What is a Greenway?
A greenway is a dedicated, off-road trail for walking and cycling — usually built on old rail lines, canals, or disused routes. They are:
- Safe – no car traffic
- Flat – suitable for all fitness levels
- Scenic – offering mountains, lakes, and coastlines
- Accessible – ideal for buggies, bikes, trailers, and all ages
Waterford Greenway (46km) – Best for Coast and Culture
Running from Waterford City to the vibrant seaside town of Dungarvan, this greenway weaves through viaducts, over rivers, and alongside the coast. The route is rich with history, wildlife, and sea views — ideal for a multi-day family break or a shorter ride.
🚴 Family Highlights:
- Visit the old Durrow railway tunnel
- Stop at Mount Congreve Gardens
- Enjoy a seaside picnic in Dungarvan
🚲 Where to Rent Bikes:
- Greenway Waterford Bike Hire (Waterford, Kilmacthomas, Dungarvan)
greenwaywaterfordbikehire.ie
🛏 Where to Stay:
- Park Hotel Dungarvan – Pool, family rooms, and onsite bike hire
Website »
🍽 Where to Eat:
360 Cookhouse (Dungarvan) – Trendy, family-friendly menu with gluten-free options
Website »
✅ Top Tip: Start in Waterford City and ride out to Durrow. Stop at the Ballyvoyle Tunnel for a fun, lightly adventurous pause—kids love spotting bats and fairy doors!
Great Western Greenway (44km) – Atlantic Views & Island Magic
This stunning route traces the old railway from Westport to Achill Island, offering breathtaking views of Clew Bay, the Nephin Beg Mountains, and Croagh Patrick. Perfect for adventurous families with older kids or e-bike rentals.
🚴 Family Highlights:
- Take a break in Newport for lunch and a playground
- Cross the Mulranny Causeway and spot sea birds
- End your journey on Achill’s golden beaches
🚲 Where to Rent Bikes:
- Clew Bay Bike Hire (Westport, Newport, Mulranny, Achill) – Free shuttle service
clewbaybikehire.ie
🛏 Where to Stay:
- Westport Coast Hotel – Family rooms and spa overlooking the bay
🍽 Where to Eat:
- The Pantry & Corkscrew, Westport – Friendly staff and kids’ options
✅ Top Tip: Bring a picnic to enjoy on the Mulranny Causeway while watching sea birds—perfect family. photo op!
Limerick Greenway (40km) – Railway Relics & Rolling Fields
Less busy but full of charm, this greenway from Rathkeale to Abbeyfeale is perfect for families with younger children. With historical landmarks, viaducts, and peaceful countryside, it’s a hidden gem that’s easy to explore in sections.
🚴 Family Highlights:
- Visit the Barnagh Tunnel and viewing platform
- Pop into the Limerick Greenway Hub in Newcastle West
- Learn about Irish rail history at the Rathkeale Railway Museum
🚲 Where to Rent Bikes:
- Pedal Pursuits Bike Hire (Newcastle West)
pedalpursuitsbikehire.com
🛏 Where to Stay:
- Longcourt House Hotel – Spacious family suites and close to greenway access
🍽 Where to Eat:
✅ Top Tip: Kids will love the history—plan a stop at the Barnagh Tunnel lookout before heading to the Railway Museum in Rathkeale.
Royal Canal Greenway (Up to 130km) – Flexible, Flat & Full of Nature
Ireland’s longest greenway stretches from Maynooth to Longford, but families can enjoy bite-size chunks like the Mullingar to Abbeyshrule section. It’s flat, relaxing, and rich with heritage locks, wildlife, and waterways.
🚴 Family Highlights:
- Cycle beside tranquil canal banks
- Enjoy a riverside picnic at Coolnahay Harbour
- Explore Abbeyshrule’s stone bridges and waterside village
🚲 Where to Rent Bikes:
- Mullingar Bike Hire – E-bikes, kids’ bikes, trailers available
mullingarbikehire.com
🛏 Where to Stay:
- Annebrook House Hotel, Mullingar – Hotel and self-catering options
🍽 Where to Eat:
- Oscars Café, Mullingar – Brunch favourites, kids’ portions, and treats
✅ Top Tip: Kids will love the history—plan a stop at the Barnagh Tunnel lookout before heading to the Railway Museum in Rathkeale.
Suir Blueway (21km cycle path) – Riverside Rides & Water Fun
Located in County Tipperary, this lesser-known greenway follows the River Suir between Clonmel and Carrick-on-Suir. It’s ideal for families wanting a mix of cycling and waterside activities like kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding.
🚴 Family Highlights:
- Try water sports in Clonmel
- Spot herons, swans, and local wildlife
- Visit Ormond Castle or the Main Guard heritage site
🚲 Where to Rent Bikes:
- Blueway Bike Hire (Clonmel & Carrick-on-Suir)
bluewaybikehire.ie
🛏 Where to Stay:
- Hotel Minella, Clonmel – Pool, family suites, and river access
🍽 Where to Eat:
- Raheen House Hotel Restaurant – Relaxed, historic dining experience
✅ Top tip: Include a lunchtime paddle at Clonmel’s riverside before continuing your ride—perfect way to mix things up!
With scenic routes, safe trails, and plenty of kid-friendly pit stops, cycling Ireland’s greenways is the perfect family getaway. Choose a route that fits your crew — whether it’s a weekend escape or a full-blown summer adventure.
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