The best cycling routes around Waterford City

Waterford City offers a wide array of touring cycling routes, with over 50 options available on komoot. These routes cater to various preferences, from leisurely rides along the coast to more challenging ascents in the mountains.

The Waterford Greenway, also known as the Déise Greenway, is a spectacular 46km off-road cycling and walking trail. It follows a former railway line from Waterford City Centre to Dungarvan, forming part of the EuroVelo 1 route. Cyclists can enjoy a varied journey through lush landscapes, past architectural marvels like the Kilmacthomas and Durrow Viaducts, and through the iconic 400-meter Ballyvoyle Tunnel. It offers riverside and coastal views, making it a highlight for touring cyclists.

Yes, Waterford City offers several easy and family-friendly cycling options. The Waterford Greenway itself is designed for all ages and abilities with a high-quality tarmacadam surface. For a specific route, consider the Waterford Greenway - Kilmeadan Loop, which utilizes a smooth section of the Greenway and offers varied scenery suitable for a relaxed ride.

The Waterford Greenway has multiple access points with parking available, including in Waterford City, Kilmacthomas, and Dungarvan. These locations also often provide bike hire services, including e-bikes and children's bikes. Shuttle bus services are also available to transport cyclists and their bikes back to their starting point, offering flexibility for one-way rides.

For more experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the region offers routes that climb through the Comeragh Mountains and Knockmealdown Mountains. A demanding option is the Duncannon – Hook Head Lighthouse loop from Dunmore East, which covers over 70 km with significant elevation gain, providing scenic upland countryside views.

Waterford's cycling routes are rich with scenic beauty. Along the Waterford Greenway, you'll find breathtaking sea views along parts of the Copper Coast, especially the section from Clonea Road to Durrow. The route also passes by the ornamental gardens at Mount Congreve Gardens. Coastal routes from Dungarvan to Passage East offer stunning sea views and dramatic sea cliffs within the Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark. The Comeragh Mountains provide magnificent views, including sites like Coumshingaun Lake and Mahon Falls.

Yes, there are several circular bike loops available. A popular option is the View of Dungarvan Bay – Waterford Greenway loop from Mountcongreve, which takes you through coastal areas and past Mount Congreve Gardens. Another is the Roundabout – Old Tramore Road loop from Tramore, offering a moderate ride with varied scenery.

Waterford City and its surrounding areas are steeped in history. Along the Greenway, you'll encounter sights related to Viking settlements, Norman castles, and medieval ruins. In Waterford City itself, you can visit Reginald's Tower, a historic landmark, and Christ Church Cathedral Waterford. The Waterford – Reginald's Tower loop from Waterford Plunkett is a great way to combine cycling with exploring the city's heritage.

Waterford offers enjoyable cycling experiences throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn generally provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with fewer crowds than peak summer. The varied landscapes, from coastal paths to mountain foothills, mean there's always something to explore, though coastal routes might be windier in colder months. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 70 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from the smooth, scenic Waterford Greenway to the dramatic Copper Coast and the challenging mountain routes. The well-maintained trails and the abundance of natural and historical attractions are frequently highlighted as key reasons for an enjoyable cycling experience.

Absolutely. Many routes in Waterford City offer a blend of coastal beauty and inland charm. The Tramore to Bunmahon via the Copper Coast route is an excellent example, providing stunning sea views along the Copper Coast while also traversing varied terrain. The Waterford Greenway itself offers both riverside and coastal vistas as it approaches Dungarvan Bay.