The Great Western Greenway runs 42 km from Westport to Achill Sound along a disused railway line built in the 1890s. It is fully traffic-free, surfaced and suitable for all abilities — making it genuinely accessible to families, older cyclists and anyone who hasn't been on a bike in years. The route passes through Newport and Mulranny before crossing to Achill Island, with views of Clew Bay's 365 islands throughout the middle section and the Corraun Peninsula on the final stretch.
The most dramatic section is between Mulranny and Achill Sound — the route runs along a narrow peninsula with the Atlantic on both sides and Croagh Patrick visible to the east. Mulranny itself is a village with a long sandy beach, a Victorian-era hotel and a café stop on the trail. Newport is worth a detour for lunch and for St Patrick's Church, which contains Ireland's last Harry Clarke stained-glass window.
Bike hire is available from multiple operators in Westport, Newport and Mulranny, with transfer services that let you cycle one-way. The full return trip (84 km) is feasible for experienced cyclists in a long day, but most people do one way and arrange a lift or bus back. Westport has good accommodation ranging from hostels to hotels and is the most practical base.
Highlights
- 42 km traffic-free trail from Westport to Achill Island on a disused Victorian railway line
- Clew Bay views throughout — 365 islands visible on clear days, Croagh Patrick behind
- Mulranny to Achill Sound section runs along a peninsula with Atlantic on both sides
- Suitable for all abilities — fully surfaced and flat, no specialist equipment needed
- Westport to Newport section passes Harry Clarke stained glass in St Patrick's Church — stop for 10 minutes
Good to know
- →Cycle one-way west to east for a tailwind advantage — most operators offer transfer services.
- →Book bikes in Westport at least a day ahead in July/August — stock runs out.
- →Mulranny is the best lunch stop — the village café and the Mulranny Park Hotel both serve food on the trail.
- →The trail surface is good throughout but the Achill Sound end gets windy — exposed headland cycling.
- →If you only have 3 hours, cycle the Mulranny to Achill Sound section (12 km) — the best scenery.
Best Time to Visit
May–Sep. Best on a clear day for the Clew Bay views. Avoid July/August weekends if you want peace on the trail. Autumn colours on the bog sections are excellent in October.
Getting There
Where to Stay
Nearby Attractions
Book this experience
Clew Bay Bike Hire
Bike hire for the 42 km Great Western Greenway, with depots in Westport, Newport, Mulranny and Achill and a shuttle so you only cycle one way.
Book now →Quick Facts
- Type
- Nature
- County
- Co. Mayo
- Province
- Connacht
- Entry
- Free
- Hours
- Trail: year-round, always open. Bike hire operators: typically 09:00–18:00 (seasonal).
- Allow
- Half-day to full day
Destination guide
Wild Atlantic Way
Itinerary, best stops and local tips for West Coast · Ireland.
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