The Suir Valley Greenway starts in Clonmel and runs 46km east along the River Suir to Carrick-on-Suir and beyond into Waterford. It's the flattest, most accessible cycling route in the area — and while it's not mountain biking in the traditional sense, it's a genuinely excellent route that I use regularly for long-distance riding days. Here's what you need to know.
What the Suir Valley Greenway is like
The greenway follows the River Suir through the Suir Valley — one of the most scenic river valleys in the south of Ireland. The surface is compacted gravel and tarmac, traffic-free throughout, and flat from start to finish. The mountains of the Comeragh range frame the horizon to the south as you ride east from Clonmel — it's a genuinely beautiful route.
At 46km one-way from Clonmel to Carrick-on-Suir, the full out-and-back is 92km. Most riders do a section and come back, or arrange a car at both ends. The route continues from Carrick into Waterford city if you want to extend further.
Starting from Clonmel
The Clonmel start is at the Gashouse Bridge area — follow the river east from the town centre quays and pick up the greenway signs. The first section through Clonmel runs along the riverbank through the town and out through the industrial area on the east side. It opens up properly once you clear the town edge and enter the open Suir Valley countryside.
Parking: the quay-side car parks in Clonmel town centre are the most convenient. Alternatively park at the Clonmel end of the greenway at the riverside. Free parking throughout.
Key sections
Clonmel to Kilsheelan (~10km) — The first section east from Clonmel. Flat riverside track, easy going, good surface. The views open up quickly once you're clear of the town. Suitable for all levels including families with young children.
Kilsheelan to Carrick-on-Suir (~20km further) — The middle section gets more scenic as the Comeragh Mountains dominate the southern horizon. The Suir widens here and the valley becomes more dramatic. This is where you feel like you're properly in the Tipperary countryside.
Carrick-on-Suir and beyond — Carrick is the natural halfway point for a Clonmel start. The town has cafés and a good stop point. If you're doing the full one-way route to Waterford city, allow 4-5 hours for the complete 92km journey (cycling one direction) at a comfortable pace.
Is the Suir Valley Greenway mountain biking?
Not technically. It's a flat surfaced trail — closer to gravel riding than mountain biking. But I include it on this site because it's one of the best cycling experiences based in Clonmel and it's accessible to everyone regardless of their MTB skill level. I use it for long-distance endurance riding days when I want kilometres without the technical challenge of the mountains.
Your mountain bike handles it perfectly — 29-inch MTB tyres run smoothly on the greenway surface. Slightly slower than a gravel bike on the smooth sections, but comfortable and capable.
Best time to ride
The greenway is rideable year-round. Winter conditions don't affect it the way they affect the mountain trails — no mud, no icing on the main route, no exposure to high winds. The summer months give the longest daylight but the greenway is genuinely pleasant from February through November. Summer weekend mornings get busy near Clonmel — ride early or on weekdays if you want the trail quiet.
- Clonmel to Waterford by bike — full route guide
- Mountain biking in Clonmel — all options
- Beginner's MTB guide for Clonmel
- MTB for young riders near Clonmel
Follow @d.emtb on Instagram for Suir Valley greenway ride clips and local cycling content.