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Shannon to Quin

Shannon to Quin

Templemore Town Park Loop

Templemore Town Park Loop

Kilkenny City

Kilkenny City

Dublin Coast

Dublin Coast

Piercestown to Our Lady’s Island

Piercestown to Our Lady’s Island

Draperstown to Magherafelt

Draperstown to Magherafelt

Baltyboys Loop

Baltyboys Loop

Ballinspittle to Courtmacsherry

Ballinspittle to Courtmacsherry

Doolin Loop 1

Doolin Loop 1

Killarney - Gap of Dunloe – Black Valley Loop

Killarney - Gap of Dunloe – Black Valley Loop

Carlow Town Loop

Carlow Town Loop

Derrygonnelly to Belleek

Derrygonnelly to Belleek

Antrim Town Loop

Antrim Town Loop

Great Western Greenway - Westport to Achill Sound

Great Western Greenway - Westport to Achill Sound

Mount Errigal Loop

Mount Errigal Loop

Green Heartlands Route

Green Heartlands Route

Waterford to Kilmeaden (Greenway)

Waterford to Kilmeaden (Greenway)

Old Rail Trail Greenway

Old Rail Trail Greenway

The Barrow Way – Vicarstown Loop

The Barrow Way – Vicarstown Loop

Coolquay Spin

Coolquay Spin

Tour of Monaghan

Tour of Monaghan

Meelick Weir Spin

Meelick Weir Spin

The Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Beara

The Ring of Beara

Wicklow 200

Wicklow 200

Let's Cycle Ireland - Local Expert Sam Bennett

Let's Cycle Ireland - Local Expert Sam Bennett

Waterford Greenway & Copper Coast

Waterford Greenway & Copper Coast

Great Dublin Bike Ride 100km

Great Dublin Bike Ride 100km

Great Dublin Bike Ride 60km

Great Dublin Bike Ride 60km

Coachford Greenway

Coachford Greenway

Carlingford Greenway

Carlingford Greenway

Ticknock

Portumna Forest Park Circular

King Fisher Trail - Northern Loop

King Fisher Trail - Northern Loop

Glenbower Woods Blue Trail

Glenbower Woods Blue Trail

Ballyhoura Garrane Loop

Ballyhoura Garrane Loop

Doolin Loop 2

Doolin Loop 2

Doolin Loop 3

Doolin Loop 3

Doolin Loop 4

Doolin Loop 4

The Lough Gill Cycle Loop

The Lough Gill Cycle Loop

Drumsna - Sheemore Loop

Drumsna - Sheemore Loop

Ballinastoe Mountain Bike Loop

Ballinastoe Mountain Bike Loop

Tour of Fermanagh 60km Route

Tour of Fermanagh 60km Route

Beechdale Loop

Beechdale Loop

Omagh to Loughmacrory

Omagh to Loughmacrory

South Wexford

South Wexford

Belfast City to Jordanstown

Belfast City to Jordanstown

Blackrock to Cobh

Blackrock to Cobh

Blessington Lake Loop

Blessington Lake Loop

Comber to Sketrick Island

Comber to Sketrick Island

Foyle Valley Cycle Route

Foyle Valley Cycle Route

Kilcullen Countryside Loop

Kilcullen Countryside Loop

Kilnaleck Loop

Kilnaleck Loop

Limerick Greenway

Limerick Greenway

New Orchard Loop

New Orchard Loop

New Twopothouse to Doneraile Wildlife Park

New Twopothouse to Doneraile Wildlife Park

O'Neill Loop

O'Neill Loop

Pallasleiney Loop

Pallasleiney Loop

Royal Canal Greenway (Longford to Cloondara)

Royal Canal Greenway (Longford to Cloondara)

Royal Canal Greenway (Meath)

Royal Canal Greenway (Meath)

Stradbally Loop

Stradbally Loop

Tuam Loop

Tullaghan to Mullaghmore

Tullamore Loop

Tullamore Loop

Rostellan Loop

Rostellan Loop

Bushmills and The Giants Causeway

Bushmills and The Giants Causeway

Greenmount Loop

Greenmount Loop

Malahide to Clontarf

Malahide to Clontarf

Megalithic Spin

Megalithic Spin

Murrintown to Kilmore Quay

Murrintown to Kilmore Quay

Sandtrap Loop

Sandtrap Loop

Swords to Oldtown

Swords to Oldtown

EuroVelo 1 Atlantic Coast Route

EuroVelo 1 Atlantic Coast Route

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Mountain Biking

5 cycling routes around Ireland

Three avid cyclists pick their favourite bike trails around the island.

5 great cycling routes around Ireland

Always wanted to explore Ireland’s cycle routes? These avid cyclists pick their favourite bike trails

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Beara Peninsula, County Cork

County Cork,

Cycling on the Beara Peninsula

Pat O'Donnell

Galway city to spiddal, county galway.

“This route is about 40km in length, travelling from the outskirts of Galway city on the Clifden Road to Moycullen, and then taking a left in the village. There is a climb, but once you’ve conquered this, it’s plain sailing. Travelling along this road towards Spiddal, you’ll eventually see the Cliffs of Moher to the right across the bay. On a clear day, the Aran Islands will appear on the horizon just before you head down into Spiddal village. Stop here for a coffee or a bite to eat in the crafts centre, pick up a souvenir, pop it in the backpack and then it’s homeward bound back to Galway city.”

The Derroura Mountain Bike trail, County Galway

“Just west of Oughterard, the Derroura trail is 16km of Connemara landscape, which is looked after by Coillte (the organisation that manages and maintains the forest walks and trails around Ireland). Park the car at the forest entrance next to Lough Bofin, and then it’s climbing all the way to the mast at Knocklettefore. It’s worthwhile, though, as when you get to the top, the views of the lakes are amazing. Take a breather and then it’s downhill all the way until you get to the boardwalks, where you’re directed back to the parking lot.”

Beara Peninsula, County Kerry/Cork

“This is a challenging route but the scenery is beautiful and it’s around 195km in full, depending on what route you take. It’s best to base yourself in Kenmare in County Kerry, and make your way back to base after each stint. Of all the trails, you have to take in the spectacular Healy Pass, with its views across Bantry Bay and the Kenmare River. Once over the top, which is 300m high, it’s about 30km back into Kenmare. En route, pop into the villages of Glengarriff and Eyeries, or take the ferry with your bike from Castletownbere to Bere Island and continue your cycle there.”

Cycling in Fermanagh

County Fermanagh,

Cycling in County Fermanagh

Nicola Brady , travel writer

The mourne mountains.

"Between us cyclists, there’s a lot of buzz about the Mourne Mountains. The heather and moss-covered peaks are the epitome of Irish countryside, and inspired CS Lewis to create the magical land of Narnia (in The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe ). The Mournes have plenty of cycle trails, such as the Rostrevor Route (27km), which gives wonderful views of Rostrevor Forest, the Mourne Mountains and Carlingford Lough. It begins and ends in the picturesque town of Rostrevor and can be a long cycle with some steep sections, but it will definitely be worth it."

The North West Cycle Trail, County Fermanagh/County Tyrone

“There are amazing cycling routes in Fermanagh. As part of the North West Trail, you pass through lakelands and castles as you thread your way through the county. It's one of the best-kept secrets around here. The North West Cycle Trail is a 325km loop taking in sights such as Castle Coole, the Marble Arch Caves and the Ulster American Folk Park, depending on which segment you take. For a day trip, push off from Strabane's landmark sculpture, Let the Dance Begin, in County Tyrone, which is perched on the Donegal/Tyrone border, and pick up the distinctive North West Trail for a day trip. The route will take you along flat, fast rolling back roads, eventually ending up in the market town of Enniskillen.”

Winding country roads, tiny villages and bustling towns and cities make up many of Ireland’s cycle trails. Not to mention the surrounding scenery of mountains, lakes and coastlines. “Cycle tracks will abound in Utopia,” HG Wells said, but we’ll happily take Ireland’s on our way there.

Where do you want to go?

Do you feel like tasting wild Atlantic sea spray on your lips? Strolling through vibrant city streets? Exploring ancient ruins? Right this way…

Best Irish Cycling Routes

Let’s Cycle Ireland

Supporting irish tourism, the best irish cycling routes designed by cyclists for cyclists.

Cycle Graphics Classic Spins

Classic Spins

The best of the best 2 to 3-day cycling itineraries, these routes have everything from the biggest climbs to the greatest loops. The perfect mix of challenging and spectacular, you’ll love every second.

Cycle Graphics Hidden Gems

Hidden Gems

Some of the most spectacular cycling routes are off the beaten path but have the best road surface around. Little-known itineraries with beautiful views, even the keenest Irish cyclists won’t have tackled these beauties – yet!

Cycle Graphics local Hero

Local Expert

Guided tours.

Wild Atlantic Étape West

Wild Atlantic Étape West

625km of the Wild Atlantic Way €1,140

The Skelligs the pilgrams way County Kerry

The Pilgrim Route

 Hike, Bike, Gourmet & the Skelligs €1,650

Annalise Murphy local expert at Lets Cycle Ireland

Annalise Murphy

Olympic silver medalist 2016.

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Experience Ireland's Best Cycle Routes with Cycle Tours Ireland

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Lake & Wild Atlantic Way Coast tour

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East to West Irish Cycle Tour

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100km a day - Irish Cycle Challenge

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Heartlands & Atlantic Way Traffic free Cycle Tour

Self-Guided Tour

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Cliffs of Moher & Aran Islands Bicycle Holiday

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Top 10 Bike Rides and Cycling Routes in Ireland

Cycling in ireland.

Cycling in Ireland is one of the best ways to enjoy this country’s fantastic scenery, explore its charming villages and feel the freedom in its expansive landscapes. With mountain ranges, dramatic sea cliffs, tranquil forests and ancient ruins, you’re never short on beauty when two-wheeling about. There are plenty of family-friendly cycle routes in Ireland too, from designated gravel tracks to quiet, beachside trails, it’s not hard to get children caught up in the majesty of their surroundings here. 

If it’s bikepacking adventures you’re after, then the Emerald Isle has got your back. With thousands of miles of quiet roads, an abundance of welcoming pubs and geography that belongs on postcards, every day in the saddle showers you in unique sights. Enjoy the phenomenal mountain and sea landscape of the south west, pedal inland past loughs and vibrant forests, explore the towns and rolling countryside of the east or head north for national parks and true wilderness.

Plan. Save. Navigate. Your best adventures await.

Start today with a free komoot account.

Sheep's Head loop from Bantry

Dublin bay loop from drumcondra.

cycle tour ireland route

Let us show you the way with the komoot mobile app

Moll's gap, lough leane & the gap of dunloe loop from killarney - killarney national park, westport to achill and back on the great western greenway, slea head loop from dingle, ballyconneely & roundstone loop from clifden, inis mór loop, the loop head peninsula loop from kilkee, healy pass and caha pass loop from kenmare, the sky road loop from clifden, more information.

An incredible geographic diversity

Bikes rides in Ireland are simultaneously utterly unique and very similar; each is similar in that it contains vibrant and dramatic landscape but also completely unique, never taking you to the same view twice. There are numerous mountain ranges throughout the country, each with its own personality from the coastal peaks of MacGillycuddy’s Reeks to the rolling green giants of the Wicklow range. Cycling along Ireland’s winding roads with mountains rising imperiously either side is an experience that never gets old. 

With rushing rivers, lovely loughs and sparkling seas, you’re never more than a biscuit’s toss from water on any of Ireland’s cycle routes. Many of the loughs both big and small have a variety of cycle trails around them which are often ideal for families and offer flat riding and stunning views across the water. 

What time of year to go 

While you can certainly enjoy cycling in Ireland throughout the year, the late spring to early autumn period brings warm, sunshine and lush greens to your adventure. Ireland has such verdant flora thanks to its mild and wet maritime climate, so you can expect rain in every season.

Summer’s long days allow you to make the most of multi-day bike rides and are best for camping. Early autumn brings golden colours and dramatic light but the weather becomes increasingly changeable. 

Wildlife spotting on your Irish rides

Thanks to vast areas of remote landscape, wildlife thrives in Ireland and provides constant opportunities for you to spot some of the island’s furry and feathery faces. Surely one of Ireland’s most wonderful animals is the colourful puffin, which returns each year to nest on the west coast. Ride to the cliffs of Moher or north to Horn Head for some of the best puffin-spotting points. 

As you stop on a clifftop for a well-earned sandwich and slice of cake, keep a keen eye on the water below, particularly off the west coast. Whales and dolphins frequent the waters here, feeding in the nutrient-rich environment. Inland, deer are a common sight in fields near forests, particularly fallow deer but sika and red deer are also fairly common.

Our Tour recommendations are based on thousands of activities completed by other people on komoot.

Popular around Ireland

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Find the perfect Tour

Explore the most popular tours in ireland, discover the most popular attractions in ireland.

Didn’t find what you were looking for? Check out more Cycling Routes throughout Ireland below and find the perfect Tour in your destination.

  • South Dublin Bay Special Area Of Conservation
  • Tralee Bay Nature Reserve
  • Baldoyle Estuary Nature Reserve
  • Rogerstown Estuary Nature Reserve

Explore more : Browse the best Cycling Routes in other regions.

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Two cyclists in a forest on a tarmac road.

From looped, paved routes to epic mountain trails, here are the eight best cycling routes in Ireland.

  • 1 . Great Western Greenway, Mayo
  • 2 . Waterford Greenway, Waterford
  • 3 . Limerick Greenway
  • 4 . Carlingford Lough Greenway, Louth
  • 5 . Royal Canal Greenway, Maynooth to Longford
  • 6 . The Lough Derg Blueway
  • 7 . The Old Rail Trail Greenway, Westmeath
  • 8 . The Beara-Breifne Way

A world-class, traffic-free 49km stretch through some of Ireland’s most beautiful scenery from Westport  on the mainland all the way to Acaill (Achill Island) and Cashel. Cycle along the  Great Western Greenway  and experience exceptional views of Croagh Patrick, deserted villages, national parks and some of the most stunning coastline in the west.

Two people cycling along the Great Western Greenway with sea and mountain views

A spectacular 46km paved cycling and walking trail along an old railway line, the  Waterford Greenway  stretches from the quays of Ireland’s oldest city Waterford to the vibrant seaside market town of Dungarvan. Stop at Mount Congreve and visit what many consider to be one of the great gardens of the world, as well as Viking settlements, a Norman castle, a fantastic cafe and deserted railway stations on the trailside.

Waterford Greenway

The Limerick Greenway is a 39km cycle route through incredible countryside from Rathkeale to Newcastle West and on to Abbeyfeale. Following a disused railway line, this gentle cycle brings you along the banks of the River Deel, past restored railway stations and through boglands with stunning views of the Limerick countryside.

Limerick Greenway Walking Trail

If you’re a novice cyclist or travelling with young children, the Carlingford Lough Greenway in Louth is perfect, particularly the stretch from Omeath to Carlingford on the old Dundalk, Newry and Greenore railway line. There are lots of different places to join the Carlingford Lough Greenway and they all have great views across the lough to the Mourne Mountains, while Slieve Foy towers over it on the Louth side. The Greenway runs through fields of grazing sheep, over old level crossings and across a few bridges. There are magnificent, mature trees, colourful wildflowers and singing birds on the edge of the trail.

Carlingford Greenway

Cycle along the iconic Royal Canal from Maynooth in County Kildare, traversing through counties Meath and Westmeath before finishing up in either Longford Town or Cloondara in County Longford. Leisurely pedal your way along the canal towpath exploring the built and natural heritage, as barges sail past and fishermen cast their lines. Stop off for a hearty meal or overnight stay in Maynooth, Mullingar or any of the other great towns and villages along the 130km Royal Canal Greenway .

Cycle the Royal Canal Greenway from Maynooth to Cloondara, County Longford.

A stunning route that touches on parts of Clare, Tipperary and Galway, the Lough Derg Blueway is best experienced on the 65km loop that takes you along the eastern shore of the lake and through the villages of Dromineer and Terryglass. A 30km loop is a great option if you’re looking for a shorter cycle. This route has spectacular views of the lake before descending into Castlelough, through a working farm and along a slight off-road section to Garrykennedy. 

Lough Derg Way

The  Old Rail Trail Greenway  is the perfect trail for families looking for an active getaway. The trail is entirely car-free and mostly flat making it a leisurely cycle for bike riders of all ages. Set off from Athlone and head for Mullingar on a cycle through areas rich in biodiversity and heritage. Moate, Castletown or Ballinea are great stop-off points for refreshments along the trail. Bikes of all types can be rented in Athlone, Moate and Castletown.

Mullingar - Athlone - Old Rail Trail Greenway

Ireland’s longest trail stretches from the evocative terrain of the Beara Peninsula in West Cork, all the way towards the counties Leitrim and Cavan through some of the most picturesque and remote areas in the whole of Ireland. The  Beara Way Cycling Route is one for serious enthusiasts, with 138km to explore. As you follow along the coastline of the Beara Peninsula, you'll travel from Glengarriff to Dursey Island to Kenmare. With no start or finish, you can join the circular route at any point.

Beara Way Cycling Route

Grab your bike and head off on one of the wonderful cycling routes in Ireland. Find more ideas for cycling adventures and fun activities off the bike on our Things to Do page and book your short break now.

Subscribe now to receive destination inspiration, travel tips, upcoming events and all the best things to do around Ireland.

Republic of Ireland

Cycling is a popular and growing activity in Ireland and a great way to experience the countryside up close.

There are two EuroVelo routes in Ireland: EuroVelo 1 – Atlantic Coast Route, and EuroVelo 2 – Capitals Route.

There are a number of ‘greenways’ including the Waterford Greenway , the Limerick Greenway and the Great Western Greenway . Each of these provide a standalone scenic traffic free cycling experience of over 40km while also making up sections of EuroVelo 1 - Atlantic Coast Route . There is a national website for EuroVelo 1 Ireland: https://euroveloireland.ie

The Royal Canal Greenway provides another traffic free route over 130km in length. Combined with the Old Rail Trail Greenway , which is also over 40km long, they make up a significant part of EuroVelo 2 - Capitals Route .

Other new greenways are under construction or at the planning stage throughout the country and will be opened soon. Some of these are aligned with the EuroVelo routes and will be incorporated when they are completed.

There are also local sign-posted cycle routes on quiet rural roads throughout the country, some of which are circular routes that start and finish in a designated Cycle Hub Town. As well as the greenways, EuroVelo 1 also uses quiet roads along its length, in some places incorporating parts of these local sign-posted cycle routes. Details of signposted cycle routes can be found at www.sportireland.ie/outdoors/find-your-trails .

All details about travelling to Ireland and around the country with a bicycle can be found on the EuroVelo Ireland website .

National Information

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Sport Ireland Outdoors

Sport Ireland Outdoors is a unit of the Sport Ireland. This organisation maintains a database of signposted walking and cycling routes in Ireland.

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Irish Cycling Campaign

Irish Cycling Campaign, formerly known as Cyclist.ie, is an ECF member and part of the Irish National EuroVelo Coordination Centre. Since 2008 it advocates for cycling to be a normal part of life in Ireland - both everyday cycling and recreational / tourism cycling. It has branches in Ireland's cities and in many towns and rural areas. These include greenway promotion groups and bicycle festival organisations.

cycle tour ireland route

Atlantic Coast Route - Ireland

Discover the wild and rugged landscapes, and cultural sites, along with friendly hospitality in charming cafes, restaurants and accommodations along this route. This website provides maps, section details, GPX files and information on points of interest on all sections of EuroVelo 1 – Atlantic Coast Route in the Republic of Ireland. This sometimes challenging but always inspiring route connects Rosslare Harbour in the south and Bridge End in the north over a distance of 2300 km.

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Discover Ireland

This is the national tourism body's website and it provides useful information for those who want to cycle in Ireland.

Maps & Guides

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App EuroVelo - iOS

Cycling in Europe? There is an app for that! Our official app is free and designed to help you discover the most developed EuroVelo routes. Thousands of kilometres of cycle routes in the palm of your hand – what are you waiting for? Download the app, get on your bike and start exploring!

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EuroVelo 1 - Atlantic Coast Route in English [Bikeline Esterbauer]

A travel book describing the EuroVelo 1 in its entirety, very useful for preparing your trip with maps at a scale of 1:500,000, general information on the quality of the cycle route (facilities, relief, traffic) and on the regions crossed (climate, tourist attractions, customs, towns and villages of interest). The guide is available in English and German.

cycle tour ireland route

Guide on EuroVelo 1 - Atlantic Coast Route in German [Bikeline Esterbauer]

With maps on a scale of 1:500,000, city maps, background information and touristic information. Language: German. Available at local- and online book stores. At the end of 2021 it will be also available in English.

Bookable Offers

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Supported Cycle Tour on Ireland's Amazing Wild Atlantic Way #MIZMAL

Ireland's west coast is rich in awe-inspiring landscapes, fascinating characters and foot-tapping music. Cycling it will leave you with rich memories and a thirst for more! The Wild Atlantic Way is best explored from the saddle: The grandeur of the Cork and Kerry mountains. The warmth of a night in a Galway pub. The Burren's lunar-like landscape. The mountainous Connemara National Park. Giant Sea Loughs of the Inishowen Peninsula. With a spectacular finish on the rocky promontory of Malin Head.…

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Bike tour - Ireland

West Ireland Cycling is a family owned cycling tour & bike rental business, located in Galway city on the west coast of Ireland. We arrange guided & self guided tours through Connemara & along the Wild Atlantic Way. We hire high quality hybrid touring bikes, e-bikes, road, gravel, tandems & cycling equipment. Highlights include: Connemara National Park, The Cliffs of Moher, The Burren National Park, The Aran Islands, Wild Atlantic Way, traditional Irish music pubs & quiet country roads.

Con Doherty says preparation is key

8 cycle routes that embrace Ireland's beauty

  • 1 Rostrevor Route - 27km
  • 2 Inis Mor Loop - 57km
  • 3 Waterford Greenway - 46km
  • 4 Blessington Loop - 75km
  • 5 Dublin to Wicklow Mountains Loop - 75km
  • 6 Black Valley Loop - 56km
  • 7 Kingfisher Trail - 480km
  • 8 Wild Atlantic Way - 2500km

Rostrevor Route - 27km

Inis mor loop - 57km, waterford greenway - 46km.

Waterford Greenway

© Independent.ie

Blessington Loop - 75km

8 of the most expensive road bikes on the planet, dublin to wicklow mountains loop - 75km, black valley loop - 56km, 5 great gravel bikes for epic adventures, kingfisher trail - 480km, wild atlantic way - 2500km.

Epic Road Rides

Cycling the Wild Atlantic Way + MizMal, Ireland: what you need to know!

MizMal Wild Atlantic Cycling Tours

The Wild Atlantic Way runs the length of western Ireland’s coastline, over 2,343 km of surfaced roads with 23,000 m of climbing (1,455 miles and 75,459 feet).

If you’ve got the time and legs for it, cycling the Wild Atlantic Way is Ireland’s most epic cycling challenge.

For those with less time, the MizMal route from Mizen Head to Malin Head is a fantastic alternative that’s do-able in a week of holiday.

In this article we speak to Paul Kennedy, owner of Wild Atlantic Cycling Tours and the person behind MizMal. He shares what you need to know about cycling Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way and the MizMal alternative.

If you’re looking for inspiration for your 2024/25 cycling objectives, could cycling the Wild Atlantic Way (or MizMal) be it?!

1. Cycling the Wild Atlantic Way and MizMal route: an overview

Want to cycle across Ireland? These two routes down Ireland’s west coast are stunning and often listed as two of the best cycling routes in Ireland.

1.1 Wild Atlantic Way cycle route

The Wild Atlantic Way is a spectacular coastal route in western Ireland. It is one of the longest defined coastal routes in the world. This breath-taking journey covers 2,343 km on surfaced roads. It starts in picturesque Kinsale in the south and finishes at the Inishowen Peninsula in the north. Signposting is clear and plentiful.

If you’re brave enough to tackle the entire route by bike, you’re in for a total elevation of approximately 23,000 m. Nearly three times the height of Mount Everest!

Wild Atlantic Way Cycle route map

1.2 Shorter versions of the Wild Atlantic Way (inc MizMal)

Riding the entire official Wild Atlantic Way route in one go would be a colossal undertaking.

Many choose to cycle the route in stages, or alternatively ride the Ireland End-to-End cycle route which runs from Mizen Head in the south, to the finish at Malin Head in the north.

This increasingly popular End-to-End was coined MizMal by none other than me and my team. It’s attracted a lot of press over the last few years and is quickly becoming a cycling institution to rival Britain’s Land’s End to John O’Groats (LEJOG).

MizMal cycle route map (7 days)

2. Why is cycling Ireland end to end a must-do?

The Ireland End-to-End has become a must-do for any self-respecting cyclist at the more serious end of the spectrum.

The west coast of Ireland is rich in awe-inspiring landscapes, fascinating characters and foot-tapping music.

Cycling Ireland from the most south-westerly point to the most northerly will leave you with rich memories, new friends and a thirst for more. Cycling is undoubtedly the best way to explore the wild beauty of this coastline.

2.1 Natural beauty

You’ll find spellbinding beaches and bays, mystical islands and towering cliffs. The landscape changes with every bend in the road.

You’ll experience the grandeur of the Cork and Kerry mountains. The lunar-like landscape of the Burren. The packed mountain ranges dominating the horizon of the Connemara National Park. The giant Sea Loughs of the Inishowen Peninsula. To top it all off your end-to-end journey has a breath-taking finish on the rocky promontory of Malin Head.

2.2 Traditions

Factor in old traditions, the warmth and joy of a night in a Galway pub and the Irish language and you can’t help but fall in love with Ireland as you pedal this unique corner of Europe.

2.3 Challenge

Don’t think that “coastal” means flat! The route from Mizen Head to Malin Head is wonderfully hilly. And of course, that means both challenging and hugely rewarding cycling. In fact we rate it as some of the best cycling to be found anywhere.

A cyclist cycling in Downhill on MizMal cycling route

3. Ireland end to end cycle routes: the options

So what are the options for cycling Ireland end to end? Which is the best Wild Atlantic Way route?

3.1 Wild Atlantic Way cycle route (in one)

The Wild Atlantic Way winds its way around all of Ireland’s wild and scenic peninsulas. Given that the full route is over 2,300 km, sign-posting is key! Each and every turn displays a sign with directional arrows to follow heading north or heading south.

Of course there are many opportunities to take detours and explore the attractions of surrounding towns and villages.

The typical cycling enthusiast might complete the full route in two to four weeks (given a fair wind and few mechanicals).

3.2 Wild Atlantic Way cycle route (in chunks)

Doing the full Wild Atlantic Way route in three sections may be a better option to maximise your enjoyment and minimise saddle sores!

For example, you could turn it into three separate trips and ride Cork to Clifden, then Clifden to Sligo and lastly Sligo to Derry.

3.3 Mizen Head to Malin Head cycle route

Alternatively, you can get the best bits of the Wild Atlantic Way via MizMal, the Ireland End-to-End our all-Ireland team have devised.

MizMal was inspired by the official Wild Atlantic Way and incorporates many of its best sections.

Launched in 2016

I launched MizMal as a fully supported, long-distance, point-to-point cycle event in 2016. This followed months of research and adaptations to ensure the route avoids busy roads where possible.

Until that point, many of the Mizen to Malin routes were charity-based affairs that basically swept directly from Mizen Head to Malin Head via the shortest route north, thus missing many of the jaw-dropping features of the west coast and even many of the fantastic inland sections.

The first tour on the official MizMal route took place in May 2016. Its original format was six cycling days of 120 km per day. This six day format got a raving review in the Guardian Bike Blog .

The route is packed with awesome scenery and provides opportunities for overnight stops in authentic Irish hotels, quirky towns and bustling cities.

In 2018 we added an extra day which allowed us to explore deeper into County Donegal. This ensures we can explore the county’s Ox and Blue Stack mountains and other gems. The extra day also takes us through Glenveagh National Park on one of the tour’s most thrilling and enjoyable descents. It also takes in a “bit of a climb” too – from Lough Barra Bog that culminates with a fantastic view down the valley to Lough Beagh deep in the Glenveagh National Park.

Since then, various “hidden gems” have also been added to the MizMal route and we believe it is now the best way to experience Mizen Head to Malin Head on two wheels, whilst also experiencing the best of the Wild Atlantic Way.

How does MizMal compare with LEJOG?

Both these fabulous End-to-Ends have their own appeal. However, for sheer wildness, breath-taking beauty, unique culture and of course the best Guinness in the world MizMal is hard to beat! We regularly hear our customers say “I’ve done LEJOG before and this beats it in so many ways!”.

We find they also love the traditional and contemporary music scene in cities like Galway and enjoy the story-telling to be found in the back rooms of many Westport pubs.

Whilst on the subject of dipping, there are endless opportunities to ‘wild swim’ on MizMal. The tranquil waters of the Blue Pool at Glengariff, the rolling Atlantic waves at Spanish Point or Lahinch, the white sands of Clifden’s beaches – swimmers will not be disappointed!

A cyclist cycling on MizMal cycling route

Travel with Wild Atlantic Cycling Tours

To find out more about going on a cycling adventure with Paul and the team, head to their website.

You might also want to check out their TripAdvisor reviews.

4. How long is the Wild Atlantic Way? How long is MizMal?

4.1 wild atlantic way.

The entire Wild Atlantic Way as a cycling route is a staggering 2,343 km with 23,000 m of climbing (1,455 miles and 75,459 feet). Even this is cutting out a couple of stages that are suitable for cars, but not cycles.

Who even thought this small island could have a western coastline that long?!

Riding 180 km per day, it will take you 13 days to complete.

Riding 100 km per day and you’ll be at it for almost a month!

We have developed two versions of our MizMal Ireland End-to-End that are a bit more feasible for anyone with a day job (or who just doesn’t want to cycle for a month!).

The two trips suit two different riding styles of ‘Active’ and ‘Avid’ (you’ll find an explanation of the differences here ). On long days, ‘Active’ cyclists are usually comfortable with 100 km and ‘Avid’ cyclists can usually manage around 180 km.

MizMal-12 – the ‘Active’ route

This covers 1,040 km averaging 87 km per day (or 646 miles averaging 54 miles per day). The total elevation is 9,708 m averaging 809 m per day (or 31,850 feet averaging 2,654 feet per day).

MizMal-7 – the more strenuous ‘Avid’ route

This covers 925 km averaging 145 km per day (or 574 miles averaging 90 miles per day). The total elevation is 8,534 m averaging 1,219 m per day (or 28,000 feet, averaging 4,000 feet per day).

You’ve seen the maps below before, but here they are again in case they’re useful!

5. Wild Atlantic Way cycling records

The Wild Atlantic Way cycle route has attracted record breakers, endurance cyclists and Audax fans alike.

5.1 Trans Atlantic Way

The route is used for the annual ultra-endurance challenge of the Trans Atlantic Way – a 2,500 km one stage self-supported road bike ride between Dublin and Cork via The Wild Atlantic Way. Personally, I would dread even the thought! But hey, if you’re into that kind of thing it would be one heck of a challenge offering a lifetime of bragging rights.

5.2 Malin-Mizen-Malin

Joe Barr, 61 who famously quipped “age is a red herring”, had a productive weekend on the bike in July 2020 when he “comfortably” broke his own world record while completing the 738-mile Malin-Mizen-Malin route finishing the gruelling challenge in 44 hours and 15 minutes, four hours and 25 minutes faster than the record he set in November 2017.

5.3 Wild Atlantic Way

It took two valiant attempts for the same man to complete his record attempt of the Wild Atlantic Way. In 2021 after one abandoned effort, he completed the entire 2,343 km cycle route in a staggering 127 hrs and 46 minutes. That’s under six days! Well done Joe!

You have our blessing to attempt to over-turn Joe’s record, however you may wish to add a little more enjoyment to the experience. Maybe even enough to lift your head and look around! Or indeed to sample the music, culture and cuisine along the way.

6. Highlights of the Wild Atlantic Way and MizMal routes

Honestly, there are so many highlights of cycling Ireland’s west coast! Here are a few parts of the trip that I think also offer some of the best cycling in Ireland:

6.1 The Mizen Peninsula and Barley Cove (on the Wild Atlantic Way and MizMal)

MizMal starts at Mizen Head and makes its way along the north side of the Mizen Peninsula. This avoids the tourist traffic to the south and makes its way along a truly magnificent and quiet road towards Glengariff. Barley Cove is perhaps the most beautiful beach of the Mizen Peninsula. An extensive landscape of sand dunes stretches far inland. The protected beach is enjoyed by both tourists and locals. Our route doesn’t descend to the beach, however the views from high above as you cycle the Mizen Peninsula are stunning!

Two cyclists cycling by quiet roads of the MizMal Peninsula cycling route

6.2 The Black Valley and the Gap of Dunloe (On the MizMal route)

Cycling through the Black Valley is like stepping back in time. It’s called Black Valley as it was one of the last areas of Ireland to be connected to electricity and telephone lines. You’ll find delightful descents and long uninterrupted stretches along the River Gearhameen.

Photos can’t do justice to this narrow mountain pass that separates the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks mountains from the Purple Mountain group. We’ll share the one lane road with old-fashioned pony and trap carriages and cycle down through the five lakes lined by gorgeous old stone walls.

Cycling Black Valley Ireland on Mizmal route

6.3 The Burren (on the Wild Atlantic Way and MizMal)

The Burren, in County Clare, is one of Europe’s most impressive and enjoyable Karst landscapes. We take the coastal route where the Burren’s lunar-like landscape stretches to the sea.

In the 1640s, a surveyor commissioned by Oliver Cromwell described it as ‘a savage land, yielding neither water enough to drown a man, nor tree to hang him, nor soil enough to bury’. Our route winds its way through this amazing and truly unique botanical environment in which Mediterranean and alpine plants rare to Ireland grow side by side.

Four cyclists take photos in Wild Atlantic Way cycle route

6.4 Killary Fjord and the Sheeffry Pass (on the Wild Atlantic Way and MizMal)

Killary Harbour sits on the banks of the Killary Fjord, Ireland’s only true fjord.

From here we tackle one of the route’s best climbs: the Sheeffry Pass is a proper out-of-the-saddle, 500ft-plus brute that hurts if you do it in one go. The car park near the top isn’t the top, by the way.

After that you will have earned your Guinness and dinner in Westport, watching the sun going down over Croagh Patrick, the 2,500ft pilgrimage mountain that dominates the skyline.

Westport is a charming and authentically Irish town. It’s one of the best places on the Wild Atlantic Way.

Beautiful scenery of Killary Fjord on MizMal cycling route

6.5 Mamore Gap  (on the MizMal route)

Our 7 day MizMal (the tougher one, not the 12 day easier route!) includes a mammoth climb on the last day to Malin Head.

Mamore Gap is listed as one of Ireland’s Top 10 climbs and often tops the chart.

The steepness of the terrain is cruel; even the sheep strain themselves up the hillsides. The ascent is 2 km long – relatively short. However, given that you climb 208 meters with an average percentage of 10.4 % this one is no walk in the park!

Once you reach the summit of Mamore you’ll be rewarded with incredible vistas of the coast below and to the west. This is an extraordinary place, remote and unforgiving like few other places in Europe.

There’s a great feeling of achievement and camaraderie as we cheer each other on to the summit. Once at the top you will be welcomed by cow bells and cheers and a cup of coffee with a slice of cake!

Are you up for the challenge?!

6.6 Malin Head (on the Wild Atlantic Way and MizMal)

A number of years ago the most northerly point of Ireland was a quiet place to visit.

Now people flock to its rocky bluffs, exposed cliffs and windy trails.

There is a car park and even a mobile coffee van. However the charm is still there and the sense of “we are at the end of something” is truly palpable.

Cyclists Celebrating their hill climbs on MizMal cycling route

7. What are the biggest challenges of cycling Ireland end to end?

7.1 wind and weather.

Let’s face it, if you are content with nothing other than wall to wall sunshine, then you probably won’t think of Ireland for your next cycling holiday!

The weather is changeable. The west coast attracts low pressures and it gets its fair amount of rain.

The beauty about changeable weather is that every day can be different. Clouds form overhead and completely change the look of the landscape. One hour you can be bathed in sunshine, the next you can be marvelling at the cloud shadows, colours and rainbows against the green fields, mountains and bluffs.

A challenging day of ‘less than perfect’ cycling weather can make you feel alive like nothing else! And you will definitely want to stick around in the pub to swap survival stories!

7.2 Getting to bed on time

Many of our stopovers have so much going on that you may be tempted to push the boat out a little too far!

Our hotels have great restaurants and bars. Some have swimming pools and spas.

Locations such as Killarney, Galway and Westport have some of the most vibrant and fun bars and cafés you could find anywhere! A night in Galway’s famous music bar – the Quays, will be one you won’t forget. Especially if our personal favourites, the Celtic Knights are playing!

Porter House and Matt Malloy’s in Westport will treat you to the best Guinness you will EVER experience (yes it does actually taste better over there).

A packed Tigh Chóilí music pub in Galway’s Latin Quarter is a colourful (and usually noisy) experience.

Killarney is awash with lively music and concert venues as well as smaller, more intimate establishments, each with their own intrigue and appeal.

7.3 Eating too much

Gone are the days when a 7 Course Irish Meal meant 6 pints and a potato! The cuisine in Ireland is now rich, international and varied. Whatever your tastes, you will find yourself catered for exceptionally well!

Breakfasts are also hearty, and of course continental style is on offer alongside the traditional “Full Irish Breakfast” of fried eggs, soda bread, tomato, mushroom, hash browns and black and white puddings. It’s common for MizMal completers to lament, “I was hoping to lose weight on this tour, but…”.

Cyclists enjoying their Wild Atlantic cycle tour in Westport pub

8. Navigating the Wild Atlantic Way and MizMal routes

8.1 is the wild atlantic way signposted what about mizmal.

The Wild Atlantic Way is well signposted whether you are travelling south or north. It also has a Passport where you can receive stamps from the many points of interest.

On our supported MizMal tours, you will receive route files to upload to your cycle computer.

8.2 What are the best maps to use?

Maps and guidebooks are plentiful.

“The Wild Atlantic Way Route Atlas” guidebook is packed with route descriptions and useful information. The flip-out maps are surprisingly detailed for their size.

There are a host of other visual guides.

For more detail you could try the “OSI Holiday Series | Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way”.

8.3 GPS routes

Routing using maps is not to everyone’s taste.

A handy alternative is to load up route files onto your bike computer such as a Garmin or Wahoo. You will need one that specifically caters for navigation rather than just recording stats such as speed, distance and climbing.

If travelling self-supported, you may wish to carry a battery pack to add a little extra charge if you are on a particularly long day.

On a supported tour such as MizMal with Wild Atlantic Cycling, you will be provided with accurate route files for uploading to your device. Depending on what you are using, and where you purchased your device, you may need to buy or download the background maps for Ireland.

A big signboard indicates the north and south direction of the Wild Atlantic Way cycle route

9. Accommodation on the Wild Atlantic Way cycle route/MizMal

9.1 what are the options.

Accommodation and places to stay on the Wild Atlantic Way (and west coast of Ireland generally) are rich and varied.

There are some larger hotels on the route, but there are many more intriguing, interesting and quirky options.

Family run hotels and guesthouses abound. We find these provide a more personal service. They will be run by locals with a wealth of knowledge of the areas you are staying in.

Bed and Breakfast accommodation is also very popular. These are often found in private homes. It’s easy to strike up conversations with the owners and soon you may become friends for life! Irish B&B operators are known for their chatty demeanours so don’t be put off by their questions – they are just ‘getting to know you’.

9.2 Breakfast

Breakfast is important when cycling. Breakfasts are usually Irish and continental. You will get plenty. Croissants, cold cuts, breads and fruit in abundance on the continental side and ‘Full Irish’ available – a feast for a king or queen.

An old motto says “Eat breakfast like a King, lunch like a prince and dinner like a pauper” meaning it is wise to start the day with a large cooked typical Irish breakfast or Full Irish fry! Bacon, sausages with black and white pudding, eggs, vegetables and potato all fried in creamy butter. It is served with a generous helping of homemade Irish soda or brown bread for soakage and washed down with a strong cup of breakfast tea. Maybe try it once or twice, but I don’t suggest it as a meal for every morning!

9.3 Bike storage

As a cyclist you will want storage for your bike. Some hotels are ‘bike friendly’ and will provide lockups, pumps, cleaning materials and even tools. Smaller guest houses and B&Bs will always do their best to accommodate and where storage is just not available, it is usually possible to simply store your bike in your room for the night.

9.4 When to book

In the busy summer months, it is best to book your chosen accommodation ahead. This part of Ireland is hugely popular!

Larger hotels may book up months in advance. The hotels in popular areas like Cork, Killarney and Galway often cater for bus loads of tourists.

If you do get caught out, just go to the local pub and tell them your dilemma. A few phone calls from the pub Landlord and you are likely to have several options of somewhere to sleep!

Most accommodation providers use the popular internet booking engines so that’s a good place to start your search.

9.5 How much does it cost?

All budgets are catered for in this area of Ireland. However, low budget accommodation can be harder to find.

Hostels and bunk houses can be found in the likes of Galway and Cork but not so common outside the main cites.

The cheaper B&Bs will be more comfortable, but usually a little more expensive than hosteling in continental Europe.

9.6 Accommodation on MizMal

The sections of MizMal that aren’t on the Wild Atlantic Way may not be quite as busy.

9.7 Our accommodation

We use accommodation that we know and have stayed in ourselves for our trips.

There’s more on how we pick them and why they represent excellent value for money, below.

Imagine this – you rock up at the hotel entrance, pumped at the fantastic day of cycling. Receive a warm welcome from our tour guide. Directed to the bike storage. Handed your room key and luggage. And before you can say Shimano Ultegra, you are enjoying a warm shower or hot bath. Perfect!

10. What to pack for your cycling holiday in Ireland

10.1 supported tours.

A supported tour provides you with the opportunity to travel light on your bike. Your luggage will be carried in a van. Normally you will have access to a ‘day bag’ at lunch stops and throughout the day if required. In your day pack, you can pack things like spare clothing and any specific gels or bars you like .

We also carry water, squash and soft drinks in the van together with cereal bars, chocolate bars, nuts, crisps and other bike-friendly snacks. We opt for good quality coffee shops for our caffeine fix rather than flasks of just about hot liquid!

There’s no need to carry tools or spares; just a small saddle bag with enough to mend a puncture yourself is all you need. Of course, the support van will be there if you need help.

Which bike is best?

Most cyclists on our MizMal supported tour ride road bikes with dropped handlebars (usually the lightest one they can find so they can whip up those pesky hills!). Frame material isn’t really an issue; carbon, aluminium, steel, titanium … we get them all!

Many modern drop handle gravel bikes and hybrids with bigger tyres are becoming more popular to use on the road but road bikes with 25c + tyres are fine for this terrain as the route is on tarmac. For comfort some opt for slightly wider tyres these days as the newer bike wheel frames are wide enough to accommodate them and overall speed isn’t compromised due to their geometry.

Our support team are used to handling expensive bikes and we look after your babies during times of transit. However, you don’t need an expensive bike. Just a comfortable one that is in good condition (best to get it serviced before you come).

How fast do you need to ride?

Speed is not important. It is YOUR ride.

Most of our cyclists tend to average between 12 and 18 mph over a 50 mile route but we can accommodate support for those on either side of this. I think one of the attractions of riding MIZMAL with us is that you ride at your own pace.

Mechanical assistance

On the road we can help with minor mechanicals. The vans carry bike stands, tools, lubes, pumps and cleaners. For anything more major, we will pack you and your bike in the van and make arrangements with a local bike repair shop. Most areas have plenty of bike shops – in Westport for example, there are more bike shops than sheep! Well perhaps not quite. Normally you will be back on the road within a couple of hours.

The more common mechanical issues involve electronic gears, tubeless tires, broken spokes and broken chain. However, thankfully issues are few and far between. But it’s reassuring to know you are supported for all eventualities.

A man repairs the cycle ring for cycling in the MizMal cycling route

10.2 Self-supported and DIY

Self-supported / DIY trips will obviously mean you need to carry more gear on the bike.

Your choice of bike is important. Ride what you are comfortable with and what is designed for your style of travel. Both the Wild Atlantic Way and MizMal are road tours so there’s no need for very large tires or heavy suspension.

You will need a bike to which you can attach larger saddle bags or panniers. This of course adds significantly to the weight (the bike itself will be of a heavier design too). So when designing your own tour you need to adapt the daily mileage and climbing so you don’t over reach and burn out.

11. Best time of year

The months between May and September are the driest and brightest on Ireland’s west coast.

But don’t expect uninterrupted sunshine. There is a reason Ireland is so green!

Perhaps this quote from Brian who rode MizMal with us and wrote about his experience sums it all up:

“For our first three days from Mizen Head to Galway we were spoilt by wonderful weather, and the stunning wild beauty of that first day from Cork into Kerry will stay with me forever as we travelled over the Caha Pass, Moll’s Gap, into the Black Valley and then up and down the Gap of Dunloe. The west coast hit back on our fourth day into Connemara as rain and high winds meant we did not see Killary Harbour and Sheeffry Pass in all their splendid glory, but you know what – the true challenge of this adventure is experiencing all of the Irish weather, from blazing sunshine, through to pouring rain! You can have Majorca, Italy or France cycling holidays, with their reliable weather, as the sense of achievement doing MizMal exceeds all of them, with the added benefit of Ireland’s own wild and beautiful coastal scenery, warm Irish hospitality and pubs serving smooth Guinness!”

12. Tips for cycling the Wild Atlantic Way / MizMal

Before you head off to cycle MizMal or the Wild Atlantic Way, it’s easy to let the excitement take over, burst out of the blocks on arrival and return home exhausted! Try these tips to ensure you are prepared for your dream cycling holiday:

12.1 Ireland is cycling-friendly

Cycling in Ireland is popular. The country has a strong cycling culture and a keen interest in the sport – whether racing or touring.

We find that cycling two abreast is fine unless the road is particularly narrow or bendy. Ireland was one of the early adopters of the 1.5m rule – cars must give at least 1.5m when overtaking a cyclist.

Some areas such as Killarney attract many coaches which may take up more than their ‘fair share’ side of the road, but feedback from many of our customers is that vehicle drivers are generally courteous.

Killarney also has many a horse and cart and you may find yourself behind one or two on your approach to the town from the Black Valley. Patience! No-one is in a hurry here on a good day; least of all the horses!

12.2 Build up the miles

By building up the miles in your legs before your trip, you’ll enjoy your trip more and be able to get a greater benefit from your days in the saddle.

Most of us are too busy (or not motivated enough!) to be generally cycling long days consecutively.  But do what you can. Fit things around your work day or whatever you normally get up to. Simply extending your weekend rides in the lead up will help your body in its readiness for what’s coming and psychologically you’ll feel more prepared.

And remember it’s a holiday and not a race! If you are on a supported tour, the van or SAG Wagon (as they call it in America) is only a phone call away. You and your bike can hop in if you just need a rest.

Our blog post Am I fit Enough has more thoughts and tips.

12.3 Prepare your bike

Some people love tinkering with their bike. If you are like me, you just want to ride it! However, neglecting that noisy pedal or not trusting your tires or brakes isn’t the best idea! Your bike is going to see more wear on your days away than normal. The demands of long climbs and descents mean that you really want your gears and brakes to be in good working order. Service your bike (or get someone to service it for you!) before you go.

12.4 Saddle comfort

Long days make it important to have a seat that you know is bum friendly over endurance rides. Make sure you test it in advance. Good quality cycling shorts are a necessity and a great use of your budget. Don’t skimp on these. Many people swear by chamois cream too.

12.5 Take kit for assorted weathers

Weather on the Ireland End-to-End and the Wild Atlantic Way can vary considerably. Your core temperature will fluctuate on the climbs versus on the descents. Important items to consider include removable layers – arm warmers, leg warmers, packable jackets, gilets and a base layer that can wick sweat away on the climb so it doesn’t cool on your skin on descents.

A decent set of lights are a good idea, especially for wet or misty days. Lights aren’t just for when it’s dark!

12.6 Nutrition

Perhaps our top tip – on longer rides you need to fuel correctly. Keep your energy levels topped up by drinking and eating along the way. Don’t wait for coffee or the lunch stop. If you usually use energy drinks, bars, gels or recovery drinks, then take these with you, or replenish your stock on the way.

The hotels we use on our tours provide great breakfasts and most have lovely cozy restaurants and bars where you can relax and refuel at the end of the day.

Whilst on MizMal we suggest you consume no more than 10 pints of Guinness in each 24 hour period (that’s a joke by-the-way!).

12.7 Best direction to ride the Wild Atlantic Way/MizMal?

South to north is best as the prevailing winds are south-westerly. Riding this way means there is more chance of a tailwind than if you choose north to south.

Sod’s law does kick in every now and then ‘though and if your Ireland end to end week is full of north-easterlies don’t blame this paragraph please!

12.8 Logistics

The Wild Atlantic Way starts in Kinsale about 20 km from Cork Airport. If self-supported, then flying to Cork is advisable. Then load up your panniers and off you go.

At the other end the finish is close to the city of Londonderry which has its own airport. There are regular trains and express buses from Derry to the city of Belfast or its two airports – the International and the George Best City.

On a supported MizMal tour we provide airport transfers at the start and finish.

13. Wild Atlantic Way cycle route self-supported v supported

Cycling holidays in Ireland are a great idea – whichever way you choose to do it.

Many people enjoy the experience of packing their panniers and heading off without too much thought to the details. This can give real independence and also allows for some spontaneity and improvisation along the way.

A fully supported tour is a different proposition entirely. Some of the advantages of a supported tour include:

13.1 Logistics

Ireland may seem like a small island (afterall the United States is about 140 times bigger than Ireland!). However, getting to the most south westerly point to embark on a Mizen to Malin cycle ride can prove a step too far for even seasoned bike-packers. Mizen Head is the most south-westerly point of Ireland and Malin Head is a wild headland on one of the remotest peninsulas in one of the remotest counties of Ireland! For this reason, many cyclists choose to let an experienced team do all the hard work. Allowing you to just pedal and take in every beautiful mile of this gorgeous route on this intriguing island.

Imagine just packing your bike on the plane and knowing that when you land, everything is taken care of. Transfer to the hotel. Assistance with bike setup. Briefing. You and your bike are comfortably taken to Mizen Head for the start. It really does make things simple.

13.2 No kit to carry

All your luggage taken from hotel to hotel. Not only that, access to a ‘day bag’ at any point of the day. So when that unexpected rain shower comes in, you can just grab your jacket from the van, stuff a few bars in your jersey pocket and keep pedalling!

13.3 Route already researched

Just load up your bike computer with the route files that you receive and that’s you ready for the ride. Travelling with peace of mind knowing that the route has been thoroughly tried and tested. Main roads are avoided and all the things to see will be included. On the flipside, if you like to improvise on your route and make spontaneous decisions, then a supported tour will not offer the same flexibility. No duvet days!

13.4 Quality of hotels and suitability for cyclists and bikes

Accommodation in Ireland varies considerably. Not all hotels are set up for cyclists. Your supported tour will have all this sorted out and you can be assured of a great night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast to set you up for the day ahead.

13.5 Support van

Security in knowing the support van is ‘always there’. The sight of the support van is always a welcome sight. When riding in an unfamiliar country it is wonderful to know you can get help if you need it. Plus you will smile every time the van passes as we like to toot our little squeezy horn as we pass.

We have a system we brief you on at the start for you to wave us down if you need us!

13.6 Advice on coffee stops and lunches pre-arranged

Nutrition is really important on the road. A supported tour will usually include a designated lunch stop along with suggestions for coffee and cakes along the way.

13.7 Meeting new people

A group tour is a fantastic way to meet like-minded people. You will make friends for life and many of our customers meet up to do follow-on tours together all around the world.

13.8 Insider knowledge

Local knowledge of the route and the environment give an edge to your whole experience.

13.9 Pre tour training advice and kit list

Advice prior to your tour is available from the tour operator who is just an email or phone call away. No question is too small and you will have someone to chat through any concerns beforehand. We will also lighten things up with a few jokes and a little Irish banter to boot.

13.10 Value

Supported tours may sometimes appear expensive by comparison to self-supported. However, self-supported costs also rack up more than often anticipated. By the end of a supported tour you will appreciate how much value has been added to your whole experience by an attentive and experienced support crew.

14. Wild Atlantic Cycling Tours: why should cyclists travel with you?

What makes us different is that we don’t take shortcuts and we typically dedicate months of hard graft in planning a new tour. We always fill them because our customers return!

Some things that set us apart from our competitors are:

14.1 Tour consistency

All our tours are multi-day, point to point ‘epics’ loosely categorised as either “Avid” or “Active”. That makes it easy for you to find a tour that suits your style.

It also means that when we launch a new tour you will know it will be a fit.

Find out if you are an Avid or Active rider here.

14.2 Tour design

We are cyclists and know what cyclists want from their journey.

We invest a huge amount of time and resources into exploring and designing new experiences.

We ruthlessly focus on stunning routes and quiet roads where each day finishes in a location that will enthral and raise your cultural curiosity.

Our tour planning starts with desk research, then draft mapping, then driving then riding. We make adjustments as we move through the process.

As well as enjoying fantastic routes on quiet roads with great scenery, our customers like to unwind in the evenings. For some this is getting out and about and experiencing the local culture and cuisine. For others, it’s a quiet evening in the bar of a comfortable hotel. We design our tours so that stop-overs can be as compelling as you make them!

14.3 Support (with independence)

If you want support when you need it, but still a sense of freedom and independence on the road, then we are for you!

On a Wild Atlantic Cycling tour you ride how you wish. At your pace. You never need to feel ‘too slow’ or ‘too fast’.

14.4 Smooth logistics

We invest a huge amount of time into planning the details. Arrival days. Departure days. Pre-trip communications. Bike preparation. Bike box storage. Route information. We do the back work, so you can focus on your training, knowing that everything is seamlessly taken care of.

14.5 Personable

We are always ready to take a call and have a friendly chat. Queries and questions are welcome! And if you just want to talk to get an impression of us, then request a call here !

14.6 Accommodation and value

By far the biggest cost of a cycling journey is somewhere to lay your head at night (oh and a scrumptious breakfast!). We use accommodation that we know and have stayed in ourselves. Our hotels are of good quality with bars and restaurants. Some even have health suites, spa and pools! We believe our prices present great value for what you get.

14.7 Leadership style

We have a small team of tour leaders and support crew. The necessary practical skills are always there. However, we believe in ‘unforgettable cycling experiences’, not simply ‘great cycle tours’. A large part of this is down to leadership style. At least that’s what our customers tell us time and again! That means humour, fun, attentiveness and the ability to bring a sense of joy and lightness – even if it’s windy and wet.

14.8 Rewarding loyalty

We are certain you will want to come back and do another tour with us. You will enjoy a nice discount when you do (5% for returning customers and up to 10% if we’re offering a special offer or incentive).

15. Find out more about Wild Atlantic Cycling Tours

We are seeing more and more people wanting to make 2024 a year that really counts. And for many this means a cycling tour in Ireland.

We are a friendly and chatty bunch! As the leading Ireland-based tour operator we have lots of experience to share. The contact form on the website comes directly to the team so that’s a good place to start – the contact form is here.

We also have detailed brochures for many of our tours. Just request one today – or join the mailing list for updates and offers. Our pdf brochures are automatically despatched into your inbox when you submit the form.

16. You’ve done the Wild Atlantic Way bike route. What next?

Ireland has so much to offer adventurous cyclists. Once you’ve completed MizMal / the Wild Atlantic Way by bike, there are lots of other bike trips for you to consider too!

Many of our clients join forces after meeting on our tours and go on to take trips together all over the world including the US, Australia and the Far East. Our own tours are presently only on the European Continent, but as Europe is a pretty big place we’ve found that’s kept us busy enough this past couple of years!

16.1 Croatia

Cycling in Croatia is becoming especially popular.

The attraction of cycling on the quiet island roads in sunny climes has led many to flock to Croatia to sample the unique riding that the north and south archipelagos offer. With glittering seascapes on almost every climb and descent, delightful little harbour towns and the sheer variety of the islands (No, they are not all the same!) it’s an up and coming  destination for the discerning road (and gravel) cyclist.

We have developed a unique road bike tour that combines the height of luxury with an amazing cycling challenge. You can read our in-depth article about it here or find out more on the website, here .

Unlike many of Croatia’s bike tours, ours is a dedicated road bike tour that transports you from island to island in a small charming wooden gulet yacht. We take only 12 cyclists on this tour in ensuite cabins, half-board comfort with a dedicated crew of four plus two tour guides.

If you’re looking for something else beyond Ireland, our Andalucia Tour from Seville to Valencia is fantastic. You can read our in-depth article about it here or find out more on the website, here .

Or how about take a journey through the Pyrenees Mountains in northern Spain from San Sebastian to Girona / Cap de Creus. From the Atlantic to the Med. Cycle high mountain passes one day, lush green valleys the next. Quintessential mountain-top villages rising out of nowhere on the road ahead. Lose yourself on quiet, smooth roads meandering alongside steep river gorges. Enjoy warm people, wholesome food and cold beer. Glittering San Sebastián with its world-renowned Michelin-starred restaurants and tapas bars. Buzzing Pamplona, the ancient town of Jaca and mediaeval Girona. This is a truly epic experience for the discerning cyclists.

View of cycling pass in Croatia

A huge thank you to Paul for sharing so much useful information about the inspirational Wild Atlantic Way and MizMal cycle routes. Definitely one for the bucket list!

Have you cycled Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way?

If you’ve been on a cycling holiday in Ireland or have tackled Ireland’s end to end routes, let us know about it in the comments below!

Did you know the Wild Atlantic Way is one of our pick of the best routes in the UK and Ireland. Check out the rest here .

And finally, for those coming to Ireland by plane, you might find this website useful – it shares an overview of all flight routes worldwide.

Got a question for Paul?

Fill out this form and we will send it to Paul. We aim to get you an answer within 24 hours wherever possible!

We will use this info to send the enquiry to Paul and/or their team. Our privacy policy explains more and here’s a reminder of our disclosure policy and terms and conditions.

Paul Kennedy

Paul says “A few years back when I turned 50, I registered the trademark ‘MizMal (a portmanteau of Mizen-to-Malin). I wanted to create an identity for this challenge – something akin to the increasingly popular British end-to-end challenge of Lands End to John O’Groats, but edgier, remote, a more real experience.

From Bangor, Northern Ireland, I worked in the software industry for many years before identifying that MizMal might be something special. I walked away from a comfortable lifestyle to spend time doing what I Ioved with genuine passion. I was a keen mountain-biker for years and in 2016 I got a few cycling pals motivated to cycle across Ireland. I did all the logistics and trained hard!

Somewhere between The Caha Pass and Molls Gap deep in County Kerry, I began wondering if I could make a business out of this. Two days after returning I registered a limited company. Then I dived straight in with  my fledgling company, Wild Atlantic Cycling Limited, offering bike tours in Ireland and particularly Wild Atlantic Way tours by bike.

My software background came in useful. Running cycling tours of Ireland is surprisingly technical. Think GPX files, websites, routing software, booking engines and credit card payments for starters. I still recall my first conversation with a ‘live prospect’ … and the questions that I hadn’t even thought of yet needed answers! I did the sums and set a goal of eight customers in year one to break even. To my delight 38 people completed Mizen Head to Malin Head in the company’s first year.

2020 and 2021 were very tough for reasons we all know. But here’s to the future and more ‘adventurous tours for intrepid cyclists’.”

The contents of this website are provided for general information purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on it. You should carry out your own due diligence and take professional advice. We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether express or implied, that the content on our website is accurate, complete or up to date. If you use any information or content on this website, download from, or otherwise obtain content or services through our website, it is entirely at your own discretion and risk. Epic Road Rides Ltd disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on the information and content on this website. Find out more here .

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Bike Tours in Ireland

Ireland bike tours

Bike Touring is so much more than merely seeing the sights. It is about connecting with locals, trying new things, being active, and immersing yourself in the Irish culture. That is what our unique Ireland bike tours are all about. Whether you choose a guided or self-guided cycle tour, ride across the island of Ireland or explore the West coast along the Wild Atlantic Way, for just a few days or for weeks, we help you discover the special things about this region and Ireland in general.

The joy of cycling will captivate you, leaving you feel enriched and happy. You will truly fall in love with bicycle touring and with Ireland in general.

Ireland bike tour packages…

Ireland bike tours

Self-guided Bike Tours

for those seeking a more independent form of bicycle vacation, self-guided tours offer perfect balance of support and freedom to explore.

Ireland bike tours

Guided Bike Tours

fully supported, group cycling tours, that will let you explore extraordinary areas of Ireland with the help of wonderful, knowledgeable and above all local guides .

Lough Fee Connemara

Custom Cycle Tours

exceptional, one-of-a kind bike tours that capture your imagination. Tours can be guided even for small groups or self-guided. All that is required is your list of wishes…

We have been organising  guided  and  self-guided  cycling tours in Ireland for more than 20 years. On offer are a very personal service with exceptional attention to detail which means you will be guaranteed the best of equipment, routes, accommodation and local knowledge. We know our bicycle tours inside out and our guests love them.

cycle tour ireland route

resh, locally sourced gourmet food

Great food can make an experience exceptional and you will taste food that will amaze you. Ireland is truly a gourmets paradise.

utstanding Accommodations

carefully chosen accommodations, spotless with excellent service, in the most scenic locations in Ireland.

ocal Guides

Our local guides have a passion for people and Ireland and are keen to share their stories and expertise.

xceptional Service

We pride ourselves in offering personalised service and attention to detail on every tour, and it shows. Bike tours can include golf, hiking, luxury stays, and much more.

huttles and Transfers

Pack everything you need because we are happy to carry it all for you both on guided and self-guided tours. Depending on the bicycling trip additional transfers may be included.

Choose from hybrid bicycles, road bicycles, tandems and E-bikes. All bicycles are immaculately maintained and most of our Ireland bike tour bicycles are new for the season.

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Cycle Touring In Ireland – What You Need To Know

cycle tour ireland route

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Ireland is one of the planet’s most sought-after bike touring destinations and a place that many people, the world over, dream of visiting, if only once in their lifetime. The steep seaside cliffs, the lush green mountains, and the safe, colorful towns attract millions of tourists from all around the world. But what is Ireland like as a bicycle touring destination? What are the roads and trails like in the country? What are the best places to cycle? What type of accommodations are available to bicycle travelers? How much does it all cost? And what are the best and worst parts about cycle touring in this famously green country?

In this article (and the accompanying video) I answer all those questions and share with you my personal thoughts and impressions after having recently completed my own 21-day bike tour across the island nation of Ireland.

Please note that I am sharing my opinions based on my own personal experience. I am about to tell you both the things I liked and disliked about cycle touring in the Republic of Ireland (and yes, there were some things that I disliked). You have been warned!

Bicycle Touring in Ireland – Video Highlights

If you want to skip ahead to a certain point in the video, use the timestamps below to jump to the subject matter that interests you  most:

  • Introduction – 02:10
  • Basic facts about Ireland – 05:30
  • 5 sights worth seeing in Ireland – 09:15
  • What are the roads and bike paths like in Ireland? – 13:45
  • Hotels, B&B’s and the price of accommodation in Ireland – 17:00
  • What type of camping is available and how much does it cost? – 17:50
  • Money: How much does bike touring in Ireland cost? – 19:55
  • How to get free and discount accommodations for your travels – 21:30
  • The best and worst parts about bike touring in Ireland – 24:00
  • Questions and answers – 25:30

Additional Links & Resources Mentioned in the Video

  • Cycling Ireland guidebook
  • Guided Bike Tours in Ireland
  • Free $25 travel credit with AirBNB.com
  • The Bicycle Touring Blueprint (the world’s best book for learning how to conduct your own self-supported bicycle touring adventures anywhere in the world)
  • Winter Cycling (a good book for learning how to cycle in the cold, rain and snow)

sunny wicklow mountains ireland bike tour

Remember: Bikes & vehicles drive on the left in Ireland

That’s right. Just like in the UK, South Africa and many other places in the world, traffic drives on the left in Ireland. If you’re visiting Ireland from the United Kingdom or one of the other left-handed countries in the world, this won’t be a problem for you. But if this is your first trip to Ireland, you’re going to need some time to adjust to cycling on the left-hand side of the road.

If you’ve never cycled on the left-hand side of the road before, you should be warned that it is not as easy as it first sounds – especially in a place like Ireland where the roads are small, traffic circles are common, and decisions frequently need to be made in a short amount of time.

Even though I have spent months cycle touring in countries that require you to drive on the left-hand side of the road, I still struggle every time I return to a country where I am forced to cycle on the left. It just isn’t natural for me to be on the left-hand side of the road, and therefore, I have to actively think about what I’m doing – especially when I’m biking in a crowded city environment.

It usually takes me 1-2 weeks before I feel totally comfortable cycling on the left-hand side of the road, and I recommend that if this is your first trip to Ireland or any other country that drives on the left-hand side of the road, that you take it slow at the beginning of your trip. There is definitely an adjustment period at the beginning of your travels that needs to be considered. Go slow, be safe and ease into it as your get more comfortable driving on the left-hand side of the street.

Wicklow Mountains Ireland

What are the roads like in Ireland?

If I had to summarize Ireland’s roads in a just a single word, that world would be: NARROW. The roads in Ireland are so incredibly narrow – sometimes only wide enough for a single vehicle to drive safely through.

I found cycling in Dublin (Ireland’s capital and largest city) to be quite easy compared to many big cities in the world. There are bike paths scattered across the city (some in better shape than others) and traffic is generally quite friendly towards cyclists on the roads. That being said, the bike paths in Dublin could be a whole lot better. Many of the dedicated bike paths are in the street with little to no separation between you and the passing cars, vans and buses. Of those bike lanes that do exist, many of them are in ill repair and it’s quite common for the bike lane to suddenly end, forcing you to ride in the street (or up on the sidewalk, which many of the local cyclists seem to do). If there is a dedicated bike lane, don’t be surprised to find vehicles parked in the lane, forcing your to go around them by moving out of the bike path and into the high-speed traffic.

In the countryside and smaller towns and cities that you find scattered throughout most of Ireland, the roads you’ll find yourself cycling on are quite different. Most roads are narrow (only wide enough for 1 or 2 small cars to squeeze past) with no shoulder whatsoever. Most of the roads in Ireland are sandwiches between rock walls or towering green plants that grow right up to the edge of the street. The lack of shoulders makes it difficult to pull over when a vehicle behind you wants to pass, and makes it exhausting when you want to pull over and take a break, but can’t find even the smallest little area in which to pull over  and rest (which does sometimes happen – especially when going up steep hills).

I like to cycle (sometimes) while listening to music or podcasts with a set of earphones. But this was something I was unable to do while cycle touring in Ireland. Because the traffic was so high, because the roads were so narrow, and because I felt like I was constantly on edge (worried about cars passing me or pulling out in front of me around blind corners, etc.) I never once was able to simple cycle along in the carefree manner that would allow me to cycle with my headphones in. I just didn’t feel safe cycling in that way while I was in Ireland… and I think this says something about what the roads and traffic conditions are like in this country.

It should be noted, however, that there are some roads that are less traveled than others (obviously) and if you can get yourself onto one of these roads, you will be able to experience at least a few minutes of carefree cycling without a frenzy of vehicles coming up behind you or passing from the front. These smaller side roads are the ones you want to seek out when bike touring in Ireland, but they aren’t necessarily easy to find… and in a way, these roads are even more dangerous, only because drivers on these roads don’t expect to encounter another vehicle (or a daydreaming cyclist) as he or she zips speedily around the next bend. You need to be constantly aware of your surroundings, listening for approaching cars, and watching for anything that might be coming your way.

I found cycling in Ireland to be a rather stressful experience – not the type of thing I dream about when I imagine myself cycling across a foreign country. While the scenery was quite spectacular at times (mainly in these few little pockets of the country that I’ll talk about in just a moment), I wasn’t able to enjoy the scenery as much as I would have liked because I was worried so much of the time about the cars, vans and buses that were constantly zipping past me.

Dingle Ireland colorful boats

What are Ireland’s main points of interest?

If you want a comprehensive list of Ireland’s main points of interest, a quick Google search will help you more than I can.

I, however, can tell you about the parts of the country that I visited and enjoyed the most. So, without further adieu, here are the top three places in Ireland that I enjoyed the most and would likely go back to if I were ever in Ireland again.

The tip of the Dingle peninsula

When I started planning my bike tour in Ireland, everyone told me that I should leave Dublin as soon as I possibly could and get myself over to the Dingle peninsula. There’s a part of me that usually ignores these types of recommendations, because as I’ve discovered over the years, there are usually tons of incredible places in between a country’s most famous locations that are also interesting and worth seeing. But in the case of Ireland, I should have listened to those who came before me.

While the entire Dingle peninsula was not as breathtaking as people made it out to be, there were small parts of Dingle that were incredibly superb… and it was these few parts of the peninsula that made my trip to Ireland truly spectacular.

There are two different sections, each of which is very easy to find, at the tip of the Dingle peninsula that are worth spending some time at. I would probably spend 1-2 days just in this small area. The trick with Dingle, and much of Ireland, is to get off the road (which is kind of stressful and not all that spectacular) and go off on foot (either into the mountains above the road or down to the cliffs/seashore). It is here, away from the people and passing cars that Ireland truly becomes quite magical.

Killarney National Park

Another great place to spend some time (at least a full day or more) is in Killarney National Park, just outside the city of Killarney Ireland. Like the Dingle peninsula, I’d recommend you get off your bike as much as you can. There are dozens of scenic hiking trails in the park, but one of my favorite locations was at the Muckross House, where there are some flat, wide walking trails and a small cave nearby that you can climb through from one end to the other.

The very top of the Wicklow Mountains

Finally, the Wicklow Mountains just south of Dublin, Ireland are certainly worth a visit. Even though the Glendalough National Park is one of Ireland’s most popular scenic areas, I found Glendalough to be too crowded with people to be truly enjoyable. Instead, consider riding your bike from Dublin to Glendalough on the R115. It’s a 50 kilometer bike ride that starts out super steep, but then flattens off near the top of the hill. Once you get to the top, the traffic diminishes greatly and the scenery really opens up. Sheep amble through the flat plains in the area and red fox can be seen in plenty (if you are still and patient enough to look for them). Once again, don’t rush through this area. Go slow and take at least two or more days to explore the Wicklow Mountains when passing through on a bicycle. I was there for more than a week and I still didn’t see everything in the area.

Guinness storehouse scenic view tower

What Irish cities are worth seeing?

Dublin is actually one of my favorite big cities in the world… and I hate big cities. The city is relatively traffic free (when compared to other big cities around the world), easy to navigate, and relatively bicycle friendly. It’s a city that has the potential to become a major cycling hub. There are good restaurants, friendly people, and lots to see and do in the immediate area.

While Ireland’s capital and largest city (Dublin) is certainly worth seeing, Ireland’s second largest city, Cork, is one place that I would most definitely pass on. I found Cork to be congested, over-priced and boring. Cork has a few notable churches (not my thing) and a small city center lined with overpriced shops (also not my thing), but there is very little else to see or do there. Skip this city and spend your time somewhere smaller.

The best cities in Ireland are the small ones. Kinsale, Dingle and Kenmare are places all worth spending some time.

Of all the cities I visited, Dingle was probably my favorite. This small town, situated on a small hill overlooking a tiny harbor is charming, colorful and friendly. Like almost all towns in Ireland, Dingle is expensive (and overpriced), but it is certainly worth a visit. Spend at least a day or two in Dingle. Wander the streets, sit down by the harbor with a cup of coffee or hot tea, and be sure to grab an ice cream at Murphy’s ice cream parlor .

IMG_9643

What accommodation options are available in Ireland?

Hotels are not as common in Ireland as you might think. Only in the larger cities (Dublin, Cork, Shannon, etc.) can hotels usually be found. Outside of these locations, guest houses, hostels and B&Bs are the most common form of nightly lodging available to travelers.

While some of these accommodations can be booked by simply showing up and asking for a room, most require some form of advanced notification, which makes traveling around Ireland with a phone (and Internet access) preferable.

If you do plan to stay in hotels or B&Bs during your stay in Ireland, expect to pay around 70-80 Euros (about $100 USD) or more each night (although there are rooms in private homes for rent for as little as $40 USD if you really do your research).

If you want to try and find cheaper, more private, or more interesting places to stay in Ireland, consider using the website at www.airbnb.com to find affordable places to sleep each night (which is what I did when traveling around Ireland with some friends from Germany during our one week-long road trip together).

If you want to save money and camp, that is an option as well. However, established campgrounds are not always easy to find in Ireland. Campgrounds are pretty rare, and when you can find one, they are usually pretty expensive (somewhere between 7 – 18 Euros per person, per night).

Wild Camping in the Wicklow Mountains

Is wild camping allowed in Ireland?

I’m not exactly sure if wild camping is allowed in Ireland, but I do know that I spent almost two full weeks camping in Ireland without anyone ever knowing that I was there.

The difficult thing about wild camping in Ireland is that there is so much private property (almost all of the country is fenced off), and the areas that are usually ideal for camping in are difficult to access (they are either way up high on the tops of the mountains or down on the beach/cliffs, which are frequently visited by passing tourists).

The safest way to camp in Ireland is to ask a farmer or land owner if it would be okay for you to camp on his or her property for the evening. Asking for a place to camp in this way might not only score you a free place to stay, but also, if you ask a friendly individual, a warm shower and even a meal of some kind.

I never took this approach myself, however. Instead, whenever I wanted to camp for the night, I would climb high up into the hills, find a private (or relatively private) place in which to pitch my tent for the night, and then simply hope that no one came wandering past. In other words, I was stealth camping ! In the few instances where people did wander past my tent pitched high on the mountain tops, no one seemed to care. I just waved and smiled while the people passing by simply continued on their way. I doubt there are many police in Ireland that will climb up into the hills just to try to find and remove a camper who is pitched there for the night.

college boys on a bike tour in Ireland

How much does it cost to go bicycle touring in Ireland?

Ireland is one of the most expensive countries I have ever been to… and I’ve been to over 50 different countries all around the world. Before coming to Ireland, I had just completed a 25-day bike tour across Finland ( another expensive country ), but I found traveling in Ireland to be even more expensive than Finland.

Food in Ireland was, at times, as much as two times the price I was paying in Finland for the exact same thing. Lodging was expensive and entrance fees were high (there were churches in Ireland asking you to pay 6 Euros just to go inside!).

Expect to pay $90+ USD per night for lodging in a hotel or B&B, $15+ USD for camping and about $15+ USD for each meal that you eat. Guided bike tours in Ireland range in price from as little a$100 USD for a single-day tour, to as much as $3,000+ USD for a multi-day bicycle touring adventure.

Glendalough Cycle Routes

My overall thoughts on cycle touring in Ireland

If you’re one of those people who has always dreamed of traveling to Ireland and exploring the country by bike, then I would certainly encourage you to do it. The scenery is wonderful, the towns and villages are charming, the people are (generally) quite friendly, the food and drinks are delicious, it’s an easy place to navigate, and it’s one of the safest places in the world to travel.

There are, however, a number of negative things about bike touring in Ireland: The weather is poor (cold, wet, windy and raining much of the time), it’s one of the most expensive places on the planet, the roads can be both stressful and dangerous for cycling, camping can be difficult due to the lack of resources and available open land, and outside of the main tourist areas, the countryside isn’t all that interesting (just a lot of sheep and rolling hills).

In the video above, I mentioned that on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being the worst and 10 being the best, I would give Ireland a 5… and even though I realize this is a very low rating for a country that so many people dream about visiting, I have to stand by what I said.

I didn’t enjoy cycling in Ireland very much. The narrow roads, crowded city streets and overpriced everything made me feel stressed and claustrophobic for much of the time that I was there. If I had experienced better weather or cycled on different road, maybe I would have liked Ireland more. But there were some good moments while I was in the country. I liked almost all of the people I came into contact with, the scenery in a few select spots of the country was absolutely phenomenal, and as a traveler (not just a cyclist), I generally enjoyed my time in the Ireland of Republic.

Even though Ireland is somewhere near the bottom in the rankings of all the places I’ve ever gone bicycle touring in the world, I  would certainly go back to Ireland if I were given the opportunity. If I were to go back, however, I would probably do things differently. If I were to go back to Ireland again, I’d probably fly into Dublin, rent a car and drive to the Dingle peninsula, rent this place (or a place like it) for an entire week or more, and then use that place as my home base while I drove, cycled and hiked around the neighboring areas – getting away from the people and crowded places as best I could during the day, and then returning to the smaller towns and villages each night to eat a warm meal and socialize in the good, old Irish fashion.

Bicycle touring uphill past a waterfall in Ireland

Darren Alff

My goal as the "Bicycle Touring Pro" is to give you the confidence and inspiration you need to travel by bicycle anywhere in the world. I'm here to help you plan, prepare for, and execute your first bike tour and remove all the guesswork, wasted time and frustration that plagues so many first-time bicycle travelers.

6 thoughts on “ Cycle Touring In Ireland – What You Need To Know ”

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Hi Darren – thank you for visiting our little Republic and for your review. As a cyclist with a love of the great outdoors and as someone who has cycled on mainland Europe, I appreciate the great reports you generate and the cycling knowledge you share. Just a few observations on your conclusions / opinions. As you fairly state these are your opinions based on your experience. I’m sorry about the weather but because of our location in the North Atlantic we do get more rain than say France or Spain but overall our climate is temperate and very benign. I can cycle 360 days of the year here in Ireland [I go to the pub for the other 5 and go mad altogether in a Leap Year…] As I write this we have not had rain for about 3 weeks and this summer past has been glorious. As was the summer of 2013 [we’ll draw a veil of meteorological secrecy over the years preceding 2013…] Your observations on cycling in traffic are partly correct. There is an over reliance on cars here as a primary means of transport but with careful planning and perhaps checking local knowledge, it is possible to plan cycle routes across the country which are really very quiet. This summer I celebrated my 60th birthday with a cycle, on my Brompton, from County Cork to Derry in Northern Ireland [about 300 miles]. I use a mixture of bus, rail and around 165 miles in the saddle and the only roads I encountered heavy traffic on were the ones I opted to use for making up time but also knowing that there would be quite heavy traffic on them. You can traverse the country on supremely quiet country roads if you plan ahead or just ask! I think that it is probably not advisable to cycle with headphones at any time.. particularly when it is quiet and you can experience nature’s rich audio feed! A final observation – How can you dismiss a City that Lonely Planet placed in its Top 10 Cities to Visit [ see https://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1103/123731-lonelyplanet/ ]. You say “there is very little else to see or do there…” Cork is a cultural gem with a history stretching back to 500AD. You will find live music every night, theatre and opera 12 months of the year, a thriving arts community and so much more. This week the city is hosting A Short Story Festival with writers of the calibre of Richard Ford reading and presenting. We host a world famous Jazz Festival and a Film Festival which is almost 60 years on the go. Did you visit the 17th Century Elizabeth Fort in the heart of the city of stroll the English Market or see the best of Irish and European visual art in the Crawford Gallery or get in a live session of traditional or bluegrass or blues in the iconic Corner House Pub on Coburg Street or eat in one of the best vegetarian restaurants anywhere [ see https://www.themobilefoodguide.com/restaurants/cork/cafe-paradiso ] or climb to the top of St Ann’s Shandon to ring the bells and get a magnificent view of the city which sits on the twin channels of the River Lee and just above the second best natural harbour in the world? You can stroll through the grounds of University College Cork with its magnificent Quadrangle [1845] or visit the (free) Glucksman Gallery in the grounds – and all just a 5 minute walk from the City Centre. There is, I think, Darren, so much you did not see or attempt to see. The town of Dingle is very pleasant and the Dingle Peninsula is quite beautiful with an incredibly rich archaeological, literary and linguistic past. But let’s be honest – the town has evolved into a rather sophisticated tourist trap. Then again you were a tourist so I suppose that’s OK. Cork City welcomes tourists of course but perhaps with a bit more subtlety and understated panache. As you might tell Darren, we Corkonians are a defensive lot but we do welcome strangers and visitors with open arms. I realise, particularly as someone who has travelled by bike, that our responses to a place or a town are personal and unique. However I really believe that you are very far off the mark with your experience of Cork City. As part of the context of travelling in Ireland it should be noted that we are only now emerging [and many would say we are not even at that stage] from a very deep 7 year long recession. We have lost a huge percentage of our young population to emigration but we have remained strong in spirit. Unfortunately some services are overpriced and poor value, but it is possible to find good value and wonderful service right across the country. Thanks again Darren for your visit and your thoughtful and detailed review. Safe Cycling, Declan

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Thanks for your comments Declan. I did do many of those things in Cork actually. I didn’t enjoy any of it, however… but that’s just me (Maybe I’ve traveled too much and I’m just jaded?). I don’t like saying negative things about the places I’ve been to, but some places I just don’t like and, sadly, Cork was one of those places. I appreciate your comments though. Hopefully others will read what you have to say and ignore my own opinions 😉

' src=

Nice article Darren, I would like to add a few thoughts as I live in Ireland and I do cycle a lot. Firstly you are dead right about the roads, Narrow and dangerous!. However its worth mentioning that there are several categories of roads in Ireland any cyclist visiting should be aware of; Firstly there are the M roads,( motorways ) and obviously illegal to cycle on. Next size up are the N roads ( National ). These are busy enough and well paved, they can also be as you say narrow and dangerous to cycle on. many stretches can be good for road bikes, but I avoid them. The final categories are R ( regional ) and L ( local ) roads. These can be a mixed bag, some can be Narrow and dangerous, but many are hardly maintained and are terrible for cars on but can be great for cycling as they get very little traffic. You are always guaranteed to eventually come across an old ruin or rugged vista and have it all to yourself on one of these. As romantic as flying in to Dublin and cycling one large circuit sounds, I wouldn’t advise it and how you you said you would do it again is totally spot on. If you do I hope you get the weather for it. One more place that cyclists should be aware of are the development of green ways, these are old train routes that had the tracks torn up and are being developed for tourism. There is one in Mayo called the great western greenway, it is 42km, the views are amazing and best of all no cars!. Also you can rent bikes. ONe final opinion is that Cork is my favourite city in the world with lots to see and do, but I know I have been to cities I really hated ( like New Orleans) that people love. So each to their own.

Happy cycling

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Hi Darren, I feel you are correct in your assessment of Ireland. Narrow very busy roads with traffic going very fast. We have a terrible car culture now with little planning to accommodate other forms of transport. Some Greenways have helped. Especially in Dungarvan. I find if you use google maps on your phone and select the cycling mode it will map a far quieter route thorough the countryside where you will meet friendly people and enjoy the countryside. Unfortunately Ireland is expensive. I use campsites and have to plan a trip around a campsite. I haven’t the guts for wild camping and have to admire you and your videos and how you wild camp. I follow you on you tube and love your videos. I have picked up so many tips from you on your videos. If you ever decide to come back to Ireland mention it in one of your videos and ill contact you. Would love to meet up and hit the road!!!!

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Hi ,I am thinking of cycling in Ireland at start of june 1st 2020.for 8 days from Belfast to Dundalk to Dublin to Athlone to Galway ,and back,has anyone cycled this route.and any ideas on this route.would be much appreciated.Thank you.John

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Hi Darren, I’m a fan of your videos and I follow your travels with interest. I live in the NW of Ireland and whilst I agree that a lot of the bigger roads are terrible for cycling for the reasons you’ve stated, there is a whole network of ‘L’ roads all over Ireland that are quiet and beautiful. I’m curious where else you cycled in Ireland, because in your review you focus on Dingle and Killarney. While Kerry is certainly beautiful, it is also incredibly overcrowded with tourists, a little overhyped, and a bit of a cliche for tourists, hence the high prices. The whole west coast is incredibly dramatic with many great small cycling roads. Clare, Connemara, the north Mayo coastline, Sligo, and Donegal. As someone who has travelled along this coast extensively I would say the scenery continues to get more wild and dramatic the further north you travel along the Atlantic coast. If you look at it in terms of geography, the cliffs get bigger and more dramatic as you travel north along Ireland, on to Scotland, and Norway.

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Ireland End to End

Trust pilot logo in white.

£1,995.00 based on 2 people sharing a Twin/Double Room

($2,493.75 USD or $3,571.05 AUD)

£300.00 deposit

£600.00 single room supplement

5th Jun to 16th Jun 2024

17th Jul to 28th Jul 2024

21st May to 31st May 2025

11th Jun to 21st Jun 2025

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Throughout the trip the organisation and support was faultless. That was apparent in the run up to the trip and after its conclusion. Would I do Lejog or any other trip in the future yes I would and pedal Britain would be my first port of call Rob Mckelvie (LEJOG June 2018)
  • Our 10 Day Irish version of 'End to End' from Mizen Head to Malin Head is special
  • Experience Irelands unique scenery from rugged coastlines, dramatic mountain passes to spectacular Fjords 
  • Shorter, easier and more relaxed cycling than on LEJOG - allows for more time to explore or use Hotel facilities
  • Enjoy the famous 'Craic' in lively Irish pubs hosting traditional music with amazing local food and drink

Sounds like the perfect cycling tour?

Joining the tour

Start: cork airport .

Arrival day is Wednesday  and our Hotel is at Cork Airport, we can collect you if required. On Thursday we transfer from our Cork hotel by coach to Mizen Head which takes approximately 2hrs . 

For more detailed information please click the  " Itinerary "  tab below:

Cycling level

Moderate: For riders with experience, good fitness. Most days include a couple of significant climbs. Not for beginners.

Description

Mizen head to malin head - the wild atlantic way, summary of tour.

This superb 10 day tour offers varied cycling through the delightful Irish countryside as we travel the 595 mile perfectly designed route from Mizen Head, Ireland's most SW point to Malin Head, its most Northernly point.  Being shorter and easier days than Land's End to John O'Groats (LEJOG) allows for some later starts / earlier finishes enabling you to relax and recover by taking advantage of any Hotel leisure facilities, indulge in the fantastic local produce or explore historic towns. 

cycle tour ireland route

A stand out feature is the people, they are just so friendly and hospitable, the Irish charm is well known around the world. Most towns and villages still have at least one pub where you can find traditional evening music sessions taking place, enabling us to indulge in experiencing the famous 'Irish Craic'.

We'll journey through a varied landscape of mountains and moorland, dotted with quiet peaceful villages and isolated farmhouses. Ireland's wild and craggy coastline is spectacular, with mile upon mile of crystal clear sea, sandy beaches, small rocky bays and traditional fishing harbours.

After transferring you from our Hotel at Cork Airport to the start point at Mizen Head, our route uses an excellent network of minor roads taking you along the Mizen peninsula to Bantry Bay and into the surrounding mountains. Turning inland we cycle the dramatic Black Valley and it's unique mountain pass, The Gap of Dunloe. We venture deep into picturesque County Kerry with the amazing Killarney National Park, and then cross the Shannon Estuary by ferry.

cycle tour ireland route

We skirt Wild Atlantic surfing beaches and towns before visiting the iconic 'Cliffs of Moher' for a quick selfie and along the distinctive karst limestone plateau of the Burren. Through County Galway, onto the vast open bogs, loughs and mountains of Connemara. From here we enjoy even more stunning scenery including the Sky Road and a glacial fjord, Killary Harbour.

After Galway's enticing old pubs and Irish traditional music we continue to the pretty town of Donegal, before tackling the Inishowen Peninsula's remote moorlands and vast sea loughs that lead us to Malin Head for an epic finish.

From Malin Head, we provide a convenient coach transfer back for our overnight stay in Belfast. 

 Overview of Route

Map of route   .

cycle tour ireland route

Arrival Day:   Wednesday > Cork Airport

Prior to the trip we will be requesting an estimated time of arrival into Cork so that we can arrange to meet up with you at the Hotel. The Hotel is situated just 5 minutes walk away from the airport terminal or there is an Airport Shuttle service, you can call this using the phone outside arrivals.

If you are arriving with your bike we can pick you up to save struggling on the bus or walking, just call us on the day.

With a  check-in time of 3pm  should you arrive early and want to take a look around Cork (15 mins away in a Taxi) that is no problem as Pedal Britain will take care of your bike and luggage.

Day 1: Mizen Head to Glengariff

39 miles | 63km | 2840ft | 852m

Our Irish adventure starts in the stunning location of Mizen Head and its spectacularly located lighthouse.  On Thursday morning breakfast   will be at 7.30am  with transport booked for 9am  to take us the 2hrs  to our start point.

Mizen Head

After a quick brew stop, we will aim to be on bikes cycling by  12pm on   Thursday  for what is essentially a half day.

Heading north on the coast road around the scenic peninsula and famous Bantry Bay, we will be making our way towards the attractive town of Glengariff, well known as a tourist resort, with some lovely local walks and lively public house.

Day 2:  Glengariff to Tralee 

59 miles | 95km | 5310ft | 1593m

A fantastic (but tough) day ahead, as we make our way via the Caha Mountains of the Beara Peninsula into beautiful County Kerry. Via the typically Irish town of Kenmore we climb to the edge of The Killarney National Park at "Molls Gap" and cycle along the stunning The Gap of Dunloe with its three lakes, into the Macgillycuddy mountain range, which is also home to Carrauntoohil, Irelands highest peak, before arriving at todays overnight destination of Tralee.

cycle tour ireland route

Day 3: Tralee to Spanish Point 

70 miles | 112km | 3,780ft | 1134m

From Tralee we meander along scenic coastal roads, taking in all the lovely views that such landscape affords. Through rolling countryside we head inland to Tarbert on the Shannon River to catch a ferry across the border between the counties of Kerry and Clare. Before again, hugging the Wild Atlantic coastline for the best views of any brave surfers, as we head towards Spanish Point, an area famous for it’s surf schools.

cycle tour ireland route

Day 4: Spanish Point to Galway

68 miles | 109km | 3530ft | 1059m

Another excellent day sees us heading to the magnificent “Cliffs of Moher” for a quick selfie at one of Ireland's most iconic natural wonders.

cycle tour ireland route

Then on quiet back roads we head through 'The Burren', a fascinating area of “Karst” limestone bordering the majestic and incredibly clear Atlantic Ocean. We continue north via the fishing village of Kinvara and quick stop at Dunguaire Castle, as we head towards the brightly painted pubs, fantastic live music and general friendliness of Galway.

cycle tour ireland route

Day 5: Galway to Clifden

67 miles | 108km | 2440ft | 732m

Next few days cycling see us head into the heart of Ireland where the majority of people speak Gaelic as first language and all the road signs are in Gaelic. Typical Irish landscapes prevail of white washed houses, moorland dotted with lakes and imposing mountainous back drops that characterise this area. We stay tonight in The Capital of Connemara a vibrant town called Clifden.

cycle tour ireland route

Day 6: Clifden to Westport 

58 miles | 94km | 4280ft | 1284m

Many riders favourite day in the saddle sees us navigate around the peninsula taking in the dramatic views from the famous Sky Road.

Then we take in the breathtaking scenery of Connemara, an area reminiscent of the English Lake District but covered in blanket bog and heathland that create truly stunning colourful landscapes. The day ends in the town of Westport flanked by Ireland’s famous pilgrimage mountain, Croagh Patrick.

Day 7:  Westport to Sligo

67 miles | 108km | 3280ft | 984m

We leave Westport on peaceful, undulating country roads with just the sheep and horses to keep us company. This is punctuated by a more dramatic backdrop as we navigate Croaghmoyle mountain and around the idyllic Lough Conn. Then more quiet scenic roads take us to Sligo with its great reputation for live music and infamous Irish Craic.

cycle tour ireland route

Day 8: Sligo to Donegal  

54 miles | 87km | 2400ft | 890m

Heading to Donegal we use Sustrans North West Trail which is a beautiful route taking in seaside villages, rocky cliffs, quiet sandy bays with stunning beach vistas. This is the theme for the day as we make our way to the small but popular town of Donegal.

Day 9:   Donegal to Letterkenny  

55 miles | 89km | 3700ft | 1110m

From Donegal we head through more dramatic stunning Irish countryside as we meander our way towards Glenveagh National Park to our overnight stop this evening in Letterkenny. 

Day 10:   Letterkenny to Malin Head  

58 miles | 94km | 3100ft | 930m

The final days ride is superb, as we head north towards the Inishowen Peninsula and cycle along the banks of the majestic Lough Swilly. As we get ever closer to Malin Head you'll see jaw dropping views of dramatic and unspoilt landscapes at every turn. Little wonder that Star Wars chose this area as a filming location.

As you arrive at Malin Head with its stunning vistas across windswept beaches, we'll begin the customary Pedal Britain celebrations. We should arrive at Malin Head by around  14.00 on   Saturday.

After toasting the completion of our Irish experience and taking the obligatory pictures, we will head back to Belfast for a celebration meal and no doubt a few drinks as well. Transport has been booked for  15.00  to take you and your luggage the  2hr 30  journey to our Hotel in Central Belfast.

Pedal Britain will load up the support van with your bikes and take them back to Belfast.

Departure Day:   Sunday > Belfast

Pedal Britain staff will need to leave early for the long journey home. However we will beforehand arrange for transport to collect groups from the Hotel and take you to the airport or the Port.

What's included

       11 nights bed & breakfast accommodation.

We stay in a great mix of cyclist friendly Hotels or B&B's. Where ever it is possible we all stay together in the same accommodation as a group. No need to check in Pedal Britain team will have done that for you, just collect your key and relax. Bikes are either locked in a secure area of the hotel or in your room. Breakfasts are all included with a choice of Full or Continental available.

 Fully Supported Tour 

The Pedal Britain support van is never far away to provide any assistance you need, be it access to your day bag, resolve a mechanical issue, report a first aid problem or just have a morale boosting chat. Just phone the driver or tap helmet as we pass if you need anything and we'll stop for you.  

Daily Luggage Transfer

The support vehicle moves all of your luggage between each nights accommodation. Luxury, wherever time allows we'll even put it in your room for you. Also we recommend leaving a day bag in the support van to further reduce what you need to carry on the bike.

Includes Lunch and Brew Stop Refreshments 

Lunches are a mix of rolling buffets in pubs and cafes or a picnic in a very scenic spot. The famous Pedal Britain pop up café delivers welcome brew stops at strategic points along the route to keep energy levels up providing you with water, tea, coffee, fruit, biscuits, cake, flap jacks and anything else you specifically request.

Expert Cycling and Tour Guides

Pedal Britain prides itself on having staff with a 'can-do' attitude, their entire focus is on ensuring they attend to your every need, to ensure that you have the best experience possible. They have detailed knowledge of the route, are first aid qualified and decent mechanics - but most importantly they care about you. When asked 'What makes Pedal Britain better than others?' quite simply it is our amazing staff - the one thing our competition cannot copy.

Pedal Britain Tour App & Detailed Route Notes

From here you can download the relevant file format for the daily route maps - GPX, TCX etc.. These can then easily be transferred to whatever GPS unit you are using such as a Garmin or Wahoo.

Don't have a GPS unit? No problem, just download our APP and it turns your Smart Phone into a GPS unit with turn by turn route navigation.

We also provide very detailed route notes which act as both information about the days cycling and back up to your electronic gadgets.

Live Tracking App

Pedal Britain Live Tracker app allows family and friends to see how well your progressing. The same tracker also helps us keep you safe and also ensure your following the route!!

Facebook Tour Groups

We will invite you to join a closed Facebook group for your specific tour. This enables you to get to know people before the holiday and provides a platform to share training experiences or any questions, concerns you may have before the tour.

Not Included

Evening Meals (although group bookings will be made at local restaurants attendance is optional, however payment isn’t!!)

Travel Insurance

Transport to Cork & from Belfast back home  

Easy Bike Transfe r (available for a fee)

Single Room Option (limited number available for additional fee)

Ferry fees & to historical or cultural sites

Cycle Hire (available for a fee)

Travel logistics

Getting to the start - cork airport.

One important factor in planning your Ireland End to End holiday with Pedal Britain is arranging transport for yourself and bike to Cork to arrive on Wednesday .

The easiest method of travelling to Cork is by air. There are an abundance of relatively cheap flights to Cork from all major airports in the UK so you should have no problems obtaining a flight over.

We do have some room on this tour for a few bike boxes (hard case) and bike bags (soft case) - please indicate when asked if you’ll be bringing either one of these.

Alternatively you can use our   ‘Bike Transfer Service’

Holyhead to Dublin to Cork - The ferry journey is a little over three hours, you can then hire a car and drive to Cork Airport which is a further two and a half hour drive. 

What happens at the end of the ride?

We should arrive at Malin Head by around 14.00 on   Saturday.

After toasting the completion of our Irish experience and taking the obligatory pictures, we will head back to Belfast for a celebration meal and no doubt a few drinks as well. Transport has been booked for 15.00 to take you and your luggage the 2hr 30 journey to our Hotel in Central Belfast.

Getting Home

By air: .

Again flying home is probably the easiest transport method. If you are flying home then most likely you’ll be using Belfast City Airport, just 5-10 minutes from the Hotel in taxi. The International Terminal is 15-20 minutes from the centre.

By Sea: 

From Belfast you can also get a Ferry to Liverpool and continue your onward journey from there to home.

Alternatively you can get the train from Belfast to Dublin then on to the Ferry Terminal if you wish to return back via Holyhead.

Pedal Britain will before the trip ask for details of all your plans to get home on Wednesday so that appropriate transport can be arranged for those that need it. This will collect you and your luggage from the Hotel in Belfast.

Bike transfer

Getting your bike to ireland and home again, option 1:   customer drop off  / collection.

FREE of Charge

If you can bring / collect your bike to / from our offices in Northamptonshire then we will transfer your bike  Free of Charge . No need to dismantle we'll take it fully assembled and safely secure it in the support vehicle for transporting to Ireland and back home again.

We can also take helmets strapped to bikes and day bags labelled with your name.

Option 2:  Bike Collection or Delivery  -  Pedal Britain Support Van

Cost for this service is  £65.00  per bike -  One Way to Start or From the End

On the Friday or Monday before a tour starts and in the week after a tour, based on geographical location of clients that have signed up for this service, Pedal Britain's support van will come to an address of your choosing, which could be work, home or cycle shop to collect / deliver your bike. 

No need to dismantle we'll take it fully assembled and safely secure in the support vehicle for transporting.

Option 3:  Bike Collection or Delivery  -  Transport Partner

If you happen to fall outside the geographical area being covered by the support van prior to the tour then do not despair we have an alternative solution.

On the Friday before a tour starts we'll arrange for our trusted transport partner to collect your bike from an address of your choosing, which could be work, home or cycle shop and deliver your bike to Pedal Britain.

Clients will need to securely package up their own bike in a Medium size (150 x 22 x 90 cm) cardboard bike box. A local bike shop will for free or small fee provide a suitable box and much of the packing material you will need for this. Pedal Britain will return your bike to you the same way in the week following a tour.

Once we arrive in Cork on the Saturday the Pedal Britain team will help you re-assemble your bike ready for push off on Thursday.

We cannot via this service accept helmets or any day bags packed inside the boxes.

Bike Transfer Service:   Both Ways

Total Cost is  £130.00   per bike 

Terms & Conditions of Bike Transfer Service

  • Pedal Britain cannot be held responsible for any damage that occurs in transit - although we will obviously take great care of bikes in transit
  • Where a third party is being used Pedal Britain cannot be held responsible for any damage in transit
  • We recommend that you have insurance in place to cover you for any accidental damage or theft during transit

Pedal Britain has always strongly recommended that clients use their own cycles wherever possible for our tours , as there is no substitute for using a bike that you are familiar with and are comfortable riding. 

However we fully understand that sometimes circumstances mean this is just not possible.

Need to Hire a Bike?

We do not run our own fleet of hire bikes therefore have to source them from our trusted range of suppliers. At peak times of the year stock can be limited therefore please do let us know well in advance if you intend to hire a bike. 

First step is to please email us with your measurements and preferences:

  • Shimano group set
  • Disc or Caliper brakes
  • Carbon or Non carbon

PLEASE NOTE:  Most road bikes run 11-28 compact gearing as they are generally set up for sportive hire. However we'll do our best to find a bike that works for you.  

Once you hire the bike it will be available to use from Saturday Morning in Cork giving us a day to make any adjustments that you may want.

Road Bike Hire:

Branded High Spec Carbon Road Bike  =  £350-£375 each for 2 weeks . This will be a Trek Madone SLR 6 or equivalent

Non Branded UK Built Bikes =  £250-£300 for 2 weeks  

Hybrid Bike Hire:

Branded High Spec Carbon Hybrid Bike =  £250-£300 each for 2 weeks .

Want to Bring Your Own Bike But Need Help With Logistics?  

If you currently live outside UK but are unsure about bringing your own cycle, please call or e-mail for advice.  We can discuss a variety of solutions that might help you to bring a bike along.

Some of the ways we can help:

  • Bike Box/Bag on Van :  On each tour we have room for several soft bike bags and 2 hard case bike boxes - for overseas clients only
  • Getting Bike to the Start :  Also if when you land in UK you are planning to tour first / or just want to travel without bike to the start - we can as part of our  bike transfer service collect your bike from a Hotel (Mon/Tues) before the tour and take it to the start for you.
  • Staying on longer in UK after tour :   Don't want a bike in tow? We can also keep bike and box with us after the tour, then by using our  bike transfer service we can deliver the bike to a Hotel near London/or an Airport when you are ready to head home

Just contact us on [email protected] setting out what your plans are and we'll come up with a solution that works for you.

How fit do I need to be?

Pedal Britain tours are designed to attract people of all ages and levels of fitness.

To help you assess if a ride is suitable we have added a 'Cycling Level' indicator on each tour. Obviously the more training you do beforehand it will increase the overall enjoyment of any tour as you'll be more prepared.

Pedal Britain has a range of 'Training Support Resources' including a free consultation and a blog about  Training Plans within which you'll find some great tips and an easy to follow framework that can be adapted for any of our tours. 

We do not issue 'standard' training plans, everyone starts at different levels of experience, fitness and available time. For those confident enough, all you do is adjust our framework to suit your own needs.

However to provide another level of support, we have created with Pedal Britain guide Grant Goodman (qualified cycling coach) also of cyclingfitness.co.uk several coaching packages from Basic to Premium. You can find links to these and all our training information here:  Training Resource

What are the group sizes?

At Pedal Britain we want to ensure you receive the highest level of support possible whilst you are on one of our tours.

To this end we will normally run a tour with a minimum of 10 people, but unlike other operators we limit the group size to a maximum of 18 people. We feel this ensures there is always enough people to be social, but not too many for it to feel overcrowded and your just part of a herd.

How fast do we ride?

That is completely up to you. It is your holiday and so we encourage you to ride at your own pace. The average touring cyclist will normally travel at 10-13mph. What we find is naturally 2-3 groups form and you'll always find one that suits your pace.

Some people get concerned by always being at the back as they feel anxious about holding everyone up, believe us you are not!! However if that mentally becomes an issue then you can always set off 30 minutes ahead of the pack. But we will never ask you to pedal faster.

No one on a Pedal Britain tour gets left behind as our guides for the most part ride at the back, especially at the end of a day to provide encouragement and support.

What sort of cyclist comes on your tours?

We have a mixture, from keen club cyclist through to newcomers looking for a challenge.

If I am travelling alone can I join a tour?

Yes, no problem. In fact usually around 50% of a group are single travellers.

You can either pay for single supplement or we can if you are happy to share a twin room, find you a room buddy. Either way trips are very sociable and you’ll soon make some new cycling friends.

What are the groups like?

There is no one standard group every tour is unique. But generally people that undertake our tours are a fun, friendly and adventurous lot with one key similarity - they love cycling!! We have people of all ages (teens through to mid 70's) and all walks of life which makes for an interesting and diverse group of fellow participants.  

Groups tend to be split 50:50 between those traveling alone or part of a group be it pairs of friends/couples/family or occasionally larger ones of 3-4. We try and limit our group size to a maximum of 18 people which we think works best, providing plenty of people to socialise with during the day and evening, but also enables people to find some quiet time too. 

Do I need to be a good bike mechanic?

Pedal Britain provides  mechanical support  in form of basic adjustments, or simple repairs, while your guide will also carry a reasonable tool kit to help with any minor problems on the road - the van has a more comprehensive set.

However it is essential that you are able to fix a puncture . Obviously if the guide, fellow riders or van are nearby they will assist but it maybe that the van is tied up elsewhere therefore you don’t want to be unnecessarily held up waiting.

Essential kit to carry at all times for puncture repair

It is advisable to carry on your bike at least 1 or 2 spare inner tubes, a mini pump / Co2 gas pressure pump, tyre levers and multi-tool with you each day. This essential kit can be kept either in a small rucksack that you carry or in a medium sized saddlebag.

We also ask that you take care of basic bike maintenance. Firstly having a comprehensive bike service before you arrive on the tour, then by inspecting your bike daily to ensure its in proper working order.

A work stand, track pumps, chain lubricant and cleaning materials will be available for your use on the van.

The support vehicle will carry a limited number of universal spares that are provided at cost should they be required. If your bike has any obscure or unusual parts that may not be readily available at a bike shop it is highly recommended that you bring your own set of spares with you that can be carried on the support vehicle.

We will carry a spare bike and wheel so that you can keep moving if you do have any serious bike problems.

Whilst Pedal Britain will endeavour to fix your bike issues, any major repairs will have to be co-ordinated through a local bike shop on the road, with any cost for these repairs being your responsibility.

Do we have back up support?

We take great pride in the level of support we give to riders on our cycling tours and is a key part of the 'The Pedal Britain Difference'.

That is why we are 5* rated on Trustpilot with many of the reviews specifically mentioning the excellent back up support we provide. You can read extracts of these on our  Pedal Britain Testimonials page.  

All our trips are led by at least one or two experienced leaders from the UK – one driving the support vehicle and the other cycling with the group, usually at the rear to ensure that no one gets left behind. They carry a first aid kit and a tool kit, so that if you or your bike breaks down they will if possible be there to help. 

The Pedal Britain support vehicle doesn't follow the group very closely. It's main function is to once/twice a day provide the our famous 'Brew Stops', carry luggage between accommodation or if you have a problem you can jump onboard. You will also have access to the van at our lunch stop.

Also be comforted in the knowledge that the team at Pedal Britain HQ are also with you as an invisible hand, making sure everything is running smoothly. 

What are the lunches like?

Lunches are generally at either just before or after the halfway point of a day in terms of milage. They consist of various combinations of soup, sandwiches, crisps/chips, savouries, coffee/tea/soft drinks and cake, served as rolling buffets or set meals hosted in either local cafes / pubs.

cycle tour ireland route

Occasionally, depending on the weather, Pedal Britain's pop up cafe will provide a substantial picnic buffet lunch in a suitably scenic location en-route. Don’t worry if your cycling slowly we always make sure there is enough food for everyone at picnics and never leave until everyone is fed and watered.

Where are the evening meals?

Whilst evening meals are not included in the cost of the holiday, Pedal Britain will make reservations between 7.30-8.00pm most days for a group evening meal, so you don’t have to worry.

Also to make life even easier for you we'll sometimes take pre-orders for the evenings food in advance. We find this just helps speed things up at service to maximise your recovery time.

We tend to eat at the accommodation we are staying in that evening although we do occasionally use other local options. These meals provide a great opportunity for socialising together and swapping tales of the days events, further developing the group bonds.

However attendance is purely optional. If you prefer to eat earlier, or alone or wanted to find somewhere else, your Tour Guide can provide alternatives its no problem at all it is your decision.

On longer tours where we are staying in major towns/cities we also have several what we call 'free evenings' where we do not book anything for the group - which allows you to explore local options with smaller groups of new your new cycling buddies.

With all evening meals individuals are responsible for settling their own food and drink bills once finished.

Can I raise money for a specific charity?

Yes, you can join any of our tours and use that challenge as a way of raising funds for any cause of your choice.

Sometimes we are asked "Can a Charity Sponsor my Ride by paying for the Tour?" again no problem. We just raise an invoice and send that for payment to the charity. Any other financial agreements such as on minimum fundraising targets are between you and the charity. 

We can also if there is enough interest work either with a group of likeminded people wanting to raise money for a specific charity or with the charity itself to create a bespoke cycling event just for that purpose.

Do you offer group discounts?

Yes we do, if you have 8 participants or more able to book at the same time then you'll be eligible for a 5% discount (up to maximum of £100 per person)

If you all live close together then we can also work out a deal for our 'Bike Transfer Service' which could save you up to 50% per person for this service.

Will the Hotel or B&B do our laundry?

To remain social it’s advisable that on our longer tours you wash your kit out regularly - that includes shorts - a key factor in preventing sore bottoms!!

What most people do is take with them several days worth of cycling kit to rotate through and a small bottle of liquid clothes detergent. Then as part of their daily routine use facilities in the room to wash and dry kit as many have heated towel rails.

If not fully dry the next day roll kit up tightly into a towel or hang up in back of the support van to ensure you have clean kit ready for following day.

Some accommodations do offer limited laundry services (usually just drying kit) either for a small fee or usually free, ready for collection the following morning. Your tour guide will let you know which places on your tour provide this.

Alternatively if time prevails you can use local launderettes to wash and dry clothes - your tour guide will help locate these for you.

How much luggage can I bring?

Please bring what you need to make your holiday relaxing and comfortable. We do request that you limit this to one item of luggage per person and that this is clearly labelled. Also where possible please try and keep one bag to between 15kg-18kg.

We also recommend you bring a ruck sack that can be left in the support vehicle as a 'day bag' to hold sun cream, waterproofs, extra gels etc. This helps limit what you carry and will be accessible at every break.

What kind of clothing and equipment is needed?

Once you're signed up Pedal Britain will send you a detailed ‘Kit List’ of what you should bring along, however do feel free to contact us if you would like a copy sending to you or have any specific questions .

Do I need insurance?

Pedal Britain has public liability insurance cover for all of our tours.

However we strongly recommend you take out adequate insurance to cover yourself against personal accident, loss of belongings and cancellation cover.

Yellow Jersey Insurance  are one company that other clients have used previously.  Worth checking first what might be covered under various other policies you may have such as household and travel insurance, then plug any gaps with a specific policy.

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cycle tour ireland route

cycle tour ireland route

  • Donegal Coastal Treasures Bike Tour
  • Iconic Donegal and Connemara Cycling Tour

The Causeway Coast Bike Tour

  • Donegal Short Cycling Break
  • Sligo’s Yeats Country – Single Centre Bike Tour
  • Highlights of Donegal Bike Tour
  • The Backroads and Beyond Cycling and Hiking Tour
  • Donegal Coast 1 Day E-Bike Tour

Enjoy a bike tour where you visit many of the best known landmarks on the island of Ireland. This tour follows the North Coast with ever changing and dramatic coastal views. Start your journey in historic Derry City. Along the way you stay in pretty towns and villages. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to stroll or swim at one of the many sandy beaches. Visit Bushmills and sample the whiskey from the world’s oldest distillery. If you are a Game of Thrones fan, this cycling holiday will take you to many of its iconic filming locations.

 ______________________________________________________________________

Tour Highlights

  • Derry – Ireland’s only walled city
  • Downhill Demesne and the Mussenden Temple
  • Bushmills Village and Distillery
  • Dunluce Castle
  • The Legendary Giants Causeway
  • Charming Towns and Villages
  • Cycling along the spectacular cost
  • The Beautiful Glens of Antrim
  • Rathlin Island and its “upside down” lighthouse

Accommodation

On this self-guided bike tour we use small family run bed and breakfasts and guest houses, apart from Derry where you stay in a small hotel.   We have chosen the accommodation carefully to best suit the needs of the cyclist.  The locations are in pretty towns and villages.  We have chosen locations close to the village centres where you can comfortably walk to local restaurants and pubs.

Choose a single, double (one double bed) or twin (two single beds) room.  Rooms have their own private bathroom.

We choose locations as close as possible to the village or town centre, so that you will be able to stroll out in the evenings to have a meal and then afterwards you can check out the local entertainment!

Getting Here

This cycling holiday begins in Derry/Londonderry – Northern Ireland’s second city. It is easily reached by direct bus from Belfast International and Belfast City Airport. There are also direct bus services to Dublin Airport.

From Belfast International Airport Aircoach bus service direct from both airports every hour. Aircoach Website   

From Belfast City Direct buses every half Hour  Timetable Search for bus route 212

Frequent trains Timetable Click on Train Timetable and scroll down to find the Belfast – Derry route. Note: Buses may be more convenient as the railway station is located on the opposite side of the river from your accommodation.

From Dublin Airport and Dublin City Frequent direct buses  Timetable   Search for route X3

If you are arriving in Ireland at a different location and would like advice on how to get here, let us know and we will help you to plan your journey.

Regular bus service to Ballymena Timetable Search for route 150,  then train and bus connections to Belfast, Derry/Londonderry and elsewhere.  Train and bus timetable search for bus route 120, or for train timetable click train and scroll down for timetable.

The Causeway Coast Bike Tour – Booking

To book the Causeway Coast self-guided bike tour with Ireland by Bike

1: Book Online Please use the booking form opposite .  Once you have completed the form you will be asked to pay a deposit of €100 to secure your booking.  Please note that this deposit is non returnable so it is important that you have all your travel details correct before proceeding to book.

2: Confirmation We will contact you confirming your booking.    We will send you your invoice for the balance along with other details.

3: Pay Balance Full payment is required at least 4 weeks before your arrival date.

Once we have received full payment we will email you your bike tour accommodation list, along with your guide notes and any other essential information.

4: Enjoy Your Adventure We will meet you on the morning of your first cycle and get you set up with your bike, notes, GPS etc . Time to relax and really enjoy your adventure.

Please see our Booking Terms and Conditions .

cycle tour ireland route

The Causeway Coast Bike Tour — Itinerary

Cycling Holiday Northern Ireland at the Guildhall Derry

The Causeway Coast Bike Tour –  2024 Dates and Prices

Arrival day:   Tuesday Tours available:   Tuesday 21st May to Tuesday 03 September. (Excluding Tuesday 09 July)

Alternative Start Date

Available to groups of 5 or more (Subject to availability)

Price per person sharing: €1,390 Single occupancy: €280 Bicycle: €100 E-bike: €230

Self-Guided bike tour price includes:

• Bed and breakfast accommodation in B&B’s and small hotels • Welcome meeting and bike set up on arrival evening or first morning • Luggage transfers • Comprehensive guide booklet • Maps and turn by turn directions • GPS unit with all routes pre-programmed (one per room) • GPX tracks available pre-tour.  (If you would like to use your own GPS device or mobile app) • Emergency support

Not included in price:

• Travel to and from start/finish of tour • Meals other than breakfast • Entry to sites and attractions not included as part of the tour • Evening entertainment

The Causeway Coast Bike Tour – Photo Gallery

Group of cyclists on the Peace Bridge, Derry with Ireland by Bike

The Causeway Coast Bike Tour – Customer Reviews

cycle tour ireland route

Note:  Below Review is of 3 combined Ireland by Bike Tours, Sligo Single Centre Tour, Highlights of Donegal Bike Tour and Causeway Coast Bike Tour.

cycle tour ireland route

  “It was a wonderful trip and we are so happy we did our first bike tour with Ireland by Bike.  Company was great and well organized.  Routes were great and distances just right.”   Katharine and Chuck Hope, CA, U.S.A.   May 2019

“Thanks again for the flawless organization and support during our recent trips (August 2019).  We had a fabulous time and have recommended Ireland by Bike to all of our friends here in Switzerland.  Don’t be surprised if you soon see a deluge of Swiss adventure seekers.  We very much appreciated the personal attention from you and the friendly welcomes we received from everyone along the route… it seems you two are on a first name basis with everyone we met!”   Chris and Bettina Venezia, (Prangins, Switzerland). Causeway Coast Tour + Backroads and Beyond Tour.  August 2019

“We were pleased beyond words with the two tours (Yeats Country & Lakelands and The Causeway Coast) we took in August, 2019 with Ireland by Bike. The owners have planned extraordinarily beautiful routes through Northwest and Northern Ireland, chosen charming B&B’s, supplied near flawless cue sheets/maps paired with a GPS unit, and provided exceptional in-person and phone-call service. The scenery on The Causeway Coast tour was absolutely stunning with dramatic cliffs meeting the sea, lush farmland with roller coaster hills, and deep green glens. Seamus and Nora, your cycling tours top our list of favorites!”

Julane and Art Anderson, Maryland, U.S.A.  Yeats Country and Lakelands + Causeway Coast August 2019.

See Julane and Art’s wonderful photo album and commentary here:  (External Link)

The Causeway Coast Bike Tour – FAQ’s

Below you will find the answer to some of the most commonly asked questions about this tour.  For other more general FAQ’s please visit our FAQ page .

Who is this tour suitable for?

This tour is suitable for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness who is comfortable cycling 40 – 50 km (25 – 30 miles) on a typical day.   It is important to note that on some days the routes are very hilly.   Experienced cyclists will have no difficulty with the distances and hills.  If this tour appeals to you but you are worried about the hills, we recommend using an e-bike.

Will I be cycling along with others?

It is quite likely but not guaranteed that others will be following the same routes as you.  However as this is a self-guided bike tour there is no guarantee that you will be along with others.

Is this tour on cycle paths or public roads?

For most of this tour you are on roads that are also open to traffic.  There are some dedicated cycle paths in towns like Derry and Coleraine where you would expect to find the heaviest traffic.  There is also a section on gravel along the old railway line between Bushmills and the Giant’s Causeway.   There are some short stretches on roads with moderate traffic.  However even here traffic is limited and cycling is not difficult.

Are the routes hilly?

The routes on this bike tour are very hilly.  (This is partly why it is so beautiful)  Most hills are not long however the gradient varies constantly from gentle to very steep.  On an average day where you would typically cycle 40 km (30 miles) you can expect an elevation gain of approximately 400 metres (1,300 ft).  Using an electric bike will make the hills seem non-existent.

How do I get to the start?

This bike tour starts in Derry City (Londonderry)  It has regular direct bus connections to Belfast and Dublin Airports.  There are also direct connections to Ireland West (Knock) Airport.  To see links to websites with more information and timetables click on the “Getting Here” tab above.   If you are flying Trans-Atlantic it is worth noting that most flights are overnight – arriving in Ireland in the early morning so you may want to consider a “recovery day” before starting to cycle.

How do I get from the end of the tour?

The tour finishes in Cushendall in the Heart of the Glens of Antrim.  There are bus connections to Ballymena where you will find frequent bus or train connections to Belfast or back to Derry.

What is the currency?

In Northern Ireland the currency is the British Pound (sterling)  £ In the Republic of Ireland the currency is the Euro €

3 bikes tour rating graphic

Julane and Art Anderson, Maryland, U.S.A.  Yeats Country and Lakelands + Causeway Coast August 2019.  

See Julane and Art’s wonderful photo album and commentry here : (External Link)

  • Amuigh Faoin Aer Teo. T/A Ireland By Bike Teelin Rd, Carrick, Co Donegal, Republic of Ireland
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  • Bike and E-bike Hire
  • One Day E-Bike Tours

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  • Great Britain
  • 8 - 10 Days
  • 11 - 14 Days
  • Self Guided (Open Departure)
  • Self Guided (Scheduled Departure)
  • Guided (Scheduled Departure)

Grand North of Ireland Self-Guided

Extended Route

This is a comprehensive tour of the North of Ireland region. We have tailored the best cycle routes in Northern Ireland, you will take in the Bann Valley, the Sperrins, the Causeway Coast, the Antrim Plateau, the Glens of Antrim, the Antrim Coast Road, Belfast, the Mournes, the Ards Peninsula and St Patrick’s Country.

Our grand tour of Northern Ireland can start in either Belfast or Moira, your first ride takes you to Rostrevor. This route is on quiet, rural roads in County Down and partially along the old Newry Canal on a cycle path past the village of Scarva. This route is an ideal chance to get acquainted with your bike away from any traffic.

From Rostrevor you then climb through the Mourne Mountains to the picturesque Spelga Pass, where you drop down to the seaside town of Newcastle. From there you head along the coastline around Dundrum Bay to Strangford for a two-night stopover. The loop route explores St Patrick’s Country and the southern end of the Ards Peninsula. Your journey from Strangford takes you through both rolling County Down drumlins and coastal cycling routes to your accommodation near Comber. Nendrum Monastic Site is worth a visit from here. From Comber you can take the greenway all the way into the capital city of Belfast. There is plenty to see and do in Belfast, but we’ll provide you with loop options should you want them.

From Belfast you will get a transfer to Antrim, where you begin to explore the alluring Causeway Coast. Your ride from Antrim is through rural farmland and small towns such as Toome and Portglenone, before settling in Aghadowey. From this point on you are never far from the stunning, world famous coastline. You first visit Bushmills for a two-night stay, where you will get a chance to visit the mystical Giants’ Causeway, as well as Dunluce Castle and the ancient Bushmills Distillery. From Bushmills you continue round the coastline to the seaside resort town of Ballycastle. There are several more ‘must see’ attractions en route, including Carrick-a- Rede Rope bridge, Ballintoy Harbour and Kilbane Castle. Much of this coastline has been used in recent years for the filming of hit tv series Game of Thrones. From Ballycastle you can then do the challenging, but thoroughly worthwhile extension to Torr Head, before hugging the coastline around to Cushendall. You also have the opportunity to visit the beautiful Glenarriff Forest Park. The last leg of a memorable tour is a gentle, flat ride into the heart of Belfast, via Carrickfergus Castle.

Sperrins

The award-winning Belfast City

Gortin Lakes

Binevenagh Plateau

Mussenden Temple

The Giant’s Causeway

Dunluce Castle

Bushmills Distillery

The Antrim Coast Road

The Silent Valley

Tollymore Forest Park

Castleward House

Dundrum Castle

Nendrum Monastic Site

Arrive in Belfast or Moira as preferred or what fits best with your inward travel plans. Full tour briefing and bike fitting will take place early next morning at your Moira accommodation at a pre-arranged time. If you decide to stay in Belfast you have the option to add a day either at the start or the end of your tour to see some of Belfast famous attractions. If you stay in Belfast you will have to transfer to Moira by train for the morning briefing.

Moira to Rostrevor - (Core Route 41 miles Ascent 1879 feet) Today is rural cycling taking in the County Down countryside along quiet country. Part of the route takes you on the 200-year-old Newry Canal on a cycle path past the village of Scrava which has an interesting visitors centre, Historical Newry, the combined Port and Resort town of Warrenpoint and on to Rostrevor a lively village on the coast nestling in the foothills of the Mourne mountains. Along the way stop to see St Bagnenal’s Castle and Museum in Newry and Narrow Water’s Castle between Newry and Warrenpoint

Moira Rostrevor elv

Rostrevor to Newcastle - (Core Route 27 miles Ascent 2342 feet) Leaving Rostrevor you will cycle through the stunning Mourne mountains to the picturesque resort town of Newcastle and the home of Royal County Down Golf regularity listed in the world’s top ten. Along the way you have the opportunity to stop at Hilltown, the Spelga and Silent Valley dams and the forest park at Tollymore. It’s a day for the camera.

Rostrevoe newcastle elv

Newcastle to Strangford - (Loop ride 34 miles Ascent 887 feet) Back to coastal cycling as the route meanders through the villages of Dundrum with its historical castle, architecturally interesting Killlough, the fishing village of Ardglass and into the beautiful loughside village of Strangford your home for the next two days and a chance to really unpack.

Newcastle strangford elv

Strangford - Strangford (core Route 32 miles Ascent 887 feet) This is a day of options. Choose between crossing Strangford Lough on a quaint ferry and exploring the Ards Peninsula or a shorter loop to a stately home at Castleward. The day offers attractions such as Exploris marine park, Mount Stewart and Casleward stately homes leisurely cycling or some lovely walks if you prefer. This is real Game of Thrones territory for those who follow the TV series.

Stranford loop elv

Strangford to Comber - (core Route 39 miles Ascent 1455 feet) On the move again, starting westwards towards the Historical town of Downpatrick, the focal point for St Patrick with his grave at Down Cathedral, Down Museum and the St Patrick centre all clustered together in the town centre. Your journey takes through both rolling County Down drumlins and Coastal cycling routes to your accommodation near Comber. Nendrum Monastic Site is worth a visit.

Strangford Comber elv

Comber to Belfast - (Core Route 13 miles Ascent 688 feet) You can cycle all the way to Belfast on the core Route which is mostly a dedicated Greenway cycling path. This short ride allows you to have some extra time in Belfast to see its many attractions including the world-renowned Titanic Experience which is on your way into the centre of Belfast. In Belfast, we can arrange a cycling option along the picturesque River Lagan Tow path.

Comber Belfast elv

Transfer to Antrim to start cycling Antrim to Aghadowey - (Core Route 42 miles Ascent 1259 feet) Today is rural cycling taking in the distinctive and charming Northern Irish countryside along quiet country roads as you meander alongside the British Isles biggest inland Lough (lake) and through the River Bann valley towards your next stop at Aghadowey. On the way, you pass the through typical Irish towns of Antrim, Toome and Portglenone. The full route is a comfortable 43 miles long but if that is a bit challenging on your first day we have shorter options available.

Antrim Aghadowey Elv

Aghadowey to Bushmills - (Core Route 36 miles Ascent 1134 feet) From your rural overnight accommodation, you continue to the county town of Coleraine before heading West towards Mussenden Demesne and the Bishops palace catching your first sight of the world-famous Causeway Coast which won’t be far from you until you return to Belfast at the end of your trip. Here we offer a loop extension to your core route over the very scenic Binevenagh Plateau. You return to Coleraine and follow the route East through the coastal resort towns of Portstewart and Portrush passing by the world class Royal Portrush Golf Links and the historical cliff clinging Dunluce Castle and into Bushmills where you stay overnight

Aghadowey Bushmills elv

Bushmills to Bushmills - (Loop ride 30 miles Ascent 979 feet) A rest day, if you like, as there is a lot to see in Bushmills. The Giants Causeway and the Bushmills distillery are the highlights. We recommend the Coastal walk from the Giants Causeway which is a great walk with spectacular views. If the bike calls, we have a rural cycling route nearby the River Bush which takes in the unique Dark Hedges made famous by the TV series “Game of Thrones” We find that about 50% of our cyclists are big fans and if you are there are several other famous G.O.T iconic places on this tour which we pass. If you are not they are all in beautiful locations.

Bushmills loop elv

Bushmills to Ballycastle - (core Route 15 miles Ascent 1032 feet) Short core ride along the Causeway Coastal Route but lots to see. Some people do the short route and spend time at the attractions, namely Carrick-a- Rede Rope bridge, Ballintoy Harbour and Kilbane Castle. Some people leave early visit the attractions and arrive in Ballycastle early where they either decide to visit Rathlin island (famous for its Puffin colony) or just chill out in Ballycastle. Some people when they get to Ballycastle decide to go on and do the spectacular but challenging, in parts, Torr Head loop. All of them report back that they have had a great day. It’s an infinitely flexible day.

Bushmiklls ballycastle elv

Ballycastle to Cushendall -(core Route 36 miles Ascent 2390 feet) Today’s core route takes you through the heart of the Antrim Glens, experiencing an everchanging vista that at times leaves you feeling alone and as one with nature. Even the sheep seem surprised to see you as they wonder freely on what they clearly see as their roads The route takes you back by the Glenarriff Forest park where you can take a break and do one of their marked walks. Options abound today as you can alternatively choose to descend back to the coast through Glenann or Glendun and go to your destination Cushendall via Cushendun.

Ballycastle Cushendall Elv

Cushendall to Belfast - (Core Route 50 miles Ascent 1796 feet) You can cycle all the way to Belfast on the core Route which follows the Coastal route to Larne and then via Carrickfergus and Whiteabbey to your last night’s accommodation. Some people jump on a train with their bikes at Larne or Carrickfergus in order to arrive a bit earlier. Scenic villages, a great juxtaposition of sea and coast, and some interesting Castles all add up to make this a memorable last day. There is a very spectacular Cliffside guided walk recently reopened at the Gobbins on Islandmagee. This needs to be booked well in advance so if this of interest let us know at your booking stage.

Cushendall to Belfast elv

Accommodation

The standard accommodations for this region's self-guided itineraries are guesthouses and bed and breakfasts (B&Bs). Generally, these have between 4 and 10 guest rooms and the owners/providers live on the premises. In almost all cases the bathroom facilities are ensuite (self-contained within the room), and the room facilities usually include a television and tea/coffee making facilities. There is a communal reading / television lounge. Small family run hotels are also used in a few locations. The providers are excellent sources of local information.

Breakfast is always included. Most guesthouses do not offer an evening meal.

When you book a tour, your pre-trip planner will have more details about the specific facilities and services provided by the accommodations.

Examples of our guesthouses in this region include;

  • Brown Trout Inn
  • R avenhill House

Getting there

From Belfast International Airport, Ulsterbus operates a frequent service to Belfast Europa Bus Station (45 minutes). A taxi is the other (less economical) alternative. This larger airport is where most international flights arrive.

From Belfast City Airport, Ulsterbus operates a frequent service to Belfast Europa Bus Station (15 minutes). Again, a very short taxi ride is the alternative. This airport, very close to the city centre, typically serves domestic flights, although an increasing number of European routes are being added.

From Dublin Airport, both Bus Eireann and Aircoach operate a frequent service to Belfast Europa Bus Station. Alternatively take a Dublin Bus Airlink Service to Dublin Connolly Station and a NIR or Irish Rail Enterprise train service to Belfast Central Station.

Ireland's climate is surprisingly mild given its northern location. This is mainly due to the warming effects of the Gulf Stream which brings warm waters up to Western Europe from the more tropical Atlantic zones.

Temperamental is a fitting description of Ireland's weather. It can be very unpredictable! The old adage that it is possible to experience four seasons in one day is close to the truth. During the summertime, the warmest months tend to be July and August, when average temperatures during the day can range from 15ºC to 20ºC. A hot day in summertime could produce temperatures of 22ºC to 24ºC and on rare occasions can exceed 30ºC.

The best time to travel to Ireland for an outdoor trip such as a bicycle tour is from the beginning of May to the end of September. April and October are also possible, but the chances of encountering inclement weather increase. Towards the end of October the days are significantly shorter.

Traditionally May can provide some of the best weather days of the season. The last two weeks in June have the longest days of the year.

July and August are peak travel season for Ireland. The first weekend in August (a public holiday weekend) is the busiest of the season. School holidays are from the end of June until the end of August.

The latter half of September sees the change to autumn colours.

£1375 per person sharing, to include;

  • 13 nights' accommodation with breakfast
  • Pre-Trip Information Booklet and Planner
  • On call telephone support
  • All mapping, routes and cue sheets with gpx tracks
  • Meet, greet and bike fitting

Luggage transfer charges are calculated as follows:

The standard charge is based on one or two riders. A couple would therefore share the luggage transfer costs. There is then a small additional fee for the third and each additional person. For example:

  • Total cost for one or two riders = 460 (230 per person based on two people sharing)
  • Total cost for three riders = 460 + 30= 490 (163 per person)
  • Total cost for four riders = 460 + 30+ 30 = 520 (130 per person)

Note that the more riders in the group, the less expensive are the luggage transfers per rider

Please note that whilst we will try our best to provide you with the exact bike as listed below, due to availability or sizing issues we may not always be able to. The bike you will receive will be of a very similar spec and always in very good condition.

Trek FX hybrid

  • 5 frame sizes
  • FX Alpha Gold Aluminium
  • FX Alloy fork

Bring your own saddle and/or pedals if you wish and we will fit them to the bike. (You must be able to remove them yourself at the end of your trip).

Fitted with: Rear rack; platform pedals, bottle cage, fenders (mudguards)

Equipment provided: Handlebar bag; map case; spare tube; puncture repair kit; lock; mini pump; multitool.

Available on request: Panniers, helmet, odomoter, gps unit

Ridgeback Panorama Touring Bike

  • Full shimano drive
  • Disc brakes
  • Full length mudguards

Bring your own saddle and/or pedals if you wish and we will fit them to the bike. (You must be able to remove them yourself at the end of your trip)

Fuji Sportif Road Bike

  • A2-SL double-butted alloy frame
  • Shimano Sora 2x9 components
  • Vittoria Zaffiro 700x30c tires

Fitted with: Platform pedals, bottle cage,

Equipment provided: map case; spare tube; puncture repair kit; lock; mini pump; multitool, frame bag

Fuji E-Traverse E-Bike

  • Suntour NEX disc fork
  • Bafang H400 rear hub motor
  • Bafang 5 mode LED display w/walk assist
  • Shimano Gearing

John Smith

The experience of a lifetime

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Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent vel ante sollicitudin, condimentum tortor et, tempor magna. Nam accumsan, erat et egestas ultricies, quam leo dictum diam, placerat mattis nunc sem in tellus. Suspendisse velit nisl, porttitor eget nunc eget, interdum dignissim justo. Nunc volutpat orci at nibh mollis accumsan. Suspendisse placerat sollicitudin finibus. Vestibulum condimentum lacus ut nisl rutrum vestibulum. Proin nec ex tortor. Curabitur nec posuere nisi. Nullam vitae metus sed odio ullamcorper viverra.

Susan Jones

A fantastic cycling experience

Claire Brown

Unforgettable times in a beautiful location

Are you ready to find your next adventure? Leave us your details to make an enquiry.

+44 (0) 7780 496969

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Stage 1: Saffron Walden - Colchester, 159.2km

Stage 2: maldon - maldon, 146.6km, stage 3: london - london, 91.2km.

The Ford RideLondon Classique became a three-day Women’s WorldTour event in 2022 and continued with this format on May 24-26. The 397km route includes two stages in Essex and a final stage in London, with a finish on The Mall.

Following a similar route to last year’s race, the organisers have modified the two first stages in Essex, while the third and final stage returns to the traditional central London circuit.

“The best riders in the world want to race the Ford RideLondon Classique – the talent on show in the 2024 field represents the very best of the elite women’s peloton. The sprinting on show will be of the highest order and this could be the fastest edition of the race ever,”  said Scott Sunderland, race director.

"With a world-class lineup on a world-class course, you can expect to see aggressive team tactics and strategic attacks by riders. The course has been modified in 2024 to reward this type of racing during the stages in Essex.”

Stage 1 on Friday, May 24 will start in the medieval market town of Saffron Walden, in north-west Essex for 159.2 kilometres to the historic city of Colchester.

After just 8km of racing, the riders will approach Hertford Lane and the first Queen of the Mountains in Elmdon, quickly followed 10 kilometres later by the second QOM in Barkway. The riders will head east on rolling roads before hitting the first intermediate sprint of the day in Halstead, 88km into the stage.  One more QOM in Wormingord and second  intermediate sprint  in Mistley will be faced before the conclusion in Colchester.

Maldon will host the start and finish of stage 2 on Saturday. The 146.6km stage will head east through Goldhanger and Tolleshunt D’Arcy to its most northerly point in the village of Birch before looping west to Tiptree after 28km. The riders will continue onto Braxted and Beacon Hill before the first of three loops of the circuit. 

The route will loop towards the first QOM points at Little Baddow, and the peloton will do its first pass through Maldon and head towards Wickham Bishops and the first intermediate sprint, 74km into the stage. The two further loops of the circuit follow, with QOM and Sprint points at the same points before a finish in Maldon High Street.

The race will culminate with the showpiece stage 3 on Sunday, May 26. The peloton will make eight full laps of the 11.5km Central London circuit for a total of 92 kilometres before a final sprint for the victory on The Mall.

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Lyne Lamoureux

Lyne has been involved in professional cycling for more than 15 years in both news reporting and sports marketing. She founded Podium Insight in 2008, quickly becoming a trusted source for news of the North American professional cycling world. She was the first to successfully use social media to consistently provide timely and live race updates for all fans. She is proud to have covered men's and women's news equally during her tenure at the helm of the site. Her writing has appeared on Cyclingnews and other news sites. 

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Cycle Northern Ireland - Tour

  • Cycle Northern Ireland
  • Deposit Secures Booking

Cycle Tour of Northern Ireland

Fully supported tour around northern ireland, start and finish in belfast and circumnavigate northern ireland in 8 days.

Suitable for the ' Active ' rider.

Join us on an epic cycle challenge in the very best locations around the whole of Northern Ireland.

Northern Ireland has seen an explosion of interest in recent years. There is a positive vibe about the place and a legion of sites to experience along the route and in the evenings. We have kept the distance to around 90 km (55 mi) each day with shorter options of 70 km (45 mi). The duration is eight nights with eight days’ cycling.

We have crafted the route to ensure your time is spent in only the areas with fantastic cycling and great scenery.

Price  - £1,520 Per Person Sharing. Some single rooms are available for an additional supplement of £360.

Cycle Tour of Northern Ireland Route Map

What is included in the tour

  • Transfers to start and from finish
  • Eight nights’ accommodation in good quality hotels
  • Strangford Lough ferry fare
  • Luggage transfer each day
  • Hearty Irish breakfast!
  • Lunch - In a pub, restaurant or café, or sometimes picnic style
  • Vehicle support
  • Snacks and drinks all day!
  • Rider pickup
  • Mechanical support
  • Spare parts
  • Route information - GPX files and daily route profile sheets

What is NOT included in the tour

  • Morning coffee stops - we will recommend places to stop at morning briefing and these will be marked on the profile sheets also
  • Evening meals - Our stopovers all have reasonably priced restaurants and pubs nearby and most of the hotels have good dining. Breakfast and lunch IS included
  • Optional trips / entry fees for any excursions you arrange independently
  • Insurance - you need to organise your own bike and travel insurance as required
  • Gels, high energy bars, energy powder and shakes - bring your own as per what works best for you and your tummy!
  • Bike hire (we recommend you bring your own)
  • Flights to and from Belfast

An email will be sent out prior to the tour with a link to order extras such as bike box storage, airport transfers and merchandise

Northern Ireland Revolution Cycle Route & Itinerary

Aim to arrive at the Maldron Hotel at Belfast International Airport (5 mins walk from the terminal) by mid-afternoon on the first date of the advertised tour. We will have briefing and bike preparation that evening. The hotel restaurant will be open for food and drinks (not included in price). The next morning we transport you, your bike and your belongings to Newcastle, County Down where we begin cycling.

We spend two fantastic days following carefully planned routes in the Mourne Mountains. The second cycling day is the most challenging of the tour. But don’t worry, our SAG / Support wagon will be on call if you need assistance of any kind! We cycle the Silent Valley and Spelga Damn as well as the pretty small towns of Rostrevor and Castlewellan.

Next we head north through a number of small fishing villages including Ardglass then on through the town of Downpatrick, the home of St. Patrick’s grave. We take the ferry through ‘the Narrows’ at the mouth of Strangford Lough to the village of Portaferry on the other side.

The next day we cycle the quiet roads of the Ards Peninsula with several stunning lough views which change before your eyes as the tides empty and fill the lough. This area is renowned for its wild habitats, hundreds of small islands and rich bird life.

We finish in the picturesque coastal town of Bangor with its large marina, beaches and coastal walks. The next morning we do a coach transfer to the west and cycle north to Limavady through the beautiful Sperrin Mountain range and uplands. We stay in a beautiful hotel with spa and golf course.

The next day takes us to Ballycastle – a splendid village right on the coast. Our route takes us via the Giant’s Causeway and through the Dark Hedges - made famous as the King’s Road in Game of Thrones.

Then it’s on to the Causeway Coast Road and Glens of Antrim and a night in the village of Carnlough by the sea. We then pedal further south and finish at Carrickfergus with its imposing medieval castle just north of Belfast. You will then be transferred to the Airport or the city of Belfast. You may choose to add on a night or two and explore this lively, forward-thinking city before leaving for home.

Daily Breakdown

The daily itinerary is shown below. The daily distance cycled is 35 to 50 miles:

  • Day One - Arrival Day (no cycling) - Arrive and overnight in Belfast
  • Day Two - Transfer to Mournes area - cycle Analong / Silent Valley / Bryansford
  • Day Three - Mournes area - Spelga Damn / Rostrevor / Castlewellan
  • Day Four - Strangford area - County Down - Fishing Villages
  • Day Five - Ards Penninsula - Ards Peninsula and Strangford Lough
  • Day Six - Coach to the west and then cycle the Sperrin Uplands
  • Day Seven - Causeway Coast to Ballycastle - North Coast / Dunluce Castle
  • Day Eight - Causeway Coast and Glens Area - Giant's Causeway / Antrim Coast Road
  • Day Nine - Coast road to Carrickfergus. Then coach transfer to Belfast International Airport or the lively city of Belfast. Arrival time at airport estimated to be 5pm

TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS

Getting to the Start

Our meeting point at the start is the 'Maldron Hotel' at the Belfast International Airport from at 4pm. The Maldron Hotel is 5 minutes’ walk from the Belfast International Airport terminal. We prepare our bikes and then spend the night in the Maldron Hotel. We travel down to Newcastle and begin cycling the next morning.

Departing at the End

After the finish, our setdown point is the Maldron Hotel at Belfast International Airport. Due to the uncertainty of finish times, we discourage you from booking onward flights on the finish evening. Instead you may wish to book into the Maldron Hotel. This overnight isn't required by everyone and therefore is not included in the tour price. You will need to make any necessary bookings yourself. Your bike box / bag will be taken to your set-down point where you can then repack your bike at your leisure.

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  • AVERAGE DAILY CLIMBING (METERS)

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NYC Five Boro Bike Tour 2024: Are e-bikes allowed on the route?

  • Updated: Apr. 28, 2024, 9:04 a.m. |
  • Published: Apr. 28, 2024, 9:00 a.m.

New York City TD Five Boro Bike Tour 2022

On Sunday, May 5, the NYC Five Boro Bike Tour will set out on a 40-mile route that spans all five boroughs. (Staten Island Advance/Derek Alvez).

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- In just two weeks, the TD NYC Five Boro Bike Tour will set out on a 40-mile route that spans all five boroughs.

The event, hosted by Bike New York, is set for Sunday, May 5. The first wave of riders will get started at 7:30 a.m.

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Youth day classification, team day classification, race information.

cycle tour ireland route

  • Date: 23 April 2024
  • Start time: 14:50
  • Avg. speed winner: 46.903 km/h
  • Race category: ME - Men Elite
  • Distance: 2.28 km
  • Points scale: 2.WT.Stage
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  • Vert. meters: 3
  • Departure: Payerne
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Texas MS 150 Bike Tour Returns To Aggieland

Texas A&M University will once again serve as the finish line for thousands of cyclists riding in the Texas MS 150 when the 40th annual charity bike tour concludes Sunday on Houston Street between Kyle Field and Aggie Park.

The two-day event benefiting people with multiple sclerosis — a condition that damages the body’s nervous system by eroding the protective coating of nerves — will run April 27-28, with a variety of routes beginning in Houston and Austin before converging in La Grange and again in College Station. Texas A&M Transportation Services is advising drivers to anticipate multiple road closures and potential delays beginning early Sunday as the riders make their way through campus.

A section of Lamar Street starting at the bell tower will be closed to drivers throughout the day, while Houston Street will remain closed from George Bush Drive to Joe Routt Boulevard. Riders will make their way down Olsen Boulevard and Old Main Drive before passing the Memorial Student Center and Kyle Field on their way to the finish line. A map of the route through campus, as well as accompanying road closure and parking information, can be found at transport.tamu.edu/ms150 .

Visitors planning to watch the participants finish are invited to park in one of the three nearby garages: Gene Stallings Boulevard Garage and University Center Garage will both charge a flat $10 entry fee, while West Campus Garage charges an hourly visitor rate. Additional parking information is available on Transportation Services’ event parking page .

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s Bike MS, which encompasses the Texas MS 150 and a variety of other charity rides across the country, traces its roots to 1980, when the first MS 150 was held in Minnesota. Today, it is the largest fundraising cycling series in the world. Participants in this year’s Texas MS 150 have already raised nearly $7 million to fight multiple sclerosis, with an overall fundraising goal of $9.425 million. More information about the Texas MS 150 and Bike MS is available at events.nationalmssociety.org .

Media contact: Tad Fifer, Texas A&M Transportation Services, [email protected]

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IMAGES

  1. Ireland's Most Breathtaking Cycle Routes

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  2. Classic Cycling Routes in Ireland

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  3. 10 beautiful scenic cycle routes around Ireland

    cycle tour ireland route

  4. 10 beautiful scenic cycle routes around Ireland

    cycle tour ireland route

  5. The 10 BEST CYCLING routes in Ireland, RANKED

    cycle tour ireland route

  6. The 10 BEST CYCLING routes in Ireland, RANKED

    cycle tour ireland route

VIDEO

  1. LF860

  2. Go-Ahead Ireland: Route 126

  3. Go Ahead Ireland

  4. Go-Ahead Ireland: Route 125

  5. Go Ahead Ireland

  6. Lands of The Celts

COMMENTS

  1. Cycling Routes Ireland

    Plan your cycle route with Cycling Ireland's route guide. Download a route to your bike computer so you never miss a turn. ... Tour of Fermanagh 60km Route. Fermanagh 60km. View Details. Beechdale Loop. Wexford 56km. View Details. Omagh to Loughmacrory. Tyrone 29km. View Details. South Wexford. Wexford 70km.

  2. The 10 BEST CYCLING routes in Ireland, RANKED

    4. Connemara cycle route - for a multi-day adventure. 3. Blessington loop - The Garden of Ireland circuit. 2. The Ring of Kerry - for beauty beyond your wildest dreams. 1. Loop Head cycle route - the heritage trail. Your questions answered about the best cycle routes in Ireland.

  3. Cycling the Wild Atlantic Way

    Cycling the Wild Atlantic Way. November 26, 2018. Glen Head in County Donegal. One of the many spectacular locations on the Wild Atlantic Way. The Wild Atlantic Way stretches for an amazing 2,500 km (1,500 miles) along Ireland's west coast. It's a route that brings you past every possible seascape; from towering cliffs, hidden inlets ...

  4. 5 great cycling routes around Ireland

    The heather and moss-covered peaks are the epitome of Irish countryside, and inspired CS Lewis to create the magical land of Narnia (in The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe ). The Mournes have plenty of cycle trails, such as the Rostrevor Route (27km), which gives wonderful views of Rostrevor Forest, the Mourne Mountains and Carlingford Lough.

  5. Best Irish Cycling Routes

    Local Expert Routes . Guided Tours. The Pilgrim Route. Hike, Bike, Gourmet & the Skelligs €1,650. Wild Atlantic Étape South. 615km of the Wild Atlantic Way €1,140. More Guided Tours . Annalise Murphy. Olympic Silver Medalist 2016.

  6. Cycle Tours Ireland

    Through our Loyalty programme Cycle Tours Ireland reward clients who rebook tours with discounts. Guided or Self-Guided Cycle Tours, Cycling routes that offer you the best of our diverse landscape, including the famous Wild Atlantic Way and the Scenic gems of Ireland's Hidden Heartland.Experience great local food in quaint towns and Villages.

  7. Top 10 Bike Rides and Cycling Routes in Ireland

    Cycling in Ireland is one of the best ways to enjoy this country's fantastic scenery, explore its charming villages and feel the freedom in its expansive landscapes. With mountain ranges, dramatic sea cliffs, tranquil forests and ancient ruins, you're never short on beauty when two-wheeling about. There are plenty of family-friendly cycle routes in Ireland too, from designated gravel ...

  8. Find Ireland's Best Cycling Routes with Discover Ireland

    From Dublin to West Cork or from Waterford to Mayo, Ireland is a dream for cycling enthusiasts. There truly is no better way to see the beauty of our wonderful country than on two wheels. From looped, paved routes to epic mountain trails, here are the eight best cycling routes in Ireland. 1. Great Western Greenway, Mayo. 2.

  9. Republic of Ireland

    This organisation maintains a database of signposted walking and cycling routes in Ireland. [email protected] +353 86 8571008 ... West Ireland Cycling is a family owned cycling tour & bike rental business, located in Galway city on the west coast of Ireland. We arrange guided & self guided tours through Connemara & along the Wild Atlantic Way.

  10. Best cycle routes Ireland: These are the top 8

    Dublin to Wicklow Mountains Loop - 75km. This route starts in Dublin and is the perfect way to escape the city for a while. The route starts steeply and features a couple of decent climbs on ...

  11. Guide to cycling the Wild Atlantic Way + MizMal

    These two routes down Ireland's west coast are stunning and often listed as two of the best cycling routes in Ireland. 1.1 Wild Atlantic Way cycle route. ... And for many this means a cycling tour in Ireland. We are a friendly and chatty bunch! As the leading Ireland-based tour operator we have lots of experience to share.

  12. Home

    Locally Based Authentic Irish Cycling Holidays/Bike Tours. Ireland by Bike is a locally based, family owned and operated company offering self-guided bike tours in Ireland's North West and Northern Ireland. Founded in 2010 our tours are carefully planned allowing you to discover Ireland's most stunning and interesting locations.

  13. Self Guided Cycling Tours in Ireland

    Choose from hybrid bicycles, road bicycles, tandems and E-bikes. All bicycles are immaculately maintained and most of our Ireland bike tour bicycles are new for the season. Extensive range of bike, bicycle & self guided cycling tours in Ireland, to suit individuals, families, and groups of all experience levels and budgets.

  14. Cycle Touring In Ireland

    Ireland is one of the planet's most sought-after bike touring destinations and a place that many people, the world over, dream of visiting, if only once in their lifetime. The steep seaside cliffs, the lush green mountains, and the safe, colorful towns attract millions of tourists from all around the world. But what is Ireland like as a ...

  15. Ireland Cycle Tour from Mizen to Malin

    Overview. Our Mizen to Malin 13 day cycle tour is an unforgettable adventure by bike. The journey starts at Ireland's most south-westerly point and finishes at its most northerly - a distance of approximately 960km. This inspiring and unique journey takes you through breath-taking landscapes and quintessential towns.

  16. Bike the Wild Atlantic Way

    Biking 875 km (543 miles) over 14 days, we'll explore the best Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way has to offer on two wheels. On this unique itinerary, you'll bike nearly every step of the way on this cross-country trip. Of course, whenever your bike gets tired, remember you can always hop in the support van. While our expert guides interpret ...

  17. Ireland Bike Tours & Cycling Holidays

    20 Jul 2024, 03 Aug 2024, 24 Aug 2024, and more. Mizen Head to Malin Head. 80 km • 725 meters • daily average. Our Mizen to Malin 13 day cycle tour is an unforgettable adventure by bike. The journey starts at Ireland's most south-westerly point and finishes at its most northerly - a distance of approximately 960km.

  18. Bike Tours Ireland

    On Wilderness Ireland's guided bike tours, you'll pedal through Ireland's meandering, scenic routes - the perfect way to slow down and discover the most majestic and scenic corners of the Emerald Isle. Discover the best of Ireland's sublime landscapes, history and culture on a journey through the centuries. Rural Ireland is perfect ...

  19. Ireland End to End Cycle Tour

    Summary of Tour. This superb 10 day tour offers varied cycling through the delightful Irish countryside as we travel the 595 mile perfectly designed route from Mizen Head, Ireland's most SW point to Malin Head, its most Northernly point. Being shorter and easier days than Land's End to John O'Groats (LEJOG) allows for some later starts / earlier finishes enabling you to relax and recover by ...

  20. The Causeway Coast Bike Tour

    Dates: 21 May to 03 September 2024. Terrain: Hilly: E-Bike Recommended. "We were pleased beyond words with the two tours (Yeats Country & Lakelands and The Causeway Coast) we took in August, 2019 with Ireland by Bike. The owners have planned extraordinarily beautiful routes through Northwest and Northern Ireland, chosen charming B&B's ...

  21. Grand North of Ireland Self-Guided Cycle Tour

    This is a comprehensive tour of the North of Ireland region. We have tailored the best cycle routes in Northern Ireland, you will take in the Bann Valley, the Sperrins, the Causeway Coast, the Antrim Plateau, the Glens of Antrim, the Antrim Coast Road, Belfast, the Mournes, the Ards Peninsula and St Patrick's Country.

  22. RideLondon Classique 2024 route

    The Ford RideLondon Classique became a three-day Women's WorldTour event in 2022 and continued with this format on May 24-26. The 397km route includes two stages in Essex and a final stage in ...

  23. Cycle Mizen to Malin the Ireland End-to-End on the Wild Atlanitc Way

    This epic cycle tour takes you through some of Ireland's most breath-taking landscapes, charming towns, and historic sites. Expect great music and apres bike banter in the pub! Wild Atlantic Cycling is based in Ireland! The only Irish company successfully running the Ireland End-to-End! Mizen to Malin 8 Day Cycle Tour Route Map

  24. 2024 Presidential Tour of Turkey

    2 Route. 3 Stages. Toggle Stages subsection. 3.1 Stage 1. 3.2 Stage 2. 3.3 Stage 3. 3.4 Stage 4. 3.5 Stage 5. 3.6 Stage 6. 3.7 Stage 7. 3.8 Stage 8. ... The 2024 Presidential Tour of Turkey is a road cycling stage race that is being held between 21 and 28 April 2024 in Turkey. It is the 61th edition of the Presidential Tour of Turkey.

  25. Cycle Tour of Northern Ireland

    Northern Ireland Revolution Cycle Route & Itinerary. Aim to arrive at the Maldron Hotel at Belfast International Airport (5 mins walk from the terminal) by mid-afternoon on the first date of the advertised tour. We will have briefing and bike preparation that evening. The hotel restaurant will be open for food and drinks (not included in price).

  26. NYC Five Boro Bike Tour 2024: Are e-bikes allowed on the route ...

    STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- In just two weeks, the TD NYC Five Boro Bike Tour will set out on a 40-mile route that spans all five boroughs. The event, hosted by Bike New York, is set for Sunday, May 5 ...

  27. Tour de Romandie 2024 Prologue results

    Maikel Zijlaard is the winner of Tour de Romandie 2024 Prologue, before Cameron Scott and Julian Alaphilippe. Maikel Zijlaard was leader in GC. ... Lease a Bike. 22: Team Visma | Lease a Bike,, 0:13.. 35: 167: Climber: UMBA Santiago Astana Qazaqstan Team. 21: Astana Qazaqstan Team,, 0:13.. 36: 66: GC: PLAPP Luke Team Jayco AlUla. 23:

  28. Texas MS 150 Bike Tour Returns To Aggieland

    Today, it is the largest fundraising cycling series in the world. Participants in this year's Texas MS 150 have already raised nearly $7 million to fight multiple sclerosis, with an overall fundraising goal of $9.425 million. More information about the Texas MS 150 and Bike MS is available at events.nationalmssociety.org.