On March 24, 2021, a new 130 km bicycle path was inaugurated in Ireland. The cycle path called the Royal Canal Greenway is perfect for walking, running and cycling, certainly a perfect choice for lovers of outdoor physical activities while enjoying a beautiful view.
The new bike path does not only offer beautiful scenery along its length spanning the 225-year-old historic canal, the Royal Canal Greenway also has different small towns on its way, varied accommodation options for those wishing to travel the route, cafes, perfect places for picnic and also historic landmarks.
Along the way it is possible to find 90 bridges, 33 locks, 17 ports and four aqueducts.
The cycle path starts at Maynooth, which is located 26 km from the Irish capital, Dublin, passing through 3 more cities (Enfield, Mullingar and Cloondara) and ending at Longford, the local train passes through all these cities, so anyone who If you want to cycle between two cities on the route, you can return by train if you prefer.
Local Development
The entrepreneurs of the route are excited about the opening of the new channel, Susan Egan owner of Abbeyview B&B located just 100 meters from the channel says that because of the virus she thought it best to invest in pods on her land for guests who prefer to be more isolated find comfort having your bedroom, kitchen and private bathroom.
The Royal Canal Bike Hire, which is on the east side of the route, offers bicycle rentals for those leaving the cities of Enfield or Maynooth, which are 20 km away from each other. In addition, the company also wants to offer bicycles in accommodations that are halfway, to facilitate those who travel without a bicycle and are not staying in one of the cities.
At the moment, with Ireland’s current restrictions, it is not yet possible to explore the bike path, but the expectations for loosening are high. All locations are hopeful that the bike path and business will be better in 2021.
