Waterford: City, County & Crystal
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Port
Cobh (Cork), Ireland
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$250
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 8 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Departing from the cathedral town of Cobh, you will drive through East Cork to the neighboring county of Waterford.
In the city of the same name, you'll visit House of Waterford Crystal. Completed in 2010, the Waterford Crystal Center is the heart of all things Waterford. An audio-visual presentation recounts the history of Waterford Crystal from its founding in 1783 to the present. Take a tour that traces Waterford crystal production from mold making and glass blowing to final cutting and etching by master craftsmen, viewing parts of the process close-up. Afterwards, there will be free time to browse the world's largest display of Waterford crystal, giftware, craft and jewelry collections.
A panoramic drive along the city's quay will introduce you to Waterford's Viking roots. Waterford was settled by a Celtic tribe called the Deisi, and is still widely referred to as 'the Decies.' Recent archaeological excavations revealed evidence of a Viking settlement here as early as the 10th century -- not quite obliterated by the Anglo-Normans who followed. The city's English name comes from the Norse word Vadrefjord.
Following lunch at a local hotel, with a glass of beer or wine, you will drive to Lismore. A brief stop will allow you to photograph, from the outside, spectacular Lismore Castle -- Irish home to the Duke of Devonshire and former home of Sir Walter Raleigh.
Traveling through tranquil and picturesque countryside, you will enjoy a leisurely drive back to Cobh and your waiting ship.
Notes: Tour requires approximately 50 minutes of walking and standing at the House of Waterford Crystal. There are steps to negotiate, but guests using a wheelchair can take the elevator. Wear comfortable walking shoes.