The Greenway’s cycle path in Mayo, offers a variety of cycling options through amazing scenic routes. The Great Western Greenway is the longest off road cycling trail in Ireland. The route is 42km from Old Westport to Achill railway line which is an almost entirely traffic free route perfect for cycling and ideal for families. Travelling the Greenway you will be surrounded by beautiful idyllic countryside.
The choices of terrain range from hill climbs to flatland with country roads leading to seaside coves and mountain tops.
The Greenway’s cycle route offers some of the most idyllic scenery in the west of Ireland, and cycling on this route you will see many beautiful places making your trip one to remember. It is truly a perfect setting for couples, families,historians and sole riders alike. This route will take you to many unforgettable places whist enjoying your cycle ride.
The spectacular Nephin Bay Mountain Range is a view to take your breath away dominating the skyline over Clew Bay.
According to tradition Clew Bay has 365 islands, one for every day of the year. The Bay is surrounded by some of the best Blue Flag beaches in Ireland.
Clare Island is home to 130 people, and is the biggest Island guarding the entrance to the Bay. A short ferry ride enables visitors to the Island.
Across the Bay is Croagh Patrick, the third highest peak in Mayo. At the top of the peak you can visit the old chapel that was built in 1905 by local men who bought the materials up the side of the mountain using donkeys. Croagh Patrick is well worth a visit. The Croagh Patrick visitor centre has excellent facilities that include a coffee shop/self service restaurant as well as a craft shop. Hot showers are also available.
The Croagh Patrick Pilgrimage Reek Sunday on the last Sunday in July is a well know pilgrimage starting on Garland Friday attracting over a million visitors a year. Around 25, 000 Pilgrims climb the holy mountain, many in their bare feet.
Keep travelling along the Great Western Greenway and you will pass the enchanting Rockfleet Castle. It is quite a detour to visit the Castle up close but most certainly worth a visit if your time allows. The Castle was built in the mid sixteenth century and is famously associated with the chieftain of the O’Malley clan and the notorious pirate queen. The Castle was restored in the 1950′s and is over 18m high and can be explored by all visitors including the passages found within its walls.
To the North West of Newport on the Achill Road is Burrishoole Abbey. A beautiful ruin founded by Sir Richard de Burgo for the Dominican order in 1469. Today, the nave, chancel, tower and south transept remain as well as ruins of domestic buildings snd a cloister to the north. The cemetery here is still in use.
Other places of interest include the deserted village at Slievemore and Ballycroy National Park.
The Greenway’s cycle route with its breath taking views and historic sites has something extra for every cyclist as well as being the longest off road cycling experience in the Country. This area is often referred to as a cyclists paradise and it is not difficult to see why.
Escape the bustle of urban life and experience the Great Western Greenway. There are many places available for you and your family to hire bicycles so you do not need to bring your own making your journey here easier and stress free.
The Greenways, Mayo an unforgettable experience.