The Great Western Greenway
Westport - Newport - Mulranny - Achill
County Mayo, Ireland
Mayo's unique 42km Great Western Greenway is a premier opportunity to escape the busy pace of urban life. The world class Great Western Greenway is the longest off-road walking and cycling trail in Ireland and follows the route of the renowned Westport to Achill railway line which closed in 1937.
The Greenway project was developed by Mayo County Council with the co-operation of local landowners, and in partnership with other state agencies and bodies and co-funded by the Department of Transport and Fáilte Ireland. The Great Western Greenway is an excellent local amenity and tourist attraction which will help to establish Mayo as a premier walking and cycling destination.
The Great Western Greenway forms part of the National Cycle Network which is being developed throughout Ireland. A number of cycle hub towns will be located across the country with each town having a number of looped cycle groups consisting of half and full day cycles.
Phase 1
The first phase of The Great Western Greenway, an 18km track between Newport and Mulranny, opened in April 2010. On July 8th 2011, little more than a year after opening, the Newport to Mulranny route was awarded the coveted European Destination of Excellence (EDEN). This award promotes sustainable tourism development models across the European Union and draws attention to the values, diversity and common features of European tourist destinations. The recipients of the award are recognised for their commitment to social, cultural and environmental sustainability.
Phase 2 & 3
On July 29th 2011 the final two sections of the Greenway, the 13km Mulranny to Achill track and the 11km Westport to Newport route, were officially opened by An Taoiseach Enda Kenny.
Walking & Cycling
The entire 42km traffic-free route is ideal for a leisurely stroll, a brisk walk or an energetic cycle, while affording the opportunity to admire the breathtaking scenery around Clew Bay, from this elevated historic old railway line originally built in the 1800’s.
Traversing woodlands, rolling hills and original stone cut railway bridges the Great Western Greenway offers gentle gradients and some of the most idyllic scenery in the west of Ireland. Enjoy spectacular views of the Nephin Beg Range to the north and views of Clew Bay and Croagh Patrick to the south, as you stroll, walk or cycle along the scenic route. The Greenway is a thrilling and safe experience for all the family and is suitable for people with even moderate levels of fitness.
Westport to Newport - 11km
In Westport an official access point is located to the right just off the N59 travelling in the direction of Newport, approx 500m from Westport town centre. The official access point in Newport is located to the left just off the N59 travelling in the direction of Westport, approx 2km from Newport town.
- Estimated Cycling Time : 1 - 1.5 hours
- Estimated Walking Time : 3 to 3.5 hours
Newport to Mulranny - 18km
In Newport an official access point is located to the left just off the N59 travelling to Mulranny. In Mulranny an official access point is located to the right just off the N59 travelling to Bangor.
- Estimated Cycling Time : 2 - 2.5 hours
- Estimated Walking Time : 5 - 5.5 hours
- Ascent : 82m
Mulranny to Achill - 13km
In Mulranny an official access point is located to the right just off the N59 travelling to Bangor. An access point is also located to the rear of the Mulranny Park Hotel. At Achill Sound an official access point is located at Óstán Oileán Acla / Achill Island Hotel at the gateway to Achill Island. Follow finger post signage onto Greenway
- Estimated Time Cycling : 1 - 1.5 hours
- Estimated Time Walking : 2 - 2.5 hours
All trails are waymarked using the National Cycle Network symbol and white directional travel arrows. Services are available in Westport, Newport, Mulranny and Achill and bicycle hire and return can be arranged in any of these locations. Minimum requirements: helmet, bike, mobile phone, snacks, drinks and waterproof clothing.
