The Waterford Way runs along the border of County Cork and County Waterford, with dramatic views of the River Suir, passing through the village of Kilmacthomas. On this stretch, you’ll encounter occasional ups and downs on a mostly flat surface. You’re entering a more rural area of the route now, with evidence of farming and livestock all around you along with an abundance of wildlife and birds.

Kilmacthomas, one of the oldest villages on the Greenway was once a busy port on the River Suir. Here you’ll find lots of shops to stop off in, an eatery if you get peckish and access to your next stretch of Greenway.

Tradition claims St. Cadoc established a monastery at Kilmacthomas in the 5th century and this history lives on today with the ruins of Kilmacthomas Abbey built on the site of an earlier monastery. But even more modern is the vitality of this small village along the Waterford Greenway. A crossing place of two rivers – the Suir and the Lorum – Kilmacthomas has its own swimming hole, “Biggs’s Hole” and an idyllic children’s playground for impromptu visits.

When you reach Kilmacthomas you have the choice of a left turn to take in some historic sights in Kilmacthomas and Kilduff, or a right turn that carries on past the captivating Ballinamult Abbey ruins.

On your right is also a patch of woodland where it’s a good idea to keep a keen eye out for the resident population of fallow deer. As you pass Kilmacthomas village, you’ll be able to visit the local castle and gardens.

Here, you’ll pass the ruins of the 13th-century Kilmacthomas Friary on your left. You’ll also go past some impressive mansion houses and stately homes along this stretch, perhaps stopping to admire some of them and their attractive wooded grounds.

The area is also close to the village of Clonmel, where you can take a break from your ride at the Coolmine Park & Lifestyle Centre. There is a café on site.