County Waterford

County Waterford is situated in southeast part of Ireland. The landscape is quite diverse. The scenery changes gradually from its smooth sculpted coastline, throughout lush wooded valleys of Blackwater River and the River Suir, towards the grand hills which change to mountain ranges, the Knockmealdown Mountains and the Comeragh Mountains. A large part of coastline, known as the Copper Coast has been designated as a UNESCO Geopark as place of great geological importance. County Waterford also has a large historical importance. It was always gateway for newcomers and invaders as Celts, Vikings and then Anglo-Normans. In Ardmore St Declan began mission of christianization and founded one of the earliest monastic sites in Ireland, in late 5th century, before the coming of Saint Patrick. Also here was established the first city in Ireland - Waterford, founded by the Vikings in 10th century. Some of its early structures survived to our times, as Reginald's Tower, which now hosts the exhibition about the Vikings. Together with Medieval Museum and Bishop's Palace it provides full history of the region. Waterford City is also known for making crystals. Waterford Crystal was founded in 1793 and has become famous all over the world. County Waterford is one of the sunniest places in Ireland and has a few popular seaside resorts as Dunmore East, Tramore or Dungarvan, wich offers plenty of accommodation, great food and a lot of outdoor activities (golf, angling, water sports and horse riding)