ANTRIM
WATERWORKS ROUTE -2KM
This route takes you around the upper & lower ponds, with fantastic views over the Belfast Hills.
Starting from Queen Mary's Gardens entrance, on corner of Cavehill Road and Antrim Road.
Keeping the lower pond on your right hand side take the path around the pond to where it meets the tree lined avenue. Turn right, pausing to enjoy the birdlife and views of Cave Hill.
At the junction with the upper pond take left turn. Continue along this path. You will pass the islands which are home to a variety of wildlife. Continue along this path and soon you will pass a small playground. At the bridge turn right and this will bring you back to the start point. There are some slight hills.
BARNETT DEMESNE GREEN TRAIL- 3.4KM
The green trail at Barnett Demesne is a smooth shared use trail 3.4km long.
There is also a 3.9km blue trail with 3 red loop options (1.5km) for the more experienced mountain bikers. With Ireland's first official purpose-built jumps park boasting no less than 6 lines of mouth-watering table-tops, doubles and hip jumps. The trails start from the Mary Peters Track in South Belfast.
BALLYMONEY CYCLE ROUTE- 25 MILES
Using mainly country lanes and quiet roads, the cycle route is best travelled in an anti-clockwise direction to make the most of the picturesque views of the surrounding countryside.The area has a variety of raths, mottes and standing stones and includes the beautiful Lissanoure Castle Estate. There are also fine views of the Maine and Bush River Valleys.
COAST ROAD- 70 MILES
A rural winding road that hugs the coastline. Sea views are on one side and rugged steep hillsides are on the other. (the route follows the Causeway Coastal Route so traffic is heavy during summer and holiday periods).
Cycle information:
Cork
Mahon Peninsula - 7 km
A pleasant cycle from the city centre, head out west on the River Lee, stopping by the Blackrock Castle Observatory, a restored 18th-century castle with crenellated rooftops. Follow the Mahon Peninsula Public Walk, which runs through overgrown ruins, to reach the calm shores of Lough Mahon, a beautiful expanse of water. The cycle to Mahon takes around 20 minutes.
Cobh- 20 km
Take in coastal Cork with this flat-land route beginning at Albert Quay. Head past the Páirc Uí Chaoimh stadium Follow the off-road paths along the water, admiring the views of the harbour, and cycle onwards to the town of Passage West. Take the ferry across to to Carrigaloe. From here, continue the journey towards Cobh, which was the Titanic’s last port of call in 1912.
Skibbereen to Baltimore-35km
This is a trip out to the fishing village of Baltimore, taking in the challenging Lough Hyne along the way. Alternatively, you can turn back before Lough Hyne, staying on the loop, in which case it is the easiest route. Lough Hyne is a saltwater lake with a unique ecosystem, and is a designated Marine Nature Reserve. The route continues on past Lough Hyne to the seaport of Baltimore. After exploring the quayside and town centre, return by the same route”.
Beara Peninsula, County Cork -120 miles
This is a challenging route but the scenery is beautiful and it’s around 120 miles . 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 19 miles 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.
Bike Hire in Cork
Dublin
Canal bike ride 3.6km
The Canal Way Cycle Route is a 3.6km route that works as an artery to the city, linking the Georgian elegance of Portobello to the modern tech hub of Spencer Dock and Grand Canal. The scenic route passes Leeson Street Bridge where you can stop and soak up Dublin's café culture before taking in the modern vibe of Dublin’s Docklands. A very easy and short trip.
Tolka Valley Greenway -5 km
Start this route at the park entrance at the bottom of Addison Hall residential estate in Glasnevin. Unlike most Dublin parks where cycling is permitted through shared cycle tracks, the Tolka Park Greenway has the added benefit in that there is a physical separation between the cycle and pedestrian tracks; they are well marked and maintained. If you want more than the 4.4 km spin, then you can extend it to join the royal canal greenway as far as the 12th Lock, and perhaps return towards the city centre through the Phoenix park and along the recently opened and much welcome segregated cycle lanes along the north city quays.
Phoenix Park – 8km
Stretching to over 1,700 acres and one of Europe’s largest urban parks, it represents a cyclist’s dream with its largely flat gradient and stunning views. Make your way up Chesterfield Avenue from the Conyngham Road entrance,Aras an Uachtarain (President’s House) on your right-hand side. Continue on up taking a left at Furze Road where you might be lucky enough to see some of the 450 deer that are residents of the Park.
The Royal and Grand Canal – 120km
With hundred of kilometres of canal side-paths, Ireland’s network of waterways has a huge amount to offer cyclists interested in exploring the countryside and getting away from roads and traffic. The two canals that connect Dublin with the Shannon, the Royal and the Grand, can be linked to create a 120km route with only 40km of road riding. The path’s quality varies, so it’s more suitable for a mountain bike or hybrid than the narrow tyres of a road bike.
Bike Rental:
Donegal
The Holmes Route 6km
Murvagh Beach, Donegal, a short out and back cycle suitable for the complete beginner. A nice quiet beach to enjoy a swim in the Atlantic or a picnic at the shore. Take immediate right. Follow this road, after 2km at Y junction follow road to right. This takes you to The Holmes Beach.
Laghey – 26 km
Harvey’s Point Hotel, Donegal Town try this nice leisurely route which is mostly flat. Cycle through Donegal Town towards Ballyshannon. At Tullyearl roundabout, take 2nd exit. After approx 1km take left into Laghey village. In village, take left over bridge and then take next right. Keep on this road until you approach the main road. Take left towards Donegal town,take 3rd exit at roundabout.
The Inis Eoghain Cycleway – 55km
The Inis Eoghain Cycleway is a 55km loop connecting The River Foyle in County Londonderry to Lough Swilly in Donegal. More than one third of the route is traffic free passing along the Foyle Valley, close to the heart of Derry City and continuing under the spectacular Foyle Bridge before heading through Ballyarnett Country Park. the route begins to climb to An Grianán Aileach with magnificent views over Lough Swilly, Inch Island, the Inis Eoghain Peninsula and south towards the Sperrin Mountains.
Glengesh Route- 95 km
Fanad Lighthouse, Donegal Experience one of Donegal’s famous cycle climbs! Ireland’s only professional road race, Rás Tailteann, has used this climb numerous times. You can still see the riders names painted on the road.
Route Information & Bike Hire:
Galway
Portumna Forest Park- 5km
Located beside the Galway/Tipperary border, Portumna Forest Park has a selection of cycle routes for all ages, with two mountain bike trails, a dedicated family route and a trail that connects the park to Portumna town.
Derroura Trail-16km
The Derroura trails are located 7km to the west of Oughterard . A mixture of short climbs and rapid descents, this offers one of Ireland’s greatest mountain biking experiences. The trail itself is quite short, at just over 16km in length, but it is worth it for the beautiful Connemara landscape. It begins next to Lough Bofin and about halfway through it overlooks Lough Corrib. Some of the other highlights include views of the Maam valley and the Twelve Pins to the west.
Galway City to Spiddeal Route-40km
Galway City to Spiddal is another spectacular route, cycling from the outskirts of Galway on the Clifden Road to Moycullen, you’ll see the Cliffs of Moher and on a clear day you might even get to see the remote Aran Islands. This route suits all levels of cyclists.
Ballyconneely & Roundstone Loop -40 km
On this route cyclists can take in the lovely natural wilderness of Derrygimlagh and Roundstone bogs. Further on towards Ballyconneely, stop in Coral Strand. Visit Roundstone, one of the oldest fishing villages in Ireland andcan also visit the stunning beaches of Gurteen and Dog’s Bay. On the coast road enjoy the fine spectacular views and generally gentle gradients.
Bike Hire:
Kerry
Tralee Cycle- 12 Km
This family friendly vaccine starts at Tralee Basin which is adjacent to the start of the N86 Dingle road out of Tralee. The cycle takes in the local canal built in the early 19th century and the iconic village of Blennerville and its famous windmill. The surface is paved and takes in Bicycle/walking paths and quiet country lanes.
Kerry Head Cycleway-18km
The Kerry Head Cycleway which is a mix of flat and hilly countryside starts in Ballyheigue and departs along the steep hill overlooking Ballyheigue Bay, with its crashing waves where many a ship has foundered. As cyclists climb to the top, the westerly prevailing Atlantic wind can be a challenge but soon the road levels out for a gentler but undulating ride back to Ballyheigue. It is worth stopping at various points along the route to enjoy the views, where the Atlantic Ocean stretches to the horizon. Gradually the route turns inland along the edge of the mountain and finally enters the town of Ballyheigue again by the local golf course and the castle, built in the early 1800's, but now a ruin.
Killarney Loop-27km
This is the go to cycling route for anyone wanting to explore the sights of Killarney including Ross Castle, Muckross House & Gardens, Brickeen Bridge, Dinis Cottage and Torc Waterfall. It contains a total of 27km of a cycle that you can cycle all together or you can take parts of it if you wish to shorten the journey. Much of this cycle is away from motor traffic and in amongst the labyrinth and network of trails that scatter around the Killarney National Park. Be sure to stop and enjoy the views.
The Ring of Kerry Cycle Route-216km
The Ring of Kerry Cycle Route is in an area known throughout the world for its archaeological treasures, breathtaking scenery and charming hospitality. The route travels along quiet country roads where possible and passes through all the main towns and villages along the way. The entire journey is 216km (134 miles) with 74km of the route on the main road and 143km of the route on minor roads. The route should ideally be cycled in a clockwise direction for safety and spread over a week in order to fully appreciate the relaxing atmosphere and magnificent variety of scenery.
Bike Rental:
Kildare
The Arthurs Way- 15km
The Route starts in Leixlip. Bikers need to follow the Main Street direction west, thereafter up the Old Hill. At the top you will see a familiar sign of “Arthur’s Way” pointing you to bike south-west on Celbridge Rd. Shortly after the roundabout another “Arthur’s Way” sign point your direction and you need to turn right into a small road. Follow the small road to the gate of the Castletown House Park. From Castletown House you will follow the avenue and enter the village of Celbridge. You cross the bridge and are on the route to Hazelhatch. From the Hazel Hatch Pub you will follow the Grand Canal. The rout passes the Village of Lyons – still biking by the Grand Canal.
Barrow Way- 25km
Leaving Monasterevin take the left hand bank for the first three kms before crossing over at McCartney Bridge to the opposite bank. Its open ground for the 10kms to Rathangan . too Spencer Bridge comes into view on the approach to the town. The Canal provides a really pleasant entry to Rathangan with a lovely linear park alongside. The surface is quite good most of the way to Roberstown. Ballyteigue Castle comes into view in another 10kms. This goes The Barrow Line meets the Grand Canal at Lowtown just outside the village of Roberstown.
Vicarstown/Emo Circuit – 56 km
This route will take you from Vicarstown via Emo,The Heath,Rock of Dunamase and Athy before returning to Vicarstown. This is a great cycling country with excellent surfaces
Turas Columbanus 105kms
The cycle is in a quiet, rural corner of counties Laois and Kildare. It’s a wonderfully gentle cycle on excellent local roads and has some fascinating stopping-off points. Vicarstown, home to Barrowline Cruisers, is better known to canal lovers than touring cyclists but it is the perfect starting point for this pleasant route.
Bike Rental:
Mayo
Westport Town Loop-14km
This route encircles Westport town, going out towards Louisburgh on the main road and back along the coast road to Westport Quay. It then goes through the beautiful Westport House estate and around the north of the town before returning.
Monasteries of the Moy-14km
The Monasteries of the Moy is a 14km route which forms part of the Western Way, linking a series of monastic sites along the banks of the River Moy between Ballina and Killala. The sites enroute are St. Muredach’s Cathedral in Ballina, Moyne Abbey & The Priory of the Holy Cross at Rathfran.
Céide Fields/Downpatrick Head – 32km
A 32km route or 64km round trip from Ballina that takes in some of the most stunning cliff edge views Ireland has to offer.
Great Western Greenway- 43km in total
The multi award winning Great Western Greenway - recently voted in the top 3 cycle trails in the world, it is also Ireland's longest designated cycling and walking trail. Running 43.5km around the eastern and Northern stretches of Clew Bay in Co Mayo. It begins in the popular seaside town of Westport and traverses through the quaint villages of Newport and Mulranny before coming to a gentle finish at Achill Sound.
Bike Hire:
Kilkenny
St. Mullins Route- 20 Km
This cycle is on the tow path along thestretch of the Barrow that runs to St Mullins on the Carlow-Kilkenny border. The beautiful grassy path is flat, totally silent and traffic free. t Explore Graiguenamanagh, before heading on up the canal to Ballytiglea Bridge. Then turn around and enjoy all that beauty from the other direction.
North Kilkenny Cycle Loop-27km
This trail is a shorter route which would suit leisure cyclists who only want to cycle short distances. The North Kilkenny Cycle Loop covers a distance of 27km and takes between 1.5 to 2.5 hours to complete. Along this route, you will travel through rural laneways and riverside roads to explore Kilkenny sights.
South Kilkenny Cycle Loop-41km
The South Kilkenny Cycle Loop covers a distance of 41km and lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours. You will explore the sights of South Kilkenny, and visit the town of Bennetsbridge. During this cycle, you will enter a town so it's important to exercise caution on approach.
East Kilkenny Cycling Route- 64km
This cycling trail covers a distance of 64km and takes approximately 3 to 4.5 hours. It is spread across country roads and laneways and it is usually quiet on this road. However, it is important to note that there is a one-way system in Thomastown. Along this route, you will be immersed in the stunning views of the River Barrow & River Nore providing a beautiful background for photography.
Cycling Tours & Rental:
Meath
Boyne Greenway- 2km
Running 1.9km from Dominic's Park on the south bank of the River Boyne near the Bridge of Peace in Drogheda, the Boyne Greenway takes you along the river close to the Mary McAleese Cable Bridge and then along the Boyne Canal to the Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre at Oldbridge. The walking and cycling facility utilises sections of boardwalk to create a riverside resource connecting Drogheda’s town centre to the Oldbridge Estate, via the existing ramparts. Along the boardwalk are a number of heritage signs with information about Irish Mythology relevant to the Boyne Valley.
Newgrange Valley Circular Cycle Route-26km
The route starts from Slane village. After crossing the bridge over the Boyne at Slane there is a steep climb before turning off the main road. After that it's mainly gentle hills on fairly quiet roads. Some beautiful landscape, passing by Newgrange passage tomb, Dowth burial mound and the Boyne river, as well as crossing a beautiful old bridge over the Boyne. All of the route is on tarmac.
Kells to Virginia Circular Cycle Route- 85km
Something for everyone on this nice circular exploration of this corner of Meath/Cavan. Starts off with an a undualting run along the Kells to Oldcastle road, usually relatively light traffic, with some lovely stretches. We continue to follow the regional road to virginia with more rolling hills. Then off piste, through Cavan backroads before crossing the kells kingcourt road for a challenging hill at Screebogue. We can refuel at Carlanstown before a nice flat stretch avoiding the main roads all the way back to kells with the final stretch past the manicured lawns of the Headfort golf club.
Bike Hire:
Tipperary
The North Tipperary Cycle Network- 11km to 67km
Each cycle offers pleasant views of the local countryside while loops 1 and 2 provide stunning lakeshore panoramas. Numerous picnic stops are dotted along the route as well as a number of award-winning pubs and restaurants.
Loop 1: 65km
This loop takes the cyclist along the eastern shores of Lough Derg and through lakeside villages of Dromineer and Terryglass. Shorter journeys 1a(11km), 1b(28km) and 1c(46km) which are sign posted may be taken along this loop.
Loop 2: 30km
This is the shortest of the three loops, and allow access to some of the more spectacular views of the lake before descending into Castlelough and on through a working farm, along a slight off-road section (suitable for all bike types) to Garrykennedy.
Loop 3: 67km
Loop three is a relatively flat cycle visiting Cloughjordan, home of Ireland’s first eco village returning to Nenagh along quiet inland roads. A shorter journey 3a(46km) may be taken along this loop.
Ballyhoura Mountain Bike Trails
For the adrenaline junkies the off road Ballyhoura Mountain Bike Trail at Kilfinane offers challenges for the experienced mountain bike rider. Over 98 km of designated trails including forest road climbs, tight twisty singletrack with loads of ups and downs, board walk, tight turns and technical rocky bits are guaranteed to leave you smiling.
The Suir Blueway- 53km
The Suir Blueway is open for visitors on the River Suir in Co Tipperary and it features a fantastic cycling route taking in Carrick-on-Suir; the home town of Sean Kelly and Sam Bennett. Suir Blueway Tipperary, as it is called, runs some 53km from Cahir to Carrick-on-Suir via Clonmel.
It is comprised of walking and cycling trails and, of course, the River Suir water sports amenity. Indeed, the river-based element is what makes it a blueway rather than a greenway. But if you’re a cyclist, don’t let that put you off as there is a continuous 21km towpath cycling route that stretches from Carrick-on-Suir to Clonmel.
Bike Hire:
Waterford
Waterford City- 5km to 15 km
Waterford is a cycle-friendly city with plenty of attractions to get around to. Head down the quays, for a breath of air on the banks of the Suir. Double back through the Cultural Quarter of O’Connell Street and see if there’s music in John Robert’s Square. Cycle up to Ballybricken where cattle fairs were once held. Park up at the Medieval Museum to feast on the treasures there or head over the People’s Park, passing the magnificent new courthouse on Catherine Street.
The Waterford Greenway- 46 km
The Waterford Greenway is a haven for those looking to unwind. Running from Waterford City to Dungarvan, the Greenway offers 46 kilometres to explore. The views throughout are nothing short of spectacular and there are plenty of refreshment stops en route for those looking to make a day of it. It’s a shared use Greenway, which means that people are allowed to cycle, walk and run, you can even bring your dog, as long as he/she is on a lead.
Sean Kelly Cycle Route - The Coastal Route-73km
Quite a few very small hills but nothing too tough. The route is well signposted so it’s hard to go far wrong.Can be combined with the Waterford - Dungarvan Greenway to make a larger loop out of Waterford (145k approx for me with various diversions). Alternatively, you can get the ferry across to Wexford at Passage East and continue on down to Hook head.
The Copper Coast Scenic Cycle Route-166km
is a 166km (100 mile) full day or multiple day, scenic coastal road trip starting from either Dungarvan, Co. Waterford or Rosslare in Co. Wexford. The Copper Coast Drive is one of the more spectacular driving and cycle routes in Ireland and a top way to explore Ireland's Ancient East. Starting from either Dungarvan the Copper Coast drive and cycle route takes in the entire Copper Coast European Geopark between Dungarvan and Tramore in County Waterford and it extends onwards to Dunmore East, passing Waterford City, down to the Hook Head Peninsula and Lighthouse, Tintern Abbey , kilmore Quay and finishing in Rosslare Co. Waterford.
Bike Hire:
Wexford
Coastal Route -36km
This is the easiest route, which will take cyclists out to the internationally important Wildfowl Reserve of the Wexford Slobs and then on past some fantastic beaches. The Discovery Centre and the numerous observation hides along the road are open to the public free of charge. They will be needed because there is a series of short but steep hills in this vicinity. Cyclists continue on to where Route 2 rejoins Route 1 at Cooney’s Crossroads and from here it is mostly downhill back into Wexford.
Slaney Route -53km
This is a trip around north Wexford taking cyclists across the bridge and on towards Enniscorthy. The route is via quiet scenic back roads which go up and down the numerous small hills that pepper the landscape. Enniscorthy is especially hilly and the decisive battle of the 1798 rebellion was fought on top of nearby Vinegar Hill. Cyclists should cross the bridge at Ferrycarrig and turn left onto a smaller road here for a straight run back into the town.
South Wexford Route -78 km
This is a tour of south Wexford which initially takes cyclists uphill towards a roundabout near the picturesque Johnstown Castle, and then on to the old town of Rosslare and its busy Ferryport nearby at Kilrane. The route to the fishing village of Kilmore Quay is fast, flat and characterised by sudden changes in direction but watch out for Irelands only surviving windmill at Tacumshane. Later cyclists can afford to linger at Johnstown Castle with its gardens and Agricultural Museum, knowing that a few minutes freewheeling will take them back down to Wexford town.
Bike Hire, Tours & Repairs:
Wicklow
Avondale Forest Park 2-5km
Avondale Forest Park provides a variety of trails for walking and family cycling. The Railway Walk links the park directly into Rathdrum – that which Parnell himself took to connect to the train at Rathdrum and onward to the Houses of Parliament in London. The trails are of varying lengths and feature the best the Park has to offer – along the vast expanse of the ‘Great Ride, through majestic stands of Sequoia, Spruce and broadleaves and down along the steep-sided river valley.
Blessington Loop - 75km
This full-day loop is a procession of idyllic postcard views. The roads are pretty quiet and will lead you around the Blessington Lakes, past the Glendalough Monastery, and take in some of the Wicklow Mountains. It’s a moderately difficult ride with a few ups and downs and it’s easy to extend this route slightly to start from Dublin. This is great way to explore some of the big sights in Ireland’s Ancient East.
The Sally Gap 42 km
Probably the most well-known cycle in Wicklow and definitely one of its toughest climbs! Park up in Roundwood and head for the Gap. Watch out for those stunning views of the dark waters of Lough Tay. Take the left turn onto the Military Road and savour the wild and rural beauty of Wicklow. Another highlight to keep an eye out for en route is the Glenmacnass waterfall. Afterwards, you’ll coast down into the quaint village of Laragh, then over the Avonmore river for the last climb of the day and downhill the rest of the way into Roundwood.
Ballinastoe Mountain Bike Trail
For spectacular views out over the Irish Sea on one side and the Sally Gap on the other, take on the challenge of the Ballinastoe Mountain Bike Trail, just outside Roundwood in Co Wicklow. The first half is an uphill task, literally, but well rewards the effort with stunning views out over Lough Tay, the Guinness lake. It’s a rough and ready track that requires proper mountain bikes for 9km of purpose built singletrack, some of it just 1m wide, with all the technical challenges older kids enjoy, but put the heart crossways on trailing parents.
Bike Rental:
Clare
Loop Head Peninsula
The Loop Head Peninsula route is a 50-kilometre loop that showcases the dramatic coastal scenery of Clare. Starting in Kilkee, cyclists can enjoy panoramic ocean views, quaint villages, and historic sites along the way. This route is ideal for intermediate to advanced cyclists looking for a scenic adventure.
Offaly
Grand Canal Greenway
The Grand Canal Greenway is a scenic 65-kilometre route that follows the canal from Edenderry to Shannon Harbour. This flat, well-maintained path is perfect for leisurely rides and offers beautiful views of the canal, locks, and surrounding countryside. It's an ideal choice for families and casual cyclists.
