The Best Cycling Views in Ireland – We’ve Got Expert Guides

Ireland has so much to offer, from its beautiful, thriving culture to its friendly people, local delicacies that leave you wanting more, charming villages that are full of life, and its rich history. But what seems to grab people’s attention is its diverse and unique landscapes that are not only picturesque but also awe-inspiring. Nothing beats watching the sun set over the cliffs, mountains, lakes, and tons of other natural beauties that exist in this region. The experience is even better if you’ve had the pleasure of cycling to the sunset view. And if this sounds like something that you would like to tick off your bucket list, you have come to the right place!

What Guides Do We Offer?

Our site, which is run by ardent cyclists, is all about sharing the best cycling routes in Ireland. But instead of bundling them all as a one-size-fits-all plan that works for every cyclist, we add some nuances to ensure that you can plan a trip that is right for you. So, let’s get into what you can expect on our site and how this can help you get the most out of your cycling trip.

The Top Cycling Routes

Cycling Routes

While there are many cycling routes in Ireland, some seem to take the cake and almost always feature in people’s cycling plans. We completely understand why people gravitate towards these routes. Take the Ring of Kerry as an example – it’s iconic! After all, who wouldn’t want to add this loop to their conquests? The Great Western Greenway is yet another popular route, which people love for its views as well as the thrill of being off-road!

We’ve compiled a list of all these top routes and share them with you, complete with the following details:

  • Their regions.
  • Their distances and typical durations.
  • Their difficulty levels.

And as a cherry on top, we also add what makes these routes so appealing, so you can know what to look for as you cycle through them.

The Most Scenic Spots

Scenic Spots

For many cyclists, the thrill of riding comes from speeding down a trail and feeling the cool air on their faces and bodies. It’s a delightful feeling, especially when the weather is just right. But in Ireland, cycling is not just about how fast you can get to the next stop. Instead, the adventure also includes making stops at the stunning views that are present in most of the routes. And they are in plenty, which is why we have designed guides that let you in on what not to miss on each route. So, what do our guides cover?

  • Views grouped by type – we have lakes, cliffs, mountain passes, forests, and more.
  • Detailed descriptions – get a picture of what to expect in each scenic view so you can prepare accordingly.
  • Tips – know the best timing to get the most out of your adventure.

We ensure that you understand exactly what awaits you. Take the Cliffs of Moher as an example. These sea cliffs, which face the Atlantic, are some of the most beautiful landscapes that you will ever see in your life. And the feeling of the wind on your face as you cycle towards the sea views? Ah, just memorable. But if you want to get the most out of your trip, the key lies in making your way to the cliffs in the morning for those misty vibes or in the evening so you can catch the sunset against the contrast of the ocean waves. Timing is everything!

The Top Routes per Region

Routes per Region

With so many routes to explore, cyclists can feel overwhelmed, such that they may not know where to start or whether they should explore different regions at the same time. We understand this decision fatigue all too well. That’s why our guides include the following:

  • A general overview of the region, including the local culture.
  • The top routes in the region, complete with their features.
  • The top scenic views to tour in each of the routes.

With these, you will have the ultimate mini map to follow as you plan your cycling trip. For example, if you are starting in the southwest, our guides will point you towards routes such as the Ring of Kerry, Gap of Dunloe, and Beara Peninsula so you can pass through the valleys and get a good look at the coastal cliffs and mountain passes.

Insights from Real Cyclists

Have you ever been on a route and it was not what you expected? We’ve been there and done that, and that’s why we believe in the power of testimonials from people who have tried cycling all the routes that we feature. But what do these include?

  • Raw testimonials from both local and visiting cyclists – get to hear firsthand information.
  • Tips and tricks from experienced cyclists who have mastered specific routes in our guides.

We also include our own experiences, seeing as we always shape our guides based on our cycling tours in these routes. Even so, we know that people’s riding skills are different, and we categorize our reviews based on age and skill level so you can gauge your abilities against the other cyclists.

Ireland Cycling Tips

We know how exciting it can feel to embark on a cycling tour. But besides your can-do attitude and a sturdy bike, do you need anything else to have a great trip? Absolutely! While different cyclists have different needs, we have designed complete guides that walk you through the following essentials:

  1. Packing tips – understand what to pack, from cycling gear to snacks, repair kits, meds, and more. We also include how to get good mobile coverage while on the road and where to find repair stations.
  2. Safety notes – cycling in Ireland might be a tad different from the norms in your country. We walk you through the road sharing norms, how to read signage, and overall safety tips to help you avoid road incidents.
  3. Seasonal tips – some routes are more scenic at specific times of the year. Take the Lough Derg Way and the Great Western Greenway as an example. These are perfect in the spring when lambs are in the fields and flowers are blooming – the views are just spectacular!
  4. Dining and accommodation – resting and fueling your body adequately are key to having a smooth trip. And we know exactly how to do this like a local. Not only will we point you towards the top cyclist-friendly inns, hostels, and B&BS, but we will also recommend the best cafés and pubs for local delicacies.

Sometimes, cyclists do not want to cycle the entire trail, especially for beginners. As such, we include transport tips to help you get to the nearest towns to your route. With all these bases covered, you can plan a comfortable trip that you will live to remember.

The Hidden Gems

You’ve probably heard a lot about the top Ireland routes like the Ring of Kerry. But have you heard about the Ballaghisheen Pass? This mountain road is perfect for anyone who wants to have the road almost all to themselves. And besides the solitude, you also get to enjoy sweeping mountain views that will tug at your heart. The same goes for the Slieve Bloom Mountains. With forested trails, hidden valleys, and slow climbs, this route is just perfect for someone who wants to cycle as they wind down and enjoy the moment.

As cyclists who often want to take the road less traveled, we have tried these and other hidden gems that we will share with you. In our guides, you will find:

  • Cycling routes that are not in the typical tourist plan.
  • Hidden lakes, farmland backroads, and forested trails that are perfect for solitary cycling tours.
  • Scenic views to look out for, including historical spots.

So, if you’re looking for something different from what you have seen in tourist-centered cycling itineraries, we have got your back – we’ll even walk you through backroads that pass through farmlands!

See? We’ve got you covered in every possible way!

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