Location: Waterford Greenway, Waterford City to Dungarvan, County Waterford, Ireland
https://visitwaterford.com/waterford-greenway
The Waterford Greenway is widely regarded as one of Ireland’s finest long-distance walking and cycling routes, offering a largely accessible, traffic-free journey through coastal scenery, river valleys, and historic railway landscapes.
Stretching between Waterford City and Dungarvan, the Greenway provides a flexible and inclusive outdoor experience, with multiple access points allowing visitors to enjoy short accessible sections or longer scenic adventures.
Trail Overview
The Waterford Greenway follows the route of the former railway line for approximately 46 kilometres, creating a gentle, continuous path through some of southeast Ireland’s most varied landscapes.
Popular accessible sections include:
- Waterford City to Kilmeaden – urban-to-rural transition (~7 km)
- Kilmeaden to Kilmacthomas – valley and viaduct section (~13 km)
- Kilmacthomas to Durrow – scenic mid-route stretch (~10 km)
- Durrow to Dungarvan – coastal approach (~16 km)
Each section can be accessed independently, making the route highly adaptable for visitors with different mobility needs.
Accessibility
The Greenway is designed with accessibility in mind, using a smooth, continuous surface throughout most of the route.
Key accessibility features include:
- Wide, sealed asphalt surface across the full route
- Very gentle gradients following the old railway line
- Step-free access at multiple entry points
- Clearly marked distance signage and rest points
- Multiple car parks and town access points
- Safe, traffic-free environment
Bridges and viaducts are accessible via gradual ramps, offering uninterrupted views across the surrounding countryside.
Excellent Visitor Facilities
The Waterford Greenway is well supported by facilities along its entire length.
Parking
Accessible parking is available in Waterford City, Kilmeaden, Kilmacthomas, Durrow, and Dungarvan, all close to Greenway access points.
Accessible Toilets
Accessible toilets are available in towns and key visitor hubs along the route, particularly in Kilmeaden, Kilmacthomas, and Dungarvan.
Seating
Benches and rest areas are located regularly along the route, especially near scenic viewpoints such as viaducts and river crossings.
Transport Links
- Bus services connect Waterford City and Dungarvan
- Taxi services are available in most towns
- Multiple entry/exit points for short accessible walks
- Bike hire and shuttle services in peak season
Scenic Highlights
The Waterford Greenway is known for its dramatic and varied scenery.
Visitors can enjoy:
- The spectacular Kilmeaden viaduct
- River valleys and wooded cuttings
- Open countryside views
- Historic railway tunnels
- Coastal views approaching Dungarvan
- Seasonal wildflowers and hedgerows
- Wildlife, including birds of prey and waterfowl
The combination of engineering heritage and natural beauty makes it one of Ireland’s most visually impressive greenways.
Visitor Amenities
Each town along the route provides strong visitor services:
- Cafés and restaurants in all major stops
- Bicycle hire and guided tours
- Shops and supermarkets nearby
- Picnic areas and rest stops
- Accommodation options in Waterford and Dungarvan
- Visitor information centres
Kilmacthomas is particularly popular as a mid-point stop with strong amenities.
Overall Experience
The Waterford Greenway delivers one of Ireland’s most complete accessible outdoor experiences.
Its smooth surface, excellent infrastructure, scenic variety, and multiple access points make it suitable for wheelchair users, mobility scooter users (depending on model and battery range), families, cyclists, and walkers of all abilities.
It is especially well-suited for flexible planning, allowing visitors to tailor their journey to their comfort level.
Tips Before You Visit
- Early mornings or weekdays offer quieter conditions.
- Plan sections in advance due to the route’s length.
- The weather can change quickly in open rural areas.
- Kilmacthomas is an ideal central rest stop.
- Shuttle and bike hire services operate seasonally.
