A Day on the Waterford Greenway

The Waterford Greenway is a spectacular 46km off-road cycling and walking trail along an old railway line between Waterford and Dungarvan. We’ve put together a sample intinery to help you plan the perfect family day out! Why not start your day the right way with a family breakfast in

From here why not take the short trip to WIT Sports Arena, Carriganore where there are over 300 dedicated parking spots and direct access to the greenway. If you don’t have your own bikes, it is possible to rent them for the day onsite.

Prepare to be blown away by the views of the River Suir. During the first part of your cycle you will pass the Mount Congreve Gardens which are worth a visit all year round. You can always take a coffee break in the Mount Congreve Café – coffee is always a good idea – especially whilst trying to keep up with the kids!!

Whilst you continue along the greenway you will arrive at Waterford and Suir Valley Railway Station. There are light refreshments available at the station as well as the opportunity to board a historical train with partially open carriages allowing you to take in panoramic views of the River Suir.

Prepare yourself for a slightly longer leg of your cycle (13 km to be exact). After a scenic, flat cycle you will arrive at Kilmacthomas where you will be met with an array of café’s and coffee shops. Before meeting the village itself you will arrive at Couch House Coffee, a charming café with oodles of indoor and outdoor seating with designated bike parking. If you continue on to the village itself, there is a choice of cafes to choose from including , Kearsey’s Bar & Tearoom, and .

Kiersey’s Bar & Tea Room

Coach House Coffee

Maggie’s Coffee Shop

By now, you will be exhausted having completed 20 km! Whilst this may seem like a lot, especially whilst pulling along a child behind you, the greenway is completely flat and you can take as long as you want to do it. While most may call it a day and start again tomorrow, for those of you feeling super energetic, why not continue onto Dungarvan and get a lift back to your car with a free shuttle the bike hire companies provide!

As you leave Kilmacthomas you are faced with stunning views of the Comeragh Mountains. You cycle over an impressive viaduct where you will be met by a mouth-watering smell wafting over from Flahavans Porridge.

A quick 13 km later and you’ll arrive at Durrow where you will find (you’ve definitely deserved a cold drink at this stage!) and An Siopa Beag with plenty of treats for the kids.

Continuing on the journey you will meet the Ballyvoile viaduct. With fairy doors at either side of the path in the lead up to the tunnel it is truly magical. Be sure to take lots of photos!!

The path will then lead you along the coast with breath-taking views over the Atlantic. The salty air and smell of freshly cut grass is a memory that’s sure to stay with you.

The final stretch into Dungarvan brings you along the coastline through Ballinroad until you reach Dungarvan! In Dungarvan, there is an array of cafes to choose from including Café Bliss, , The Ormond and Meades Cafe. If it’s an evening meal you’re after, there are amazing pubs and restaurants such as The Moorings, & 360 Cookhouse.

Top Tips

Like anything, preparation is key – especially with little kids. We’ve compiled a check list for your cycling adventure.

Back Pack Essentials

Helmets
Snacks
Water
Raincoats
Phone
Suncream

Have a Plan

The greenway from Waterford to Dungarvan is 46km – while the route is flat, don’t be fooled – it’s a long aul cycle. Whatever about your own fitness, if your little ones are old enough to be on their own bike, be realistic about their ability. There are many places you can park up and access the greenway – perhaps aim to cycle a shorter route and come back at a later date to finish!

Hopefully by now we have informed you of the different options you have in terms of stopping for rests. Make sure you have plenty of snacks for the little ones, some of the stretches may be long – especially if little (or bigger) legs are tired. Also, make sure you ask your little ones whilst passing each stop if they need to use the bathroom!

Stay Safe and Cycle Clever

While the track is free from cars, there can be a lot of traffic in terms of bikes and pedestrians, especially during the summer months. As a general rule, cycle on the left, pass on the right. Most bikes are equipped with a bell too which will come in very handy as it can be difficult to hear bikes that are approaching from behind.