Limerick Greenway and the Must See Stops You Don’t Want to Miss
Irelands newest addition to our ever growing greenway system is in beautiful Limerick, with a brand new route that promises to be a feast for the senses as it takes you through the charming Limerick country side. Opened in May of this year, this impressive structure is built on the old railway line, which ran from Limerick to Tralee until 1997, and was recently repurposed to become the beautiful walk and cycle way that we have today. We are going to show you the ‘not to be missed’ stops along the 40 kilometre route, including historical sites, beautiful towns, and unforgettable attractions. This route is the perfect escape for all ages, and groups and promises to be a memorable visit for all tourists to Limerick! Most importantly you will encounter the culture and friendly welcome of the local people and towns you pass through, as you get to experience a forgotten part of Limerick that has been brought back to life by this wonderful redevelopment.
Limerick Greenway from Limerick.ie on Vimeo.
1. Rathkeale
This town is best known for its markets and bustling enterprise and has so much to offer to visitors. This starting point on your route proposes a traditional Irish town bursting with history, culture, and breath-taking surroundings that are open to be explored. The most striking landmark of the town has been integrated into the Greenway route and is the old Rathkeale Station, which is now a heritage centre that studies the lives of German refugees that moved to Limerick and made it their home. This town is the perfect starting point as it offers the liveliness of Rathkeale town, followed by the picturesque rural settings and vibrant country community that you will pass through on the first leg of your trip!
2. Fergusons Viaduct
The first must see on your adventure through the Limerick Greenway will be the Fergusons Viaduct, which is about half way through your route and offers breath-taking scenes from its stunning vantage point. This viaduct has a rich history dating back to the 19th century and is the perfect example of Irish architecture lasting through the years. It is made from cast iron and offers the perfect stop off point and photo opportunity on your trip through this impressive stretch of land, leading from Newcastle West all the way to Barnagh, a 10 kilometre route in total.
3. Barnagh viewing point
After all that cycling, you will need somewhere to stop and relax, and there is nowhere better to do this than at the Barnagh viewing point. This incline, which is 164 metres above sea level, offers views of all the surrounding towns including Adare, Newcastle West and Abbeyfeale and even promises views of Cork and Clare on sunny days! There are picnic benches available and with breath taking scenery and an opportunity to see your route from a new perspective, this feature is one stop you wont want to miss on your journey.
4. Desmond Castle
As you pass through the impressive town of Newcastle West, you will want to take the time out to visit and enjoy the remarkable Desmond castle, which is located in the towns centre and is the prefect way to pass an hour as you take a break from all your activity! This historical castle dates back to the 13th Century, and has an impressive record of battles and sieges, with occupants up as far as the 1930’s. Admission is free and it promises to be a great experience for all ages, making this attraction a must see on your route through Limerick.
5. Tullig Wood
The Tullig woods offer a relaxing and tranquil escape from the busy greenway and bustling towns that you will pass through on your trip. This woods is a natural wildlife habitat and has an abundance of native animals, plants, and trees, so promises to be a treat for the senses as you enjoy the splendour that the Limerick countryside has to offer. Taking a break under the trees and
6. Abbeyfeale
One of the final stops on your journey takes you to the Limerick/Kerry boarder to the town of Abbeyfeale, which is bursting with music, food, and literature, and is known as a hub for all things Irish, boasting many popular, traditional Irish festivals including “Fleadh by the Feale”. This town is the home of the Port Castle ruins which will serve as one of your last visits on route, and offers an adventurous and mystical visit as you explore the ruins of the building that once protected this wonderful town and is still beloved by locals today.
