Staying along the Copper Coast in Co. Waterford  - near the Waterford Greenway - the Greenway and Copper Coast Hostel is the perfect place to spend this St. Patrick’s Day with your family or friends. Great value, newly renovated, tranquil and right next to the sea.  

When people imagine celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland, their minds often jump straight to big cities and crowded parades. But there is a different way to experience it—one that combines culture, breathtaking scenery, and outdoor adventure. A trip to Waterford, exploring the spectacular Copper Coast, cycling the Waterford Greenway, and staying at our hostel - The Greenway and Copper Coast Hostel.

Waterford - Ireland’s oldest city, has a special charm during St. Patrick’s Day. The city comes alive with music, celebrations, and a strong sense of Irish-ness. Streets fill with locals and visitors enjoying parades, traditional music sessions, and lively pubs. Yet what makes Waterford unique is that the festive atmosphere never feels overwhelming. It is easy to soak up the celebrations while still enjoying the relaxed pace of life that the southeast of Ireland is known for.

Just a short journey from the city lies one of Ireland’s most spectacular coastal landscapes: the Copper Coast. This stunning stretch of coastline runs between Tramore and Dungarvan and is a designated UNESCO Global Geopark. The cliffs, coves, and beaches here tell the story of millions of years of geological history. During spring, when the air is crisp and the crowds are smaller, the Copper Coast feels especially magical.

Visitors to the Copper Coast can explore hidden beaches, dramatic sea cliffs, and charming coastal villages along the route. The Atlantic waves crash against rocky headlands while seabirds circle overhead. It is a place that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and appreciate the raw beauty of Ireland’s natural landscape. For those celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, it provides the perfect balance to the lively festivities in Waterford city.

Another highlight of the region is the Waterford Greenway, widely considered one of the best cycling routes in the world. Stretching for up to forty six kilometres from Waterford City to Kilmacthomas to Dungarvan, the Greenway follows a former railway line that winds through countryside, across historic viaducts, and through long tunnels carved into the hills.

Cycling the Greenway during the St. Patrick’s Day period is a fantastic way to experience Ireland outdoors. Early spring often brings clear skies, fresh sea air, and the first signs of green returning to the landscape. Along the route, cyclists pass rolling farmland, river valleys, and panoramic coastal views. There are plenty of opportunities to stop for coffee, food, or simply to take photos of the beautiful scenery.

The Greenway is suitable for all levels of cyclists. Families, casual riders, and experienced cyclists can all enjoy the gentle gradients and well-maintained path. Bike rental options are widely available, making it easy for visitors to jump on a bike and start exploring.

Of course, a great trip also needs a great place to stay. The Greenway and Copper Coast Hostel offers the ideal base for anyone looking to explore the area during the St. Patrick’s Day period. Located close to both the Waterford Greenway and the stunning beaches of the Copper Coast, the hostel provides easy access to the region’s top attractions.

One of the hostel’s biggest advantages is its location near the beach. Guests can wake up to the smell of the sea and enjoy morning walks along the coastline before heading out for a day of cycling or sightseeing. Being so close to nature makes the experience feel authentic and relaxing—something that many visitors are searching for when they come to Ireland.

The hostel has also been newly renovated, offering clean, comfortable, and modern facilities while still maintaining the friendly atmosphere that hostels are known for. Travellers can enjoy shared spaces where they can meet other visitors, exchange travel stories, and plan the next day’s adventures. Whether you are travelling solo, with friends, or as part of a group, the hostel creates a welcoming environment for everyone.

Another major benefit is value. Accommodation prices in Ireland can rise sharply during the St. Patrick’s Day period, particularly in larger cities. The Greenway and Copper Coast Hostel stands out as the best value accommodation in the area. Guests can enjoy a comfortable stay without stretching their travel budget, leaving more room to spend on activities, food, and exploring the region.

Choosing to stay in this part of Waterford also allows visitors to experience a more authentic side of Ireland. Instead of rushing between crowded tourist attractions, you can take your time discovering quiet beaches, scenic cycle routes, and small local communities. It is the kind of trip where memories are made through simple moments—watching the sunset over the ocean, cycling through a tunnel on the Greenway, or enjoying a traditional Irish meal after a day outdoors.

Spending St. Patrick’s Day in Waterford offers the best of both worlds. You can enjoy the festive spirit of Ireland’s national holiday while also experiencing some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes. The Copper Coast provides dramatic coastal scenery, the Waterford Greenway offers one of Ireland’s best cycling experiences, and the Greenway and Copper Coast Hostel provides a comfortable, welcoming, and is the best value place to stay in all of the area.

For travellers looking to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in a way that combines culture, nature, and adventure, the Greenway and Copper Coast Hostel offers exactly what you need.