If you’re a keen cyclist, you’ll know there’s nothing better than the freedom of a long cycle ride through spectacular scenery. Ireland is a gift to cycling. With beautiful countryside, plenty of roads without too many cars, as well as off-road route options, when planning a cycling trip you are spoilt for choice. What’s more, Ireland’s stunning landscape features an almost endless supply of off-the-beaten-track nooks and crannies, meaning there’s always more to explore.
So if you’re planning a cycling holiday in Ireland, you might be wondering where to start. From short day trips to longer multi-stop multi-day breaks, and from coastal scenery to countryside charm, there is something for everyone. At The Edge Sports, we love to get outdoors and get active. Our team have put their heads together, compared notes, and come up with their list of the ten greatest cycling routes in Ireland.
- The Wild Atlantic Way cycle route – 2500 km
Not for the faint-hearted, this epic adventure takes in some of the most incredible views Ireland has to offer. Often undertaken as a driving route, this journey spans the length of the island of Ireland – so you might want to plan your holiday to take in just a small part of it unless you have a lot of free time! With wild seascapes around every corner, you’ll explore the Atlantic coastline and feel immersed in the beauty of nature. The full route runs through Cork, Kerry, Clare, Galway, Mayo, Sligo, Leitrim and Donegal – so perhaps choosing just one county to explore is a great way to approach it on your first visit.
- The Ring of Kerry – 180 km
At a more modest 180km, the Ring of Kerry nonetheless punches well above its weight, packing in opportunities for outdoor activities, culture, and incredible scenery. In part, it follows the Wild Atlantic Way coastal route, before turning inland – so it might be a good way to start seeing some of the longer trails whilst also having the convenience and satisfaction of completing a circular path.
The Ring of Kerry starts in Killarney, and we’d highly recommend tagging the optional extra Skellig Ring onto your planned route. This involves taking a ferry just outside Cahersiveen to the wonderful Valentia Island, and a bridge near the picturesque village of Portmagee. From there visit the Glen and Ballinskelligs, taking in beautiful Blue Flag beaches along the way. Don’t forget your wetsuit and Dry Robe to ensure you can enjoy a dip whatever the weather.
- The Kingfisher Trail – 480 km
The Kingfisher Trail was the first long-distance cycling route in Ireland. Taking it at a pleasant pace, you could complete it in around 4 days, enjoying the scenery of the counties of Leitrim, Fermanagh, Cavan, Donegal, and Monaghan. It officially starts in Enniskillen in Northern Ireland, but it’s possible to pick up the route at any point along the trail, with options to rent bikes and equipment at various stops along the way.
The Kingfisher Cycle Trail allows you several different route options, so it’s worth doing your research to choose the paths that will suit you best – there are variations grouped around length, difficulty, and areas of interest. The route is a favourite of ours because of the variation in the scenery – from lakes and mountains to hills, caves, and canals.
If you’re interested in the Kingfisher Trail but have a limited amount of time, it’s possible to pick up a shorter side route too.
- Inishowen 100 Scenic Cycling Route, Donegal – 160 km
Known as the Inishowen 100 because it covers 100 miles, this route takes in the glories of the north coast. Encircling the entire breathtaking Inishowen Peninsula, cyclists will love the starkly beautiful coastal scenery. It’s a nature hot-spot, with activities such as whale and dolphin watching available along the way – so we’d recommend taking your time and building in space to stop and enjoy all that’s on offer.
Those who wish to set themselves a challenge can aim to complete the full distance in a day, but you’d be missing out on the incredible range of activities on offer – not least simply taking the time to sit and enjoy the view! The route takes in Malin Head, the most northerly point in Ireland, via remote bays, white sand beaches and views of the distant mountains. Beautiful.
- Blessington Lakes, Wicklow Mountains and Glendalough Loop, Cycling Route, Wicklow, Ireland – 75 km
If you’re looking for a fantastic full-day adventure, the route around Blessington Lakes and the Wicklow Mountains is hard to beat. It’s a particularly accessible route for busy city dwellers, as you could actually begin the trail in Dublin itself. However, you’ll soon be exploring the glens and peaks of Ireland’s Ancient East. You’ll take in sites such as Baltyboy House, Valleymount Village, Ballynockan Village and Quarry, the spectacular Glendalough, Wicklow Mountains National Park, Lough Tay (where they film the Vikings TV series), and Sally Gap. Remember your camera – and wear your best cycling shorts, as that’s a lot to see in one day and come to the end you’ll appreciate the extra padding!
- Inishmór Entire Island Loop Cycle, Aran Islands, Galway, Ireland – 60 km
This moderate full-day cycle is a great way to take in the largest of the Aran Islands, Inishmór, in one go. From the ancient stone fort of Dun Aonghasa, to the strange natural rock formations along the coast, and of course stunning seascapes, this loop route makes for a magical and memorable cycling day.
- The Burren Cycling route, Co. Clare – 150 km
Challenge yourself to do this in one, or take it easy and make time for sightseeing, by splitting it up over 3 days. Whichever way you choose to cycle it, the Burren route in Co. Clare loops through unforgettably dramatic scenery that is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s pretty special. The Burren – or Boireann in Irish, meaning ‘great rock’ – is a huge escarpment of karst limestone that has been shaped over millennia by the waters around it. The National Park landscape, while dominated by the Burren, features calcareous grasslands, woodlands, and of course, limestone pavements. It’s a site of special environmental interest too.
- Connemara Loop, Galway – 150 km
Another route that touches on the Wild Atlantic Way, and could be tackled in a day if it weren’t for the temptation to slow down and take in the many attractions along the way. We’d advise taking a good 3 days over this one, to allow you to stop at each picturesque village you encounter. This is also a good route to split into smaller loops, if you are based in the area and just want some great cycling interludes as part of your holiday.
- The Great Western Greenway, Co. Mayo – 45 km
This route is particularly popular, as it’s a completely off-road and traffic-free option. It’s a particularly family-friendly route for this reason – but don’t be fooled by the shorter distance. The scenery here is second to none and offers you world-class views across Clew Bay with the famous Croagh Patrick mountain (764m) in the background.
- Loop Head Heritage Trail, Co. Clare – 50-90 km
Once again, this loop trail features a jaunt along the Wild Atlantic Way, but creates a convenient loop, meaning it’s a little easier to organize logistics, and you have the satisfaction of never having to go over ground you’ve already covered. The Loop Head Penninsula is nestled between the Shannon River on one side, and the Atlantic Ocean on the other. It’s a landscape where water is never far away, perfect for those who want to feel immersed in the natural environment.
Are you ready for a cycling adventure in Ireland?
With so many fantastic routes to choose from, Ireland is the ultimate cycling holiday destination. Make the most of your trip by exploring cycling supplies at The Edge Sports. From last-minute cycling essentials such as cycling shorts to fun accessories such as tinted shades to all the extras such as sun cream and wet weather gear, make sure you are fully equipped to enjoy your cycling holiday with The Edge Sports.
