Copper Coast

Cósta an Chóir

A scenic stretch of rugged coastline between Dungarvan and Tramore featuring dramatic cliffs, mining heritage, and hidden coves ideal for exploration. The area offers excellent walking trails and geological interest tied to Ireland's copper mining past.

Things to do

• Copper Coast Cliff Walk — A spectacular 12km coastal trail linking Dungarvan to Tramore with views of dramatic sea cliffs, abandoned copper mines, and hidden coves.
• Tankardstown Mine Exploration — Visit the remains of this 19th-century copper mine with interpretive signage explaining the area's industrial heritage and Victorian-era extraction methods.
• Stradbally Cove Swimming — A sheltered blue-flag beach tucked beneath cliffs, ideal for swimming and exploring tidal pools during low tide.
• Geological Fossil Hunting — Search the Devonian period rock formations and shale beaches for fossils and mineral specimens that reveal the area's ancient seafloor origins.
• Dungarvan Harbour Walk — Stroll the medieval harbour town's waterfront with views across Dungarvan Bay and access to local pubs and seafood restaurants.
• Seaweed Foraging Tours — Join guided expeditions to harvest edible seaweed species from the rocky shore, learning traditional coastal food practices.

Food to try

• Fresh Dungarvan Mussels — Sweet, tender mussels harvested from Dungarvan Bay, typically steamed with white wine and served in waterfront restaurants.
• Smoked Mackerel — Locally caught Atlantic mackerel cold-smoked over oak, a traditional coastal delicacy found in local fishmongers and farm shops.
• Waterford Blaa with Drisheen — A soft white bread roll filled with drisheen (blood sausage) and butter, a historic Waterford breakfast tradition still served at local cafés.
• Seaweed Butter and Preserves — Artisanal products made from locally harvested dulse and sea lettuce, infusing traditional Irish butter and jams with coastal flavours.
• Rock Oysters from Tramore Bay — Briny, mineral-rich oysters farmed in the sheltered waters near Tramore, best enjoyed raw on the half-shell at harbourside venues.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Mine Site Safety — Many copper mines remain unstable with hidden shafts; stick to marked trails and designated viewing areas, and never enter abandoned mine entrances.
• Visit During Neap Tides — Plan cove exploration and fossil hunting during neap tides when water levels are lowest, exposing more beach and rock formations safely.
• Learn the Mining Heritage — The Copper Coast's prosperity in the 1800s shaped local identity; locals appreciate visitors who take time to understand the area's industrial past at visitor centres.
• Support Local Fishing Communities — Buy directly from independent fish stalls and family-run restaurants in Dungarvan to sustain the working harbour traditions that define the coast.