Great Western Greenway

The Westport to Achill railway opened in 1895 and closed in 1937, and the corridor lay unused until it was reopened as a walking and cycling route in stages between 2010 and 2011. It was the first long-distance greenway in Ireland and its success - it drew visitors to a stretch of Mayo that had struggled - is why every county has since tried to build one. The route runs forty-two kilometres from Westport through Newport and Mulranny to Achill Sound, mostly off-road on the old formation, with the Nephin Beg mountains inland and Clew Bay and its islands on the seaward side for much of the way. Gradients are gentle. Bike hire and shuttle services operate at each town, so most people ride one section and get a lift back. It is exposed to Atlantic weather with little shelter, and a headwind on the open sections is a serious factor.

What to look for

• The railway formation - the 1895 line, closed in 1937 and reopened as a trail.
• Clew Bay - the island-studded bay along much of the seaward side.
• The Nephin Begs - the mountains inland from the route.
• The four towns - Westport, Newport, Mulranny and Achill Sound.

When to go

April to October. Wind is the main variable - an Atlantic headwind on the open sections is harder than any gradient. Bike hire and shuttles are seasonal in the smaller towns.

What to expect

Exposed with very little shelter for long stretches. Some sections run beside or cross roads. Bike hire and shuttle bookings are needed in summer. Forty-two kilometres is a long day for casual riders.

Nearby

Westport House is at the eastern end; Achill Island and Keem Bay are west.

Key facts