Waterford : Setting the Scene

Waterford is a coastal county , which stretches from the estuary of the river Suir in the east , Youghal and the river Blackwater in the west. The county is bordered to the south by the Alantic Ocean , and boast many beautiful beaches . The Comeragh mountains , and the Knockmealdown Mountains run across the nothern boundary of the county.

Waterford offers a contrast between a moderen cosmopolitan city , a cluster of charming, vibrant seaside resorts , rolling fields and mountainous hinterland . The city has been home of Waterford Crystal Glass since 1873.
Sports plays an important role in the lives of people and the county colours are blue and white .

The county is also recognised for it love of music and theatre.The Theatre Royal and Garter Lane Art Centre host many amateur and professional Theatrical companies , and an International Light Opera Festival takes place each year during September.
Irish traditional music is extremely popular throughout the county ,and the various Arts, Cultural and heritage events are evidenced by numerous exhibitions , galleries , museums and performances .
The Spraoi festival each August is renowned for its street theatre and is well worth a visit.

Waterford is the principal city of the south east . it was originally founded by the Vikings in the late ninth century and has evolved to become a major maritime centre. It is the closest Irish port to mainland Europe.
Many of Waterford City's most famous landmarks are located within waking distance of the quay , including Regional's Tower , the French Church , the Undercrofts and the two neo-classical eighteenth century cathedrals, which were both designed by the famous architect , John Roberts

Waterford Institute of Technology , located on the outskirts of the city , is a significant provider of higher education in the region.

The county is also known as "The Deise" . This name was derived from a tribe that inhabited it in pre-christian times .
Dungarvan town s the administrative capital of the county. It is a bustling market town in a high popular tourist area . George Pain built ST .Mary's Church on Emmet Street in 1828. The town is noted for a deep-sea-angling.
Nearby is Ring,a flourishing centre for Irish culture and native language , its is the only Irish speaking area or Gealtacht , in the south east of Ireland.

Tramore , a tradiontional seaside holiday destination , has 5km stretch of golden,sandy beach. It is the largest town in the county.
Ardmore is most picturesque village with a delightful beach. It boasts a beautifully proportioned round tower and 12th century cathedral.
Lismore , is a beautifully quaint town , situated on the river Blackwater.
The town is a dominated by the majestic splendour of limore castle.
Dumore east is a charming fishing port and seaside resort on the estuary, near the mouth of the harbour