An Introduction to EuroVelo
EuroVelo is the European cycle route network – comprising of 17 long distance cycle routes passing through and connecting 42 countries. The network is coordinated by the European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF) in cooperation with each of the countries through which the route passes. Each country develops their own section of the routes. EuroVelo routes are generally signposted and follow a mixture of cycle paths and quiet roads.
EuroVelo Routes in Ireland
EuroVelo 1 - Atlantic Coast Route
EuroVelo 1 runs between Rosslare Harbour and Belfast - (2500km). The route is signposted following mostly quiet roads with some traffic free greenway sections also included. The route in ROI was launched by the Department of Transport in May 2023. The route in NI is managed separately by the cycling charity Sustrans.
In general, this route is best suited to regular cyclists used to cycling on the road. However, the sections on the greenways are suitable for cyclists of all ability including children, under supervision. The main greenways on the route are:
- Waterford Greenway - Co. Waterford
- Midleton – Youghal Greenway – Co Cork
- Listowel to Abbeyfeale Greenway – Co Kerry
- Limerick Greenway - Co. Limerick
- Great Western Greenway – Co Mayo
The full EuroVelo 1 route runs from Norway to Portugal and passes through Scotland, Ireland Wales, England, France, Spain and Portugal. (11150km).
Full details on EuroVelo 1 Ireland can be found here.
EuroVelo 2 - The Capitals Route
The route runs between Galway and Dublin - (234km). The section between Athlone and Maynooth is completed (although does not yet have EuroVelo signage). The route follows the:
Both of these greenways are virtually traffic free and suitable for cyclists of all ability including children, under supervision. While work is ongoing to develop the remaining sections, a temporary route, mostly on road, can be followed between Galway and Athlone and Maynooth and Dublin – but suitable for regular cyclists only. (Please contact info@euroveloireland.ie for route details.)
The full EuroVelo 2 route runs from Galway to Moscow and passes through Wales, England, the Netherlands, Germany, Poland, Belarus and Russia (5050km) (the sections in Belarus and Russia are currently restricted).
EuroVelo.com website here https://eurovelo.com has more details on the full EuroVelo network including information on the route in Ireland.
EuroVelo 1 Ireland website - https://euroveloireland.ie has even more details about the route in Ireland including interactive maps, downloadable GPX files and further information.
Galway to Dublin Cycleway (EuroVelo 2) - https://www.galwaytodublincycleway.ie
While there is no dedicated EuroVelo 2 Ireland website in place yet, this website gives an overview of the route. Details of the on-road section can be provided by contacting info@euroveloireland.ie