Top Activities to do in Wexford as a Couple

This blog is written by Millie from our sales and marketing department on what she loves to do on her weekends off in Wexford.

Blackstairs Mountain

The Blackstairs Mountain range has two main peaks, Mt Leinster and Blackstairs Mountain. In between the two main summits is Scullogue Gap. There are a number of different hiking routes to take across the mountain range as well as hiking over the whole ridge. Starting from Scullogue Gap, located just outside of Kiltealy Village only 10 minutes from the Riverside Park Hotel, there is parking just off the main road and you can drive up further and park along the road. On first impressions the summit doesn’t seem to be too far away…until you start climbing! A few pit stops along the way are recommended to have a snack and a drink, as well as taking in the stunning views along the route. In total, the climb up and back takes a little under 3 hours and covers a total of 10km! Hiking boots are a must if you are wanting to climb this route and a backpack with some water and treats is also a good idea to bring.

Curracloe Beach

Sea swimming is not for the faint hearted, especially in Irish waters but there is nothing more refreshing than a sea swim either first thing is the morning or as the sun is setting. There are so many beautiful beaches in Co.Wexford, my favourite being Curracloe Beach. Curracloe is located a 25minute drive from the Riverside Park Hotel and has an 11km coastline of white sand beaches! You can walk the length of the beach and you can also climb the sand dunes to enter into the forest of Raven Wood where there is a 6.5km loop which I would highly recommend where you can discover the fabulous nature walk and trails. If you’re brave enough to go into the water, The Surf Shack is great for renting paddle boards, surf boards and kayaks during the summer. Wetsuits are also available to rent and if you need lessons they can also be pre-booked and can cater for all ages and experience levels.

Paddle Boarding is my favourite activity to do when down at Curracloe and is so peaceful being out on the water.

The Surf Shack, Curracloe Beach, Co.Wexford – Y21 PD60.

Kilmore Quay

Kilmore Quay is a beautiful, working fishing port village with quaint thatched cottages and playful seals in the harbour. A memorial garden dedicated to those lost at sea lies beside Ballyteigue Burrow’s 9km of sand dunes. Just a short walk from the village there is access to beaches which go on for miles, perfect for a long walk with your partner! Offshore are the unspoiled Saltee Islands which are a haven for sea-birds and marine life. Boat trips are available from the harbour to go and visit the islands. A trip to Kilmore Quay isn’t complete without having fish and chips from the local chip shop and an ice cream afterwards! The local ice cream parlour, Lick’d is something special, serving fresh and authentic ice cream! They do amazing flavours…some you would never even think of like brown bread and roasted banana…but their ice cream is definitely the nicest I have ever tried! My favourite flavour has to be the Wexford Strawberry…YUM!

Hook Lighthouse

Hook Lighthouse is located on Hook Peninsula which is a stunning area to visit while in Wexford and is just a 30 minute drive from The Riverside Park Hotel! Hook is fantastic to see on a warm summer’s day as well as a stormy winter’s day and makes for a fantastic trip in all weather conditions! As well as the beautiful lighthouse, the cliff walk around the peninsula is an easy, relaxing walk which brings you to Slade, an old fishing village. My partner and I have also cycled along the cliff trail and is an alternative if you wanted to bring your bikes with you. There is an abundance of wildlife around Hook Peninsula and if you are lucky enough, you may spot seals, dolphins and even whales off the coast!

Crown Bar

After a busy day exploring the coast, I love nothing more than heading to the Crown Bar at Crown Quarter in Wexford town which is a sister property of the Riverside Park Hotel. They serve amazing drinks and food. There is an extensive cocktail menu which has something for everyone on it and can also be made non-alcoholic for the designated driver! The atmosphere in the Crown is very unique and there is nothing like it in Wexford Town with traditional furniture, cosy booths and vibrant splashes of colour along with a mix of quirky artwork dotted around the bar. The Crown Bar has an array of speciality gins & whiskeys for the person who is interested in trying something new. From the music playlists to the staff, it really is something special and a great place to go with friends or as a couple while in Wexford.