Description
NOTE: For clarity and consistency, the section descriptions on this website describes the route cycling from South to North – but of course the route can be cycled in either direction.
The start/end point for EuroVelo 1 in Ireland is at Rosslare Harbour. This is a ferry port which services ferries from the UK, France and Spain. Starting at the harbour, the route takes you along the quietest roads through the lowlands of south County Wexford largely following the route of the historic Norman Way. This is an easy cycle with only minimal gradients and relatively low car traffic volumes.
Leaving Rosslare Harbour one of the first villages you will arrive in is the tranquil village of Our Lady’s Island . This is a place of pilgrimage dating from the Third Crusade over 800 years ago. Look out for an impressive Norman Castle and a tower along with the remains of a Medieval Church and graveyard. From here travel through Broadway and on past Tacumshane Windmill and on to Tomhaggard where it is well worth stopping at St Anne’s Holy Well in a well tended garden. The small thatched building was used as a mass house during penal times. Travel onwards to the picturesque fishing village of Kilmore Quay.
From Kilmore Quay head to Duncormick village and on to Carrig-on-Bannow. Both are small quiet rural villages. Take a well worthwhile short detour to Cullenstown beach and take a look at the sea shell cottage. Further on while again it is a short detour away from the official route it is well worth exploring Bannow, once site of a bustling Norman town. Today only the church ruins remain in this quiet rural location.
Then on into the busy village of Wellingtonbridge where this section of the route finishes.
Distances
Rosslare Harbour to Our Ladys Island 7km
Our Ladys Island to Kilmore Quay 21km
Kilmore Quay to Duncormick 10km
Duncormick to Carrig-on-Bannow 8km
Carrig-on-Bannow to Wellingtonbridge 14km
Comments: Section 1