TAKE a look at the stunning beach that’s popular with adventurers and has a caravan park and amusements nearby.
Bunmahon Beach in Co Waterford is a 2.5km stretch of golden sand that is part of The Copper Coast UNESCO Global Park.
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Situated close to Ireland’s oldest city, Bunmahon Beach is nestled at the end of the Mahon River.
The scenic spot is popular with surfers and kayakers due to the strong rips created at the mouth of the river.
The beach is gently sloping with a dune area along the roadside and currents are variable.
A lifeguard services the stunning 5km total beach during bathing season.
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However, visitors are warned that swimming there is only suitable for experienced surfers due to high waves and riptide.
If in doubt, visitors are warned to keep their feet on dry land as the waves can make it one of the most dangerous beaches in the area.
However, beachgoers need not be disappointed as there is lots to do in Bunnmahon and the surrounding area.
Bunmahon Beach is suitable for intermediate surfers at mid-tide, and there is a local surf school where visitors can attend lessons and learn to surf safely.
There is a caravan park, a modern playground and a basketball court directly behind the beach.
‘WELL SERVICED’
It is also “well serviced” with food outlets and shops” according to Discover Ireland.
The beach is located in the Copper Coast UNESCO Geopark, which offers some of the most spectacular stretches of uninterrupted nature sights in Ireland.
A UNESCO Geopark is “a single. unified geographical area where sites and landscapes of international geological significance are managed with a holistic concept of protection, education and sustainable development.”
The park is named after the copper mines that once operated in the 19th century.
The picturesque coastal park stretches across 25km of coastline with scalloped beaches, coves and rocky headlands.
Those heading to Copper Coast can drive or cycle the stretch of the coast between Tramore and Dungarvon and experience one of the countries most beautiful and scenic drives.
The route goes through six villages and reveals many more beaches and coves in the area along the geopark.
TRANQUIL COAST
Visitors can follow an audio guided walking tour around Annestown and there are trail cards for each of the towns with the park which can be stored on the phone.
The Geological and Mining Heritage Exhibition is located at the Visitors Centre, which is in Bunmahon, not far from the beach.
The Exhibition is suitable for all age groups. The cafe is open six days a week from 10am until 4pm and closed on Wednesdays.
Nearby the visitors centre is the popular staycation spot of Tramore in Co Waterford which is full of restaurants and pubs, alongside hotels and caravan parks.
As well as Tramore Amusement and Leisure Park which guarantees a day of family fun.
Bunmahon Beach is a must-visit spot for adventure lovers and anyone visiting Co Waterford on holiday.
ISLAND ESCAPE
Meanwhile, a quiet Irish island with stunning views and beaches steeped in Irish culture is perfect for a tranquil get away.
Tory Island or Toraigh off the coast of Co Donegal is Ireland’s most northerly inhabited island with a population of less than 200 people.
It sits around 12km off the coast of Donegal and will take 45 minutes to reach by boat.
The island is small in area stretching for about five kilometres in length and is only around a kilometre wide.
Despite its size the island boasts deep rooted traditions and a strong sense of culture among the few locals and Irish is the main language in use.
To reach the island you will need to catch a ferry from Magheroarty Pier.
Journeys depart from the mainland pier and the island multiple times a day starting from 8.30am right up until 5.30pm.
Tickets from Tory Ferry are just €28 for adults and €10 for children.
Once on the isle you can stay in a handful of B&Bs, camp or opt to relax in the Tory Island Hotel, where you will be met with a cultural treat.
The remote island also has a is a protected area for puffins and has a large corncrake population that will excite bird watchers.
