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Viewpoint · Waterford, Waterford
Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark
About 25 km of coastline between Tramore and Dungarvan, with coves, beaches and cliffs of 460-million-year-old rock, the ruins of 19th-century copper mines and a visitor centre in Bunmahon.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark
The Copper Coast is the roughly 25 km stretch of coastline in County Waterford between Tramore and Dungarvan, recognised as a UNESCO Global Geopark. The rocks tell about 460 million years of history: ancient volcanoes, deserts, tropical seas and glaciers left layers of lava, sandstones and conglomerates that appear in the cliffs and coves.
The name comes from the copper mines that operated along the coast in the 19th century, mainly between 1826 and 1880, employing hundreds of workers. In Tankardstown, near Bunmahon, lie the ruins of the engine house of one of the mines, a stone tower with a chimney on the cliff edge, restored as a monument.
The coastal road R675 follows the shoreline, with stops at sandy and rocky coves like Kilfarrasy, Annestown and Bunmahon, and viewpoints over the sea. Signs along the way explain the geology of each spot. On Bunmahon beach there is a geological garden with rocks from across the region.
The visitor centre, housed in an old church in Knockmahon, near Bunmahon, has an exhibition on the geology and mining history, with a café. The coast is good for slow drives, walks and, in summer, swimming at the beaches, though the water is cold.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day by car, with stops at the coves, the mines and the visitor centre.
Best time
From May to September, on dry days, for walking and stopping at the beaches. The late-afternoon light brings out the colours of the rocks. Check the visitor centre's opening days.
How to get there
The coastal road R675 leaves Tramore, 13 km from Waterford, and runs to Dungarvan. The visitor centre is in Knockmahon, near Bunmahon, about 30 km southwest of Waterford. There is no regular public transport along the coast.
Tip
Drive east to west, from Tramore to Dungarvan, and stop at the engine house in Tankardstown on the cliff edge. Bring walking shoes for descending to the coves via the short trails.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark
Why is it called Copper Coast?
Because of the copper mines that operated along the coast in the 19th century. The ruins of the engine house at Tankardstown still stand.
What is a UNESCO Global Geopark?
An area recognised for its geological importance, where the landscape is protected and interpreted for visitors. The Copper Coast has rocks about 460 million years old.
Can you swim at the beaches?
Yes, in summer, at sandy beaches like Bunmahon and Kilfarrasy, but the water is cold.