Westmeath Way facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Westmeath Way |
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|---|---|
| Length | 100 kilometres (62 miles) |
| Location | County Westmeath, Ireland |
| Designation | National Waymarked Trail |
| Trailheads | Kilbeggan, Garrycastle (Athlone) |
| Use | Hiking |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Season | Any |
The Westmeath Way (Irish: Slí na hIarmhí) is a special path for walking long distances in County Westmeath, Ireland. It is about 100 kilometers (62 miles) long. This trail starts in Kilbeggan and finishes in Athlone. Most people take two days to walk the entire path.
This path is known as a National Waymarked Trail. This means it is an official walking route in Ireland. The National Trails Office helps look after it. The Westmeath County Council and a special committee also manage the trail. The Westmeath Way is also part of a bigger path called the Dublin-Galway Greenway. It is even part of a huge European bike path network called EuroVelo route 2.
Contents
Exploring the Westmeath Way
The Westmeath Way offers a fun adventure through the Irish countryside. It combines nature, history, and interesting sights.
Starting Your Journey
The trail begins in the town of Kilbeggan. From there, you will follow the River Brosna for about 7 kilometers (4.3 miles). The path then leads you through pretty countryside. You will eventually reach the small village of Ballinagore.
Famous Connections and Waterways
After Ballinagore, the route takes you to the shores of Lough Ennell. This is a beautiful lake. Near the lake is a place called Lilliput. This name might sound familiar! The famous writer Jonathan Swift used the name Lilliput in his book Gulliver's Travels. He got the idea for the tiny land of Lilliput from this very spot.
The trail continues around Lough Ennell. It uses different paths and roads. You will pass through Dysart village. Then, you will arrive at Bellmount Bridge. Here, the path joins the Royal Canal. You will follow the canal all the way to Mullingar.
From Rail to Trail
Near Mullingar, the Westmeath Way uses an old railway line. This part of the path is called a rail-trail. It means an old train track has been turned into a path for walking or cycling. This section takes you over the disused Midland Great Western Railway line. It leads you directly to the town of Athlone, where the Westmeath Way finishes.
