Top 5 bucket list-worthy cycling routes in Ireland

Travelling by bike is one of the best ways to see Ireland. Here are five top routes for your next adventure.

The Emerald Isle is known for its picturesque landscapes and breathtaking scenery. One way to take it all in is travelling by bike.

Ireland is a fantastic country for cycling enthusiasts looking for some adventure, but what are the best routes for you to try?

Below we reveal five bucket list-worthy cycling routes in Ireland that let you see the best the country has to offer.

5. The Waterford Greenway, Co. Waterford – one of the bucket list-worthy cycling routes in Ireland

This 46 km (28.5 miles) stretch of paved trails takes you through a highly varied landscape as you head from the Waterford Quays to cycle alongside a disused railway track and towards the seaside town of Dungarvan.

The route opened in 2017 and is popular with walkers and cyclists, but you won’t meet any traffic along the way.

Highlights of this trip include the fabulous garden at Mount Congreve that’s best viewed in the period from February to May.

There are also Viking ruins, a castle, and a series of bridges and aqueducts. For some cyclists, the spectacular 1,300 ft (400 m) long Ballyvoyle Tunnel is the most memorable part.

4. Inis Mor Loop, Co. Galway – a breathtaking cycle

At about 55km (34 miles) long, the Inis Mor Loop is longer than the Waterford Greenway, and it gives you a great way to explore as you get around the Aran Islands.

You can either rent a bike once you get there or take your own over on the ferry with you.

This is a chance to see the natural wonders of Ireland, such as remote beaches and the rock formation with a blowhole at ‘Poll na Peiste’.

Another attraction can be seen at Dun Aonghasa, where an ancient stone fort looks out over the Atlantic.

3. Blessington Loop, Co. Wicklow – indulge in the Garden of Ireland

Spend a full day soaking up the magnificent views as you cover 75 km (46.6 miles) around Blessington Lakes, one of the most bucket list-worthy cycling routes in Ireland.

The Wicklow Mountains provide the most dramatic scenery, while you also get to check out the Glendalough Monastery along the way.

This is slightly more challenging than some of the other Irish cycling routes we’re looking at here.

So, you won’t want to take it on unless you’re comfortable with the thought of handling some ups and downs along the way.

2. Black Valley Loop, Co. Kerry – a tough but rewarding cycle

At just 56 km (under 35 miles), this route in County Kerry is fairly short, but it’s also tougher than it appears to be at first sight. The most difficult part comes at the end; you need to climb out of the Black Valley and up to Dunloe.

There are usually other cyclists around. While accidents are rare, it’s worth knowing what to do in the event of emergencies and the after-effects.

So, ensure you bring your phone in case you need to contact emergency services and be aware of the inner workings of personal injury claims if you feel that the accident was due to negligence. 

These claims are raised when a plaintiff accuses the defendant of causing them injury through either negligence or their actions.

This applies to any of these routes, and even when you’re getting from A to B; cycling claims and road traffic accident claims are included among the different categories, highlighting the importance of being prepared if you take a tumble. 

1. Dublin to Wicklow Mountains Loop, Co. Dublin and Co. Wicklow – one of the most bucket list-worthy cycling routes in Ireland

Another hugely enjoyable route in Ireland, this 75 km (46.6 miles) loop offers an easy way to get away from Dublin for a day of cycling.

It begins with some tough climbs, but you’ll soon appreciate the incredible, open views that this leads to.

Despite the closeness to the capital, the roads on this loop are usually pretty quiet. It should only take you a few hours to get back to Dublin. However, you’ll definitely be tempted to make a few stops for sightseeing and photos.

Ireland offers many terrific places for you to enjoy cycling. Thus, this sport remains one of the very best ways to enjoy the country in a relaxed way.