Direction Ireland

Copper Coast Geopark

Southeast Ireland | County Waterford

Copper Coast Geopark located in County Waterford occupies over 90 square kilometers of unspoiled landscape loaded with geological, archaeological and industrial heritage revelations. The Geopark comprises six villages: Dunhill, Annestown, Boatstrand, Kill, Bunmahon, Stradbally, and each of these places has something interesting to offer. The coast is spectacular with numerous sandy beaches and rocky coves displaying sea stacks, arches and blow holes. Because of the geological uniqueness of the area and thanks to effort of local communities it was designated as UNESCO Global Geopark in 2004. The name comes from copper mines which thrived in Bunmahon environs in 19th century. Over 1200 workers (including women and children) were involved in the extraction of copper ore in the time of prosperity. The still visible evidence of industrial past is the ruin of the engine house of Tankardstown Copper Mines (2km east from Bunmahon, road R675), which are open to the public. The Copper Coast Global Geopark Visitor Centre located in beautifully renovated former Church of Ireland in village of Bunmahon provides all interesting information about the area and its heritage. You will find there many geological artefacts and information panels, which help to understand uniqueness of Copper Coast and explain the formation process of island of Ireland and its landscape. A large part of the exhibition is also dedicated to mining industry and describes hard working and living conditions of the people employed in Tankardstown Copper Mines. Visitor Centre tea rooms and gift shop offer refreshments, wholesome lunches and delicious cakes supplied by local producers.

• VISITOR CENTRE OPENING HOURS :
  • March - December :
    • Wed - Sun: 11 – 17:30
    • (Last entry 16:45)
• TICKET PRICES :
  • Adult : €5
  • Senior/Student : €4
  • Child : €3
  • Family(2+4) : €15
• CONTACT :
  • Phone: +353 51 292828
• CAR PARK :
  • Roadside