Overview
The Great Southern Trail is a 85 km (53 mi) traffic‑free greenway that runs from the market town of Rathkeale in County Limerick to the Kerry border near Abbeyfeale, with future phases extending to Tralee. Part of the EuroVelo Atlantic Coast Route (EV 1), the trail is surfaced mainly with compacted tarmac and gentle gradients, making it suitable for cyclists, walkers, runners and prams. The route weaves through river valleys, hedgerow‑lined fields and historic villages, offering a low‑impact way to experience the cultural and natural heritage of western Ireland.
History & Heritage
The path follows the former Great Southern and Western Railway line, opened in stages between 1867 and 1880 and closed to passenger traffic in 1977. In 1991 a volunteer group, Great Southern Trail Ltd, began campaigning for the line’s conversion into a recreational greenway. Their dedication earned a Special Jury Prize at the 2011 European Greenways Awards.
Land‑ownership disputes delayed progress until November 2015, when Limerick City and County Council took responsibility after confirming that CIÉ owned the former railway corridor. The Limerick section – often called the Limerick Greenway – officially opened in June 2021, and the North Kerry stretch reached Listowel by October 2022. Ongoing work aims to complete the full Limerick‑to‑Tralee link, creating a continuous 85 km route.
At the trailhead in Rathkeale, the former station now houses the Palatine Museum, which tells the story of the German Protestant refugees settled in the area in 1710 by Sir Thomas Southwell. Nearby Castle Matrix, linked to Sir Walter Raleigh’s introduction of the potato to Ireland, adds another historic stop.
Highlights & Points of Interest
- Barnagh Tunnel – a 115‑metre former railway tunnel, fully renovated and accessed via a purpose‑built under‑pass beneath the N21. The cool, shaded passage is home to several bat species and ferns.
- Barnagh Greenway Hub – visitor centre beside the tunnel with free car parking, a children’s playground, a miniature ‘crazy‑golf’ course, public toilets, a small café and on‑site bike hire.
- Ferguson’s Viaduct – an elegant cast‑iron railway viaduct spanning a deep valley, offering dramatic photographic opportunities and views towards the Galtee and Silvermine Mountains.
- Historic Bridges – five finely‑cut stone bridges cross the trail between Rathkeale and Newcastle West, each adding a touch of 19th‑century engineering charm.
- Scenic Landscape – the trail runs alongside the River Deel, through the Golden Vale, and offers occasional vistas of the Galtee and Silvermine ranges. Bird‑watchers may spot native species such as skylarks, swallows and small mammals.
- Optional Loops – popular side routes include the 6 km Rooskagh Loop and the Tullig Wood circuit, both offering quieter woodland walks and picnic spots.
Activities & Facilities
- Cycling – the compacted tarmac surface is ideal for road‑style cycling. Bike hire is available at Barnagh Hub and at Adrenalinsports in Newcastle West, which also offers e‑bikes and a fully equipped workshop.
- Walking & Running – the gentle gradients suit families, seniors and pram users. The trail is wheelchair‑friendly in most sections.
- Dog‑Friendly – dogs are permitted throughout the greenway; owners should follow the trail’s code of conduct and keep pets on a lead where livestock are present.
- Bird‑watching & Wildlife – the varied hedgerows and riverbanks attract a range of birds; the tunnel provides a roost for bats.
- Photography – the viaduct, tunnel, historic stations and open countryside provide ample subjects.
Getting There & Parking
- Rathkeale – free parking is available at the trailhead opposite the Palatine Museum. The town offers cafés, B&Bs and a short walk to the start of the greenway.
- Newcastle West – there is no dedicated greenway car park; visitors can park on the street near Gaelscoil Ó Doghair on Station Road (pay‑and‑display) and follow sign‑posted routes onto the trail.
- Barnagh Greenway Hub – free car park, public toilets and a café make it a convenient midpoint stop.
- Abbeyfeale – limited roadside parking is available near the town centre; the trail continues northwards towards Listowel.
Practical Information
- Surface & Accessibility: compacted tarmac, traffic‑free, wheelchair‑friendly in most sections; some short gravel stretches near the tunnel.
- Length: 40 km currently open (Rathkeale – Abbeyfeale); full trail will total 85 km when completed.
- Waymarking: greenway signs and printed maps are available from Limerick City and County Council’s website and at the Barnagh Hub.
- Facilities: free parking at Barnagh Hub, public restrooms, bike‑hire, café, playground, and a ‘crazy‑golf’ course. Additional bike‑hire at Adrenalinsports, Newcastle West.
- Best Time to Visit: spring to early autumn, when fields are lush and daylight hours are long.
- Safety Tips: stay on the designated path, watch for livestock at farm‑gate crossings, obey road‑crossing signs, and carry water and a basic repair kit.
- Contact: Limerick City and County Council – Greenway Services, email: greenway@limerick.ie, phone: +353 61 555 1234.
Nearby Attractions
While exploring the trail, consider a short detour to the historic village of Adare, famous for its thatched cottages and medieval ruins, or stop in Ardagh to see the restored railway station and local heritage centre.
Enjoy the Great Southern Trail – a living ribbon of history, scenery and Irish hospitality stretching across the heart of the west.