Waterford Greenway and Mahon Falls Loop

This loop is rated as difficult. While the Waterford Greenway section is largely flat and easy, the detour to Mahon Falls involves a significant and challenging ascent into the Comeragh Mountains. Expect average gradients of 6.6% over 3 miles, with sections reaching 9.9% and even 10-15%. Good fitness is essential for the Mahon Falls portion.

The route offers a mix of terrains. The Waterford Greenway is a well-maintained, off-road, largely flat path along a disused railway line. However, the section leading to Mahon Falls involves steep, paved roads with significant elevation gain as you climb into the rugged Comeragh Mountains.

You'll experience diverse scenery and notable landmarks. Highlights include the starting point at Dungarvan Greenway Starting Point, scenic View of Dungarvan Bay, the impressive Ballyvoyle Viaduct, and of course, the stunning Mahon Falls itself. The route also offers views of the Comeragh Mountains and the Copper Coast.

You can typically find parking at various access points along the Waterford Greenway, such as in Dungarvan, Kilmacthomas, or Waterford City. For the Mahon Falls section, there is a car park directly at the falls, but for this cycling loop, you'll likely start from a Greenway access point and cycle towards the falls.

Yes, public transport options are available to towns along the Waterford Greenway, such as Dungarvan or Waterford City, which serve as good starting points for this loop. Shuttle services are also available for one-way trips along the Greenway, which might be useful if you only want to cycle a section of it.

The Waterford Greenway generally welcomes dogs, provided they are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. For the Mahon Falls area, dogs are also typically allowed on the walking paths to the falls, but always keep them under control, especially in mountain environments where livestock may be present.

The best time to cycle this route is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. Mahon Falls is particularly impressive after heavy rain, but cycling conditions will be more challenging. Always check the weather forecast, especially for the mountain section.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Waterford Greenway or to visit Mahon Falls. Both are freely accessible to the public. The Comeragh Mountains, where Mahon Falls is located, are also open for recreational use without charge.

Yes, this route incorporates a significant portion of the Waterford Greenway. It also intersects with sections of the EuroVelo 1 and the Sean Kelly Tour of Waterford routes, offering connections to broader cycling networks in the region.

While the Waterford Greenway section is very beginner-friendly, the addition of Mahon Falls makes this loop not suitable for beginner cyclists. The ascent to Mahon Falls is steep and requires a good level of fitness and cycling experience. Beginners might consider cycling only the Greenway section.

Yes, bike rental services are readily available in towns along the Waterford Greenway, such as Dungarvan, Kilmacthomas, and Waterford City. Many rental shops also offer shuttle services, making it convenient to cycle one-way sections of the Greenway.