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.
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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
