The Kingdom of Kerry Greenways and Limerick Greenway are uniting to invite visitors to enjoy an extended Greenway experience this summer. The two Greenways, which connect in Abbeyfeale, together cover more than 50km off-road to offer holidaymakers the chance to explore both County Kerry and County Limerick while taking in some of the most stunning scenery Ireland has to offer.
The two counties may be sporting rivals but they have found common ground. They have joined forces to highlight the two Greenways linking up to form one continuous route for those looking to arrange a longer stay. By combining the two Greenways, it will be possible for people to travel from Listowel in North Kerry, to Abbeyfeale in West Limerick and continue along the charming Limerick Greenway, over 50km in total.
Limerick Greenway, set in the tranquil West Limerick landscape, passes via the three market towns of Rathkeale, Newcastle West and Abbeyfeale, through the 115m Barnagh Train Tunnel and across the cast-iron Ferguson’s Viaduct, both restored relics of the 19th century Limerick to Kerry rail line. The scenic Limerick Greenway offers visitors a rich experience that centres around accessibility, biodiversity, with native species of trees and shrubs as well as wildlife, and heritage with its choice of some of the country’s most historic sites.
Mayor of the City and County of Limerick, Councillor Francis Foley said, “together, we are very proud to mark this enhanced visitor experience where two Greenways meet in my own home town of Abbeyfeale. The huge success of Limerick Greenway is being felt in communities all along the route. The link to the Kingdom of Kerry Greenways creates an extended route featuring the beautiful scenery of Limerick and Kerry and more opportunities for both counties to explore. Added to that is our combined wealth in Arts, Culture and Heritage for all to experience along the way.”
The recently opened Kingdom of Kerry Greenways follows the old Limerick to Kerry railway line, and currently includes two routes between Tralee and Fenit, and from Listowel to Abbeyfeale which now links to the Limerick Greenway. The Listowel-Limerick Greenway begins in the lively and historic town of Listowel. The ‘Literary Capital of Ireland’, Listowel hosts the famous Writers Week festival and has a range of visitor attractions including the Kerry Writers museum, Lartigue Monorail and Listowel Castle. The route starts close to the beautiful river Feale and brings you through a picturesque landscape of rolling hills and pastureland.
Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council, Councillor Jim Finucane said, “Kerry and Limerick are both considered rivals when it comes to GAA sports but, on this occasion, they have the opportunity to be each other’s biggest fans. By combining our efforts, we can create something really special that will benefit both counties and deliver a best-in-class experience for Ireland’s tourists overall.”
The two Greenways have benefitted their local communities and businesses, providing employment opportunities as well as encouraging tourists to explore both counties. This joint tourism initiative hopes to attract more visitors from home and abroad who want to explore these wonderful neighbouring counties as well as take advantage of other activities such as cycling, walking, music and culture along the way.
The new purpose-built trails provide an accessible and inclusive experience for visitors of all abilities.
To find out more about both Greenways and plan your visit, check out www.kerrygreenways.ie and Limerick Greenway | Limerick.ie
Source: Limerick City & County Council
