Viewing Ireland is best done in the open air and on two wheels. While a scenic drive can make for a gentle and warm day out, there is nothing like the buzz of getting in the saddle and experiencing Ireland right under your wheels. We have pulled together ten of the best cycles to accomplish over the weekend.
1: Waterford Greenway
The Waterford Greenway is 46km of a traffic-free route that expands from the historic Waterford City to the seaside town of Dungarvan in County Waterford. With the Comeragh Mountains guiding you on your way, the Waterford greenway is a captivating experience in Ireland’s Ancient East.
2: Royal Canal Greenway
The Royal Canal Greenway is a whopping 130 km making it the longest off-road Greenway in Ireland. Running along the Royal Canal, the greenway brings you through Kildare, Meath, Westmeath, and Longford. With the greenway separated into various lengths and routes, you can choose how long you plan to stay in the saddle.
3: Great Western Greenway
The Great Western Greenway follows the old midlands railway that closed in 1937 and spans 42km along the coast of Clew Bay. This traffic-free natural landscape is a cyclist’s dream as you are met by farmland, bogs, and a stunning coastline.
4: Blessington Lake Loop
The Blessington Lake Loop in County Wicklow is a steady 75km route with some short but steep hills. With scenery from Valleymount, Ballyknockan and Lacken.
5: Limerick Greenway
The Limerick Greenway runs along the old railway line that connected the towns of Rathkeale, Newcastlewest, and Abbeyfeale in Limerick. The 39km stretch of off-road cycling brings you along the stunning countryside and through picturesque villages. There are five sections to the greenway with town loops to consider for your next outing.
6: Old Rail Trail
The Old Rail Trail is a fantastic cycling route that brings you through the town of Athlone to the old market town of Mullingar in Westmeath. The route is a 43km cycle path that was thoughtfully created as it brings you through the stunning and historic midlands countryside.
7: Inis Mor Loop
The Inis Mor Loop is a breath-taking way to explore the Aran Islands. At 55 kilometres, the loop brings you through some incredible parts of the Wild Atlantic Way.
8: Suir Blueway (Greenway)
The Suir Blueway runs 53km from Carrick-on-Suir to Cahir in County Tipperary. Along the blueway is a 21km cycling trail from Carrick-on-Suir to Clonmel. The route is a beautiful collection of countryside and views of the Golden Vale. Ideal for leisure cyclists, you will make your way over bridges and past castles and churches.
9: Black Valley Loop
The Black Valley route in Kerry is a tricky but rewarding cycle as you cover 56km of stunning Kerry countryside as you head towards the Gap of Dunloe. Considered one of Ireland’s best and most scenic cycles, you won’t regret getting in the saddle for this rewarding route.
10: Dublin to Wicklow Mountains Loop
Deemed to be deserving of a place on every cyclist’s bucket list, the Dublin to Wicklow Mountains Loop covers 75km with tough climbs but incredible views. It’s a challenging but satisfying route. You will see why it’s considered one of the best cycle routes Leinster has to offer as you take to the tarmac.
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Photo by Dó Castle:
