The Waterford Greenway is an old railway track that runs from Waterford to Dungarvan. It is 46km long and perfect for walking and cycling. When The Park Hotel Dungarvan invited us down to cycle the Greenway for ourselves, we jumped at the chance. We used to love cycling but had let it slide. Plus we were going to have a child free night away. Why would we say no?!! Typically you might feel that this was a summer activity. However we set off on the 18th of November for our adventure. Here is how we got on.
Waterford Greenway – Where To Stay
We stayed in the Park Hotel, Dungarvan for one night. It was a pleasant journey from our Home in Cork and we reached our destination in just over an hour. The Park Hotel was well sign posted and easy to find. We were greeted by a lovely receptionist who had us checked in quickly. The foyer of the hotel is beautiful. Lots of space to sit down and relax. It has a quiet, chilled out atmosphere.
On arrival to our room we were impressed with the space, decor and the facilities. A TV, robes, slippers, linen and lots of wardrobe space for our bags. The room felt really relaxing and the bed was very comfortable.
The bathroom was spotlessly clean with lots of fresh towels, toiletries and a bath/shower.
Fuel For The Greenway
We enjoyed a lovely dinner during our stay in The Park Hotel. The food was really tasty and the staff friendly. Generous portion sizes left us completely stuffed! We had Duck Springrolls to start, soft braised Lamb for mains and I had a yummy chocolate and toffee roulade for desert. Would you believe my husband does not eat cake? I know I know, its a travesty! They catered for him with fresh fruit and ice cream which he loved.
Waterford Greenway – Our Cycle
Ready to cycle the Waterford Greenway, We met with Garvan from The Greenway Man who set us up with our bikes on Sunday morning. Conveniently, you can rent bikes right at the hotel. We just needed two adult bikes but if you are cycling with a family, Garvan has childrens bikes, trailers, seats etc… all available to rent. His prices are also the cheapest around. He is the kind of man who is very passionate about his town and The Waterford Greenway. In particular the history. He will give you all the information you need and make you excited for what you are about to do.
We started in Dungarvan, right at The Park Hotel and Cycled 13 km out towards Kilmacthomas. The Waterford Greenway is absolutely beautiful. Ocean, green fields, tunnels and viaducts make the cycle time pass quickly. You do not need to be fit to do it. It isn’t a race and you can go at your own pace. Approaching the Ballyvoyle tunnel you are greeted with fairly doors and rich greenery which make it seem almost magical. I would imagine the children loving this! There are beautiful views of The Commeragh Mountains (also worth a hike sometime) and ruins of the old railway platform.
I really enjoyed our cycle as did the hubby. Our little boy has asked Santa for a bike this Christmas so we will definitely return in the new year and cycle it with him.
The Verdict
Overall this was a very enjoyable break away. Not too far away from home but just far enough. The hotel was everything we needed for a night away and the perfect base for our cycle of the Waterford Greenway. My only complaint is that we didn’t stay a second night. I do believe that a nice swim in the leisure club would have been perfect after the cycle. If you are going I would suggest booking in for 2 nights minimum. There is so much do to and we regretfully didn’t get a chance to do it. That gives us the perfect excuse to go back!
You can book your visit by availing of the hotels cycling packages here.
Don’t forget to check out The Greenway Man here.
Where should we go next?
Louise x