Greenways, (also known as vías verdes, voies vertes, voies lentes, voies douces, green axes, green corridors) describe transport routes primarily dedicated to light non-motorised traffic. Greenways can take on numerous different forms and there is no single definition of a greenway since they are related to the history and culture of the regions concerned.

Greenways: The Irish Definition

Greenways are a network of multi-user routes, primarily free from motorised traffic, for recreational, health and daily use. Greenways should provide for public access to and enhancement of the built and natural heritage. They should benefit the communities along the route socially and economically."

In general, the word 'Greenway' is used to define a route which has been developed for recreational purposes and/or for undertaking necessary daily trips, the Beara Breifne Greenway will be a walking route off tarred road and cycling route on quite county roads long side the walking route.This greenway is based on the march of O'Sullivan Beara in 1603 from Beara in West Cork to Co. Leitrim.

10 benefits of Greenways in Ireland.

1. Greenways can provide alternative transportation routes to connect people, communities and the countryside.
2. Greenways provide recreational opportunities for all.
3. Greenways provide safe, alternative routes for non-motorised transportation.
4. Greenways are often major tourist attractions, which generate expenditures on accommodation, food and recreation services.
5. Greenways help improve the overall appeal of a community to existing and new residents as well as to perspective tourists.
6. Greenways aid the promotion of exercise and activity.
7. Greenways help reduce dependence on motor vehicles;
8. Greenways promote outdoor education
9. Greenways promote the appreciation and protection of cultural and historic resources.
10. Greenways can act as outdoor classrooms for all ages.

Countryside Code

Leave all farm gates as you find them.
Always use gates and stiles and avoid damage to walls, fences etc.
Take care on country roads. If following a recognised walking route, keep to the waymarked trail.
Guard against all risks of fire, especially near forests.
Always keep children under close control and supervision.
Do not enter farmland if you have dogs with you.
Take all your litter home.
Protect wildlife, plants and trees.

Do not block farm entrances when parking
 

 

 



Copyright © Beara Breifne Greenway Project. All rights reserved.
Text/Photographs by kind permission of: Bord Failte, Regional Tourism Boards, Coillte, The Heritage Council, National Waymarked Ways & local Community Groups.

Project Co-ordinator: Jim O'Sullivan
Marketing Officers: Claire O'Sullivan, Gene Lewis, Filipe Vilarinho
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