{IRELAND}

Explore the Province of Munster, Ireland

June 23, 2025
Beautiful Sunny Day along the Province of Munster

Waterford, Ireland is an amazing experience for anyone travelling to the Emerald Isle. It is situated at the head of Waterford Harbor. I could see why my Viking ancestors liked to spend time here. The waterway was a popular area throughout the ages for trade and fishing. It’s wonderful to smell the ocean air and walk the cobblestone streets stopping at landmarks that tell the Viking story. I learned so much Irish history in this small, unique city.

Waterford Crytal Factory – Don’t Miss It on your Itinerary

House of Waterford tour is well worth your time when in the south of Ireland. Our tour guide was so knowledgeable about the intricacies of creating some of the world’s most beautiful show stopping pieces. They are responsible for the creation of numerous trophies used by various sports for many years. Some individual pieces can be personalized. We started our tour off in the creation area of the factory. Boy was it hot. I was fascinated to watch the craftsmen twisting and turning a long tube that they gently blew into which expands the glass. They were so quick and efficient at their job. Many spend over 20 years as an apprentice. When a piece of crystal is completed, it is then deposited from the pole onto a conveyor belt, sending the glassware off to its next destination.

I thought about my grandfather being a glass blower for a short time in his youth. How hot it must have been for him, sweating over each piece he created. I’m so glad we still have a few of his creations. Next up, we followed the conveyer belt full of crystal along its journey into other areas of the factory. I was amazed how many people touched a single glass before it ever makes it to someone’s shelf. In the inspection room if any piece is flawed, they then break it into a bucket which is then sent back to smelting. Glass can be melted and reformed again and again until it’s just right. Nice, no waste.

At the polishing wheel, the finishing process was explained to us. I watched as a fast-spinning wheel lightly ran along the glass. When the marquis glass was done, it just sparkled. The tour wrapped up and it was now time for any questions. Mine was simple. How many times a day do they catch their fingers on the rotating wheel requiring bandages. The answer was none. The tour guide had me go up to the wheel and see how soft the polishing cloth was. It was so soft that the rag couldn’t cut anyone. Neat!

In the retail room, we choose a few pieces of crystal to have delivered home. The salespeople are expert at knowing exactly how and when you’ll receive your selections. The hard part was making a choice. I was amazed at the beautiful chandeliers hanging around. They even had a giant; life size bear made of glass sitting on display. What an awesome greeting it would make in someone’s home. There were so many paperweights that I had a hard time choosing. I finally decided on an intricately cut Shamrock.

Travel Tip #1: The tour usually takes about 1 hour at the cost of $21

Your Stay in Waterford

We only toured the city for half a day before moving on to our next destination. The interactive Viking exhibit was amazing, and the Waterford coastline is very memorable. However, if I was to visit again, I’d stay at the Waterford Castle hotel and if you’re a golfer, they have wonderful package deals for playing a few rounds. There are over 300,000 things to do while in Waterford. You could spend a week just in this area of the Isle.

Check out their visitor guide at: www.viatar.com

The next destination to explore was the bordering waterways of the southernmost part of Ireland. Its scenic routes are just stunning to see and there are plenty of places to turn out to explore surrounding areas by foot. Don’t miss the Ring of Kerry or the road to Killarney. Killarney has a spectacular national park. You can rent a bike or take a long hike or just spend some time chilling in nature. I highly recommend taking time to explore the province of Munster  

Travel Tip #2

The quickest way to Waterford city is to take the N25 which is a toll road. If you’re not used to driving round abouts then expect the drive to take a little longer as Ireland is full of them.

Share:

52 comments

Leave your comment