Photo courtesy of DiscoverIreland.ie
Ireland offers a wonderful range of bike paths and routes that allow active travelers to enjoy the picturesque countryside while stopping by charming villages along the way.
There are routes that suite the full range of cyclists, including beginners, families and casual riders.
The nation is home to a series of well-groomed greenways—traffic-free paths mostly built on old railway lines. These are flat or gently graded, scenic, well-maintained, and suitable for hybrid or e-bikes. Road routes like the Ring of Kerry are more challenging and better for experienced riders.
Here are the top accessible options for the best cycling paths in Ireland, based on official tourism sites and recent guides.
1. Waterford Greenway (Southeast Ireland)
This is a smooth paved/tarmac surface following an old railway, stretching about 46 kilometers from Waterford City to Dungarvan. Highlights include tunnels (Durrow Tunnel), viaducts (like the 11-arch one at Kilmacthomas), bridges, countryside and coastal views near the end.
This is an easy ride (gently rolling, mostly flat) ideal for families and beginners. You can do sections or the full route. Bike rentals are widely available in both towns.
2. Great Western Greenway (County Mayo, West Ireland)
This ride is along compacted gravel/tarmac on an old rail line, going 42 to 49 kilometers from Westport to Achill Island (via Newport and Mulranny), with a recent extension further onto Achill.
Riders enjoy stunning views of Clew Bay, Croagh Patrick, islands and coastal scenery.
This ride is rated easy to moderate (gentle gradients). Some sections, such as Westport to Newport or Mulranny to Achill, work well for shorter rides. You can find plenty of bike rental companies with shuttle options and buses available for one-way trips. This is one of Ireland’s most iconic and popular greenways.
3. Limerick Greenway (Southwest)
Pedal in the peaceful countryside, rolling past River Deel, restored stations, heritage towns, and rural scenery. This greenway covers 40 kilometers from Rathkeale to Abbeyfeale (via Newcastle West), following a disused railway. This is an easy ride, good for a relaxed day ride.
4. Royal Canal Greenway (East/Midlands)
Enjoy this picturesque flat canal-side path with quiet countryside that offers the chance for one long ride or multiple shorter sections.
The route travels up to 130 kilometers from near Dublin (Maynooth area) to Longford; it’s Ireland’s longest greenway.
This easy terrain is perfect for multi-day or short sections (e.g., Dublin to Maynooth). Suitable for beginners and long-distance leisure riders.
5. Other Options (Including Challenging Rides) and Valuable Riding Tips
Old Rail Trail/Athlone to Mullingar Cycleway covers 40 kilometers in the Midlands on a flat, car-free path with rural scenery and lakes.
Carlingford Greenway in County Louth offers shorter 7 kilometer sections along the coast with mountain views; excellent for novices or families with kids.
Kingdom of Kerry Greenways (for example Tralee to Fenit) features shorter coastal stretches.
More Challenging Road Options (for Fitter Cyclists)
Howth Peninsula Loop (near Dublin): Relatively short coastal loop with sea views — doable as a half-day outing.
Inis Mór (Aran Islands) Cycle Loop: Easy island riding after taking a ferry; quiet roads and dramatic cliffs.
Practical Tips for Visitors
Best for “anyone”: Stick to greenways — they require no special fitness or skills beyond basic cycling. Hybrid or e-bikes are ideal; road bikes suit some paved sections better.
Bike rentals: Widely available at starting points (Westport, Waterford, etc.), often with helmets, locks and one-way/shuttle options. E-bikes are popular for ease.
Best time: Late spring to early autumn (May–September) for longer days and better weather; always prepare for rain.
Safety and logistics: Ireland is generally safe for cycling on dedicated paths. Greenways are shared with walkers — be courteous. Check weather conditions, and consider booking accommodation/bike rentals in advance during peak season. Many routes connect to public transportation options.
These routes showcase Ireland’s countryside, coast, and heritage without heavy traffic. The Waterford and Great Western Greenways consistently rank as the top picks for most visitors. Check DiscoverIreland.ie or local greenway sites for maps, current conditions and rentals before you go.
Happy riding!