Waterford Rural Tourism Network Learning Journey to the Comeragh region
The Waterford Rural Tourism Network’s most recent Learning Journey to the Comeragh region took place recently and was the fifth and final in the series, which saw the network members travel through the five geographical cluster areas; the Blackwater Valley, Copper Coast, Gaeltacht na nDéise, Waterford Estuary and Comeragh.
The objectives of the Learning Journeys are to allow local businesses to develop a greater understanding of Waterford’s rural tourism offering, to build lasting relationships among tourism providers, to ultimately enable the members to promote Waterford as a destination through creating itineraries for visitors.
Over thirty participants from Waterford’s tourism businesses and agencies were guided through the beautiful terrain by Stíofán MácCartaigh of Steps Back Thru Time. Stíofan was a fantastically engaging tour guide, effectively communicating the lore of the Comeragh region to the participants. Everyone on the day developed a greater understanding of the culture and topography of the Comeraghs and the local community as a direct result of Stíofán’s storytelling.
The first stop of the day was at the majestic Mount Congreve Gardens. The participants were welcomed by Estate Director, Ray Sinnott, who spoke of their visitor experience and made particular reference to the new accommodation offering.
Next, it was all aboard the Waterford Suir Valley Railway. The group travelled along the Greenway enjoying the views of the mighty river Suir, from the narrow-gauge steam train. Everyone was then welcomed to Kilmeaden station by Marie Reid, who highlighted the recent works being carried out to make the WSVR experience even better.
The journey continued to Nell’s Farmhouse. This was one of the standout moments of the day, as Mary Flynn got the group involved in making their own butter. This was then enjoyed with Mary’s homemade bread, which also forms part of the unique experience on offer there.
One of the incredibly unique accommodation options in county Waterford are the Comeragh Pods. The participants were given a tour of the grounds by Tracy Quinlan. Between the hot tub, the stunning views, and of course the beautifully designed pods the group were blown away.
A delicious lunch was served to the members in Cooney’s Yard by Bridget & Willie Drohan. While enjoying the local produce the group heard from Willie Drohan about the story of Comeragh Lamb, its origins and some background on highland sheep farming.
After lunch the group travelled to the magical Crough Wood being escorted by Mario MacRory, who expertly pointed out the many flora and fauna on route and spoke about his photography hiking experience. In Crough Wood Claire O’Sullivan guided the group through a forest bathing session, which was both grounding and restorative. Some participants learned for the first time about the magic and lore of the stunning Crough Wood.
The day ended on a high, quite literally, as Willie Corcoran from Mayfield Birds of Prey displayed a fascinating array of owls, hawks and an impressive golden eagle.
This Learning Journey to the Comeragh region was part of the Waterford Rural Tourism Network development programme which is funded and supported by Waterford City and County Council and Fáilte Ireland and delivered by Runda Hospitality and Tourism Solutions.
If you would like to find out more about the Waterford Rural Tourism Network or join one of the five Clusters in Waterford, please email caroline@runda.ie.
