The Greenway traverses Ireland’s Atlantic coast between Westport town and Achill Island and visits the picturesque villages of Newport and Mulranny. It passes by some of the West of Ireland’s most dramatic mountains and offers magnificent views of Clew Bay and its many islands. Escape the bustle of urban life on the 42km Great Western Greenway, the longest off-road walking and cycling trail in Ireland.
The World Class Great Western Greenway is a traffic free cycling and walking trail which follows the route of the renowned Westport to Achill railway which closed in 1937.
The first 14km stage of the Greenway from Newport to Mulranny opened in 2010 and a year later extensions were finished lengthening the route to 42km, almost entirely off-road. Landowners along the route have given access to their land and allowed development of the path at no cost. This community spirit of the Greenway landowners has recently been recognised and rightly so. The Greenway meanders through some of the most beautiful and idyllic countryside you’ll find anywhere in Ireland. Walkers and cyclists can take in the views of the spectacular Nephin Beg mountain range, Clew Bay, Clare Island, Croagh Patrick and Achill Island. The 42km almost entirely traffic-free route is ideal for getting out on a bike for a spin and is perfect for a day of family fun. The Greenway has won several awards including European Destination of Excellence, an award for the community spirit of the Greenway landowners for allowing their land to be used and developed and a LAMA award. It connects with 3 cycle hubs on Achill Island.