Section 19 Description

The EuroVelo 1 route between Abbeyfeale and Limerick City is 72km. Apart from a gentle climb to a high point at Barnagh, this section is virtually flat.

The first segment of the section, along Limerick Greenway, follows the route of the former Great Southern Railway, as it did in Co. Kerry, and links the major towns of Abbeyfeale, Newcastle West and Rathkeale. Limerick Greenway provides a fully traffic-free experience through West Limerick’s traditional agricultural landscape over a 35km stretch, before reaching Rathkeale. Many features of the railway are still intact, including the impressive 115 metre Barnagh Tunnel (which is just off the route – watch out for the signpost to the tunnel) and Ferguson’s cast-iron Viaduct, both of which are restored relics of 19^th Century railway infrastructure. There are also beautifully restored station houses at Barnagh and Ardagh and a favourite spot is Tullig Wood, which gives you an opportunity to enjoy the calming effects of this native forest.

The second segment of this section is 37km’s from the Irish Palatine Museum and Heritage Centre in Rathkeale right into the heart of Limerick City. The first 28kms’ of this is on very quiet roads with minimal traffic. South of the charming village of Adare, the route crosses the busy N21 National Road where care is required. The route traverses around Adare to avoid using the N21. However, you may choose to visit the village which is about 2.5km off the route. This is home to Adare Manor and Golf Club which will play host to the 2027 Ryder Cup.

North of Adare, cyclists arrive at Patrickswell, the start of the suburbs of Limerick City. Patrickswell is a village renowned for producing some of the finest players to ever play the game of hurling in Ireland.

After Patrickswell, the final 8.5km’s of the section will be somewhat busier with other traffic. Typically traffic is busiest between 7:00 to 9:00 and 16:00 to 18:00. While there is some basic cycling infrastructure in the form of on-road cycle lanes, this section of the route will require cyclists’ full attention to negotiate the city and get back to the rural roads on the next sections in Co. Clare.

Places to stay and eat along Section 19 as well as things to see and do can be found here and here