Great Western Greenway: Located in County Mayo, the Great Western Greenway was Ireland’s longest off-road cycling trail, and is now surpassed slightly by Waterford Greenway (46km). The Great Western Greenway stretches for 42 kilometres (26 miles) from Westport to Achill Island, passing through stunning landscapes, including mountains, lakes, and coastal views.
Suggested Place to Stay: Westport Woods Hotel & Spa
Waterford Greenway: The Waterford Greenway is situated in County Waterford and follows a 46-kilometer (29-mile) route along an old railway line. This greenway takes you through picturesque countryside, charming villages, and along the scenic Waterford coastline. There are numerous great places to stop along the way such as the magnificent Mount Congreve Gardens, the fascinating 800-year-old fortified castle at Dungarvan or take a trip along the banks of the River Suir on the quaint heritage railway train just outside the picturesque village of Kilmeaden.
Suggested Place to Stay: Fitzwilton Hotel, Waterford City
Great Southern Greenway: Located in County Limerick, the Great Southern Greenway is a 39-kilometre (24-mile) trail that follows the route of the old Limerick to Tralee railway line. It passes through lush farmland, woodland, and crosses numerous bridges and viaducts and connects the three towns of Rathkeale, Newcastlewest and Abbeyfeale in west Limerick.
Royal Canal Greenway: The Royal Canal Greenway stretches for 130 kilometres (81 miles) from Dublin to County Longford. This greenway follows the path of the historic Royal Canal and offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, including charming villages, scenic countryside, and tranquil waterways.
Old Rail Trail: Situated in County Westmeath, the Old Rail Trail is a 40-kilometre (25-mile) greenway that runs from Athlone to Mullingar. It takes you through rural farmland, bogs, and picturesque villages, offering a peaceful and scenic cycling experience.
Suggested Place to Stay: Bloomfield House Hotel, Mullingar
Kerry Greenways:
Tralee to Fenit Greenway: 13.6 km – With its breathtaking views of Mount Brandon, Tralee Bay and Fenit Harbour, you can explore both countryside and coast by foot or by bike along the Tralee to Fenit route. This part of the Kingdom of Kerry Greenways travels from Tralee, the capital town of Kerry, to scenic Fenit Harbour, one of the Wild Atlantic Way’s discovery points.
Suggested Place to Stay: Rose Hotel Tralee
Listowel to Limerick Greenway: The Listowel to Abbeyfeale route on the Kingdom of Kerry Greenway begins in the beautiful town of Listowel. It is nestled between the Stack Mountains to the south and the foothills of Mullaghareirk Mountains and finishes at the Limerick border. The 16km route offers unspoilt views of the surrounding pastureland and picturesque landscape of heather bog land, fertile valleys and rolling hills and the lively historic market town of Listowel. It connects with ‘The Limerick Greenway’ at Abbeyfeale.
Ireland’s greenways typically have well-maintained surfaces, signage, and amenities such as bike rental and repair shops, rest areas, and cafés along the way. They are suitable for all levels of cyclists, from families with children to more experienced riders. It’s worth noting that some sections of the greenways may be shared with pedestrians, so it’s important to be mindful of other users and adhere to any specific guidelines or rules in place.
Cycling in Ireland’s greenways allows you to soak in the stunning landscapes, discover hidden gems, and experience the warm hospitality of the local communities. It’s a fantastic way to explore the country at a leisurely pace and enjoy the natural beauty Ireland has to offer.