Brought to you by Discover Ireland
Ireland has no shortage of gorgeous greenways, suitable for hardcore peddlers and casual cyclists alike. On yer bike!
Get on your bike, or put on your boots, and gear up to enjoy the great greenways of Ireland.
These traffic-free trails are a wonderful way to leave behind the hustle and bustle and get out and explore more of our gorgeous country.
Of course, good snacks go hand in hand with a good day out and these routes are dotted with picturesque picnic spots and gourmet pit-stops where you can refuel with food bursting with local flavours.
To whet your appetite, here’s a mouthwatering menu of gourmet greenway getaways.
Waterford Greenway – Waterford City to Dungarvan – 46km
Gliding along the Waterford Greenway in Ireland’s Ancient East, you’ll pass heart-stirring scenery and historic landmarks including a workhouse, an impressive viaduct and Norman ruins.
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Once you’ve pedalled up an appetite, pit-stop at Signal Box Coffee, where you can refuel with a luscious hot chocolate served in an edible cup.
Packing a picnic? For a taste of the region, pick up some locally made Knockanore cheese and refreshing Crinnaughton apple juice.
Great Western Greenway – Westport to Achill, County Mayo – 42km
Following the Great Western Greenway along the old Westport to Achill railway, you’ll encounter dramatic mountain scenery and dazzling views of Clew Bay with its many islands.
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Pack a picnic with local produce – Kelly’s Sausages or Dozio Cheese sambos are ideal — and enjoy at one of the many picturesque pitstops.
When you arrive on Achill Island, you can tuck into a feast of freshly-made food from the food truck Blásta at Ted’s.
Carlingford Greenway – Carlingford Marina to Omeath Pier, County Louth – 6.2km
The short Carlingford Greenway route packs a punch when it comes to scenery, with the beautiful Mourne Mountains, Slieve Foy and Carlingford Lough providing the backdrop and spectacular views.
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A leisurely packed lunch along the lough is made even more special with some local
Bellingham Cheese and rich, world-renowned Carlingford Oysters. You can also stop off at Cafe Rosa in Omeath for a fully loaded soda bread to devour along the way.
Old Rail Trail Greenway – Athlone to Mullingar, County Westmeath – 42km
In Ireland’s midlands, there are rivers and lakes and canals aplenty and the Old Rail Trail Greenway runs parallel to the Royal Canal.
The rural route passes through farmland, verdant countryside and small towns and is incredibly scenic and serene.
For something tasty on the trail, pitstop at Dún na Sí Heritage Park and enjoy street food, snacks and sweet treats from the Bean Box. For some local snacks, grab a box of Kilbeggan Irish Oat Cookies and melt-in-the-mouth morsels from An Olivia Chocolate.
Royal Canal Greenway – Maynooth to Cloondara – 144km
Running along Ireland’s historic and resplendent Royal Canal, this is Ireland’s longest greenway. It passes a plethora of pretty bridges, locks, harbours and aqueducts, plus there’s plenty of wildlife and landmarks along the way.
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The Royal Canal Greenway is a six-day undertaking by foot so you’ll need to plan plenty of picnics and pitstops full of delicious local produce. A stop at the Lazy Daisy Cafe in Dublin is a great place to grab some greenway goodies to tuck into en route.
Limerick Greenway – Rathkeale to Abbeyfeale – 40km
The Limerick Greenway connects the charming market towns of Rathkeale, Newcastlewest and Abbeyfeale in west Limerick. Travel through history as you encounter Norman castles and ancient abbeys, workhouses and famine graveyards, ruins and deserted railway stations.
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Marguerites Bakery is the perfect place to pick up some freshly-baked artisan bread and confectionery for the journey. For a delicious taste of Limerick, include some Cahill’s Cheese and Temple Dairy Chocolate Milk in your picnic provisions.
Capacity restrictions may be in place at visitor attractions, sites and restaurants so you are encouraged to book ahead to avoid disappointment. The Leave No Trace principles help us make as little an impact as possible on the incredible Irish landscape as we explore the outdoors this summer and beyond. Keep outdoor areas safe, clean and free from waste/hazards, and help protect the natural environment. Love this place, leave no trace.
Brought to you by Discover Ireland
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