May Park Trail - Waterford River Walk

This walk follows the May Park Trail along the Suir River in the city of Waterford in the south-east of Ireland.
The route runs for about 2.5km along a good surfaced path. You can start the walk at Cove Lane and then follow the easy trail east along the river.
The route finishes near the Waterford Castle Island Ferry which will take you over to Little Island. The ferry operates across Kings Channel between Ballinakill and the Island's west side. It is a private resort for people staying at the castle hotel. This area is great for bird watching with grey heron, little egret, Eurasian wigeon, greenshank, common sandpiper and commoner waders, common kingfisher and Eurasian jay to look out for.
To continue your riverside walking head west to Waterford's vibrant Quay.

Waterford River Walk Open Street Map - view and print off detailed map

Waterford River Walk Open Street Map - Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking

Pubs/Cafes

The Uluru bar and restaurant is located very close to the start of the trail. The Australian themed pub serves raditional homemade dishes in a relaxed setting. You can find them just south of the trail start on Dunmore Road. Near here there's also the Cove Bar.

Dog Walking

The walk is popular with dog owners so you will probably meet other owners on your outing. You are requested to please keep them on leads.

Further Information and Other Local Ideas

The popular Waterford Greenway also starts in the city. This shared cycling and walking trail runs along a disused railway line to Dungarvan. There's more nice river views as you pass along the Suir and the River Mahon.
Head south to the coast and you could pick up the popular Dunmore East Cliff Walk. This wonderful cliff top trail takes you to Portally Cove, Rathmoylan Cove and Ballymacaw Cove on a well maintained path. Near here there's also the Doneraile Cliff Walk in Tramore. The coastal village includes a nice sandy beach with dunes as well. Just east of here you can also see the oldest working lighthouse in the world at Hook Head. It's well worth a visit with guided tours and a maritime exhibition to see. The walk also visits the historic Slade Harbour and castle, which dates back to the 15th century.
To the west are the stunning Comeragh Mountains where you can try the popular Coumshingaun Lake Loop Walk or visit the picturesque Mahon Falls. Also in this area there's the Lough Mohra and Rath Beag Loop. The lake is a glacial coum and located in a lovely remote spot with beautiful countryside, forestry and mountains surrounding it.
Head west to Carrick-on-Suir and you could pick up the Suir Blueway. This shared cycling and walking trail runs along the River Suir between Carrick-on-Suir and Clonmel.

Waterford Greenway, Ardmore Cliff Walk, Dunmore East Cliff Walk, Doneraile Cliff Walk Tramore, Mahon Falls, Coumshingaun Lake Loop Walk, Kilkenny River and Canal Walk, Suir Blueway, Lough Mohra and Rath Beag Loop, Hook Head

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