Blueways Ireland
Blueways Ireland invites you to discover some of Ireland’s most spectacular waterways and coastlines through a growing network of accredited Blueways. From tranquil lakes and winding rivers to canals and coastal routes, Blueways offer unforgettable experiences on and alongside the water. Explore by foot, bike, kayak, canoe or paddleboard, and enjoy the freedom to travel at your own pace.
Whether you’re seeking a family day out, an active escape or a peaceful connection with nature, there’s a Blueway experience for you. Paddle through scenic waterways, cycle quiet routes between villages, or follow waterside trails to heritage sites, cafés and local attractions.
For those new to outdoor adventures, experienced activity providers can help you get started and make the most of your visit. Every accredited Blueway is designed to provide a safe, accessible and sustainable experience, helping people of all ages and abilities enjoy the outdoors with confidence. From dramatic coastlines and historic river valleys to vibrant lakeside communities, each Blueway offers its own unique blend of nature, culture and local character.
Along the way, discover the stories, traditions and legends that have shaped these landscapes for generations. Meet welcoming communities, enjoy local food and hospitality, and experience the authentic spirit of Ireland’s waterways. Adventure, discovery and connection await — your Blueway, your pace.
What is a Blueway?
Blueways are more than waterways and trails – they are places where water connects people to nature, heritage, communities and adventure. Following rivers, lakes, canals and coastlines, each Blueway offers a unique way to experience Ireland’s landscapes, revealing stories, wildlife, local culture and hidden gems that can only be discovered along the water’s edge.
Blueway Partnership
The Blueway Partnership is the body responsible for the strategic oversight, guidance, accreditation and brand management of Blueways. The Partnership is an all-island body comprising Waterways Ireland, Tourism Northern Ireland, Fáilte Ireland, Sport Ireland and Sport Northern Ireland.
Blueway Vision
Where everyone can find a way to enjoyably experience and sustainably connect with the water.
Partnership Mission
Lead, guide and facilitate the development, animation, promotion, management and maintenance of high-quality Blueways so that locals and visitors can consistently and sustainably enjoy animated experiences on and close to the water.
The Role of Blueway Programme Manager
Outscape, a not-for-profit national organisation working to support and develop outdoor recreation, provides the Blueway Programme Manager.
Through these activities, the Programme Manager helps ensure that Blueways deliver lasting benefits for communities, visitors and the wider outdoor recreation sector.
The Blueway Programme Manager can be contacted via info@bluewaydevelopment.org
This role is central to the growth and quality of Blueways across Ireland. Acting as the key link between the Blueways Partnership, local developers, technical experts and national stakeholders, the Programme Manager is responsible for:
- Coordinating the delivery of the national Blueway programme.
- Supporting the development and enhancement of new and existing Blueway projects.
- Facilitating collaboration between partners, stakeholders and technical specialists.
- Strengthening governance, monitoring and reporting processes across the programme.
- Promoting the sharing of knowledge, lessons learned and best practice.
- Providing guidance and support to local Blueway developers and managers.
- Supporting the promotion of safe, sustainable and high-quality outdoor recreation experiences.
- Contributing to the long-term growth, consistency and quality of Ireland’s Blueway network.