Waterford Rural Tourism Network Learning Journey to the Waterford Estuary
The Waterford Rural Tourism Network’s most recent Learning Journey took place on May 7th. It was a day full of insightful stories, unique activities and delicious food all set against the backdrop of the stunning Waterford Estuary. This was the fourth in a series of Learning Journeys taking place across the five cluster areas of the Blackwater Valley, Comeragh, Copper Coast, Gaeltacht na nDéise, and Waterford Estuary.
The Learning Journey gives local businesses the opportunity to develop a greater understanding of the tourism experiences and products located in the Waterford Estuary, with a view to strengthening relationships between businesses, creating itineraries for visitors, and promoting Waterford as a destination. Thirty participants from Waterford’s tourism businesses and agencies were guided along the journey by Andrew Doherty of Tides & Tales. Andrew enlightened the participants about the history and heritage of the area and was an incredibly knowledgeable and engaging tour guide.
At Jack Meade’s Andrew recounted the history of the landmark pub which dates back to 1705 and how locals harnessed the power of the tides to run the flour mill. The second stop saw the group welcomed to Cheekpoint by Julie Doherty, The Cake Dame. Julie prepared some of the most delicious fayre for the participants to enjoy at the Suir Inn. Nancy, Jack and William Doherty who are working on a fascinating River Tourism project ‘The Reaper Revival’ informed the group about their restoration works, which will give visitors the opportunity to learn more about the traditional fishing methods and the local maritime history of the area while onboard.
The group took to the water with Southeast Charters Captain Walter & Osprey Viking Cruises Captain Andy. On the boats the participants travelled along the Estuary and learned about the history of the people and the place as well as the bespoke tours that both companies create for visitors. Back on land, next stop was Passage East where the group received a ‘guard of honour’ from the Passage East Goats upon arrival. The group met Seán Furlong in The New Geneva, who gave the group a fascinating history lesson about Passage East, including the 1798 rebellion and the ‘Cockle women’.
Travelling along the Estuary to the Saratoga in Woodstown where the group were able to look at and learn about the oyster farms. Martina O’Byrne of Artform in Dunmore East then welcomed the group to her gallery and showcased some the talented artists that she works with. She also spoke of how the Estuary and the local environment impact the art that is produced there.
A delicious seafood lunch at East Pier, organised by Elaine Power, was followed by a walk to the Shanooan where stories of the local fishing community were shared, with the cliff walk being highlighted before walking to the Dunmore East Adventure Centre. At the Dunmore East Adventure Centre Karen Harris introduced the participants to the Aquapark and the harbour where locals and tourists were busy kayaking, paddle boarding and sailing. For the land activities there is everything from a caving adventure, a ropes course, climbing walls and archery.
The group met with The Fitness Beach Bum, Katie Sweeney, whose goal is to guide people to living a healthier lifestyle, through strength and conditioning, boxercise and personal training. This Learning Journey to Waterford Estuary is part of the Waterford Rural Tourism Network development programme which is funded and supported by Waterford City and County Council and Fáilte Ireland and delivered by Runda Hospitality and Tourism Solutions.
If you would like to find out more about the Waterford Rural Tourism Network or join one of the five Clusters in Waterford, please email caroline@runda.ie
