The best traffic-free bike rides in Kildare

Kildare offers a great selection of traffic-free touring cycling routes. There are over 40 routes available, catering to various skill levels, ensuring a pleasant and safe cycling experience away from vehicle traffic.

Yes, Kildare is very welcoming for beginners and those seeking an easy ride. Approximately 19 of the available routes are classified as easy, perfect for a relaxed touring experience. A great example is the Royal Canal Greenway – Maynooth Castle loop from Maynooth, which is an easy 26 km route.

Kildare is renowned for its excellent greenways, providing extensive traffic-free cycling. The Royal Canal Greenway and Grand Canal Greenway are prime examples, offering historic towpaths with scenic views of locks and diverse wildlife. The Barrow Way along the River Barrow is another historical towpath ideal for cycling, passing through charming towns.

The lengths of traffic-free touring cycling routes in Kildare vary to suit different preferences. You can find shorter routes, such as the Sallins – McEvoy's Pub loop from Sallins and Naas at around 28 km, or longer options like the St Brigid's Round Tower loop from Kildare, which is approximately 36 km. Many routes fall within the 25-70 km range, offering a good day's ride.

Many towns in Kildare, particularly those along the canal greenways, are accessible by public transport, including train services. This makes it convenient to reach starting points for routes like those near Maynooth or Sallins, allowing you to enjoy a traffic-free ride without needing a car.

Absolutely! Kildare's traffic-free routes often weave through areas rich in history and culture. You can cycle past impressive landmarks such as Maynooth Castle, explore the historic Castletown House and Demesne, or discover the ruins of Donadea Castle. The Kildare Monastic Trail also combines natural beauty with ancient history, featuring monastic ruins and high crosses.

The komoot community highly rates the traffic-free touring cycling in Kildare, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the peacefulness of the canal greenways, the well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to explore charming villages and historical sites without the worry of vehicle traffic. The diverse landscapes, from open plains to tranquil woodlands, are also frequently highlighted.

Yes, many of the traffic-free routes in Kildare are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For instance, the St Brigid's Round Tower loop from Kildare is a popular circular option, providing a convenient way to explore the area.

Kildare's traffic-free routes offer a diverse range of natural landscapes. You'll encounter the vast, open grasslands of the Curragh Plains, serene canal towpaths lined with historic locks, and tranquil woodlands such as Killinthomas Wood and Donadea Forest Park. These routes provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and enjoying the county's natural beauty.

Many of Kildare's traffic-free routes, especially those along the canal greenways, pass directly through or near picturesque villages and towns. This provides ample opportunities for refreshment stops, whether you're looking for a café, a pub, or a place to pick up supplies. Towns like Maynooth, Sallins, and Athy are often integrated into these routes.