Royal Canal Greenway opens
THE Royal Canal Greenway, a scenic 130km walking and cycling amenity stretching alongside the historic 225-yearold canal, has been officially opened.
The €12 million project co-ordinated by Waterways Ireland is the country’s longest greenway, traversing through Kildare, Meath, Westmeath and Longford. It forms part of EuroVelo 2, a long-distance cycle route that passes through Ireland, the UK, the Netherlands, Germany, Poland, Belarus and Russia.
The newest outdoor adventure tourism attraction for the country, the Royal Canal Greenway, is a former towpath featuring 90 bridges, 33 locks, 17 harbours and four aqueducts.
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 – between 14 connecting access points and towns.
The 165km self-guided National Famine Way also travels largely along the greenway, following in the footsteps of 1490 emigrants who walked from Roscommon to Dublin at the peak of the famine in 1847.
Speaking on the official opening, Minister for Transport, Eamon Ryan TD said: “We are delighted to launch the Royal Canal Greenway, a game changer for outdoor tourism and leisure in Ireland and part of a growing network of greenways we will fund over the lifetime of this government.
“As Ireland’s longest greenway, stretching from the towns of Maynooth, Enfield, Mullingar, Longford and Cloondara, the Royal Canal Greenway has huge potential to serve as a haven for many looking to get out and get active.
“In the past year, Ireland’s great outdoors has proved to be a lifeline for the nation, with a surge in those running, walking and cycling. When we travel again, the Royal Canal Greenway will be a fantastic attraction ready to be enjoyed by all, and it is easily accessible from towns and cities across Ireland, including via public transport.
“There really is no better way to experience the unspoilt open scenery, wonderful waterways, peaceful atmosphere and rich history of Ireland’s Ancient East and Hidden
Heartlands.”
Those wishing to experience the Royal Canal Greenway are advised to adhere to Government guidelines on movement and social distancing.
For more information about the greenway and things to do, including a map and a guide to destinations, visit the website www.royalcanalgreenway.org