A Perfect Weekend on the Waterford Greenway: Detailed Itinerary for Cyclists
Introduction
The 46 km Waterford Greenway – Ireland’s longest off‑road trail – winds from the historic city of Waterford to the seaside town of Dungarvan. Built on the former Mallow‑Waterford railway, it boasts 11 bridges, three viaducts and a 400‑metre tunnel, offering cyclists unrivalled views of the Suir Valley, the Comeragh Mountains and the Copper Coast. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a casual enthusiast, a weekend on the Greenway can be a perfect blend of exercise, culture, food and relaxation. This guide provides a step‑by‑step itinerary, practical tips and recommended stops so you can make the most of every kilometre.
Day 1 – Waterford City to Mount Congreve (≈ 23 km)
08:30 – Arrival & Bike Hire
- Where: Waterford City Bike Hub (near the Civic Centre)
- What to rent: Hybrid or gravel bike (27–30 km/h gearing) with a sturdy rack for a day‑pack. Most hire shops provide helmets, a puncture‑repair kit and a map of the Greenway.
09:15 – Start at Waterford City Terminus
Leave the bustling streets and follow the smooth tarmac alongside the River Suir. The first kilometre passes the historic Waterford & Suir Valley Railway – a great photo op of vintage steam locomotives.
10:30 – First Refreshment Stop: Coach House Coffee, Kilmacthomas
- Location: Midway point (23 km from Waterford) at the former workhouse site.
- Why stop: Hand‑roasted Arabica coffee, loose‑leaf tea and a selection of locally baked scones. The café’s large bike rack and free Wi‑Fi make it an ideal place to refuel both body and mind.
- Opening: 09:00‑17:00, seven days a week.
11:00 – Explore the Kilmacthomas Viaduct
A striking eight‑arch stone viaduct spans the Mahon River. Take a short detour onto the viaduct for panoramic views of the river and the surrounding valleys – perfect for a quick stretch and a photo.
12:00 – Lunch at The Workhouse Café, Kilmacthomas
Housed in the restored workhouse, the café serves hearty Irish soups, gourmet burgers and vegetarian wraps. Outdoor seating looks out onto the Suir Valley, and there’s a small playground if you’re travelling with children.
13:30 – Continue to Mount Congreve Gardens (≈ 5 km)
Follow the Greenway signs to the estate entrance (park your bike in the designated rack). Cyclists must dismount before entering the gardens, but the short walk is worth it.
- Highlights: Award‑winning azaleas, camellias and rhododendrons, plus the historic Stables Café offering light bites and ice‑cream.
- Tip: Check the garden opening hours on the Mount Congreve website – they usually open from 10:00 to 17:00 (April‑October).
15:30 – Tea & Treats at the Stables Café
Relax with a cup of tea, a slice of Victoria sponge or a dog‑friendly treat for your four‑legged companion. The café’s garden views are spectacular, especially when the roses are in bloom (late spring).
16:30 – Return to Kilmacthomas for Evening Activities
- Optional: Ride the heritage train from Kilmeaden Station (a short 2 km ride north) for a nostalgic glimpse of the valley.
- Accommodation: Book a night at The Coach House B&B (just opposite the coffee shop) or choose the eco‑friendly Forest Cabins at Mount Congreve for a more rural experience.
19:00 – Dinner
Enjoy a relaxed dinner at The Hops & Barley in Waterford city (reachable by a short taxi ride). Their menu features locally sourced seafood, steak and a great selection of Irish craft beers.
Day 2 – Mount Congreve to Dungarvan (≈ 23 km)
08:00 – Breakfast at your B&B
A full Irish breakfast (black pudding, soda bread, fresh fruit) will fuel the day’s ride. Many B&Bs provide a complimentary coffee bar.
09:00 – Depart Mount Congreve – Head West
Pedal past the scenic River Suir, crossing the Kilmeaden Bridge and spotting the ruins of Kilmeaden Castle (1649 Cromwellian siege). The first 3 km (Killoteran to Kilmeaden) is the easiest stretch – ideal for families or beginners.
10:30 – Stop at Kilmeaden Station for the Heritage Train (optional)
If you missed it the previous day, hop on the Waterford Suir Valley Heritage Train for a 15‑minute ride that offers unique valley perspectives unavailable by bike.
11:30 – Coffee Break at The Railway Café, Kilmeaden
A small café serving espresso, homemade pastries and a quick sandwich menu. Great for a quick top‑up before tackling the next section.
12:00 – Ride the Kilmacthomas to Kilmeaden section (13.5 km)
This part of the Greenway showcases the Comeragh Mountains looming in the distance, interspersed with farmland, riverbanks and the charming Fairbrook House gardens. Keep an eye out for kingfishers, otters and herons along the Suir.
13:30 – Picnic Lunch at Fairbrook House Café (optional)
If you prefer a sit‑down meal, the café offers a range of salads, quiches and hot soups, all served in a bright, airy dining room overlooking the garden.
14:30 – Continue Westward – Dungarvan Loop
From Kilmeaden, the trail follows the old railway through the Kilmacthomas Viaduct (a perfect spot for a photo with the mountains in the background) and then descends towards the coastal town of Dungarvan.
16:00 – Arrival in Dungarvan
- Explore: The historic harbour, St. Anne’s Church, and the Copper Coast Geopark Visitor Centre (a short 10‑minute walk from the Greenway terminus).
- Refreshments: Stop at The Blue Bar for a cold craft lager and a plate of fish & chips.
17:30 – Optional Coastal Extension (13 km)
If you have energy left, you can continue onto the Coastal Route from Dungarvan to Passage East – a scenic ride with sea cliffs, sandy coves and the historic Tramore village. This segment is optional and can be saved for a future visit.
19:00 – Dinner in Dungarvan
Treat yourself to a dinner at Molly’s Restaurant, known for locally caught salmon, lamb stew and a fine selection of Irish whiskeys.
20:30 – Overnight
Book a room at The Marina Hotel (waterfront) or the boutique Granville Hotel for a comfortable end‑to‑end Greenway experience.
Practical Tips & Essentials
| Item | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Bike Type | Gravel or hybrid bike with 27‑30 km/h gears; disc brakes are useful on wet sections. |
| Gear | Helmet, waterproof jacket, padded shorts, sunglasses, and a small day‑pack with water (minimum 1 L). |
| Navigation | Download the Waterford Greenway app (offline maps, live trail conditions) or carry a printed map from the visitor centre. |
| Safety | The trail is traffic‑free but can be busy on weekends; keep to the right, signal overtakes, and watch for pedestrians. |
| Weather | Irish weather can change quickly – pack a lightweight raincoat and check Met Éireann forecasts. |
| Bike Hire | Waterford City Bike Hub (prices start €15/day); advance booking recommended in high season (May‑September). |
| Accommodation | Book early for summer weekends; B&Bs in Kilmacthomas and Dungarvan fill quickly. |
| Food & Drink | Plan for two major stops – Coach House Coffee (mid‑point) and Mount Congreve Stables Café – plus flexible picnic options. |
| Accessibility | The Greenway is wheelchair‑friendly; however, cyclists must dismount at Mount Congreve gardens and certain heritage sites. |
| Parking | Free car parks at Waterford City (near the start) and Dungarvan; limited spaces at Mount Congreve – use the nearby Kiloteran carpark. |
Highlights to Capture
- Kilmacthomas Viaduct – eight‑arch stone marvel over the Mahon River.
- Mount Congreve Gardens – one of the world’s finest private gardens, perfect for a tranquil walk.
- Comeragh Mountain Views – dramatic backdrop as you near Kilmacthomas.
- Heritage Train – a nostalgic ride through the Suir Valley (optional but memorable).
- Copper Coast Geopark – dramatic cliffs and sea‑air freshness at the Dungarvan terminus.
Suggested Variations
- Family‑Friendly: Shorten each day to 10 km, stay overnight at the Coach House B&B, and focus on the Kilmeaden‑Kilmacthomas section with a playground stop at the Workhouse Café.
- Adventure‑Seeker: Add the Coastal Route from Dungarvan to Passage East (13 km) on Day 2 for sea‑cliff vistas and a visit to the historic Tramore fishing village.
- Cultural Immersion: Incorporate a short detour to Waterford Treasures – Medieval Museum (30 min) before the first ride, and a guided tour of Dungarvan Castle after arrival.
Conclusion
A weekend on the Waterford Greenway offers a seamless blend of gentle cycling, stunning natural scenery, historic landmarks and culinary delights. By following the itinerary above—starting in Waterford city, refuelling at Coach House Coffee, soaking up the beauty of Mount Congreve Gardens, and finishing with the vibrant harbour of Dungarvan—you’ll experience the very best of County Waterford in just two days. Pack your bike, bring a sense of adventure, and let the former railway line guide you through one of Ireland’s most picturesque greenways. Happy cycling!