With impressive landscapes, breathtaking nature, imposing rock formations and taut lakes, a visit to the emerald green island of Ireland is a destination to enjoy. From vibrant cities like Dublin, Cork and Belfast to long stretched coastal routes. Ireland has it! Ireland also has the ideal paths for the most popular activities of recent months, walking and cycling. The so-called greenways, blueways and waterways lead you through the amazing landscape and introduce you to Ireland in a unique way from the water or over land.
Greenways are paths constructed to be used solely by cyclists, pedestrians, and other non-motorized transportation. In general, they are traffic-free routes. Without traffic, the routes are safer and people can enjoy even more. Greenways have been constructed along river and canal towpaths, but the paths on old disused railway lines have also become very popular.
Examples of greenways that have repurposed old railway lines include:
• Waterford Greenway
• Great Western Greenway
• Great Southern Trail
• Old Rail Trail
More information and routes at https://greenways-ireland.org/
Great views along the Waterford Greenway
Blueways is a network of beautiful trails that run over and along Ireland's most idyllic lakes, canals and rivers. Some blueways, such as the Royal Canal and the Suir Blueway, have been constructed along old towpaths. They take you to the heart of the most untouched landscapes – by canoe, bicycle or on foot. Meander through inspiring landscapes with picturesque vistas, soak up the charming rural atmosphere and explore life at a different pace. The best trails start in:
• Shannon, such as the Acres Lake Boardwalk Trail cycle path, the Drumshanbo to Carrick-on-Shannon water trails or the Camlin River Loop
• Shannon-Erne, such as the Ballyconnell White Water Course, the Ballyconnel Loop Walking Trail or the Skelan Loop Walking Trail
• Lough Derg, such as the 64 km trail Lough Derg Way, the Graves of the Leinster Men Walking Loop, the Lough Derg East/West or the Portumna Forest Park – Bonaveen Cycling Trail
• Royal Canal, such as the Mullingar Blueway
All Blueway routes can be found at https://www.bluewaysireland.org/destinations
You can experience Ireland in a different way with a canoe on the Shannon River
Waterways is a network of 1,000km of waterways on the island of Ireland, providing great opportunities for pleasure trips and water sports. From the water you experience everything slightly differently and you come to completely new insights. Some examples of the most impressive waterways are:
• The Shannon:discover the treasures of Ireland's longest river
• Royal Canal:On this 146km route from Dublin's River Liffey to the River Shannon, sail you pass 46 locks, ten of which have double locks.
• Lough Erne:experience the Viking trade route, a paradise for water lovers.
All waterways can be found at:https://www .waterwaysireland.org/
Impressive view of Lough Erne, a paradise for water lovers
