4.5
(20)
139
riders
6
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes in Cratloe Woods traverse a landscape characterized by extensive woodlands, including oak, beech, and ash, alongside commercial spruce and pine forests. The region features tranquil Cratloe Lake and offers scenic views of the River Shannon and distant mountains from various points. The terrain includes well-maintained forest roads and paths, providing varied cycling experiences with some elevation changes.
Last updated: September 26, 2026
5
riders
11.9km
01:04
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
12.2km
01:15
330m
330m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

4
riders
26.5km
01:41
290m
290m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
9
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
10.3km
00:36
30m
30m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Cratloe Woods
Arthur's Quay Park is in the centre of Limerick. This small area of grass and plants has several paths to walk and great views across the River Shannon, towards King John’s Castle and up towards the Clare Hills. The Three Bridges walk passes through Arthur's Quay Park and the long distance Lough Derg Way starts here.
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Monument dedicated to the dockworkers
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The views to the left and right make everyday life quickly fade away - as you drive up the hill, wide views of the surrounding countryside open up. An open landscape stretches out before you, interspersed with hills and fringed with small woodlands. The wild flowers along the way and the rolling meadows let the eye wander, and the occasional wind that blows through the trees provides a welcome cooling effect. If you take a moment and just stop, you'll notice how peaceful it is here - ideal for soaking up the peace before moving on.
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Limerick City Gallery of Art (LCGA; Irish: Gailearaí Ealaíon Chathair Luimní) is an art museum in the city of Limerick, Ireland.It is run by Limerick City Council and is located in Pery Square, in the Newtown Pery area of the city. The gallery is housed in a Romanesque Revival building which was constructed in 1906 as a Carnegie library and museum. The Limerick City Collection of Art was established in 1936; it has since taken over the Carnegie building and expanded into a purpose-built extension. The permanent collection includes 18th, 19th, and 20th century Irish artworks. The gallery also holds regular temporary exhibitions of contemporary works, and has been one of the primary venues for EVA International, the Irish biennial of contemporary art. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Limerick_City_Gallery_of_Art
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Hook & Ladder (7 Sarsfield Street, 2024-07-31): https://hookandladder.ie/hook-and-ladder-cafes/cafe-limerick-city/
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Aside from the Dockers sculpture, most of Duhan’s work as an artist revolves around the naked human figure. He remembers his time at Limerick City School of Art with fondness, he says, but he is mostly self-taught, acquiring his skills as and when needed to fulfil his vision. From 1982, he taught at the National College of Art and Design, but he retired six years ago, when he turned sixty. “I used to finish work at the college around 4.30pm, then I’d go to my studio in Temple Bar and work away until midnight, unless I caught a pint on the way home. Now I have my own studio at home, and I can work away all day if I want.”
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Technology has long since replaced the need for human labour on the docks, with most of the unloading of cargo ships being done by cranes. But there were many former dockers among the hundreds that gathered for the unveiling of the sculpture by the Mayor of Limerick Kevin Keily on 18th June 2010. Mike Duhan's river-side sculpture. Mike Duhan's river-side sculpture. Duhan admits to having missed the occasion. “There was a mix-up with a car,” he says. “But my brother Johnny was there to represent me. Johnny’s a songwriter; he performed that song he wrote for Christy Moore, The Voyage, and I think everyone was very happy with that. I finally made it down in time for the after-party.” The reaction to the sculpture has been overwhelmingly positive. “I’m told it’s the most photographed object in Limerick city,” says Duhan. “But an artist is never really finished with his work. I’d still love to go down with an angle grinder and smooth out some edges I’m not happy with.”
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Cratloe Woods offers a selection of around 6 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes. These routes vary in length and difficulty, providing options for different skill levels.
The best time to cycle in Cratloe Woods is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months. The weather is milder, and the woodlands are vibrant with flora. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly in Ireland.
Yes, Cratloe Woods has several easy routes suitable for families. For instance, the Bike loop from King's Island is an easy option, as is the Bike loop from University of Limerick. These routes typically feature lower elevation gains and shorter distances, making them ideal for a relaxed family outing.
Cratloe Woods is generally dog-friendly, with many trails suitable for cycling with your canine companion. However, it's important to keep dogs on a leash, especially given the diverse wildlife in the woods, which includes deer and various bird species. Always ensure your dog is well-behaved and doesn't disturb other users or wildlife.
Cratloe Woods is a nature lover's paradise, offering diverse landscapes. You'll cycle through ancient woodlands featuring oak, beech, ash, and birch trees, with a forest floor adorned with wildflowers. The tranquil Cratloe Lake is a prominent feature, and from various viewing points, you can enjoy stunning panoramas of the River Shannon, Shannon Airport, and even the distant Galtee and Ballyhoura Mountains.
Yes, many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes in Cratloe Woods are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Cratloe Woods loop from Cratloe and the Cratloe Woods loop from Thomond Park, providing convenient circular options for your ride.
Cratloe Woods features a dedicated car park, making it easily accessible for visitors. The woods are conveniently located just off the motorway, approximately ten minutes from Limerick City and twenty minutes from Ennis.
The region around Cratloe Woods is rich in history. While cycling, you might encounter the 12th-century Cratloe Church ruins and Cratloe More Castle. Additionally, the popular Bunratty Castle and Folk Park is a short distance away, offering further insights into the region's past.
The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Cratloe Woods, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free environment, the beautiful woodland scenery, and the variety of trails suitable for different fitness levels, making it a 'road runner and mountain biker's dream' with trails for everyone.
While Cratloe Woods itself is primarily a natural area, you'll find cafes, pubs, and accommodation options in the nearby villages and towns. Cratloe village is close by, and Limerick City, just ten minutes away, offers a wider selection of amenities for refreshments and relaxation after your ride.
The elevation gain on the no-traffic touring cycling routes in Cratloe Woods varies. Some routes, like the Bike loop from King's Island, have minimal elevation, making them very accessible. Other routes, such as the Bike loop from TUS Gaelic Grounds, feature more significant climbs, offering a moderate challenge for those seeking a bit more effort.


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