The Waterford Greenway stretches for approximately 46km between Waterford City and Dungarvan, following the route of the former railway line.
5 Star Hotel Near the Waterford Greenway, Ardmore
Five star cliff house hotel near waterford"S greenway
Stretching 46km between Dungarvan and Waterford City, the Waterford Greenway follows the route of a historic railway through some of County Waterford’s most beautiful countryside.
From sweeping views towards the Comeragh Mountains to stone viaducts, the atmospheric Durrow Tunnel and the gardens of Mount Congreve, it makes a wonderful day out during a stay at Cliff House Hotel.
From our coastal home in Ardmore, Dungarvan provides a convenient starting point for exploring the Greenway, whether you plan to cycle a section or make a day of the full route.Cliff House Hotel in Ardmore provides our guests with Five Star luxury in each of our 39 hotel rooms. Each room faces the sea where you can view dolphins playing, fishermen checking lobster pots and the golden sands of Ardmore.
Visitors regularly stay with us to experience the Waterford Greenway which connects Dungarvan and Waterford City. The Waterford Greenway is an old rail line which has become Ireland’s longest off road walking and cycling trail. In total, the Waterford Greenway trails across eleven bridges, three viaducts and a 400 metre tunnel. A great day out to work up an appetite for excellent cuisine and treatment in the spa on return to the Cliff House Hotel.
A Journey Through Historic Waterford
Following the former Waterford to Dungarvan railway line, the Greenway combines beautiful landscapes with reminders of Waterford’s railway heritage.
The Waterford, Dungarvan and Lismore Railway Company was formed in 1872, operating the most expensive railway in Ireland. The rail line was very complex due to the land, the building of a tunnel including many over and under bridges.
By 1878, the railway company was operating a fourth line connecting Waterford, Dungarvan and Lismore. The fourth line was popular among customers because of its scenic views of the ocean.
The route passes through woodland, farmland and historic railway cuttings, crossing old bridges and viaducts along the way. With much of the trail separated from road traffic, it offers an enjoyable way to discover the countryside on foot or by bike.
Allow time to stop along the way. The journey is as much about the places you discover as the distance you travel.
Cycling the Waterford Greenway
You don't need to cycle all 46km to enjoy the Greenway. Choose a shorter section for a relaxed morning or afternoon, or take on the complete route for a more active day out.
Dungarvan is a particularly convenient access point for guests travelling from Cliff House Hotel, with bike and e-bike hire available in the town. Local operators also provide shuttle and collection services, making it possible to cycle one way without having to retrace your route.
Our team will be happy to help with recommendations and current information on bike hire and transfers during your stay.
Waterford Greenway Bike Hire have a depot on Sexton Street in Dungarvan.
Highlights Along the Waterford Greenway
Kilmacthomas Viaduct
One of the most striking landmarks along the Waterford Greenway, Kilmacthomas Viaduct carries the route high above the River Mahon. Its elegant stone arches are a reminder of the Greenway’s railway past, while the surrounding countryside and views towards the Comeragh Mountains make this one of the most memorable sections of the route.
Alongside Kilmacthomas, the Greenway crosses two further historic railway viaducts at Durrow and Ballyvoyle, impressive reminders of the engineering heritage of the original Waterford–Dungarvan railway line.
Durrow Tunnel
Travel through the atmospheric Durrow Tunnel, built as part of the original railway in the 19th century. Today, passing through the old stone tunnel by bicycle or on foot is one of the Greenway’s distinctive experiences.
A quarter of a mile long tunnel which is atmospherically lit. Durrow Tunnel was originally built in 1878.
The Comeragh Mountains
The Comeragh Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop to parts of the journey. For those who would like to explore further, the mountains themselves offer wonderful walking country, including the spectacular Mahon Falls.
The Comeragh mountains are a glaciated mountain range and the highest point is 792 meters.
Mount Congreve Gardens
Towards the Waterford end of the Greenway, Mount Congreve Gardens makes a beautiful addition to a day of exploring. The renowned gardens and country estate extend across 70 acres overlooking the River Suir. Mount Congreve is known globally for its gardens with three thousand different trees and shrubs.
Mount Congreve was built in 1760 and Ambrose Congreve, who died in 2011 at 104 years, left the estate to the Irish State.
Experience Cliff House
From Greenway to Sea
Ease tired legs with time at The Well by the Sea, take a swim overlooking Ardmore Bay, or settle in for an evening of exceptional food and wine at Cliff House Hotel.
Plan your Visit to the Well in the SeaFrequently Asked Questions
Dungarvan, at the western end of the Waterford Greenway, is approximately a 20-minute drive from Cliff House Hotel in Ardmore, making the Greenway an easy addition to a stay.
Dungarvan is generally the most convenient starting point when travelling from Ardmore. Bike hire and other visitor services are available in and around the town.
No. The Greenway can be enjoyed in sections, so you can choose a distance to suit your plans. It is equally suited to a leisurely outing or a longer cycling day.
The time required depends on your pace and how often you stop. Those completing the full route should allow several hours, and longer if you plan to explore attractions, cafés and viewpoints along the way.
Yes. Bike and e-bike hire is available from operators in Dungarvan and elsewhere along the route. Some operators also provide shuttle services.
The largely off-road nature of the Greenway makes it popular with families. The full 46km route may be too long for younger cyclists, but shorter sections can be chosen to suit different ages and abilities.
Highlights include Kilmacthomas Viaduct, Durrow Tunnel, views towards the Comeragh Mountains, the countryside around Kilmacthomas and Mount Congreve Gardens towards Waterford City.