Lartigue Monorail

The Lartigue Monorail is a remarkable piece of transport history, located in the charming town of Listowel, County Kerry. This one-of-a-kind monorail system was designed by French engineer Charles Lartigue in the 1880s and operated between Listowel and Ballybunion until 1924. The unique design features a single elevated rail with specially balanced carriages that straddle the track. Today, a reconstructed section of the monorail operates as a tourist attraction, offering short rides that recreate the experience of the original line. Visitors can also explore the adjacent museum, which houses original artifacts, photographs, and models explaining the engineering marvel. The ride itself is gentle and scenic, passing through the town's outskirts. It's a delightful experience for families, railway enthusiasts, and anyone curious about quirky inventions.

Don't miss

• Take a 1 km ride on the reconstructed monorail, complete with a steam locomotive replica.
• Visit the museum to see original carriages, tools, and historical photographs.
• Learn about the unique balancing mechanism that kept the carriages upright.
• Explore the gift shop for monorail-themed souvenirs and local crafts.
• Enjoy the scenic views of the River Feale and the surrounding countryside from the elevated track.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Lartigue Monorail

Cheapest way inSelf Guided Bike Tour on the Limerick Greenway5★ · 33 travelers~7 hoursFree cancellationFrom$17 per personSee dates →Best full dayDublin to Cliffs of Moher, including Wild Atlantic Way and Galway4.9★ · 24,315 travelers~13 hoursFree cancellationFrom$87 per personSee dates →Top ratedDublin to Cliffs of Moher, Ennis and Historic Limerick Day Tour4.9★ · 1,224 travelers~13 hoursFree cancellationFrom$81 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• The monorail ride lasts about 10 minutes. It departs every 30 minutes during opening hours.
• The ride is open-air; dress for the weather. Umbrellas are provided if it rains.
• Children must be accompanied by an adult. The ride is suitable for all ages.
• Photography is encouraged. The monorail makes a great photo opportunity.

A bit of history

The Lartigue Monorail was built in 1888 to connect Listowel with Ballybunion, primarily serving the fishing and tourism industries. It operated until 1924, when it was closed due to high maintenance costs and the rise of road transport. The current replica was opened in 2003.