We offer two types of Irish biking vacations:
Bicycle tour Ireland: Escorted tours and a self-guided bike tour with luggage transfer program. You choose whatever routing you like. The bikes we use are Giants escape 3 city bikes. Smaller bikes for children on our family tours.
Biking Ireland
Escorted Tours- Bike Tours of Ireland
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Explore Ireland by bike,
traveling with a mix of English-speaking international travelers. You will
travel 30-40 miles per day at a relaxed pace, with longer routes
available. The Ireland bike trips are suitable for adults of all ages and
fitness levels. On our bicycle tour Ireland , bus is provided for transferring
luggage. Although the guide will not be cycling with you, he or she will be
driving the support van and will make a sweep to ensure that all is
well, and offer lifts to those who want a break. Our idea is to take all of the
hassles, but none of the freedom out of a bike trip in Ireland. We ensure the
bike is ready to go, luggage is transferred and good quality accommodation is
at the end of each day's trip.
Ireland by Bike/Ireland Biking Vacations/Ireland Bicycling tours/Bike Ireland Broaden your horizons with a group of like-minded cyclists and discover Ireland by bike. The average distance per day is between 30 and 40 miles and is at a relaxed pace. Remember it is not a race and the Ireland bike trips are suitable for all fitness levels. Also, there is no need to worry about carrying your gear, as every bike group will have its own sweeper who will carry your luggage and assist with bike repairs (flat tires) if the need arises. If you get tired you can even hop in the van and save your energy for the next day. Every day is different on a bike in Ireland – you will enjoy magnificent scenery, get lots of exercise, breathe in the fresh air, stay in good accommodation and have lots of fun in between. Ireland biking vacations attract people from all walks of life and are a great way of meeting new friends. Ireland Bicycling tours also offer the more serious cyclist the option of a non-guided tour. So whatever your pleasure, guided or non-guided, you will have the trip of a life-time with Bike Ireland. Get on your Bike and keep those wheels turning!
Group size: We take 10 up to 20 people on each tour and many come on their
own. The tours are not suitable for children (except for our Family and easy
tours).
Each day, after a hearty breakfast, we start the day's cycle at approximately
10.00am. A few hours leisurely cycling in the morning brings you to our lunch
stop, where you can put up your feet and swap stories. After digesting the last
of the lunch, we continue on our road. The guide brings your luggage ahead to
your room while you take your time and amble through the beautiful backroads.
Each evening after a relaxing shower you meet up with the guide and rest of the
group for dinner. A day typically winds up in one of the many pubs whose
atmosphere has made Ireland famous for music and "craic".
The routes are relatively free of traffic. The terrain is suitable for
intermediate and advanced rider. You have all day to cover the recommended
route, and while Irish roads rarely follow a straight line, there are few
really high climbs.
Distances: The safaris are suitable for
adults of all ages and fitness levels but the tours are not suited for children
under 13 years of age. The Ring of Kerry, the Highlands of Donegal and the
Antrim tours have more hills than the other routes and would be recommended for
the avid cyclist.
Most challenging: Our Antrim, Donegal and Kerry trips are hillier than
the other routes, but happily, there are no large mountain ranges to cross in
any part of Ireland.
Easiest: Clare and the Burren. The county is also relatively flat,
keeping the cycling easy paced.
Bikes:
We are using Giants escape 3 city bikes for our tours. They come equipped with 24 speed grip-shift gears, carrier, mudguards, water bottle carrier and a small pannier bag. If you wish to use toe clips please bring your own pedals with toe clips which we can attach to our bikes. (The pedals on our bikes do not accommodate toe clips.)
Maps: We give out maps along with route directions and historical
details at the start of the week.
Do we have to carry our own luggage?
No, your luggage is carried in the
support van to your next hotel or guest house.
What kind accommodation should I expect?
We stay
in a combination of small family run hotels and guesthouses. The standard of
such accommodation in Ireland is very high, with the vast majority having
en-suite bathroom and other excellent facilities. We try to pick places with
character; your home for the week can vary from a Victorian townhouse, a remote
lakeside hotel, a farmhouse by the sea, an attractive harbour guesthouse, or an
old style family hotel in the middle of a bustling market town.
But, what will I eat?
Fortunately, the days when Irish vegetables are
cooked for an entire week are long gone. Most people are very impressed at the
quality of new Irish cooking.
Escorted Biking in Ireland includes:
- 7 nights at mixture of family run hotels and guest houses;room with bath
- Full breakfast ever day
- 1 Dinner
- Bicycle hire
- Tour guide who drives the luggage van and looks after the tour
- Maps and all necessary equipment.
- The tour price includes coach transfers when required during the week, but does not include the optional ferry journeys. • price includes ferry ticket to the Aran Islands on our Connemara tour
Call 1-800-221-2474 Â 9AM - 5PM or Please
Email Us For Information
Transfers: Transfers are NOT included from the airport to the starting
point of the tour. The best way to travel to the starting point is by train
from Dublin. Bikes can be taken on the train. Each of our Irish bike tours
start close to bus and railway stations, so they are all accessible by public
transport. On booking, we can send you more specific information on the travel
arrangements to and from each starting point. Each tour starts on a Saturday
evening at 6.30pm, and finishes the following Saturday morning.
When the tour starts: Each of the tours start with a meeting of the
group at 6.30pm on the Saturday evening in a central hotel close to the local
train and bus station. This is only a meeting point, typically the group will
be staying in nearby guesthouses. The guide is able to return to the meeting
place at 9.30pm again that evening. After an introductory talk the guide will
organise an evening meal and direct clients to their first nights bed &
breakfast accommodation. Tours end before noon on the last day.
The guide will recommend a lunch stop each day where a snack lunch will cost
between €8 and €12. A group evening meal is organised by the guide
each night which costs between €20 and €30. One evening meal during
the tour is included in the tour price.
Tours begin and end on Saturday in Ireland. You would depart the U.S. one day earlier. Rates per person USD.
Ask for 2020 rates
We grade tours as follows:
A -leisurely cycles -although no tours are completely flat, these tours have few hills and are ideal for those who enjoy gentle exercise and who cycle only occasionally
B -moderate cycle: these tours are perfect for those who are not put off by undulating terrain and someone who cycles quite regularly
C -challenging cycles -to get the most out of these cycles it is advised that you are a regular cyclist, relatively fit and enjoy the views heading up hills as well as down them.
Call +1-800-221-2474 9AM - 5PM Mon-Fri Eastern Time Please Email Us For Information 01 516 248 2042 ELSEWHERE
ESCORTED GROUP BIKE TOURS 2019
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GROUP TOURS WEST
CORK & KERRY (ROUND TRIP TO AND FROM KILLARNEY TOWN) SELF LED
OPTION AVAILABLE Killarney - Kenmare - Castletownbere (rest day) - Glengarriff - Gougane Barra - Killarney
This tour covers some of the most spectacular scenery that Ireland has to offer. Shortly after leaving Killarney you will find yourself cycling between the majestic lakes that have made this area so famous to be shortly followed by a climb up to Molls gap with its wonderful views of the Macgillycuddyreeks, Ireland's highest mountain range. The rest of the week involves more of the same stunning scenery with a wonderful coastal cycle along Kenmare Bay and the twisted mountains of the Beara Peninsula. We are staying on the beautiful Beara Peninsula in the colourful towns of Castletownbere and Glengarriff. Towards the end of the week we head inland and stay at a beautiful Lakeside retreat of Gougane Barra at the source of the River Lee. On the final day we cycle up over the wild and isolated hills of the Coolea region before returning to Killarney. Degree of difficulty - B
This tour departs from Killarney a bustling town, famous for its wonderful hospitality and the ever presence of the jarvies and their jaunting cars. Killarney is surrounded by magnificent scenery which includes lakes, mountains, and the wild Atlantic Ocean. This particular ride goes right around the ring of Kerry or the Iveragh Peninsula – starting and ending in Killarney. It is indeed a hilly ride but there is no hurry – slow and steady is the order of the day and you can reward yourself at the end with some well-deserved local beverages at one of the many pubs in the town.
Group Dates: 6-Jun, 8-Aug,
CONNEMARA GALWAY
& MAYO (ROUND TRIP TO AND FROM GALWAY) SELF LED OPTION AVAILABLE
Galway / Clonbur - Westport - Leenane - Clifden (rest day) - Aran Islands -Galway City
This Tour explores the beautiful region of Connemara famous for its rugged granite landscape as well as its beautiful lakes and rivers. The route offers an incredible variety of scenery each day. In the morning you can be cycling along beautiful coastline while in the afternoon you could be at a quiet bog road with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. On our rest day we stay in a lovely hotel in Clifden, the capital of Connemara. Our tour then takes along quite backroads through Connemara making our way to the Aran Islands, where we are staying on the main island of Inis Mor which we can explore in more detail. The tour finishes up in the city of Galway. Degree of difficulty - A/B
You’ll know you’re in Connemara when you enter a vast beautiful bog land, but as you ride along you’ll notice how the landscape becomes a mixture of rivers, lakes, woodlands, rich meadowlands, rugged hills, dramatic mountains and as you near the coast you’ll stumble across a stunning unpolluted coastline of sandy beaches and blue waters. The capital of Connemara is Clifden which is a typical Irish town with quirky shops, restaurants and traditional pubs. Just a few miles away is Connemara’s famous landmark, Kylemore Abbey. Other towns en route are Clonbur, Westport and Leenane and saving the best for last, The Aran Islands.
Group Dates: 16-May, 13-Jun, 4-Jul, 1-Aug, 15-Aug, 29-Aug,
Routes are for illustration purposes only and may be subject to change.
Galway / Clonbur -Leenane -Westport (rest day) -Achill -Mulranney - Galway
A chance to really take in the best of what the West Coast of Ireland has to offer. As with our Connemara tour it starts and finishes in Galway, takes in the stunning Killary Harbour, Dephi Valley and Westport town. However from Westport we head North to the remote beauty of Achill Island along a wonderful dedicated 47km cycle route. The tour finishes up in the wonderful Country Life Museum near Castlebar before taking a transfer back to Galway. The distance on this tour is low and is perfect for a couple where one would rather cycle more than another as this can be easily accommodated. Degree of difficulty - A/B
The Best of the West begins and ends in Galway City. Affectionately known as the City of the Tribes, Galway is a University town, full of life and color. It is also small enough to get around on foot. Galway is renowned for it’s of great pubs, restaurants, and live music around every corner. After leaving Galway, the tour continues out to Killary Harbor (Ireland’s only fjord), and from there to the Heritage town of Westport, Co Mayo. Westport is another great town on the Wild Atlantic Way which also has great music, pubs and restaurants.
Group Dates: 30-May, 11-Jul, 8-Aug,
GROUP TOURS HIGHLANDS OF
DONEGAL (ROUND TRIP TO AND FROM DONEGAL TOWN) Donegal -Glencolmcille -Dungloe -Dunfanaghy (rest day) -Rathmelton - Donegal
Donegal is one of the undiscovered gems of Ireland. There is a wonderful mix of coastal cycling followed by a highland landscape where you can feel completely away from it all, before returning back to the coast and the most beautiful beaches in the country. The light is amazing here, with a landscape full of browns, greens and purples constantly altering their tone with the changing light. The pace of life is wonderfully easy going and the people amongst the most welcoming in the country. Degree of difficulty - B/C
Donegal, often overlooked, but never underestimated, has the best of everything Ireland has to offer. Wild scenery, warm locals, outdoor pursuits, top hospitality. And, you'll have the whole place to yourself. Some of the coastal towns that you will pass through on this ride are Donegal Glencolmcille, Dungloe, Dunfanaghy, Rathmelton. What makes Donegal extra special is that it is one of the biggest Irish speaking areas in Ireland and once you hear the lilt of the locals it will warm your heart and bring a smile to your face.
Group Dates: 18-Jul,
WEST CORK COASTLINE (START TRIP IN CORK CITY -
FINISH IN KINSALE TOWN) Cork - Gougane Barra - Ahakista - Baltimore (rest day) - Clonakilty - Kinsale
Quiet roads lined with wild, deeply scented flowers, this tour covers all types of landscape, from rolling green fields to spectacular coastal rides. West Cork is also best known for its colourful villages all of which are brightly painted in a wonderful array of vibrant colours, with wonderful hanging baskets brimming with flowers out the front of every pub and shop. This is the more cosmopolitan part of rural Ireland with many choosing to settle in this idyllic setting. This tour finishes in the colourful town of Kinsale, easily accessible to Cork Airport and city. Degree of difficulty - A/B
The West Cork Coastline could be considered Ireland’s Riviera. The rolling hills and countryside and the coastline dotted with little towns and villages which are brightly painted make this a very scenic and enjoyable ride. Look out for Gougane Barra a monastic site dating back to the 6th Century. Also, Ahakista and Baltimore are very picturesque harbor towns and Kinsale, just 18 miles from Cork city, a food lovers paradise and the gourmet capital of Ireland.
Group Dates: 27-Jun, 1-Aug,
CLARE AND THE BURREN (ROUND TRIP TO AND
FROM ENNIS TOWN) SELF LED OPTION AVAILABLE Ennis - Spanish Point - Doolin - Ballyvaughan (rest day) - Kinvara - Ennis
Clare is the music centre of Ireland and on this tour you are sure to have your feet tapping to traditional tunes nearly every night of the week. The Burren region is also an amazing limestone moonscape, famous around the world for its wonderful variety of botany. The area is rich in ancient and early Christian historical sites and offers some beautiful coastal cycling overlooking Galway Bay. Finally Clare is home to the cliffs of Moher the highest marine based cliffs in Europe and one of the best known images of Ireland. Degree of difficulty - A/B
Clare,otherwise known as the Banner Country is the music capital of Ireland, home of traditional Irish music and the world famous Kilfenora Ceili Band. It is also a limestone area with very unique flora and plants. In addition, the area is famous for its many burial tombs otherwise known as dolmens which are scattered throughout the county (Poulnabron being the most famous). The most spectacular sight in Clare is the Cliffs of Moher – which really is a sight to behold. Along the Clare coast are towns such as Liscanor and Lahinch, famous for great surfing and a world renowned championship golf course. Shannon Airport is in south Clare, and is less than 10 miles for Dromoland Castle – a great place to have a royal time especially on the last night of your vacation.
This tour should be called King of the Mountains as you will ride through the Magillycuddy Reeks, Irelands highest mountain range. You will enjoy spectacular scenery, lakes, rivers, and you will see and smell the wild gorse and purple heather. Leaving the Iveragh Peninsula behind, you will head north to ride around the Dingle peninsula. Dingle is another Irish speaking area and its famous landmarks are the Skelligs – a monastic settlement which resemble Beehive huts and which was recently the prop for Starwars movie, The Force Awakens. Dingle is another great place for music, song and dance.
Group Dates: 23-May, 18-Jul, 22-Aug,
RING OF KERRY AND DINGLE
(ROUND TRIP TO AND FROM KILLARNEY TOWN) SELF LED OPTION AVAILABLE
Killarney - Sneem - Glenbeigh - Dingle (rest day) - Killorglin - Killarney
This tour should be called King of the Mountains as you will ride through the Magillycuddy Reeks, Irelands highest mountain range. You will enjoy spectacular scenery, lakes, rivers, and you will see and smell the wild gorse and purple heather. Leaving the Iveragh Peninsula behind, you will head north to ride around the Dingle peninsula. Dingle is another Irish speaking area and its famous landmarks are the Skelligs – a monastic settlement which resemble Beehive huts and which was recently the prop for Starwars movie, The Force Awakens. Dingle is another great place for music, song and dance.
Routes are for illustration purposes only and may be subject to change.
GROUP TOURS WEST MAYO TOUR (ROUND TRIP TO AND FROM
WESTPORT) Westport -Foxford -Ballina -Belmullet -Achill (rest day) - Westport
The Mayo Tour is like stepping back 20 years in time to an Ireland before the Celtic Tiger!. It is the quietest of our routes in terms of traffic and offers up a wild windswept landscape full of changing light. You will get to visit the largest Stone Age site in Europe, an ancient cattle field system and also spend your rest day on Achill Island with its wonderful mountains and white sandy beaches as well as its breathtaking cliff walks. This is also the country of Grainnuiale, a famous female pirate in the 16th Century whose ships attacked fleets all along the coastline and we visit one of her fortress houses. The last day of our cycle takes us along the Achill -Westport Greenway. A newly opened dedicated cycle route along an old railway line, one of the most cycled paths in the country since it was opened and a real highlight to finish the tour. Degree of difficulty - A/B
Westport is a heritage town in Co Mayo and is a great place to visit any day of the year. A colorful town with great bars, restaurants and music. Looming over the town is Croagh Patrick – Irelands holy mountain and where on the last Sunday in July, every year, pilgrims climb the Reek (Croagh Patrick). Climbing enthusiasts can climb the mountain anytime they wish. Also in the area is the town of Knock which is famous for its Marian Shrine. The Ceide Fields (less than 50 miles from Westport) and which is older than the pyramids is also worth a visit and a rare treat for those interested in archaeology. Less ancient and worthwhile places to visit in the area is the village of Cong (film set for John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara’s Quiet Man) and the esteemed Ashford Castle which is another old-world treasure.
Group Dates: 22-Aug,
THE GLENS OF ANTRIM TOUR
(ROUND TRIP TO AND FROM BELFAST) SELF LED OPTION AVAILABLE Belfast -Carnlough -Cushendall -Ballycastle ( 3 nights, includes roundtrip to Giants Causeway ) -Belfast
This tour offers you some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in the country, with cliffs and rolling green fields sweeping down towards the Irish Sea along a coastline dotted with ancient forts and castles. We also cycle inland up into the famous Glens of Antrim with some wonderful highland cycling on quiet backroads. Finally you visit Bushmills the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world and finish off the week with a visit to the Giants Causeway , the most famous landmark in Northern Ireland with its amazing basalt rock formations. Degree of difficulty - B
The Antrim Coast is Northern Irelands best kept secret and is where the green glens of Antrim roll down to the sea. Watch out for Dunluce Castle, Carrick a Rede Rope Bridge, Giants Causeway and to quench your thirst, stop off at Bushmills for a wee dram or two. For all those Game of Thrones fans, you will get to ride by the Dark Hedges. So much to see, so little time.
Group Dates: 27-Jun,
THE CASTLES & KINGS TOUR SELF LED OPTION
AVAILABLE Dublin/Malahide -Drogheda -Smarmore –Carlingford ( rest day) - Carickmacross/Trim -Dublin
This tour takes you through some of the most historic areas in Ireland. From 5000 year old the burial chambers at Newgrange to the mansions built in the Celtic Tiger era. Newgrange is a prehistoric burial ground about 40 miles from Dublin City. It is also not far from the Boyne Valley and the Hill of Tara, which is steeped in Irish history and once the home of the High King of Ireland – Brian Boru. Along the eastern coast, you will pass Carlingford Lough – a town famous for its music and annual oyster festival.
The route takes you out of Dublin on quiet back roads through the farm lands that feeds the city to the beautiful and historic Boyne Valley. On roads undiscovered by tourists the route heads north through the spectacular Cooley Mountains to the medieval town of Carlingford. Returning to Dublin through the rich pasture lands of Meath and Kildare the route passes the ancient seat of the High Kings of Ireland at Tara. Degree of difficulty - B
COPPER ROUTE SELF LED OPTION AVAILABLE
Kilkenny -New Ross -Dunmore East -Dungarvan (rest day) -Cahir - Cashel
Kilkenny is perhaps the most attractive Irish city. It is dominated by a spectacular castle on a bend in the River Nore and has a wealth of historic buildings knitted together by narrow cobbled streets boasting many lively pubs and fine restaurants. This new tour blends some of Ireland’s best heritage sights with a relatively undiscovered but still stunning coastline. Leaving Kilkenny behind, the cycle brings you towards the coast where our first stop is New Ross, whose famine ship gives a haunting reminder of a dark chapter in Irish history. A quaint ferry will bring us across Waterford Harbour to stop at the truly special place of Dunmore East. Here there are lovely beaches and magnificent views to enjoy. The Copper Coast is a spectacular cycle where the road twists along cliffs and then plunges into and out of coves. The picturesque seaside town of Dungarvan is where we take our rest day, before heading inland to the Rock of Cashel. This is one of Ireland's most spectacular archaeological sites, standing proudly atop a limestone hill dominating the surrounding countryside. Degree of difficulty - B
Kilkenny is a medieval town in southeast Ireland. Its grand Kilkenny Castle was built in 1195 by Norman occupiers. The town has deep religious roots and many well-preserved churches and monasteries, including imposing St. Canice’s Cathedral and the Black Abbey Dominican priory, both from the 13th century. It's also a crafts hub, with shops along its winding lanes selling pottery, paintings and jewelry.
Routes are for illustration purposes only and may be subject to change.
| 2020 | ||
| Rates USD | All exceptAntrim | |
| Apr-June, Sep-Oct | $1,381 | $1,368 |
| July/Aug | $1,490 | $1,404 |
| Single room supplement | $398 | $456 |
INDIVIDUAL SELF/LED TOURS WITH LUGGAGE
TRANSFER You follow a set itinerary and we move your
luggage.These Tours Includes:
INDIVIDUAL SELF/LED BIKE TOUR IRELAND WITH LUGGAGE TRANSFER (minimum 2 persons) Ask for rates
Starting times: These tours can start at any day of the week, the only exception is a Saturday when a group tour is running on the same itinerary.
Distances: The average cycling distance is an easy 30 - 40 miles (48 - 64 km) with longer routes being available each day. The Irish bike tours are suitable for adults of all ages and fitness levels but the self led tours are not suited for children under 15 years of age (except for our Family tour). The Ring of Kerry self led tour has more hills than the other routes and would be recommended for the fitter cyclist.
Each booking must give the clients name, sex and approximate height, otherwise we cannot guarantee that suitable accommodation or bike rental will be available for you. We must be advised of any pre-existing medical problem.
INDIVIDUAL SELF/LED TOURS ITINERARIES
EACH TOUR FOLLOWS THE SAME ROUTE AS THE GROUP TOUR ( MORE DETAILS ARE AVAILABLE ON EACH ROUTE )
WEST CORK & KERRY ( ROUND TRIP TO AND FROM KILLARNEY ) We circumnavigate the beautiful Beara and Mizen Peninsulas before heading inland to a beautiful hermitage retreat Killarney - Kenmare - Allihies - Castletownbere (rest day) - Gougane Barra - Killarney
CONNEMARA GALWAY & MAYO ( ROUND TRIP TO AND FROM GALWAY ) Perfect cycling country, where roads go around the hills rather than over them! The scenery changes from dramatic mountain ranges and fjords to sweeping open bogland and a rocky fractal coastline Galway / Clonbur - Westport - Leenane - Roundstone ( rest day ) - Aran Islands -Galway City
WEST CORK COASTLINE ( ROUND TRIP TO AND FROM CORK CITY)
The road winds along the River Lee and the West Cork Coast, where the smell of
the sea battles with the scent from the Bracken and Wild flowers. Cork -
Gougane Barra - Ahakista - Baltimore (rest day) - Clonakilty - Cork CLARE AND THE BURREN ( ROUND TRIP TO AND FROM ENNIS ) The Burren has a maze of backroads with fields of exotic flowers and cracked limestone. The county's greatest pride is in it traditional music, so most villages will have a range of sessions each night Ennis - Spanish Point - Doolin - Ballyvaughan ( rest day ) - Kinvara - Ennis
RING OF KERRY ( ROUND TRIP TO AND FROM KILLARNEY ) The Ring of Kerry is famous throughout the world for its spectacular scenery. While the main roads can be busy, we avoid the traffic by taking some hillier options that criss cross these two dramatic peninsulas Killarney - Sneem - Glenbeigh - Dingle ( rest day ) - Killorglin - Killarney
WICKLOW (ROUND TRIP TO AND FROM DUBLIN) A fantastic opportunity to take in the excitement of Dublin along with the beautiful open scenery of the Wicklow mountains. Please note that on this tour dinner is NOT included in the tour price. Dublin - Enniskerry - Glendalough / Laragh (rest day) - Avoca - Wicklow town - Dublin
CASTLES & KINGS This tour takes you through some of the most historic areas in Ireland. From 5000 year old the burial chambers at Newgrange to the mansions built in the Celtic Tiger era. Dublin/Malahide - Drogheda - Smarmore -Carlingford (rest day) - Carickmacross/Trim - Dublin
Tour Accommodation: Is on a twin sharing basis in a mixture of family run hotels and guest houses with breakfasts included. On booking we need to know whether sharing will be on a twin ( two beds ) or double (one bed ) basis.
Distances: The average cycling distance is an easy 30 - 40 miles (45- 60 km ) with longer routes being available each day. The safaris are suitable for adults of all ages and fitness levels but the self led tours are not suited for children under 15 years of age ( except for our Family tour ). The Ring of Kerry self led tour has more hills than the other routes.
EASY TOURS - Perfect For Families
EASY TOUR OF CLARE (TRIP FROM
GALWAY TO ENNIS) SELF LED OPTION Ennis -Doolin ( 2 nights ) –
Ballyvaughan ( 2 nights ) -Kinvara - Galway This tour is specifically
designed for those who wish to spend a little more time off the bike, with the
cycling being more in the region of 18 -25 miles (29 -40 km). There
are also 2 rest days included Our tour revolves around the county of Clare in
the heart of Western Ireland. The Easy Tour of Clare still takes in the more
spectacular parts of our regular Clare tour. On the rest days there are
opportunities to visit the beautiful Aran Islands, visit the Ailwee caves,
explore the Burren on a wonderful walking tour or just relax on one of
Clare’s beaches. This tour is also suitable for families.EASY TOUR OF CORK (ROUND TRIP FROM CORK) Cork - Macroom - Gougane Barra ( 2 nights ) - Bantry - Schull ( 2 nights ) Just like the Easy Clare Tour, this tour is specifically designed for those who wish to spend a little more time off the bike, with the cycling being more in the region of 18 - 25 miles. There are also two rest days included. This tour revolves around West Cork and its coastal areas. The Easy Tour of Cork still takes in the more spectacular parts of our regular Cork tour. On the rest days there are opportunities to visit the national Park in Gougane Barra, visit Cape Clear or just relax on one of Corks' beaches. This tour is also suitable for families.
FAMILY BIKE TOURS
IN IRELAND FAMILY TOURS On our family tours we have designed an
itinerary with the younger traveler in mind (the cycling each day is
approximately 18 - 25 miles with two rest days included). We have reduced the
mileage to make the tours a little easier on younger legs, but like all our
bike trips there are opportunities to stretch your limbs on longer routes each
day. Bike hire: Smaller framed bicycles are available for children, it is
essential that full details of each child's age and height must be given upon
booking. Smaller bikes available for children. FAMILY SELF GUIDED TOUR
From April to October; any day of the week except a Saturday when a group tour is departing
Clare Self Guided Family Tour
Clare is packed with so much to see and do that will be of interest to all the family. The tour starts up in Ennis and then heads towards the coast and the seaside village of Lahinch where you can watch the surfers take on the Atlantic rollers on a magnificent beach or else get another perspective on the ocean by visiting the local aquarium. You continue on your journey via the Cliffs of Moher to the village of Doolin. You have a chance to visit the Aran Islands before taking a wonderful coastal cycle all the way to the village of Ballyvaughan where you base yourselves for two nights. On your rest day here you can take a fascinating walking tour of the area, try some horse riding or else relax on one of the nearby beaches. Back on the saddle again the tour finishes up with a cycle through the Burren, an amazing limestone moonscape, famous around the world for its wonderful variety of botany before finishing back in Ennis town.
ITINERARIES
CORK AND THE COASTLINE
Tucked down in the South there are so many inlets, bays
and brightly painted villages for you to explore. You have all the time in the
world to take in the aroma of the wild flowers as you whoosh down the small
backroads. DAY 1 Our start point is Cork City, European city of culture for 2005. On arrival you can check into your guesthouse and spend the rest of the day exploring this attractive city.
DAY 2 Your cycle starts by the banks of the Lee where you travel along quiet back roads to a lunch stop in the market town of Macroom. In the afternoon you continue up the Lee Valley through rolling countryside to the wonderfully peaceful Lakeside retreat of Gougane Barra , the source of the River Lee and Irelands first National Park .
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DAY 3 You cycle down to the coast
past fields of grazing cattle and sheep to the coastal town of Bantry for
lunch. In the afternoon you head out to the beautiful Sheeps Head Peninsula and
cycle along quiet coastal roads with stunning views of the surrounding
landscape. That night you have a home cooked dinner in your guesthouse.DAY 4You cycle onto the Mizen Peninsula in the morning and the village of Schull. After lunch you can either cycle the coast road or else take a ferry across Roaring water Bay (it is usually quite calm!) to the village of Baltimore.
DAY 5 Baltimore is a lovely village to potter around for the day or else you can take off to explore the nearby islands and countryside.
DAY 6 In the morning you cycle along quiet backroads to the peaceful Lough Ine and then follow the West Cork coast to the village of Glandore where you can have lunch overlooking the beautiful Glandore Harbour with its two islands, Adam and Eve. In the afternoon you can visit a 3,000 year old stone circle , one of the best examples of its kind in the country, before following another scenic coastal cycle to the bustling town of Clonakilty.
DAY 7 In the morning you head straight to the village of Timoleague, where you can visit a 15th Century Franciscan Friary. You continue to hug the coastline all the way to the historic town of Kinsale, site of the Battle of Kinsale in 1601 where you can have lunch. Unlike the group tour on the self led tour we continue our journey back into Cork city, along quiet roads, where you spend the last night of the tour .
Sample Escorted Itineraries:
Clare and the Burren
Day 1: Saturday - Ennis, Co. Clare The Burren has a maze of back roads with little traffic and fields of exotic flowers and cracked limestone. The terrain is relatively flat, which makes this ideal part of the world for the younger cyclist.
Day 2: Sunday - Ennis to Spanish Point - 23 miles (29km) Having selected your bicycle the tour starts out to West Clare by farmyards through back roads to the Coast, where we stay the night in a hotel overlooking the Atlantic ocean.
Day 3: Monday - Spanish Point to Doolin - 29 miles (46 km) Cycling along quiet roads we eventually come to the popular holiday town of Lahinch where we stop for lunch. In the afternoon we visit the spectacular Cliffs of Moher before heading to our evenings stop at Doolin, famous for its traditional music.
Day 4: Tuesday - rest day, Doolin You can take a ferry trip to the famous Aran Islands and visit ancient forts and monastic sites. There will also be an optional cycle route or you could simply return to the cliffs of Moher for a longer walk along the Atlantic Coastline.
Day 5: Wednesday - Doolin to
Ballyvaughan - 24 miles (39km) Today is a beautiful cycle along the coast
with Galway Bay and views of the Aran Islands on your left and the limestone
cliffs which make the Burren such a unique landscape on your right. We stop for
two nights in our comfortable hotel in the seaside village of Ballyvaughan.
Day 6: Thursday - rest day in Ballyvaughan The day can be spent doing a wide variety of activities from sea kayaking out to a seal colony, walking the spectacular Burren, horse riding, or visiting local historical sites. Alternatively the day could be spent relaxing in this attractive village.
Day 7: Friday - Ballyvaughan to Ennis - 38 miles (60 km) The cycle heads straight into the heart of the Burren where we visit the Burren's most famous historical sight, the Poulnabrowne Dolmen. Veering off the beaten track we stop at the village of Carran for lunch. In the afternoon we cycle through quiet backroads and visit Mullaghmor mountain with the beautiful desert limestone landscape of the Burren surrounding you before heading to our lunch stop in Corofin. After lunch you can visit a 15th Century Tower House and 6th century monastic site before cycling back into Ennis and a farewell meal together.
Connemara
From the rugged Twelve Bens mountain range in the north through lake-rich Roundstone Bog to the golden beaches reaching out into the Atlantic Ocean, you'll know you're in Connemara by the light that constantly changes the mood and tone of the landscape. The roads go around the mountains rather than over them which makes this a prefect tour for the shorter legs!
Day 1: Saturday - Galway City We meet up in a
hotel close to the railway stations and stay in guesthouses close to the city
center. Day 2: Galway - Aran Islands to Roundstone The Aran ferries coach will pick us up at 9.00am and bring us to the Port at Rossaveal where you catch the Boat to the Aran Islands. The island is only some 10km in length but there is a rich network of historical sights which you can visit. That evening we take the return ferry to Rossaveal where a coach will bring us to the fishing village of Roundstone ( about 1 hour away ). That night we will stay in a local hotel and relax over a fantastic dinner.
Day 3: Circular tour around Roundstone - 40 miles (shorter options available) Today we have the chance to spin around the beautiful backroads of Connemara. In the morning we will head towards the village of Carna where we can stop for lunch. After lunch we keep to the coast road all the way to Padraig Pearse's cottage (one of the 1916 revolutionaries) which we can visit and then take an old bog road back towards Roundstone. Those who wish to take it easy can spend the day relaxing on the beautiful sandy beaches just 2 miles from Roundstone or alternatively you could hike up the mountain behind the village for beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Day 4: Roundstone to Clifden - 18 miles Heading North we cycle along the coast to Clifden the capital of Connemara where we can stop for lunch before checking into our accommodation. Those who wish to can spend the afternoon exploring the town while those who would like to do some more cycling can cycle the Sky road with beautiful views of the surrounding bays.
Day 5: Circular route around Clifden - 28 miles (shorter
options available) The first part of the morning we head to the village of
Cleggan cycling past scenic coastline and beaches. We later come to the
beautifully situated Kylemore Abbey where we stop for lunch . After visiting
the Abbey we cycle to Connemara National Park where you can spend the afternoon
visiting the Interpretive Centre which organizes nature activities for
children, or you can simply go for a stroll along the various clearly mapped
walking routes. Day 6: Clifden to Leenane - 27 miles Cycling back towards Kylemore Abbey we then head out to the village of Tully Cross and out to the edge of the peninsula which allows you view the surrounding islands. There follows a beautiful cycle hugging the coastline with views of Clew Bay and Clare Island. You pass by an unspoiled beach where if the weather is good you can stop for a swim before cycling to Killary Harbour, Ireland's only fjord where you can take a boat cruise. After a late lunch you can check into your accommodation.
Day 7: Leenane to Westport - 33 miles Another day of breathtaking scenery! We head up towards the stunning Delphi Valley which divides the Mweelrea mountains on the west from The Sheffrey Hills on the east. The Delphi valley provides some of the most beautiful scenery on the tour, and its rivers and lakes are said to provide some of the best salmon and sea trout fishing in the country. We have lunch in Louisburg where you can visit the Grainuaille Interpretive Centre. Grainuaille was the legendary name given to Grace O'Malley (1530-1600), daughter of the chief of the Western Islands, who made herself Queen of the Clew Bay area following his death. She became a famous pirate in the area, continuously raiding English ships along the coast. After lunch we have a short spin along Clew Bay passing by Croagh Patrick, the mountain from which St. Patrick, after 40 days of fasting, banished all the snakes from Ireland. Those who are feeling religiously fit can follow the pilgrim's route to the top of the mountain with its incredible views of Clew Bay. That evening we have a farewell dinner in Westport.
Day 8: Homeward bound. After a final farewell we will transfer those who wish back to Galway.
Glens of
AntrimDay 1:Satday- We meet up in the center of Belfast, after an introductory meeting we have dinner together.
Day 2: Sunday- Set out on a Sustrans Cycle path, we head out of Belfast up onto the beginning of the Northern Coastline to the seaside village of Carnlough for the night.
Day 3:Monday- The day's route takes in the beauty of Antrim not only in its coastline but also in its famous and stunning Glens. Slowly but surely we make our way along the coast to the village of Cushendall where we base ourselves for two nights.
Day 4:Tuesday- Heading inland again, we cycle through two of the most spectacular Glens of Antrim before returning back to Cushendall for another night in this lovely village.
Day 5:Wednesday- One option for the day is to hug the coastline to take in a stunning cycle along by Torr Head to the village of Ballycastle where we stay for two days.
Day 6:Thursday- One attractive option on the rest day is to take the ferry to explore Rathlin Island, which is some five miles out in the Atlantic.
Day 7:Friday- We cycle along the coast where we can visit the famous Carrick-a-rede rope bridge and then along to view the hexagonal rock formations at the Giants Causeway. From there we head to the village of Bushmills where we can visit the famous Whiskey distillery. The tour finishes off with a transfer back from Coleraine to Belfast city for a final night together.
Day 8:Saturday- After a hearty breakfast, like all good things the tour comes to an ends!
West Cork and Kerry
We start and finish the tour in the bustle of Killarney. From Monday to Wednesday, we circumnavigate the beautiful Beara and Mizen Peninsulas before heading inland on Thursday to peaceful Gougane Barra, site of St Finbar's hermitage retreat. Schedule:
Day 1:Saturday- Meeting in the center of Killarney with the tour guide and the rest of the group.
Day 2:Sunday- We set out on a cycle lane, which winds through Muckross National Park. In the afternoon, the road climbs in the shadow of the Macgillycuddy's Reeks, before we freewheel down to the coastal village of Kenmare, where we stay the night.
Day 3:Monday We leave Kerry by cycling along the coast road of the remote Beara Peninsula, where we stay in the fishing port of Castletownbear.
Day 4:Tuesday- After a morning cycle to Glengariff, we have the option of taking a boat to Garnish Island for lunch before continuing across Bantry Bay. Once in Bantry we continue our cycle to the seaside village of Schull where we stay for two nights.
Day 5:Wednesday- One could take a day trip to Cape Clear island by boat, Mizen Head by bike, Mount Gabriel by foot or else stay close to our hotel and relax for the day.
Day 6:Thursday- We cycle inland to our hotel in Gougane Barra, which is in isolated splendor, over-looking the lake in this dramatic glacial valley.
Day 7:Friday- Heading homeward on little-known roads with swimming stops in river pools along the way, we return to Killarney for a final evening meal together and a night on the town.
Day 8:Saturday- After breakfast, you are free to head your separate ways.
Ring of Kerry and the Dingle Peninsula (most hills)
The Ring of Kerry is famous throughout the world for
its spectacular scenery. While the main roads can be busy, we avoid the traffic
by taking some hillier options that crisscross these two dramatic peninsulas.
Schedule:
Day 1:Saturday- We meet up in Killarney and as with each of our tours you can have a get together meal while the baggage is transferred to your guesthouses.
Day 2:Sunday- We set out on the cycle path through the National Park to Molls Gap for lunch, before heading west in the afternoon to the picturesque village of Sneem.
Day 3: Monday- Avoiding the main Ring of Kerry road, we cycle over the Ballaghbearna Gap to the village of Glenbeigh where we stay in an lovely family hotel.
Day 4:Tuesday- We start by taking a coach trip to the village of Camp on the Dingle peninsula. We cycle from there over the dramatic Conor's Pass and down to the town of Dingle.
Day 5:Wednesday- Dingle is a busy small town with plenty of restaurants, musical pubs, trawlers tied up with yachts and some beautiful surrounding countryside.
Day 6: Thursday- We take quiet back roads to Inch Beach, which is a great spot for a swim before lunch. We continue in the afternoon to the market town of Killorglin.
Day 7:Friday- Keeping to the back roads, we head to the famous Gap of Dunloe and a spectacular cycle through the Black Valley before returning via the National Park into Killarney.
Day 8: Saturday-The tour finishes with a final breakfast together.
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