If you enjoy holidays full of action and activities, Ireland is the place for you. With adventure around every corner, this beautiful country is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, and there are some amazing cycling routes in Ireland for those of you who love getting on your bike.
Cycling in Portumna Forest Park
Located on the northern shore of Lough Derg, the stunning Portumna Forest Park is the perfect place to head for a bike ride once you disembark your ferry to Ireland, no matter how much cycling experience you have. This 1500 acre forest is packed full of different trees and other natural wonders, including sixteen species of wild mammals, so keep your eye out as you’re cycling through. Portumna Forest Park has cycling opportunities for the whole family, with four fantastic trails to choose from, and you can pick the one that suits your abilities.
For families, the Forest Friendly and Woodland trails are the best options. The Forest Friendly trail is the flattest option and suitable for all visitors. This will take you along smooth forest roads and wide boardwalks, which are perfect for buggies and bikes with stabilisers. On this route, you can enjoy views of Lough Derg, a visit to the duck pond, and a variety of trees. For something very slightly more challenging, opt for the Woodland Trail which also incorporates gravel paths and a minimal gradient. This route will take you through a clearing where you might be lucky enough to spot fallow deer, and joins the Forest Friendly trail at the Lough Derg viewing platform.
Keen cyclists will prefer one of Portumna’s longer routes: the Rinmaher or the Bonaveen. Both of these cycling routes offer amazing views of the lake, and the opportunity to admire a variety of wildlife. The Bonaveen is the longer of the two, and will take you into the west of the park, which hasn’t been open to the public for as long as the other areas. This single-track path is narrow and twisty at times, so only those confident on their bikes should attempt to tackle it. You’ll pass by the golf club, the disused Bonaveen harbour (one of the most picturesque points in the park), and there’s a chance that you’ll see a number of critters running by. You can link into the Rinmaher trail from the Bonaveen if you want to extend your ride, and don’t forget to dress for the weather as the route is open to the elements in places.
The Great Western Greenway
In County Mayo, you’ll find the Great Western Greenway. Previously part of the Midlands Great Western Railway route, this trail has been repurposed as a walking and cycling route which makes it way along the Atlantic Coast. As you might expect, this cycle route offers the chance to see some of the best of Ireland’s striking scenery, including mountains, pretty villages, and Clew Bay along with its islands. The trail starts at Westport town and ends at Achill, and is 42km long in total with plenty of nice places to stop at along the way.
The Great Western Greenway is mostly smooth and flat, with a slight gradient in places, making it perfect for families and those seeking a leisurely ride. If you decide to take on this route, there are plenty of great things to see nearby, so you can take a break to enjoy some of County Mayo’s impressive landmarks. Close to the start of the trail you’ll find Westport House, a historic house boasting amazing views, impressive gardens, and sweeping terraces. At the other end of the trail you can discover the Deserted Village at Slievemore. Explore around 100 stone cottages and feel like you’ve travelled back in time while you enjoy the peace and tranquillity of this hidden gem.
Ballinastoe Mountain Bike Trail
Located just 45 minutes from Dublin in the dramatic Wicklow Mountains, you’ll find the Ballinastoe Mountain Bike Trail. This 14km trail is ideal for mountain bikers of all ages, as it increases in difficultly depending on how fast you decide to cycle! This trail is known for offering some of the best mountain biking in Ireland, and you’ll be able to enjoy breath-taking views of the Irish Sea and Lough Tay as you tackle the course.
The trail is on a continuous loop so no map is required, and there are shortcuts in places so you can cut sections of the course out, or repeat your favourite bits. The trail starts with a steep climb, but this doesn’t take too long to complete, and then you can enjoy kilometres of climbs followed by sections of purpose built single-track. The trail will take you through various types of terrain, including heather moors and thicket spruce, and you’ll complete the route on a fun downhill sprint complete with tightly banked turns.
Facilities at the Ballinastoe Mountain Bike Trail include bike rental, picnic benches, parking, tours, lessons, and repairs. There is also a bike wash so you can ensure that your bikes are clean and shiny before transporting them to your next destination.
Now that you know where to find the best cycling routes in Ireland, book your Liverpool to Dublin crossing with us and load up your bike rack today!
