Dunmore East

Introducing Dunmore East

Strung out along a coastline of red sandstone cliffs and discreet coves, Dunmore East (Dún Mór) is a special spot. The views across to Hook Head lighthouse in County Wexford are magnificent; the main street is lined with thatched cottages; and the working harbour is overlooked by an unusual Doric lighthouse (1825) and cliffs full of screaming kittiwakes.

Dunmore’s most popular beaches are the south-facing Counsellor’s Beach, among the cliffs, and Ladies Cove in the village. They can get busy with day-trippers from Waterford, 20km northwest.

In the 19th century, the town was a station for the steam packets that carried mail between England and the south of Ireland.

Sea Safari (086-813 1437; adult/child €30/20; noon, 1.30pm & 3pm Easter-Sep), run by the vivacious winner of RTÉ reality TV show Cabin Fever, offers one-hour trips in a high-powered 10m ‘rib’ around caves, shipwrecks, fishermen and seals.

Dunmore East Adventure Centre (383 783; www.dunmoreadventure.com) hires out equipment for windsurfing, canoeing, surfing and snorkelling. Two-hour tasters to week-long activity packages are available in these sports and others, including archery and rock climbing.

If you fancy shark fishing or exploring wrecks off the coast contact Dunmore East ­Angling Charters (383 397).

There are great views of town from the 18-hole golf course (383 151; week/weekend €25/35).

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009