» West Cork Coast Self-Guided Bike Tour

West Cork Coast Self-Guided Bike Tour

Trip Details:

Operator:	Ireland Walk Hike Bike
Price From:	1,125 EUR
Fitness Needs:	Moderately Fit
Program duration:	8 days
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About this program

Cycle the south of Ireland from Cork to Killarney on this 8-day self-guided bike tour. Discover crashing Atlantic coastlines, quiet lakes, small towns and villages along the way. As you cycle along, learn about the strong traditions in the area, dine on local artisan food and enjoy the stories of locals in each place you visit. There’s no place in the world like Ireland, and this is the perfect way to explore it!

Some highlights include a visit to Cape Clear Island, stunning views at Old Head and the cycle trip of the Ring of Baera. The self-guided itinerary includes your accommodations at B&Bs, full Irish breakfast each day, bikes, luggage transport, full cycle details and much more!

Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrive Cork

Arrive at your accommodation in Cork City & collect your cycles.

Day 2 - Cork to Kinsale

Cycling from the city – you set off on your first journey for the wonderful fishing village of Kinsale. Sections of today’s route are on relatively busy roads and you will want to exercise caution riding these segments. You will encounter some nice climbs and less road traffic once you pass Cork Airport. There are a variety of shops and pubs along the way where you can stop for refreshments. Today’s Cycle Distance: 26kms to 48kms/ 16ml to 30ml.

Day 3 - Kinsale to Clonakilty

The first half of today’s cycle takes you along the impressive coast to the “Olde Head of Kinsale”. From there you then cycle inland through forest and open countryside. It is a terrific farming region with glorious views all around. There is some uphill cycling on this route and generally, it is a well paced day. We suggest you buy drinks before you leave Kinsale as the shops along the route are a little unpredictable in their opening hours. Today’s Cycle Distance: 44km /27ml, or longer if you add the option to Courtmacsherry.

Day 4 - Clonakilty to Skibbereen

Leaving Clonakilty behind you – today’s cycle is a lovely trip on to the town of Skibbereen. There is a direct route along busy roads, so we recommend you follow our longer suggestion that passes by coast, forest and inland scenery – a perfect combination for a day's cycling. There are some steep climbs but they are achievable if you take today’s route at a relaxed pace. You also cycle through the beautiful villages of Glandore and Unionhall which are typical west Cork villages. There are pubs and shops in the main villages with excellent food available. Today’s Cycle Distance: 63km or 49km/39ml or 30 ml, depending on your route choice.

Day 5 - Skibbereen to Bantry

Today you have two routes to choose from. The first – you have the option to take a ferry from the lovely village of Baltimore to the beautiful Cape Clear Island. From there a second ferry will take you to Schull – a wonderful fishing village. From Schull, you then cycle on to Bantry. Please note – the ferry cost is not included and is payable directly to the ferry company. You will need to ring ahead & book this yourself in advance. The second option is to go by road via Ballydehob and the cycle distance is nearly the same but please allow 4 hours if you take the ferry (allowing for the ferry crossing and visiting Baltimore and Schull). Today’s Cycle Distance: 47km or 52km/29ml or 32 ml, depending on your route choice.

Day 6 - Bantry to Kenmare

Today is one of the most impressive & picturesque cycles you could wish to do & whichever option you decide to take – the scenery along the route is stunning. The longer option takes you on an amazing cycling over the Healy Pass through some of the most breath-taking scenery in Ireland. This route is challenging so please only take this route if you feeling in good health & are reasonably fit. The alternate route is through the glorious Borlin Valley which is fabulous and possibly less well known & therefore quieter. Both routes have places along the way for refreshments but we still suggest you bring some food along with you and plenty to drink. Today’s Cycle Distance: 72kms/ 45ml via the Healy Pass or 48kms/ 30 mls via the Borlin Valley.

Day 7 - Kenmare to Killarney

This is probably the “must see” cycle of your trip. It is a wonderful route with glorious views over the famous Lakes of Killarney and plenty of downhill time as well. Again you have the choice on distance – the longer route taking you through the impressive glaciated valley know locally as the Gap of Dunloe. Whichever route you choose you will be spoilt for scenery & views along the way. Refreshment stops are available along today’s routes. Today’s Cycle Distance: 42km /26ml.

Day 8 - Departure

After a final breakfast and farewell you leave your cycle behind you and follow your own arrangements for your onward journey.

Country Fast Facts

Ireland

Flag
Continent:	Europe
Official Language(s)	English, Irish Gaelic
Capital:	Republic of Ireland: DublinNorthern Ireland: Belfast
Population	6,378,000 (2011)
Climate(s)	Oceanic
Major Airport(s):	Dublin Airport (DUB), Belfast International Airport (BFS), Cork Airport (ORK), Shannon Airport (SNN)
Economic Driver(s):	Alcoholic Beverages, Tourism, Energy

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West Cork Coast Self-Guided Bike Tour