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🚴The Great Southern Trail
The Great Southern Trail is a 69-km off-road walking and cycling route along the former Great Southern & Western Railway line from Limerick to Kerry. It is suitable for families with children of all ages, offering flat, traffic-free paths ideal for bikes, scooters, and buggies. Highlights include the 800m-long Barnagh Tunnel, the charming villages of Newcastle West and Abbeyfeale, and views of the Ballyhoura Mountains and the River Feale.
Facilities along the route include picnic areas, benches, and several access points with parking. The trail is well-surfaced with compact gravel or tarmac, making it accessible for all. There are no steep hills, making it perfect for young children on balance bikes or families with trailers. Nearby amenities include cafes and playgrounds in towns.
Practical tips: The trail can be done in sections; a popular family stretch is the 8-km section from Rathkeale to Ardagh. Bikes can be rented from local shops. The Barnagh Tunnel is a highlight but may be dark, so bring a torch. Allow 2-3 hours for a short family ride.
Travel tips
Break the trail into manageable sections
The full 69-km route is too much for families. The 8-km Rathkeale to Ardagh stretch is ideal for children, taking 2-3 hours including breaks.
Bring a torch for the Barnagh Tunnel
The 800m tunnel is a highlight but can be very dark. A torch or head torch makes it much less daunting for children.
Perfect for buggies and balance bikes
Flat, well-surfaced paths with no steep hills make this ideal for pushchairs, balance bikes, and scooters. Very buggy-friendly.
Rent bikes locally if you don't have your own
Local bike rental shops are available. Worth checking in advance if hiring multiple bikes for a family visit.
Use parking at multiple access points
Several parking areas and access points are dotted along the route. Park closer to your chosen section rather than attempting the whole trail.
Pack a picnic with water and snacks
Picnic areas and benches are scattered throughout. Bring plenty of water and snacks for young children on longer stretches.
Visit nearby towns for refreshments
Newcastle West and Abbeyfeale have cafes and amenities. Consider building a longer family day around exploring both the trail and these charming villages.
Traffic-free makes it safe for confident cyclists
Being off-road, the trail is perfect for children gaining cycling confidence without vehicle traffic to worry about.
Suitable for all ages from babies upwards
The flat, accessible surface means even very young children in buggies, and older children on balance bikes, can enjoy sections comfortably.
Check weather and bring layers
Open countryside with limited shelter. Wind and rain are common in Ireland; dress in waterproof layers and bring extras for children.
Allow extra time for the tunnel experience
Children often want to explore or rest in the Barnagh Tunnel. Build this into your timing rather than rushing through.
Check local playgrounds in towns
Villages along the route often have playgrounds. Worth exploring with children as a break from cycling or walking.
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Nearby places
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