Cycling in Ireland

An incredible geographic diversity

Bikes rides in Ireland are simultaneously utterly unique and very similar; each is similar in that it contains vibrant and dramatic landscape but also completely unique, never taking you to the same view twice. There are numerous mountain ranges throughout the country, each with its own personality from the coastal peaks of MacGillycuddy’s Reeks to the rolling green giants of the Wicklow range. Cycling along Ireland’s winding roads with mountains rising imperiously either side is an experience that never gets old. 

With rushing rivers, lovely loughs and sparkling seas, you’re never more than a biscuit’s toss from water on any of Ireland’s cycle routes. Many of the loughs both big and small have a variety of cycle trails around them which are often ideal for families and offer flat riding and stunning views across the water. 

What time of year to go 

While you can certainly enjoy cycling in Ireland throughout the year, the late spring to early autumn period brings warm, sunshine and lush greens to your adventure. Ireland has such verdant flora thanks to its mild and wet maritime climate, so you can expect rain in every season.

Summer’s long days allow you to make the most of multi-day bike rides and are best for camping. Early autumn brings golden colours and dramatic light but the weather becomes increasingly changeable. 

Wildlife spotting on your Irish rides

Thanks to vast areas of remote landscape, wildlife thrives in Ireland and provides constant opportunities for you to spot some of the island’s furry and feathery faces. Surely one of Ireland’s most wonderful animals is the colourful puffin, which returns each year to nest on the west coast. Ride to the cliffs of Moher or north to Horn Head for some of the best puffin-spotting points. 

As you stop on a clifftop for a well-earned sandwich and slice of cake, keep a keen eye on the water below, particularly off the west coast. Whales and dolphins frequent the waters here, feeding in the nutrient-rich environment. Inland, deer are a common sight in fields near forests, particularly fallow deer but sika and red deer are also fairly common.