The Dunmore East Cliff Walk is one of Waterford’s great coastal walks, following the clifftops west from the picturesque fishing village of Dunmore East towards Portally Cove, Rathmoylan Cove and ultimately Ballymacaw.
Officially known as the Waterford Estuary Coastal Path – Dunmore East to Ballymacaw, the complete trail is approximately 7 km one way, with spectacular views across the Waterford Estuary towards Hook Head and Hook Lighthouse. Walkers can choose a shorter trip to Portally Cove or continue along the more challenging sections towards Rathmoylan and Ballymacaw.
If you’re looking for a free outdoor activity that showcases the Waterford coastline at its best, this should be high on the list.
What is the Dunmore East Cliff Walk?
The Dunmore East Cliff Walk is a linear coastal walking trail beginning at Dunmore East Harbour and following the cliffs west towards Ballymacaw Cove.
The complete route is approximately 7 km one way and is officially graded moderate, taking around 2 to 2.5 hours one way.
However, you don’t have to walk the entire trail.
There are three useful targets:
Portally Cove – approximately 2 km from Dunmore East
Rathmoylan Cove – approximately 5 km from Dunmore East
Ballymacaw Cove – approximately 7 km from Dunmore East
This makes the walk adaptable depending on your fitness, available time and weather conditions.
Dunmore East to Portally Cove
For most casual visitors, Portally Cove is probably the best option.
The return walk from Dunmore East is approximately 4 km and takes around 1–1.5 hours. The route includes clifftop paths, steps and some undulations and is suitable for walkers with a moderate level of fitness.
Portally itself provides a beautiful stopping point where you can take a break before returning to Dunmore East.
If you’re visiting the village for the day and want spectacular scenery without committing four or five hours to walking, this is the route we’d recommend.
Dunmore East to Ballymacaw
For experienced walkers looking for something more substantial, continue beyond Portally towards Rathmoylan Cove and eventually Ballymacaw Cove.
The full route is around 7 km each way, making the return journey approximately 14–15 km.
Allow approximately 4–5 hours if you’re walking to Ballymacaw and returning to Dunmore East. The terrain becomes more demanding beyond Portally and includes grassy clifftop paths, footbridges, steps, stiles, stream crossings and undulating ground.
Bring proper walking footwear, water and something to eat.
Spectacular Waterford Coastal Views
The scenery is what makes this walk special.
The trail follows cliffs composed of distinctive conglomerate red sandstone, known locally as pudding stone. This stone was also used in the construction of Dunmore East Harbour during the 1820s.
As you walk, you’ll encounter coves, rocky inlets and open views across the sea.
On a clear day, Hook Head and Hook Lighthouse are clearly visible across the estuary.
It’s one of those Waterford walks where stopping regularly is part of the experience.
Wildlife Along the Cliff Walk
Keep an eye on both the cliffs and the water.
Birdlife recorded along the route includes:
- Kittiwakes
- Fulmars
- Red-legged choughs
- Cormorants
- Shags
Seals are also occasionally spotted in the water below.
A small pair of binoculars is worth bringing if you’re interested in wildlife.
Portally Cove
Portally Cove is one of the highlights of the route and the natural turnaround point for the shorter walk.
Surrounded by the Waterford coastline, it’s a lovely place to stop, enjoy the scenery and have a picnic before making the return journey to Dunmore East.
There is no parking at Portally Cove, so don’t plan on having someone drive there to collect you.
Rathmoylan Cove
Continue beyond Portally and you’ll eventually reach Rathmoylan Cove.
This section is more challenging and forms part of the longer route towards Ballymacaw.
Again, there is no parking available at Rathmoylan Cove, which is important when planning your walk.
Is the Dunmore East Cliff Walk Difficult?
It depends how far you go.
Dunmore East → Portally → Dunmore East: Moderate, approximately 4 km return.
Dunmore East → Ballymacaw: More challenging, approximately 7 km one way.
Dunmore East → Ballymacaw → Dunmore East: Approximately 14–15 km return and 4–5 hours.
The route includes steps, stiles, footbridges, stream crossings and uneven terrain. Some sections can also become muddy and slippery following rain.
This isn’t a paved promenade.
Wear proper footwear.
Is the Cliff Walk Suitable for Children?
Children who are accustomed to walking can enjoy sections of the route, but this is a genuine clifftop walk.
Visit Waterford advises that children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult and specifically warns against walking the coastal route during windy or foggy conditions.
Children should be closely supervised throughout the walk, particularly around exposed sections.
The terrain also means the trail should not be considered suitable for wheelchairs or children’s buggies.
Can I Bring My Dog?
Yes, dogs are allowed but must be kept on a lead.
Remember that sections of the route cross private land with access provided by the permission of landowners, so responsible behaviour is particularly important.
Important – Parts of the Walk Cross Private Land
This deserves to be highlighted.
Some property crossed by the Dunmore East Cliff Path is privately owned, and access is provided by permission of the relevant landowners and landholders.
As recognition of the permissive nature of this access, the trail is closed for one day on the third Thursday of December each year.
Visitors should respect the land, livestock, gates and surrounding environment so this access can continue to be enjoyed.
Where Does the Dunmore East Cliff Walk Start?
The official starting point is Dunmore East Harbour Car Park.
From the village, make your way towards the harbour and follow the signs for the coastal trail.
The route is waymarked using a red arrow on a white background.
What Should I Bring?
For the shorter Portally walk, comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing should be sufficient in good conditions.
For the longer Ballymacaw route, bring:
- Good walking shoes or hiking boots
- Wind/rain jacket
- Water
- Snacks
- Fully charged mobile phone
There are no cafés waiting for you at Portally or Rathmoylan, so don’t start a long walk expecting to buy refreshments halfway along.
Waterford In Your Pocket Tip
You don’t have to walk all the way to Ballymacaw to experience the best of the Dunmore East Cliff Walk.
If you’re visiting Dunmore East for the day, we’d recommend the approximately 4 km return walk to Portally Cove. You’ll experience the cliffs, sea views, wildlife and coastal scenery while still having plenty of time afterwards to explore the village.
If you’re going all the way to Ballymacaw and returning on foot, treat it as a proper hike rather than a casual stroll. Allow 4–5 hours, wear suitable footwear and bring water and food.
And don’t attempt the cliff walk in strong winds or fog. The view isn’t worth taking stupid risks for.
What Can I Do Nearby?
There’s plenty to do before or after the walk.
Dunmore East Harbour – explore one of Waterford’s most attractive fishing harbours.
Dunmore Adventure – try kayaking, sailing, SUP, Sea Safari, Wibit and other outdoor activities.
Dunmore East Golf Club – play clifftop golf overlooking the Waterford coastline.
Dunmore East Woods – an easier alternative if you’d prefer a woodland walk.
Beaches and coves – enjoy the seaside setting around Dunmore East.
Food & Drink – finish the walk back in Dunmore East and make the most of the village’s cafés, pubs and restaurants.
If you continue your day into Waterford City after exploring Dunmore East, browse Where to Eat in Waterford for restaurants and pubs serving food. These are city dining options, rather than venues beside the cliff walk; allow for the journey and check current kitchen hours.
Good to Know Before You Go
Best for: Walkers, couples, families with older children, photographers, nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts
Location: Dunmore East, Co. Waterford
Area: Waterford Coast
Official name: Waterford Estuary Coastal Path – Dunmore East to Ballymacaw
Type: Coastal / Clifftop Walk
Grade: Moderate overall; longer sections require greater fitness
Distance: 7 km one way to Ballymacaw
Full return distance: Approximately 14–15 km
Time: 2–2.5 hours one way / approximately 4–5 hours return
Short option: Portally Cove – approximately 4 km return
Terrain: Clifftop and grassy paths, steps, stiles, footbridges and stream crossings
Cost: Free
Dogs: Yes, on a lead
Parking: Dunmore East Harbour Car Park
Waymarking: Red arrow on white background
Weather: Do not walk in windy or foggy conditions
Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchairs or buggies
Annual closure: Third Thursday in December
Important: Sections cross private property by permission of landowners.
For the official trail information, use Discover Ireland – Waterford Estuary Coastal Path and Sport Ireland – official trail details.
Features
- Coastal Views
- Dog Friendly
- Free Admission
- Outdoor Activity
- Walking Trails
