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An Sean Phobal - The Oldest Parish in Ireland The legend has it that Saint Coleman founded An Sean Phobal (Old Parish) long before Saint Patrick came to the Island. An Sean Phobal is located on the Waterford coast between Dungarvan and Youghal and it forms together with An Rinn (Ring) the Waterford Gaeltacht. Before the famine in the mid-19th century, An Sean Phobal (Old Parish) contained a much larger population than it does today. An Sean Phobal, together with An Rinn (Ring) forms the Waterford Gaeltacht. About 13 km (8 mls) from Dungarvan, An Sean Phobal is a large parish covering about 35 square kilometres (14 sq.mls) with approximately 8 km (5 mls) of coastline. This coastline consists of a dramatic seascape comprising of cliffs (approximately 70 m, 230 ft., high) together with a number of deeply incised stream gullies and small bays. The unimproved grassland along the cliffs attracts a wide variety of seabirds. An Sean Phobal is a paradise for bird-watchers and people interested in nature. The most prominent man-made feature is the Mine Head Lighthouse. The seas along this stretch of coast are notoriously rough and numerous wrecks are known to lie offshore. Built some 4,000 years before the lighthouse is another man-made structure - a pre-celtic Megalithic Tomb, the only example of its kind in County Waterford. The spectacular cliff-top location, with stunning views across to the East Waterford and Wexford coastline to the Hook Head Lighthouse and beyond leave no visitor in any doubt as to why this tomb was built in exactly this location with an all overlooking view. Don't miss the Lickey Valley walks. These walks vary in length and offer the walker a rich and varied exposure to local ecology and heritage. The Licky river valley is of such importance that it has been designated a Special Area of Conservation by the Irish Government. The area is an excellent example of species and habitats deemed to be worthy of conservation at an international level. These seven walks are mapped out and graded to suit all. |
