Last week we posted a great super 8 video on the rail line from Adare to Fenit, it is worth mentioning that the majority of the Limerick section of the line [from Abbeyfeale to Rathkeale] has now been reopened as The Great Southern Trail (GST).
The realisation of this Greenway was only possible thanks to the local community, state agencies, Limerick County Council and above all the trojan work of the Great Southern Trail Action Group.
This has not been a short or a trouble-free journey, the Great Southern Trail Group was formed in 1991 and over the past 21 year this voluntary group has worked tirelessly to complete the 35 Km [22 mile] route that is now open. Although some parts of this route have been open for some years now it has only been in the last few month that work on 2 short sections that broke the path has been completed.
Last year the Great Southern Trail deservedly received an award from the European Greenways Association (EGWA) in recognition of the efforts made for the last 20 years by the volunteer enthusiasts of the GST who, with their tireless endeavour, have succeeded in making reality the conversion of a dissused railway line into a Greenway to be enjoyed by all.
Of course the Tralee and Fenit Railway and the North Kerry Railway share the same track bed for the first couple of miles out of Tralee, meaning that that the realisation of Tralee to Fenit project would also be another piece of the Great Southern Trial completed. It would be great to see these old friends, the North Kerry and Feint routes reunited!
If you are looking for a day out walking or cycleing the Great Southern Trail is highly recommended, and keep an eye out for the signage along the route which includes Tralee and Fenit !
