New York Times raves about what West Waterford has to offer
Lismore Castle was one of the many west Waterford gems praised in the New York Times article.
One of the world's largest news publications, The New York Times, has applauded West Waterford for its cultural offerings, natural spectacle and hospitality.
The publication’s website this week shared an article written by Catriona Gray, who visited the Blackwater Valley to explore its every nook and cranny.
Gray wrote: "Flanked by the Knockmealdown Mountains to the north and blown by the fresh winds that come off the sea, the valley has its own microclimate, where the vegetation grows rich and lush, from ancient woodland to rolling pastures where the grass is so thick and green it looks almost artificial."
The article commended some of the area's key tourist offerings, saying "Ireland’s Blackwater Valley is steeped in natural splendor and Old World romance."
Lismore Castle was praised for its "imposing gothic edifice" which "looms high over the banks of the river, presenting a silhouette that’s so dramatic and beautiful it looks as if it’s escaped from a film set".
The article also praised Lismore Castle Arts for attracting some of the world’s leading artists to display exhibitions.
Highly recommended was the abundance of artistic and cultural offerings available in the Blackwater Valley environs.
The Blackwater Valley Opera Festival was commended for hosting "top-quality productions in a collection of remarkable venues".
Celebrating its 15th anniversary this May, the festival runs for eight days and will feature world-class performances and dining experiences, in historic homes and venues in Lismore, Youghal, Dungarvan, and Castlemartyr, as well as programmes that bring opera and classical music to new audiences.
The festival aims to welcome more than 5,000 visitors and engage with 2,000 students this year.
Also tributed was the wonderful work of the West Waterford Drama Festival, which takes place annually in Ballyduff.
In constructing the article, Catriona Gray received insight from Virginia Brownlow, daughter of renowned writer Molly Keane.
The Molly Keane House located in Ardmore is made available for aspiring, emerging and professional writers to attend workshops, masterclasses and retreats through the Molly Keane Writers Retreats.
Virginia Brownlow was asked what keeps her in this rural corner of Ireland, to which her reply was: “The beauty of it. It’s such a lyrical, lovely place.”
Regarding local hospitality, Cliff House Hotel was mentioned as possessing one of the rare Michelin-starred restaurants in Ireland outside of Dublin.
“This recognition from The New York Times is a wonderful reflection of the care, creativity and commitment shown by our entire team,” said Michael Sheary, CEO of CLIFF on the recognition of the venue in the article.
“It bears testament to our mission — to create exceptional experiences that celebrate the heart, soul and passion of Irish culture, heritage and gastronomy.”
On Ardmore, the article says: “Stop by Ardmore Pottery & Gallery, a family-run business that sells contemporary ceramics and pieces by Irish makers. You can also visit the on-site studio, where you’ll see earthenware pots being made by hand. If the weather’s fine, there are plenty of sandy beaches — Curragh Beach and Whiting Bay are the two main ones."
