Overview
Kilrossanty is a tranquil village and civil parish tucked into the foothills of the Comeragh Mountains in County Waterford. The settlement lies on the R676 road that links Dungarvan to Carrick‑on‑Suir, just a short drive north of Dungarvan and west of Waterford city. Its location makes it an ideal base for exploring the rugged mountain scenery, the nearby Mahon Falls and the wider Waterford countryside.
History
The village’s roots stretch back centuries. At the centre of the old settlement stand the ruins of the former parish church, a modest stone structure whose weathered walls hint at a once‑busy place of worship. Adjacent to the church are three holy wells, the principal one dedicated to St Brigid, a site still visited by locals seeking a moment of reflection.
Just outside Kilrossanty sits Comeragh House, a 19th‑century mansion that was home to the explorer John Palliser, famed for his surveys of the Canadian West. In the mid‑20th century the house was occupied by Dutch art collector Pieter Menten, whose controversial past ended with his arrest and eventual ban from returning to Ireland. The house was sold after his death, but its façade remains a striking reminder of the area’s layered past.
Mahón Falls and Walking Trails
A short drive from the village brings you to Mahon Falls, one of the most photographed waterfalls in the Comeragh range. The well‑marked trail to the falls follows a river gorge, passing a series of smaller cascades before opening onto a viewing platform that frames the main drop. The walk is suitable for most abilities and can be combined with longer ridge walks that lead to the peaks of the Comeragh Mountains. Whether you are after a quick photo stop or a full‑day hike, Mahon Falls provides a dramatic natural backdrop for any itinerary.
What to See & Do
- Holy Wells – The St Brigid well and its companion wells are set in a peaceful garden, offering a glimpse of Ireland’s ancient devotional landscape.
- Church Ruins – Wander among the stone fragments of the old parish church and imagine the centuries of community life that once centred here.
- Comeragh House – While the interior is private, the exterior and surrounding grounds can be admired from the road, especially when the mountains provide a dramatic backdrop.
- Hill‑walking – The Comeragh Mountains present a network of trails ranging from gentle forest walks to challenging ridge scrambles. The popular Mahon Falls trail is a short drive away and rewards hikers with a series of cascading waterfalls.
- Kilrossanty GAA Club – Sports enthusiasts can catch a local Gaelic football or hurling match, experiencing the community spirit that defines rural Irish life.
- Village Pub – The local public house offers a warm welcome, a pint of Irish stout and the chance to chat with residents about the area’s folklore.
- Comeragh Pods Glamping – For a more indulgent stay, the award‑winning Comeragh Pods provide six luxury glamping pods set amid the mountains. Each pod includes a private bathroom, TV, tea/coffee facilities and an outdoor picnic bench. Guests can add a hot‑tub or sauna for an extra fee and finish the day around a communal campfire.
Pod Amenities
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Sleeping | Queen‑size bed with linen |
| Bathroom | En‑suite shower, toilet, hair‑dryer |
| Kitchenette | Tea/coffee maker, mini‑fridge |
| Entertainment | Flat‑screen TV |
| Outdoor | Private picnic bench, Wi‑Fi hotspot |
| Optional Extras | Hot‑tub, sauna (additional charge) |
Practical Information
Getting there – Kilrossanty is accessed via the R676. From Dungarvan, follow the R676 north for about 12 km; from Waterford city, travel west on the N25 and then turn onto the R676. The nearest major airport is Waterford Airport, about 45 km away, with car hire or shuttle services available.
Accommodation – The primary glamping option is Comeragh Pods. Bookings can be made through their website comeraghpods.ie. The site also offers a communal building with a kitchen, lounge and free parking. For those preferring a traditional hotel, the Cliff House Hotel in Ardmore and Hanora’s Cottage in the Nire Valley are within a 20‑minute drive.
Contact – For enquiries about the glamping site, call +353 58 54646 or email info@wlp.ie (the Waterford Leadership Partnership, which administered the LEADER funding for the project).
Accessibility – The glamping pods are ground‑level with private bathrooms, making them suitable for guests with limited mobility. The communal area is wheelchair‑friendly, and the site provides an automatic gate and CCTV for security.
Seasonality – The pods operate year‑round, but the peak season (May‑September) sees the highest demand for hill‑walking and outdoor activities. Booking in advance is advisable during this period.
Nearby attractions – While staying in Kilrossanty, consider a short drive to Mahon Falls, the Coumshingaun Lough glacial lake, or the historic town of Lismore with its castle and gardens.
Enjoy the blend of natural beauty, quiet history and modern comfort that makes Kilrossanty a hidden gem of County Waterford.