EXPLORE
Wider Footsteps, Quiet Traces
The old paths don’t just hold stories - they carry them. St Declan’s Way runs quietly through these hills, winding its way from Cashel to Ardmore, with Mount Melleray as a stopping point for those who walk with purpose or curiosity. Some come for reflection.
Others for challenge. Many are simply drawn by the rhythm of walking, and the calm it brings.
This is where you’ll find us. Not at the start or the end, but somewhere in the middle. A good place to pause. The abbey next door has long offered space for silence, for prayer, for groundedness. The hostel, just down the path, offers space for everything else - a warm shower, dry socks, a meal, maybe a bit of conversation by the stove. Solo walkers, small groups, writers, friends, and people who’ve just decided to stop and rest for a night.
When you choose to stay here, you join a line of travellers going back centuries, all putting one foot in front of the other, across the same land, under the same sky.
If you're planning to walk St Declan’s Way, you’ll likely pass through Cahir, Ardfinnan, Lismore, and finally Ardmore by the sea.
We’re your welcome just before Lismore - an ideal base for a short leg or a longer pause.
And even if you’re not walking, you’ll still feel it. The slower pace. The quiet strength of the place. The sense that something bigger is moving gently around you.
One Path, Many Directions
Exploring Beyond the Abbey — Where the Pilgrim Path Leads
From Abbey Grounds to Castle Walls:
The Lismore Walk
Step straight onto the historic St Declan’s Way trail from our grounds. This segment winds through quiet lanes and shaded woodland before arriving in Lismore, a heritage town on the Blackwater River. Stop for coffee in the square, explore Lismore Castle Gardens or visit the Lismore Heritage Centre before returning or continuing onward. It’s one of the most accessible stretches of the Pilgrim Path and a natural way to connect with the landscape
Summit the Knockmealdowns via The Vee
For a full-day challenge, head into the Knockmealdown Mountains and up to the famous Vee Pass, known for panoramic views across Munster and rhododendrons in full bloom in early summer. Continue on to Sugarloaf Hill and the summit of Knockmealdown (792 m) before looping back through Cappoquin or linking back onto St Declan’s Way for onward miles. It’s a favourite for hikers who want to see the Pilgrim Path from a higher vantage.
Drift Through Glenshelane Woods
Prefer a slower pace? Just beyond Cappoquin, Glenshelane Woods offers a network of riverside trails under a canopy of native trees. Wooden bridges, shaded picnic spots, and the sound of the river make it perfect for a few quiet hours of reflection, whether you’re breaking your pilgrimage or simply staying close to the Abbey. You’ll also find this route listed on Waterford Trails, alongside other peaceful loops in the area.
DINING
A Taste Along The Way
Lismore & Cappoquin
Stop in Farmgate Lismore for seasonal casual fare, enjoy coffee and light lunches at the Café at Lismore Castle Arts, or visit Barrons Bakery & Café in Cappoquin for traditional bread, blaas and hearty lunches.
Ardmore & The Coast
Savour fresh seafood at Whitehorses Restaurant, take in ocean views over small plates at The Cliff House Bar, or enjoy coffee at the Garden Kitchen (local favourite, Facebook page here for opening info).
Dungarvan
Drop into 360 Cookhouse for vibrant small plates and a lively atmosphere, book an evening at the Tannery Restaurant for contemporary Irish cooking, or enjoy traditional music and classic pub food at The Local in the town square.
Local Experiences & Culture
More to see between path & sea
Lismore & Cappoquin
Wander the gardens and galleries at Lismore Castle Arts before exploring the heritage‑filled streets of Lismore itself. Step inside St Carthage’s Cathedral or browse the riverside walkways leading out of town. Nearby Cappoquin is home to Barron’s Bakery and the historic Cappoquin House & Gardens. Those seeking woodland trails can hike out to the gothic stone arches of Ballysaggartmore Towers – a favourite with photographers.
Ardmore & the Coast
Climb the early‑Christian Ardmore Round Tower and follow the breathtaking Ardmore Cliff Walk, passing St Declan’s Well, hidden beaches and panoramic coastal views. Pause in the village for art galleries, craft shops and traditional music in the evenings. Summer brings the Ardmore Pattern Festival – a lively weekend of music, heritage and family events.
Dungarvan & Beyond
Cycle or walk the Waterford Greenway, Ireland’s most‑loved trail, which begins and ends in Dungarvan. Swim or stroll at the wide golden sands of Clonea Strand, visit Dungarvan Castle and take time at the bustling Farmers’ Market in Grattan Square on Thursdays. Finish your day with food, music and a pint in the square – or plan your visit for April’s renowned West Waterford Festival of Food, when the town becomes a hub for chefs, producers and food lovers.
Rest and Stay on St Declan’s Way
Make St Declan’s Way Hostel your pause point on the pilgrim path.
Whether you’re walking the full trail or just exploring a stage or two, we offer shared rooms, a light pantry breakfast, and a warm place to reset before the next stretch.
