Is the Copper Coast County Waterford worth it?
Today we explore the question: Is the Copper Coast County Waterford Worth it? The Copper Coast was recently featured in a new Lonely Planet Guide- top 100 offbeat places around the world which prompted us to ask the question.
In this article we argue, Yes- The Copper Coast County Waterford is entirely worth it.The Waterford Copper Coast was named a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2004, making it the first Geopark designated as such in Ireland and one of only 177 UNESCO Global Geoparks in 46 countries.
Let’s explore this in more depth.
The Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark
What constitutes a UNESCO Global Geopark?
UNESCO Global Geoparks are single, unified geographical areas. In these areas sites and landscapes of international geological significance are managed with a three tier holistic approach. The principles include protection, education and sustainable development.
With the principles above as a guiding light, UNESCO Global Geoparks give local people a sense of pride in their region and strengthen their identification with the area as well as the importance of sustainable stewardship. These would include the creation of innovative local enterprises, new jobs and high quality training courses in sustainable geotourism.
The Copper Coast Geopark
The Waterford Copper Coast is a spectacular historical record of the earth’s past with its geosites and rocks telling stories of volcanoes under the sea, arid deserts as well as dramatic ice-ages. Human history is intertwined with the geology and gives us a fascinating insight into how we co-exist with changes in the environment. A part of this social and archaeological are the mines that gave The Copper Coast its name in the 19th century.
The Copper Coast Geopark is a designated area in County Waterford, located along the southern coast of Ireland. The area extends for around 17 km from Kilfarrasy in the east to Stradbally in the west.
Copper Coast Geopark Visitor Centre, Bonmahon.
The visitor centre is the perfect place from which to start your exploration of the magic of the UNESCO Copper Coast Geopark which stretches along Waterford’s rugged coastline from Tramore to Dungarvan.
At the Copper Coast Global Geopark Visitor Centre, friendly staff are ready to welcome you and the Geological and Mining Heritage Exhibition is suitable for all ages and abilities.
For those interested in taking some souvenirs home, the Copper Coast Gift Shop has a range of exclusive Irish local crafts and other gifts The Cafe serves wholesome lunches, delicious cakes or you could just relax with a glass of wine and a good book.
Adventures and Experiences
There are so many things to explore, you could start with the hidden coves and soft, golden beaches which tell the story of the transformation from deep ocean floor to deserts over 460 million years ago
Whether Surfing or Sand Art, Seaweed or Cycling, there is something for everyone and h trained Geopark ambassadors are on standby to assist with ideas on activities right within the Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark.
Surfing
If you are a keen surfer, you might just have found heaven. With a large variety of beaches and coves the Copper Coast Geopark is a great surfing spot which is very popular among locals and visitors alike, If you want to learn how to surf,. Bunmahon beaches great for beginners with gently sloping and breaking waves
Book lessons and rentals for all levels on Bunmahon Beach with Bunmahon Surf School
Cycling
Long winding roads that are quiet is a dream for a cyclist and as such, the Copper Coast Geopark is a great place for cycling.
The Dungarvan & The Copper Coast Drive
As one of the great drives of Ireland, The Dungarvan & The Copper Coast Drive embraces the panoramic seascapes, cliffs, bays and coves while you are driving between Dungarvan and the major seaside resort of Tramore. You will also experience more intimate Seaside Resorts with Blue Flag Beaches, Clonea and Bunmahon. The drive passes through the villages of Bunmahon, Boatstrand, Dunhill, Annestown and Fenor before you arrive at the popular seaside resort of Tramore.
What is really great about this area is that it has such a wealth of beautiful yet “undiscovered” secluded coves and beaches, each with a story to tell. It took more than 460 million years to create the Copper Coast, so take your time to visit and explore it! No wonder it was featured by Lonely Planet.
More information: – https://www.dungarvantourism.com/copper-coast-drive/
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