Questions About Greenway Cycling in Ireland?

Yes — because they're built on converted railway lines, the gradients are extremely gentle (usually under 2%), and there's zero motorised traffic. You're cycling on dedicated paths away from roads, which is exactly what makes greenways perfect for cyclists aged 55 and up who want to enjoy a ride without worrying about cars or steep hills.

The Great Western Greenway is 42km between Westport and Newport in County Mayo. You can absolutely cycle it in a day at a leisurely pace — most people take 3 to 4 hours — but we recommend breaking it into two days to enjoy the scenery, stop at local spots, and avoid fatigue. There are plenty of rest areas and refreshment stops along the way.

The Great Western Greenway (42km in County Mayo) runs through dramatic coastal and mountain scenery with Croagh Patrick as a backdrop. The Old Rail Trail (45km between Athlone and Mullingar in the Midlands) is quieter and more forested, perfect if you prefer a peaceful inland route. Both are flat and traffic-free — it's really about which landscape appeals to you.

Not at all. If you can ride a bike, you can cycle a greenway. We do recommend starting with shorter sections (10–15km) to build confidence, especially if you haven't cycled in a while. Our guides include practical tips on pacing yourself, taking breaks, and choosing the right sections based on your fitness level.

Bring water, sun protection, a light snack, and a basic repair kit (spare tube, pump, multi-tool). Check your tyres are pumped to the right pressure, brakes work smoothly, and your chain is clean — greenways are forgiving, but a well-maintained bike makes the ride much more enjoyable. We've got detailed pre-ride checklists in our route guides.

We've created a complete guide to the Déise Greenway in Waterford that covers waypoints, rest stops, local attractions, and practical cycling notes. Head to our Déise Greenway guide or explore all our route resources to find detailed maps and cycling strategies.