nature reserve · landmark · playground
The Great Southern Trail
An outdoor nature-reserve in Limerick
Today: light drizzle · 15°C
A wet day — perfect for indoor exploration
Setting
Outdoor
Entry
Free / cheap
Who for
Toddler-friendly · Ages 0–18+
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.
What parents should know
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.
Family 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.
Must see
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.
Buggy
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.
Location and map
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Opening hours
Opening hours could not be confirmed.
Last checked 25 May 2026, 01:07.
This is a public open-access greenway trail with no formal operating hours. The trail is accessible year-round at all times.
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