The Barrow way is a 121km route following the Barrow river from the upper canal section at Robertstown in Co Kildare down to St Mullins village in Co Carlow.
The Barrow is the second longest river in Ireland and was a major transportation route historically. A series of canals and locks were constructed to allow barges to navigate the river and a tow path to allow horses draw the barges now runs the length of the Barrow way, in paved and unspoiled, it's a predominantly grass verges, very flat and perfect for running and hiking.
The route passes through or by towns every 15 to 20 Kms and stands testiment to its own history in the old buildings and ruins along the way. It's relatively little known in Ireland unfortunately but that makes it lightly trafficked. In short, it's a long beautiful run, vibrant in history, off the beaten track and one that so many more people should travel.
http://www.riverbarrow.net/barrow-way.html
