Plan your perfect trip to the Grand Canal Greenway. Access interactive maps, transport details, history, bike hire, and the best local cafe pitstops all in one place. Waterford Greenway Western Greenway Carlingford Portadown Royal Canal Greenway Grand Canal Greenway Mullingar - Athlone Barrow Way Greenway Sallins Greenway Boyne Valley Midleton - Youghal Suir Blueway Limerick Greenway Tralee Greenway Killarney Cycle Routes Info Map Travel Links Cafes Bike Hire Gallery Historical Grand Canal Greenway

Plan your perfect trip to the Midleton - Youghal Greenway. Access interactive maps, transport details, history, bike hire, and the best local cafe pitstops all in one place. Waterford Greenway Western Greenway Carlingford Portadown Royal Canal Greenway Grand Canal Greenway Mullingar - Athlone Barrow Way Greenway Sallins Greenway Boyne Valley Midleton - Youghal Suir Blueway Limerick Greenway Tralee Greenway Killarney Cycle Routes Info Map Travel Links Cafes Hire/ Repair Gallery Historical Midleton - Youghal Greenway

Plan your perfect trip to the Carlingford Greenway. Access interactive maps, transport details, history, bike hire, and the best local cafe pitstops all in one place. Waterford Greenway Western Greenway Carlingford Portadown Royal Canal Greenway Grand Canal Greenway Mullingar - Athlone Barrow Way Greenway Sallins Greenway Boyne Valley Midleton - Youghal Suir Blueway Limerick Greenway Tralee Greenway Killarney Cycle Routes Info Map Travel Links Cafes Hire/ Repair Gallery Historical Carlingford - Portadown

Traveling to Ireland by air with your bicycle? Guide to bike facilities at Dublin, Cork, Belfast, Shannon and Knock airports, plus transport options to get from the terminal to the greenway. Waterford Greenway Western Greenway Carlingford Portadown Royal Canal Greenway Grand Canal Greenway Mullingar - Athlone Barrow Way Greenway Sallins Greenway Boyne Valley Midleton - Youghal Suir Blueway Limerick Greenway Tralee Greenway Killarney Cycle Routes Air Transport to Ireland Cyclists or passengers intending to cycle Ireland's greenways will enter the country from either Dublin, Belfast, Cork, Shannon, Knock Airport. The carriage of bikes on aircraft requires proper packing and partial dismantling to allow the bikes to be carried as sports equipment in the oversized luggage facility. Cyclists will require a place to remove packaging, refit their bikes and store the packaging for their return. I am endeavouring to find bike shops/ companies that could provide this service and I will update the website as I find possible options. Dublin Airport There is no rail access to Dublin airport. With bikes well packaged it is possible to take a bus from the airport to your preferred location, see the Travel/ Road page here. Or take a large taxi from the airport to your desired location. There is a bike storage area on Level 0 in the Short Term Car Park of Terminal One where one could unpack the bikes and make them roadworthy. The packaging can then be brought back to the Baggage Facility within the airport for storage for the duration of your trip. See the YouTube video here of a cyclist providing very useful commentary on how to cycle to/ from Dublin Airport to the outskirts of the city centre. Visit the Rail page here for further details on the main train stations in Dublin. Take a look at the Dublin Port section of this website for some details about cycling to Dublin's train stations. RetroVentures , a company based in Adare, Co. Limerick, provide a very useful and practical solution for cyclists wishing to cycle in Ireland with their own bikes and travelling by air through Shannon, Cork and Dublin airports. RetroVentures will pick you up from the airport and bring you to their premises in Adare Co. Limerick. From there your bikes can be unpacked, made road ready and the packaging stored for the duration of your trip. At the end of the trip you will return to Adare, have the bikes repackaged and transport you and your bikes back to the airport. You will need to contact RetroVentures to book this service in advance, discuss dates and prices. From Adare you will have close access to the Limerick Greenway , Tralee to Fenit Greenway and Killarney cycle routes . Belfast Airport There are two airports in Belfast: BHD (George Best Belfast City Airport) , located just 3 miles from the city centre, primarily serves UK domestic and short-haul flights. BFS (Belfast International Airport) , located about 20 miles away in Aldergrove, handles more international, charter, and low-cost flights. There are no left luggage facilities at BHD or BFS. Stasher.com provide options for storage in Belfast at various locations. Cork Airport There is no baggage storage facility at Cork Airport and therefore quite difficult for cyclists to prep their bikes and store the boxes/ packaging. A Limerick based company, RetroVentures , see above, provide an interesting service and resolution to this problem. Just googling, I found this entry on Trip Advisor . The Ashley Hotel in Cork were very helpful to cyclists who arrived to Cork Airport. The hotel stored the bike boxes of the reviewers during their stay in Ireland. Shannon Airport Shannon airport has a left luggage area and charge €20 per week to store a Bicycle Box, see here. There appears to be no obvious indoor area to unpack your bikes. It will probably be necessary to do this in one of the car parks. See RetroVentures above, a company in Adare Co. Limerick. Ireland West Airport (Knock) There is no baggage storage at Ireland West Airport. However Knock Airport Taxis will transport you with either a packed or unpacked bike to your desired location. Westport would be a good starting/ finishing point for your trip. This is the starting point of the Great Western Greenway . Please contact the bike hire companies in Westport for storage of your bike packing bags. Help required I would encourage cyclists who have come through any of these airports to share their experience with others. Coming to Ireland via airplane ought be straightforward in relation to access to areas to pack/unpack bikes, store packaging safely and also gain access to transport to easily get to train stations or preferred locations to start your trip. Also if there are any suppliers who can provide some or all of these services, please use the Contact/ Comment sections to provide information about what you can offer. I will be delighted to post your service here. RetroVentures

Have a question about Irish greenways? Get in touch with GreenwayHub for feedback, partnership inquiries, or general trail information. Waterford Greenway Western Greenway Carlingford Portadown Royal Canal Greenway Grand Canal Greenway Mullingar - Athlone Barrow Way Greenway Sallins Greenway Boyne Valley Midleton - Youghal Suir Blueway Limerick Greenway Tralee Greenway Killarney Cycle Routes Contact Form Use the Contact page if you wish to contact the web owner directly, potentially to point out inaccuracies, add features that would enhance the site for other cyclists. Please use the Comments if you wish to provide useful and practical information to other cyclists such as directions, parking, places to visit or recommendations for bike hire, bike repairs, cafes, restaurants or cycling friendly accommodation. Get in touch First name* Last name* Email* Nationality* Date picker Write a message* Star rating Submit

Plan your perfect trip to the Tralee - Fenit Greenway. Access interactive maps, transport details, history, bike hire, and the best local cafe pitstops all in one place. Waterford Greenway Western Greenway Carlingford Portadown Royal Canal Greenway Grand Canal Greenway Mullingar - Athlone Barrow Way Greenway Sallins Greenway Boyne Valley Midleton - Youghal Suir Blueway Limerick Greenway Tralee Greenway Killarney Cycle Routes Info Map Travel Links Cafes Hire/ Repair Gallery Historical Tralee - Fenit Greenway

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Plan your perfect trip to the Great Western Greenway. Access interactive maps, transport details, history, bike hire, and the best local cafe pitstops all in one place. Waterford Greenway Western Greenway Carlingford Portadown Royal Canal Greenway Grand Canal Greenway Mullingar - Athlone Barrow Way Greenway Sallins Greenway Boyne Valley Midleton - Youghal Suir Blueway Limerick Greenway Tralee Greenway Killarney Cycle Routes Great Western Greenway Info Map Travel Links Cafes Bike Hire Gallery Historical

Plan your perfect trip to the Mullingar - Athlone Greenway. Access interactive maps, transport details, history, bike hire, and the best local cafe pitstops all in one place. Waterford Greenway Western Greenway Carlingford Portadown Royal Canal Greenway Grand Canal Greenway Mullingar - Athlone Barrow Way Greenway Sallins Greenway Boyne Valley Midleton - Youghal Suir Blueway Limerick Greenway Tralee Greenway Killarney Cycle Routes Mullingar - Athlone Greenway Info Map Travel Links Cafes Bike Hire Gallery Historical

Explore the fascinating history of the Suir Blueway. From its origins as a historic tow path to the local heritage and folklore of the surrounding area. Info Suir Blueway Map Suir Blueway Travel Suir Blueway Links Suir Blueway Cafes Suir Blueway Hire Suir Blueway Gallery Suir Blueway History Suir Blueway Waterford Greenway Western Greenway Carlingford Portadown Royal Canal Greenway Grand Canal Greenway Mullingar - Athlone Barrow Way Greenway Sallins Greenway Boyne Valley Midleton - Youghal Suir Blueway Limerick Greenway Tralee Greenway Killarney Cycle Routes Gallery Suir (List) History Suir (Item) History Suir Blueway Officially opened in May 2019, the Blueway runs approximately 53 km from Cahir through Clonmel to Carrick-on-Suir, offering walking, cycling, kayaking, canoeing and other outdoor activities along riverbank trails and waterways. In 1756, historical records show that a contract was signed to construct a towpath along the northern bank of the River Suir from Clonmel to Carrick-on-Suir. This infrastructure, completed by 1789, transformed river transport—allowing horse-drawn barges to move goods more efficiently compared to manpower hauling prior to that time. This early towpath underpinned commercial activity between the towns. The modern Suir Blueway project emerged from over seven years of planning and consultation involving Tipperary County Council, local communities, state agencies, and funding partners. This collaborative effort sought to transform the natural and historical asset of the Suir Valley into a sustainable outdoor tourism and community resource. Funding for the initiative came from a combination of sources, including Tipperary County Council, Sport Ireland, the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport, the Department of Rural and Community Development, and EU initiatives like INTERREG. By 2019, the project had culminated in the creation of a 53 km Blueway comprising: A 21 km walking and cycling trail along refurbished historic towpaths between Carrick-on-Suir and Clonmel. A 32 km river route navigable by kayak or canoe between Clonmel and Cahir. Highlights include heritage attractions such as Cahir Castle and the Swiss Cottage near Cahir, picturesque towns like Ardfinnan and Newcastle, and scenic landscapes characteristic of the River Suir valley. A standout feature of the Suir Blueway is the whitewater Canoe Slalom Course in Clonmel, constructed before the Blueway’s formal opening and now used as a training base by Canoeing Ireland and the Irish national squad. The Suir Blueway Tipperary is among the first in the world to receive official Blueway accreditation, reflecting its high standards of visitor experience and infrastructure. Since its launch, the Suir Blueway has become a focal point for tourism and recreation in the region, attracting thousands of walkers, cyclists, paddlers, and nature enthusiasts each year. Usage data shows substantial engagement, with counts of quarter-of-a-million unique users within 12 months of opening. Clonmel The origins of Clonmel lie in the early medieval period. Its name comes from the Irish Cluain Meala, meaning “the honey meadow,” reflecting the fertility of the surrounding land. A monastic settlement is believed to have existed in the area from at least the 7th century, making Clonmel an early centre of religious and agricultural life. The town grew significantly during the Norman period after the late 12th century. Clonmel became an important walled town, with strong defences, markets, and trade connections. By the Middle Ages it was one of the principal towns in Munster, benefiting from river transport along the Suir. Remnants of the medieval walls and gates still mark the town today. One of the most notable events in Clonmel’s history occurred in 1650, when the town was besieged by Oliver Cromwell’s forces. Despite heavy bombardment, the town’s defenders mounted a successful resistance, forcing Cromwell to withdraw after suffering major losses. This event has become a defining moment in Clonmel’s historical identity. During the 18th and 19th centuries, Clonmel developed into a prosperous commercial and industrial centre. Brewing, milling, and agriculture flourished, and the town became a hub for trade and legal administration. It was also a centre of political activity, particularly during the nationalist movements of the 19th century. In the 20th century, Clonmel played a role in Ireland’s struggle for independence and later adapted to economic and social change. While traditional industries declined, the town remained an important regional centre for business, education, and culture. Carrick-on-Suir Carrick-on-Suir is a historic riverside town in south County Tipperary, located where the River Suir becomes tidal before flowing into Waterford Harbour. Its strategic position made it an important settlement for trade, defence, and political power from early medieval times onward. The name Carrick-on-Suir derives from the Irish Carraig na Siúire, meaning “the rock of the Suir.” A settlement is believed to have existed here from early Christian times, with evidence of monastic activity in the surrounding area. The river crossing point gave Carrick early importance as a place of movement and exchange between Munster and Leinster. Carrick-on-Suir rose to prominence following the Norman invasion of Ireland in the late 12th century. The town became a key stronghold of the powerful Butler family, who were Earls of Ormond. In the 14th century, Ormond Castle was constructed as the principal residence of the Butlers. Unlike most Irish castles, Ormond Castle later evolved into a Tudor manor house, reflecting English architectural influence and the family’s wealth and status. During the Middle Ages, Carrick-on-Suir developed into a thriving walled town and river port. The Suir allowed for the transport of goods such as wool, grain, and livestock, linking the town to Waterford and international trade routes. Its prosperity made it one of the most important towns in south Tipperary. Carrick-on-Suir also held strong religious importance. Several monasteries and churches were established in and around the town, including Franciscan foundations. During the Reformation and subsequent religious conflicts, the town experienced political tension and economic decline, particularly as the power of the Butler family waned. In the 17th century, Carrick-on-Suir was affected by Ireland’s turbulent wars, including the Confederate Wars and the Cromwellian conquest. While Ormond Castle survived relatively intact, the town’s population and economy suffered. Nevertheless, Carrick retained its role as a local commercial centre. The town is notably the birthplace of Edmund Butler, later known as Viscount Mountgarret, and it maintained close ties to national political events through the Butler dynasty. The 19th century marked a period of renewed industrial growth. Carrick-on-Suir became known for its woollen and textile industries, as well as milling and brewing. The arrival of the railway improved transport and trade. However, the Great Famine (1845–1852) had devastating effects on the population, leading to poverty and emigration. Carrick-on-Suir is also famous as the birthplace of Archbishop Thomas Croke, a key figure in Irish nationalism and the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA). His legacy remains central to the town’s cultural identity. During the early 20th century, Carrick-on-Suir played a role in the struggle for Irish independence, with local involvement in the War of Independence and Civil War. Industrial decline later in the century led to economic challenges, particularly with the closure of traditional textile factories. In recent decades, Carrick-on-Suir has focused on heritage, tourism, and community development. Ormond Castle has been restored and opened to the public, and initiatives such as the Suir Blueway have re-emphasised the town’s historic relationship with the river. Carrick-on-Suir’s history is deeply shaped by its river setting, its medieval power as a Butler stronghold, and its later industrial heritage.

Explore the beauty of the Suir Blueway through our photo gallery. Browse high-quality images of local scenery, points of interest, and hidden gems along the route. Info Suir Blueway Map Suir Blueway Travel Suir Blueway Links Suir Blueway Cafes Suir Blueway Hire Suir Blueway Gallery Suir Blueway History Suir Blueway Waterford Greenway Western Greenway Carlingford Portadown Royal Canal Greenway Grand Canal Greenway Mullingar - Athlone Barrow Way Greenway Sallins Greenway Boyne Valley Midleton - Youghal Suir Blueway Limerick Greenway Tralee Greenway Killarney Cycle Routes Gallery Suir (List) Heading 2

Back Royal Canal Greenway The Royal Canal Greenway is one of Ireland’s premier cycling routes, crossing almost half the island in the east/ west direction. It stretches 130 Kms from Maynooth in County Kildare to Clondra in County Longford through the towns of Kilcock, Enfield, Mullingar, Ballymahon and Longford . The original tow-path has been converted to a cycle and walking path. The canal is maintained by Waterways Ireland and the pleasure boats use the canal passing through the many locks. Historical buildings like lock houses and bridges, remnants of the canal's industrial past, stand as reminders of the once-thriving trade route remain. Additionally, wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy the canal's thriving ecosystems. The greenway provides habitats for numerous species of birds, fish, and aquatic plants. It’s not uncommon for cyclists to encounter herons, swans, or otters along the way. The development of the Royal Canal Greenway has had a positive impact on the local economy. The influx of visitors, both domestic and international, has benefited businesses along the route, including cafes, restaurants, bike rental shops, and guesthouses. This eco-tourism has brought a boost to rural towns. The Royal Canal Greenway exemplifies sustainable tourism and the importance of preserving natural spaces. The surface is fine grit and perfectly suitable for cycling. The profile of the pathway is very flat as would be expected on a canal route. The profile of the route can be found here . The history of the canal/ greenway can be found here. Given the length of the route there is no single start and end points meaning that it can be joined at many places. The website by RoadRunner, by Gary O'Neill provides a really excellent detailed breakdown of each of the sections of the 130km stretch, see Gary's website here. The town of Kilcock is xx kilometers from Maynooth. The trail runs through the town providing access to local shops and coffee shops. The next town is Enfield which is 19Kms from Maynooth. The trail crosses the main road at the side of the railway bridge. Enfield can also be considered a starting/ finishing point given that there is rail station in the town. Thomastown Harbour is 24 Kms from Enfield and a resting place to have lunch or a break at Nanny Quinn's pub/ restaurant. From Thomastown Harbour it is 17 Kms to Mullingar town where there are many places to stay and eat. About xx Kms outside Mullingar the greenway splits. Cyclists can follow the Royal Canal to Longford or use the Old Rail Trail which is the Mullingar to Athlone Greenway covered separately on this website