Waterford Greenway Cycle

The old railway line from Waterford City to Dungarvan is a spectacular 46km off-road cycling and walking trail which travels through time and nature across eleven bridges, three impressive viaducts and a long atmospheric tunnel all the way from the River Suir to Dungarvan Bay. Along this route in Ireland's Ancient East is the site of a 9th century Viking settlement; the world renowned ornamental gardens at Mount Congreve; Waterford & Suir Valley narrow gauge heritage railway; former woollen mills and railway stations; and beautiful landscapes along the River Suir, Comeragh Mountains, The Copper Coast and Dungarvan Bay. Enjoy the beautiful journey.

Did you know: The Waterford, Dungarvan and Lismore Railway Line opened in 1878, closed to passengers in 1967 only to re-open for freight again from 1970 to 1983, between Waterford and Dungarvan. At Ballyvoyle you will find two engineering marvels. Ballyvoyle Viaduct which was constructed in 1878, blown up in 1922 during the Civil War and rebuilt in 1924 and a 400 metre long brick lined tunnel. Kilmacthomas Workshouse was built in 1850 for the Poor Law Union. The buildings included a chapel, fever hospital and mortuary. Woodstown Viking site is a designated national monument approx 8kms west of Waterford City Centre along the Greenway. Evidence suggests this site predates Waterford City as a Viking settlement.

How to get there: Waterford Greenway runs between Waterford City and Dungarvan. It starts at Grattan Quay in Waterford City Centre, less than 100 metres from Rice Bridge. The trailhead in Dungarvan can be found at Walton Park, Abbeyside less than 5 minutes walk from Grattan Square. There are 10 other Waterford Greenway car parks including: Bilberry; WIT West Campus; Killoteran; Kilmeaden WSVR; Workhouse, Kilmacthomas; Station, Kilmacthomas; Mill, Kilmacthomas; McGrath's Cross; Durrow; Clonea Road.

Minimum Gear: Walking shoes/boots, wind/rain gear, snacks/ water, mobile phone