A Greenway Adventure to Remember

 

Old Rail Trail Greenway

Cycle from the heart of Athlone town with its award-winning restaurants and cultural attractions, to Mullingar town without ever leaving this safe, off-road scenic greenway.
 

This 43km Greenway brings walkers and cyclists through the very heart of Ireland, from the heart of Athlone, across the River Shannon and eastwards to the Royal Canal in Mullingar. An entirely off-road walking and cycling trail it’s very safe for families or anyone looking for a leisurely spin. Scenic and peaceful, you will hear nothing but birdsong and the whirr of the spokes on your bike as you pedal along.Your ideal way to explore Ireland's Hidden Heartlands. The greenway traces the historic Midlands Great Western Railway track, past restored station houses and under pretty stone arched bridges.  Linking the Athlone Castle and the River Shannon with the Royal Canal in Mullingar, it passes through areas of unique biodiversity and heritage along the way.
Battles and Battlements on the Shannon Banks

Before you hop on your bike at Athlone Castle on the River Shannon Banks, enjoy a tour of the Castle’s Visitor Centre. Climb the steps to the castle keep and enjoy panoramic views across the majestic river. Or climb higher still to the castle battlements and look across the rooftops of the entire town. Take a step back in history and discover the ancient stories through swords, cannon balls, stunning sculptures and interactive displays at the Visitor Centre. 

Crosswood Bog - Biodiversity and Natural Beauty. Find rare flora and fauna at Crosswood Bog, located between Athlone town and the Tully access. This extensive area of raised bog habitat is internationally renowned for its biodiversity and ecological value. Notice the different trail surface here, a legacy of the extra care that was taken in constructing the greenway to protect the bog.

Directly accessible from the Old Rail Trail at Moate, Dún na Sí Amenity & Heritage Park should not be missed. Features include a fantastic playground, outdoor art displays, guided heritage tours and genealogy, as well as a great locally-run café with outdoor seating overlooking the park and play areas. Enjoy the walking and cycling trails through a wetland nature reserve and planted parkland or unwind with traditional Irish music and dance. 

Feel dwarfed by the majesty of the numerous stone-arched bridges and soak up the railway heritage as you cycle along. Pedal through the spooky tunnel near Ballinea and marvel at the sheer scale of the iconic three-arched bridge near Streamstown.

The historic station buildings at Streamstown have been lovingly restored. From here, the famous racehorse All Sorts set off by train to win the 1916 Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse. Despite his newfound glory however, the poor hero was forced to walk all the way home, since the Easter Rising had broken out that very day, suspending all train services. Streamstown Station is now home to Jack’s Stop Café, with outdoor seating, a fabulous playground and information about the intriguing history of this location.

 
If mythology and the spiritual dimension interests you, head for the Hill of Uisneach - just 19 minutes from Mullingar and one of the most sacred and historic sanctuaries in the world. The Hill of Uisneach captivates visitors with its huge significance that pre-dates recorded history. It’s a must-visit and a short 6km diversion from Castletown Station will take you there. Guided tours are available by passionate locals who will send you away dreaming of these enigmatic and sacred lands. 

Royal Canal Greenway – Ireland’s Longest Greenway

The Old Rail Trail meets the Royal Canal Greenway at Ballinea and Newbrook. This scenic 130km walking and cycling amenity stretches alongside the historic 225-year old canal. Not only Ireland’s longest greenway, it’s also known for its scenic beauty, rich heritage and abundance of wildlife.
With plenty to see and do along the way, along with a range of accommodation options, restaurants and cafés, a brilliant experience is inevitable. Greenway users can choose to complete the entire 130km flat, off-road trail in one visit or explore the shorter designated routes — ranging from 6km to 15km. There are 14 connecting access points and towns, where you'll find wonderful places to eat and stay and plenty to to see and do. The greenway almost encircles Mullingar town, where there are a number of access points to allow visitors to enjoy the variety of cafes, restaurants, boutique-style shopping and high-quality accommodation options available in this vibrant town. 

  Soak in the peace and tranquillity of the Royal Canal banks where a unique heritage awaits you. Brought to Mullingar in 1806 following a transport revolution, the Royal Canal has a colourful history as the main transport link of the time, before the railway was constructed in 1848. The Greenway is a former towpath for barges and features no less than 90 bridges, 33 locks, 17 harbours and four aqueducts.