Cycling in Cork and Kerry

Select your route, determine the time, set your speed and you are off on a cycling adventure amidst the spectacular landscape of southwest of Ireland.

From country lanes and quiet roads to long distance trails, cycling gives you the freedom to explore the spectacular southwest at your own pace.

There are a range of established and signposted cycling routes throughout the region. These routes have been mapped and signposted and avoid the main roads as much as possible.

The regions longest route is the 216 km Ring of Kerry Trail, passing through some of the most beautiful countryside in all of Ireland. It is an area known throughout the world for its archaeological treasures, breathtaking scenery and warm hospitality.

Other cycle routes include:

• Gap of Dunloe

From Killarney town centre cycle to Ross Castle and take the magnificent boat trip across the lakes to Lord Brandon’s Cottage. The trip takes in beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and of the Meeting of the Waters and Ladies View. From Lord Brandon’s Cottage cycle through the Gap to Kate Kearney’s Cottage and return to Killarney via the N72.

• Killarney Trail

Enjoy the spectacular 30km trail that circles Killarney, taking in the Gap of Dunloe, the Black Valley Hostel and the National Park.

• Fenit Cycleway

26km return journey. Flat scenic route. Take the R551 from Tralee to meet the R558 coastal route to Fenit and relax, as the view of Tralee Bay takes your breathe away.

• Kerry Head Cycleway

Starting and ending point – Ballyheigue. 18km return journey. Mix of flat and hilly countryside – low gear recommended. Become captivated on this cycle route as the ruggedness of Maulin Mountain is a backdrop to the spectacular Kerry coastal views.

The prevailing westerly Atlantic winds can be challenging on parts of this route toeven the most experienced of cyclists, especially as you climb to the top, so don’t be afraid to walk part of the ways.

• The Beara Way Cycle route is a circular route of approximately 138km through the spectacular Beara Peninsula, and the route generally uses country roads and stays close to the coastline.

• The Sheeps Head Cycle Route of approximately 120km starts at Ballylickey north of Bantry and travels down the northern side of the Sheep’s Head Peninsula and returns through Durrus, the route ends at Ballydehob near Roaringwater Bay.

• The Blackwater Valley Cycle Route is approximately 156 km and starts in the historic Heritage Town of Youghal, County Cork and ends in Killarney, County Kerry. The route first runs Northwest towards Fermoy and the Blackwater and then generally west towards Killarney.

High quality bicycle hire is readily available in the region, providing touring or mountain cycles for all ages and abilities. In fact, cycling has become so popular in the Cork Kerry area that cycle holiday specialists can provide you with customized vacation packages.

Should you wish to travel on your own, excellent maps and detailed cycling guides routes will point out the attractions and facilities along the way. Specialist maps and guides are available from tourist information offices throughout the region.

From windy mountain passes, to leisurely spins through woodland trails, to surfside island tours, cycling in the southwest will delight and thrill you.

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