The Grand Canal Way from Adamstown to Sallins

Hike: The Grand Canal Way from Adamstown to Sallins. The eastern-most section of the 124km Grand Canal Way, this is a tranquil and straightforward route that can be completed either by foot or by bike. Passing through rural farmland, it combines pastoral surrounds with the historic accoutrements of a 19th-century waterway. From Adamstown station, it’s 1.5km along roads to the official start of the route at Lucan Bridge, along the R120. The path is signed west along the canal’s wooded banks. Colourful barges, an old mill, arched stone bridges, several locks and a renovated lock-keeper’s cottage are just some of the landmarks you pass before arriving in the village of Sallins. Turn left at Sallins bridge to reach the train station 200m later.

Start at: Adamstown train station.

Finish at: Sallins and Naas train station.

Get there: Use Dublin-Kildare train services to link the start and finish points.

Level: Easy — a flat towpath with a combination of paved and grassy surface.

Pack: A copy of Lenny Antonelli’s East of Ireland Walks on River and Canal, which describes the route in full detail.

Refuel at: Lock 13 Brewpub (lock13.ie), on the water’s edge in Sallins. Their home-brewed craft ale and signature burger are a great combo. Book ahead.