Waterford group brought on fascinating tour of what Waterford has to offer
The Fitness Beach Bum, Katie Sweeney was one of the many people the group met along the journey
The Waterford Rural Tourism Network’s most recent Learning Journey took place with a day packed with fun as local businesses were guided along an exciting networking journey in Waterford.
A day full of insightful stories, unique activities and delicious food all set against the backdrop of the stunning Waterford Estuary brought the Waterford community together.
This was the fourth in a series of Learning Journeys taking place across the five cluster areas of the Blackwater Valley, Comeragh, Copper Coast, Gaeltacht na nDéise, and Waterford Estuary.
The Learning Journey gives local businesses the opportunity to come together with the community and strengthen relationships between other businesses, creating itineraries for visitors, and promoting Waterford as a destination.
Thirty participants from Waterford’s tourism businesses and agencies were guided along the journey by Andrew Doherty of Tides & Tales. Andrew enlightened the participants about the history and heritage of the area and was an incredibly knowledgeable and engaging tour guide.
The second stop saw the group welcomed to Cheekpoint by Julie Doherty, The Cake Dame. Julie prepared some of the most delicious fayre for the participants to enjoy at the Suir Inn.
Nancy, Jack and William Doherty who are working on a fascinating River Tourism project ‘The Reaper Revival’ informed the group about their restoration works, which will give visitors the opportunity to learn more about the traditional fishing methods and the local maritime history of the area while onboard.
The group took to the water with Southeast Charters Captain Walter & Osprey Viking Cruises Captain Andy. On the boats the participants travelled along the Estuary and learned about the history of the people and the place as well as the bespoke tours that both companies create for visitors.
Back on land, next stop was Passage East where the group received a ‘guard of honour’ from the Passage East Goats upon arrival. The group met Seán Furlong in The New Geneva, who gave the group a fascinating history lesson about Passage East, including the 1798 rebellion and the ‘Cockle women’.
Martina O’Byrne of Artform in Dunmore East then welcomed the group to her gallery and showcased some the talented artists that she works with. She also spoke of how the Estuary and the local environment impact the art that is produced there.
A delicious seafood lunch at East Pier, organised by Elaine Power, was followed by a walk to the Shanooan where stories of the local fishing community were shared, with the cliff walk being highlighted before walking to the Dunmore East Adventure Centre.
The group met with The Fitness Beach Bum, Katie Sweeney, whose goal is to guide people to living a healthier lifestyle, through strength and conditioning, boxercise and personal training.
This Learning Journey to Waterford Estuary is 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.