Welcome to the official Greenways Ireland website—a central hub for exploring our growing network of scenic, sustainable trails. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, this platform is designed to help you plan your next cycling or walking adventure through some of Ireland’s most beautiful landscapes.
What Is a Greenway?
Greenways are segregated, traffic-free routes designed for shared use by people walking, cycling, using wheelchairs, or pushing buggies. They are built to high accessibility standards, offering smooth surfaces, gentle gradients, and enough space to ensure a comfortable and safe experience for all users.
A Growing National Network
Ireland’s first greenway—the Great Western Greenway in County Mayo—opened in 2010, transforming a disused railway into a vibrant and well-used outdoor route. Since then, the network has expanded significantly across the country, with major investment accelerating growth from 2021 onward. The Department of Transport oversees the national programme, setting policy direction and providing exchequer funding for greenways that are generally over 20 kilometres in length. Local authorities work in partnership with national agencies such as Transport Infrastructure Ireland and the National Transport Authority to develop, deliver and maintain these routes.
Built on Quality and Safety
All Department-funded greenways must meet national technical standards. These ensure routes are designed with consistent width, surface quality, and gentle gradients to accommodate people of all abilities. A key focus is to ensure each route is user-friendly, low-risk, and accessible to the widest possible group of people. Responsibility for maintaining these standards and guidelines is shared between national agencies and the local authorities delivering each greenway.
About This Website
This website was created to provide easy access to accurate and up-to-date information about Ireland’s completed greenway routes. Here, you can explore detailed route information, view interactive maps, access travel planning tools, and learn about safety guidelines, including the Greenway Code of Conduct. At this time, the site features only greenways that are completed or near completion and primarily funded by the Department of Transport. As the national network grows, the website may expand to include additional greenways and link to other publicly funded platforms and resources. Routes still in development will typically have their own dedicated project websites, which we link to wherever possible.
Why Greenways Matter
Greenways contribute to a wide range of national goals. They promote sustainable travel, encourage local tourism, and support the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities. By providing safe, accessible paths, greenways offer an alternative to car travel for everyday journeys and connect people with nature, their towns, and each other. Their positive impact is felt through improved physical activity levels, increased visitor footfall to rural areas, and the creation of welcoming spaces for people of all ages and abilities.
Your Journey Starts Here
We hope this website becomes a trusted resource as you plan your next outing, commute, or holiday. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful trail through nature or a scenic route along the coast, Ireland’s greenways offer something for everyone—at your own pace, in your own way.