This week, we’re taking you on a road trip across Wexford’s sunny south coast. This part of Ireland is known for having the highest sunshine rate in the country. From delicious local seafood to the most popular attractions, set out on a seaside day trip this autumn.
Carne: The Lobster Pot
Start your journey with a hearty meal in the small seaside village of Carne, just outside of Rosslare. Here you will find the multi-award-winning steak and seafood restaurant, The Lobster Pot. With an extensive, locally sourced menu –including seafood straight from the shores of Carne– this is a dining experience worth splashing out on.
When you’re ready, head 3km to Carnsore Point, where you can take in the fresh sea breeze of the South.
Lady’s Island
Drive another 5km to Lady’s Island and explore the Norman castle and tower, as well the ruins of a medieval church and graveyard. Once a Norman settlement, the island is steeped in history. Well known in Irish folklore is the ‘Leaning Tower of Lady’s Island’, which reportedly leans due to treasure hunters digging beneath it in search of Norman treasures.
Kilmore Quay and The Saltees
Around 19km from Lady’s Island is Kilmore Quay, a quaint and picturesque fishing village. Watch as the colourful fishing boats dock and take the Saltee Ferry across to the Saltee Islands. Explore the uninhabited, remote islands and admire the rocky terrain and native greenery. If the weather is nice, the Saltees are the perfect spot for a picnic.
Once you’re finished exploring the islands, head 23km to Wellingtonbridge and take in some more of County Wexford’s coastal views.
Hook Head: Hook Lighthouse
Drive 25km from Wellingtonbridge to Hook Head and take a guided tour of the 800-year-old Hook Lighthouse.
Climb the steps and explore the chambers before meeting the life-size hologram figure of St. Dubhán. Listen as he tells the tale of nights spent with fellow monks in the fifth century. Using a beacon, he warned sailors against dangers on the site of Hook Lighthouse long before it was built.
Continue through the tower and another life-sized figure appears – this time, it’s William Marshal, Strongbow’s son-in-law. He tells of how he built the lighthouse in the 13th century to guide ships to his port at New Ross.
Learn about the life of lighthouse keepers of the past and climb to the tower balcony where you can enjoy a 360-degree view stretching across Wexford, Waterford and the Celtic Sea.
Head to the Visitor Centre Café based in the former light keepers’ houses for some homemade produce. Here, you’ll also find the gift shop, art workshops and exhibits.
Duncannon
Travel another 15km and finish up at Duncannon Beach, where you can look out at the stunning views across Hook Head and the Waterford Coastline. If all that travelling has got you feeling peckish, take a well deserved break at The Strand gastro pub. The menu offers local seafood and classic pub dishes, paired with a selection of wines, craft beers and other beverages.
If you get around to visiting Wexford’s south coast this week, let us know what parts you enjoyed the most on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.
