History
Rosslare Harbour, or Cuan Ros Láir in Irish, meaning ‘harbour of the middle peninsula’, sits on the south-east corner of Ireland: a fine location for marine connections with Wales and Europe.
It was recommended as the location for a new port by Victorian engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel. The main port at Wexford was becoming difficult to use as the shifting sands, where the river Slaney meets the sea, were treacherous to navigate. Rosslare Harbour took some time to complete and opened in 1906.
The increasing popularity of cars and trucks in the 1940s and ‘50s furthered Rosslare Harbour’s role as a vital node in international transport to and from Ireland. In 1968, the port became Ireland’s newest gateway to Europe with the start of the Le Havre ferry route. Rosslare Europort is now the second busiest port in the Republic of Ireland, with new routes opening to various European destinations.
Things to See and Do
The Beach
The beach beside the port is one of the loveliest in Wexford (where there is stiff competition for that honour). Its golden sands are accessible to wheelchair users and people with mobility issues, a walkway and viewing point are in place year-round.
From June onwards, there are pads that go right on to the beach by the water. Depending on the tide, sometimes it can be a little further to water’s edge.
There is a playground at the far end of the village that boasts a magnificent view of the ferries and freight ships going into the port. This is a great opportunity for the kids to burn off energy before or after being cooped up on board a ferry.
Established by Seamus Kirwan in the 1980s, the Secret Garden is a gentle path through a community garden planted for nature and sustainability.
The
Secret
Garden
The
Great
Outdoors
The International Outdoor Activity Centre offers a gorgeous campground and adventure for all ages. Along with the Centre, there are other activity businesses in the area, these include horse riding at Hazelwood Stables, along with hiking and golf.
Where
to
Dine
For food you can visit the Garden Café where Vivien and her team can give you a light bite or a full meal to sustain you on your onward journey. At the Tusker chipper you can indulge in salty, vinegary chips on the beach.
For active travellers on foot or bike, the Norman Way and the Euro Velo One Cycle Route are suitably close.
Discover Other Ports
