Old Rail Trail Greenway Mullingar-Athlone
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Old Rail Trail Greenway Mullingar-Athlone

4.7
·133 reviews·Mullingar, Ireland

A 40km flat, smooth greenway connecting Mullingar and Athlone, perfect for cycling and walking with scenic views and historical railway architecture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime, wind permitting

Smooth surface, scenic views

CrowdMedium
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Old Rail Trail Greenway Mullingar-Athlone

Old Rail Trail Greenway Mullingar-Athlone

Best Time

Daytime, wind permitting

Smooth surface, scenic views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 40km flat, smooth greenway connecting Mullingar and Athlone, perfect for cycling and walking with scenic views and historical railway architecture.

4.7
(133 reviews)

"Fantastic fast smooth surface most of the way, loads of interesting old railway architecture, very well maintained."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚴 Cycle the Full Length

The 40km Mullingar to Athlone Greenway is mostly flat and smooth, ideal for a full day's cycle.

🦟 Pack Mosquito Repellent

Don't forget repellent! The trail can have many mosquitoes, especially during warmer times.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mullingar to Athlone Stretch

Mullingar to Athlone Stretch

Entire 40km length

Experience the full 40km of the Old Rail Trail Greenway, a mostly flat and smooth path perfect for cycling or walking.

Railway Architecture

Railway Architecture

Along the trail

Discover fascinating remnants of old railway history, with well-maintained architecture dotted along the route.

Scenic Views

Scenic Views

Various points

Enjoy lovely, scenic landscapes that make the journey from Mullingar to Athlone a visual delight.

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Planning Your Visit

Bike Rental Logistics

If you're planning to cycle the Old Rail Trail Greenway, check the opening hours for bike rentals like OE Bikes in advance. This ensures you can secure your ride and make the most of your journey from Mullingar to Athlone.

Mosquito Defense

The scenic Old Rail Trail Greenway can be a haven for mosquitoes, especially during warmer months. Pack effective repellent to ensure a comfortable walk or cycle along the 40km path.

Best Times

When
Daytime, wind permitting
Why
Smooth surface, scenic views
Crowd
Medium
When
Early morning
Why
Fewer mosquitoes, cooler temps
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚴 Cycle the Full Length

The 40km Mullingar to Athlone Greenway is mostly flat and smooth, ideal for a full day's cycle. Reddit

🦟 Pack Mosquito Repellent

Don't forget repellent! The trail can have many mosquitoes, especially during warmer times. Reddit

🅿️ Easy Parking Available

Free public parking is available at the trail entrance in Mullingar, with adequate spaces. Reddit

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Plan for at least 8 hours to complete the entire 40km length of the greenway. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚴 Cycle the Full Length

The 40km Mullingar to Athlone Greenway is mostly flat and smooth, ideal for a full day's cycle. Reddit

🦟 Pack Mosquito Repellent

Don't forget repellent! The trail can have many mosquitoes, especially during warmer times. Reddit

🅿️ Easy Parking Available

Free public parking is available at the trail entrance in Mullingar, with adequate spaces. Reddit

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Plan for at least 8 hours to complete the entire 40km length of the greenway. Reddit

🚲 Check Bike Rental Hours

If renting bikes, confirm opening times with providers like OE Bikes beforehand. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(133 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Old Rail Trail Greenway for its excellent, smooth, and flat surface, making it ideal for both cycling and walking. The scenic beauty and interesting historical railway architecture are frequently highlighted as major draws. However, some find the trail entrance a bit hard to locate, and a significant number of reviewers warn about the prevalence of mosquitoes.

"Nice greenway, plenty of parking available here. If you are renting bikes please make note of opening times of the bike rental place. We rented bikes from OE bikes and had a good time on the greenway. The total length of greenway from Mullingar to Athlone is 40km. Plenty of places to stop and relax along the way. Terrain is mostly flat so it is easy to walk or cycle. Need atleast 8 hours to complete the entire length ."

lahari anandur

"It’s a really nice trail to walk or to cycle. Very scenic. Wear a good layer of mosquito repellent because the walk has too many mosquitoes."

Chunmun Mudgal

"Fantastic fast smooth surface most of the way. Loads of interesting old railway architecture, very well maintained Greenway overall. Cycled from Mullingar to Athlone with the wind behind me, came back in a headwind but not too bad as a lot of the track is sheltered......if you enjoy cycling don't miss it...."

Peter B (V Eight)

What People Like

Smooth, flat terrain
Scenic views
Railway architecture

What People Dislike

Mosquitoes
Trail entrance hard to find

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The trail entrance and a free public car park are located in Mullingar. While well-maintained, some visitors find it a little tricky to locate if unfamiliar with the area. Look for signs indicating the greenway access. Reddit

Yes, there is a well-located, free public car park adjacent to the trail entrance in Mullingar with approximately 50 spaces. Portable toilets are also available and maintained. Reddit

While the primary access points and reviews often mention Mullingar, the greenway connects Mullingar to Athlone, suggesting access points are available from both ends. Reddit

The greenway itself is the best way to travel between Mullingar and Athlone if you're cycling or walking. For getting to the start point, driving and parking is recommended. Reddit

Information on direct public transport to the specific trailheads is limited in reviews. Driving to the designated parking areas in Mullingar is the most commonly mentioned approach. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Old Rail Trail Greenway is a free public amenity. There are no admission fees to walk or cycle the path. Reddit

As an outdoor public trail, the greenway is generally accessible at all times. However, specific facilities like bike rentals will have their own operating hours. Reddit

No booking is required to use the Old Rail Trail Greenway. It's an open public path for everyone to enjoy. Reddit

There are no specific time restrictions mentioned for accessing the greenway itself, though it's advisable to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment. Reddit

OE Bikes is a mentioned provider for bike rentals. It's crucial to check their specific opening times and availability in advance of your visit. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The terrain is described as mostly flat with a fantastic, fast, and smooth surface, making it very easy for walking and cycling. Reddit

Completing the entire 40km length from Mullingar to Athlone typically requires at least 8 hours, especially if you plan to stop and relax. Reddit

Yes, there are plenty of places to stop and relax along the 40km route, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and take breaks. Reddit

The flat and smooth terrain makes it very suitable for families, including children, for both walking and cycling. Reddit

You can expect lovely, scenic views and interesting old railway architecture along the well-maintained path. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Look for remnants of old railway architecture, scenic stretches with open views, and any points where the path is sheltered by trees for varied photographic opportunities. Reddit

The smooth and wide surface makes it relatively easy to cycle. However, for safety, it's best to stop at designated rest areas or pull over to take photos. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, creating softer shadows and warmer tones. Consider the wind direction if cycling. Reddit

Keep an eye out for old bridges, signal boxes, and station remnants – these historical railway structures offer unique photographic subjects along the route. Reddit

A versatile camera, whether a DSLR or a good smartphone, will suffice. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto for capturing distant details of the architecture. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Old Rail Trail Greenway is an excellent choice for families. Its flat, smooth, and wide path makes it safe and easy for children to cycle or walk, even for younger ones. The 40km length can be broken down into shorter segments, allowing families to explore as much or as little as they wish. The historical railway architecture also adds an element of interest for curious young minds. Reddit

Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as well as mosquito repellent, as these can be prevalent. The availability of parking in Mullingar makes it convenient to start your family adventure. Consider renting bikes if your children are comfortable cycling longer distances, but ensure you check rental shop hours beforehand. Reddit

🚴 Cyclists Seeking Smooth Trails

For cyclists who appreciate a fast, smooth, and well-maintained surface, the Old Rail Trail Greenway is a must-visit. The 40km stretch from Mullingar to Athlone offers a consistent riding experience, ideal for those looking to cover distance efficiently. The predominantly flat terrain minimizes strenuous climbs, allowing for a more relaxed pace and enjoyment of the surroundings. Reddit

Cyclists should be prepared for potential wind conditions, as the open nature of the trail can expose you. However, many sections offer shelter, mitigating the impact. The historical elements, such as old railway structures, add a unique dimension to the ride. Planning your trip around bike rental availability and checking weather forecasts will enhance your cycling experience on this excellent path. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Cycling the Old Rail Trail Greenway

The Old Rail Trail Greenway offers a fantastic cycling experience, stretching 40km from Mullingar to Athlone. The path is renowned for its smooth, fast surface and predominantly flat terrain, making it accessible for cyclists of all levels. Many visitors highlight the enjoyment of cycling with the wind behind them, though a headwind is manageable due to sections being sheltered. The journey is not just about the ride; it's also a trip through history, with interesting old railway architecture visible along the way. Reddit

For those planning a cycling trip, renting bikes from local providers like OE Bikes is an option, but it's crucial to check their opening hours in advance to avoid disappointment. The full 40km route can take a significant portion of the day, with visitors suggesting at least 8 hours to complete it comfortably, allowing for stops and relaxation. The scenic beauty of the route adds to the overall appeal, making it a memorable cycling adventure. Reddit

Walking and Nature on the Greenway

The Old Rail Trail Greenway is equally enjoyable for walkers, offering a peaceful escape into nature. The well-maintained, wide path makes for comfortable strolling, and the mostly flat gradient means you can cover good distances without excessive strain. The scenic views along the route provide a pleasant backdrop for a leisurely walk, whether you're seeking exercise or simply a tranquil environment. Reddit

However, walkers should be aware of potential insect nuisances. Reviews frequently mention a high number of mosquitoes along the trail, particularly during warmer periods. It's highly recommended to pack effective mosquito repellent to ensure an uninterrupted and pleasant walking experience. Despite this, the overall consensus is that the greenway is a beautiful and worthwhile place to explore on foot. Reddit

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