIPkzCUHbPSxw