How far is it to cycle from Clonmel to Waterford?

Cycling from Clonmel to Waterford city via the Suir Valley Greenway is approximately 80km. The greenway section from Clonmel to Carrick-on-Suir is 46km, then continuing on cycle paths and quieter roads into Waterford city adds roughly 30-35km more. Allow 4-6 hours for the full distance at a comfortable pace.

Is the Clonmel to Waterford bike route suitable for mountain bikes?

Yes — the Suir Valley Greenway section from Clonmel to Carrick is fully rideable on a mountain bike. The surface is compacted gravel and tarmac. The Carrick to Waterford section involves some road cycling on quieter routes. A hardtail or full suspension MTB handles the full route comfortably, though wider tyres slow slightly on the smooth tarmac sections.

Where do I stop on the Clonmel to Waterford bike route?

Key stops on the Clonmel to Waterford route: Kilsheelan village (~10km from Clonmel), Carrick-on-Suir town (~46km, good café stop with covered seating near the quays), and then the route approaches Waterford city through Portlaw and the Waterford Greenway connection. Carrick-on-Suir is the most practical midpoint stop with full facilities.

Clonmel to Waterford by Bike — MTB Route Guide

The route from Clonmel to Waterford by bike follows the River Suir for almost the entire distance. I've ridden sections of this many times — the Suir Valley Greenway is my go-to long-distance route when I want kilometres rather than mountain terrain. This is everything you need to know about cycling from Clonmel to Waterford.

The route overview

Total distance: approximately 80km from Clonmel town centre to Waterford city centre. It's almost entirely flat — the Suir Valley is a low-gradient river corridor and the route loses barely any altitude from Clonmel to the coast. This is an achievable single-day ride for fit cyclists or a comfortable two-day trip with an overnight in Carrick-on-Suir.

The route naturally divides into two main sections: Clonmel to Carrick-on-Suir (46km, fully on the Suir Valley Greenway traffic-free path), and Carrick to Waterford (34km, partly on quieter roads and partly on greenway/cycle path).

Section 1: Clonmel to Carrick-on-Suir (46km)

Start at the Gashouse Bridge quays in Clonmel and follow the greenway signs east along the river. The first 10km through and out of Clonmel establishes the rhythm — flat, easy going, the Suir alongside you and the Comeragh Mountains rising to the south. This is where you warm up.

Kilsheelan (~10km) is the first village. Small, quiet, you pass through it without stopping unless you need water. The terrain opens up further here and the Suir Valley stretches ahead.

The section from Kilsheelan to Carrick is the most scenic part of the route. The Comeragh Mountains are prominent on the south horizon, the river widens, and the valley feels more dramatic. The greenway surface is good throughout — compacted gravel and tarmac, well-maintained.

Carrick-on-Suir (~46km) is the natural midpoint. The town has cafés, shops, and the famous Ormond Castle nearby. Stop here to eat and refuel. The quayside area has seating and is a pleasant place for a break. From here you have the choice to continue to Waterford or return to Clonmel.

Section 2: Carrick-on-Suir to Waterford (34km)

After Carrick the route continues east, transitioning from the greenway to quieter roads for some stretches. The river remains your companion. The terrain stays flat — you're still in the Suir Valley, still following the river.

The approach to Waterford city comes through the western suburbs. The city quays are the natural end point — the River Suir widens dramatically into the estuary and the city skyline appears. A genuinely satisfying finish to the route.

Getting back to Clonmel

Unless you're doing the full out-and-back (160km — a serious day), you'll need a car at the Waterford end or public transport back. Bus Éireann runs Waterford to Clonmel. Alternatively, a car shuttle with two vehicles (one at each end) is the most popular option for groups.

Timing and conditions

The Clonmel to Waterford route is rideable year-round in all but the worst weather — the greenway is well-surfaced and drains well. Summer months give the best experience. An early start from Clonmel (7-8am) gets you to Waterford by early afternoon with time to explore before the return journey.

More on this site

Follow @d.emtb on Instagram for ride clips including the Suir Valley greenway route.

Clonmel to Waterford MTB