Waterford is striving to establish its name as one of Ireland’s most welcoming destinations for visitors travelling with pets.

The county is priding itself on a newly available extensive network of dog-friendly beaches, walks, heritage attractions, dining experiences and accommodation.

Pet-friendly tourism is in high demand and Waterford boasts a rich coastline where dogs are welcome to explore safely alongside their owners.

Some scenic coastal routes include the sandy stretches of Tramore Beach and the cliffs and coves of Dunmore East.

Moving inland, the Anne Valley Walk provides peaceful woodland walking, while the Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark delivers more striking coastal scenery.

The Waterford Greenway continues to be a key attraction for visitors travelling with dogs as one of the county’s most popular outdoor experiences.

The 46-kilometre off-road trail connects Waterford City and Dungarvan, passing through the wetlands area at Mount Congreve Gardens, where elevated boardwalks, riverside views and rich biodiversity are enjoyed by pet-lovers.

Waterford’s pet-friendly offering includes inland heritage and gardens such as Lismore Castle Gardens and the nearby Lismore Heritage Centre, which offers cultural insight into one of the county’s most historic towns.

In the city, the People’s Park provides another green space for walkers and their dogs.

Meanwhile, the Waterford Suir Valley Railway offers scenic journeys through the countryside, while river-based experiences such as Osprey Viking Cruises allow visitors to enjoy the county from the water.

Guided experiences, including the Epic Walking Tour, also showcase the city’s rich Viking and medieval heritage.

Key visitor hubs such as Bishop’s Palace in Waterford City, the Medieval Museum, the Dungarvan Tourism Office and the Tramore Tourism Office will help visitors plan dog-friendly itineraries across the region.

Visit Waterford has highlighted further dining and accommodation experiences that will suit pet-friendly environments.

It stated: ‘In Waterford City, Carter’s provides a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for dog owners, while Grow HQ offers a garden-to-plate dining experience where pets are welcome in outdoor spaces. In Dungarvan, 360 Cookhouse remains a favourite stop for Greenway visitors.

‘In Dunmore East, the Splash Café at Dunmore Adventure Centre offers a scenic harbour setting with outdoor seating overlooking the water, making it a popular stop for walkers and their dogs.

‘The Cliff House Hotel in Ardmore also extends a warm welcome to canine guests in designated areas, combining coastal luxury with pet-friendly hospitality.’

Meanwhile, pet-friendly accommodation options include Faithlegg House Hotel, The Park Hotel Dungarvan, Waterford Castle Lodges, O’Shea’s Hotel in Tramore, Ardmore Glamping Pods, The Haven Hotel, Comeragh Pods and the Mount Congreve Garden Lodges.