The Complete Guide to Cycling Ireland

Ireland is an ancient land that has been the home of Oscar Wilde, George Bernard Shaw, and James Joyce. It has given the world Guinness - the famous black drink, and by extension, the Guinness Book of World Records, which was first published by the owner of Guinness Breweries in Dublin over a bet with a friend to ascertain the fastest game bird in Europe.

The island has a rich tradition of literature, arts, and music. For cyclists, however, what makes the country truly special is its mesmerizing natural beauty.

This detailed guide to cycling Ireland explains all you need to know before embarking on that cycling adventure to the emerald isle.

Topography

The island of Ireland sits 19km (12 mi) off the coast of Great Britain at the narrowest point of the Irish Sea. To the north of Ireland is Northern Ireland, a part of the United Kingdom, whilst to the south is the independent Republic of Ireland, henceforth referred to just as Ireland.

Ireland is situated between 51.5° and 55.5° N latitude and 5.5° and 10.5° W longitude. To the western coast of Ireland is the Atlantic Ocean, with no significant land mass before reaching Canada.

The landscape in Ireland is a mixture of sheep-grazed plains, dramatic coastline and mountainous regions, such as the Wicklow Mountains in the east and the MacGillycuddy's Reeks in the southwest. This area is home to Ireland’s highest peak, Carrauntoohil standing 1,038.6 metres (3,407 feet 6 inches) above sea level, with many popular cycling trails in the area offering panoramic views of the peak, such as the Ring of Kerry and the Gap of Dunloe.

As is evident from the relatively low altitude of Ireland's highest peak, the country is not particularly mountainous, and plains and rolling hills dominate the landscape.

Cyclists can also enjoy traveling through varied topography, from the winding roads of Connemara to the bogs of the country’s centre.

Flora & Fauna

When cycling in Ireland, riders don’t need to be wary of any large predators or other dangerous creatures during their travels.

Due to a long history of human civilization and exploitation, Ireland is one of the most domesticated places on Earth in terms of fauna, with native predators such as the lynx and wolf long extinct. There are still large mammals’ resident, including red deer, Irish hare, foxes, pine martens and badgers. None of these species pose a threat to cyclists, who are unlikely to encounter them.

Cyclists are more likely to spot some of Ireland’s abundant birdlife, with native species such as the Irish jay and the speedy peregrine falcon resident on the island. Migratory birds such as the Brent goose can be seen seasonally and the coast is dominated by seabirds such as gannet, guillemot, razorbill and the iconic puffin.

The dominance of sheep farming and the exploitation of natural forests means that much of Ireland is dominated by grassland. Fields spared the grazing of livestock play host to clover, and ryegrass, whilst Ireland’s wet climate also enables the survival of bogs and distinctive plant species like sphagnum moss, heather, and bog cotton.

Ireland does maintain some ancient woodland in small pockets – these tend to be the island’s most biodiverse areas, home to native species such as oak and ash. Sitka spruce plantations support the forestry industry. At the coast, hardy species stabilize the island’s sand dunes, such as sea thrift and marram grass.

Climate

Ireland features a temperate maritime climate, with mild temperatures throughout the year and frequent cloud cover offering cyclists good conditions. Rainfall is high however, with most areas receiving between 750 – 1,500mm.

The west of the island is generally wetter than the east due to the presence of Atlantic winds. When cycling in Ireland, it is best to be equipped to deal with sudden showers and downpours, especially in the more mountainous areas. As a general rule, the winter months of December and January are the wettest months, whilst the summer months of May and June offer the driest conditions for Ireland cycling.

Ireland is in northern Europe, and temperatures are cooler than countries further to the south. Summer averages are generally between 14°C to 18°C (57°F to 64°F), whilst in winter it is colder, with temperatures averaging single digits of 4°C to 8°C (39°F to 46°F).

Temperatures rarely dop below freezing, however, especially during daylight hours. These mild year-round conditions make Ireland an excellent cycling destination, with extremes of temperature either hot or cold exceedingly rare.

Economy

Ireland is one of the wealthiest countries in the world. With a GDP per capital of $106,059 in 2024, it ranked second in the world after Luxembourg, and ahead of Switzerland and Norway.

The country has a mixed economy, with a heavy reliance on the service sector. The capital of the Republic of Ireland is Dublin, a leading European financial center. Some of the largest global tech firms have their presence in Ireland and employ a large section of its population. Many banks including the Allied Irish Banks and Ulster are based here.

Tourism is an important sector in the Republic of Ireland. In 2023, it sustained around 300,000 jobs and contributed around 4.8% of Ireland’s GDP. Tourism is growing in Ireland, with the industry adding around 17.7% more to the country’s GDP in 2023 than in 2019.

Industry continues to decline in Ireland as the country moves to a more service-based economy, yet it still contributes around 30% to GDP. Major pharmaceutical companies including Pfizer operate in Ireland, and agriculture remains a key industry, particularly dairy and beef. Sheep farming is still important. In 2022, Ireland exported €476 million worth of sheep meat and is the fourth largest exporter of the product in the world.

There are many reasons to enjoy cycling Ireland. Here's a few of them:

1. Ireland Has Great Cycling Infrastructure

Perhaps the biggest is that there is a sophisticated cycling infrastructure in place, with well-marked routes, dedicated cycle paths and cyclist friendly accommodation, making both Northern Ireland and the Republic welcoming destinations for cyclists. For example, the 42-kilometer Great Western Greenway in County Mayo is a popular dedicated cycling path.

2. Fine Weather

The lack of extreme weather in Ireland also makes it an appealing destination for cycling. Temperatures are generally mild year-round, and whilst cyclists may experience rainfall during their vacation, extreme weather events are exceedingly rare.

3. Beautiful Landscapes

Finally, Ireland’s incredible scenery and landscapes, especially at the coast, are a huge drawcard to cyclists. The Wild Atlantic Way takes cyclists into some of the world’s most impressive coastal scenery, whilst the Ring of Kerry takes travelers through mountains, lakes, and rural villages.

The best regions of cycling in Ireland are:

1. The East – Wicklow & Dublin

The east of Ireland offers wonderful cycling opportunities for both experts and novices. Dublin is well-connected to the rest of Europe and offers plenty of urban cycling opportunities, with a network of cycling lanes.

It also offers easy access to the Wicklow Mountains for those looking to escape the city and enjoy exploring the more rural side of Ireland. Known as the “Garden of Ireland”, Wicklow features well marked and maintained cycling routes through mountains, forests and valleys.

There are challenging hills for more experienced cyclists to tackle, whilst the flatter landscapes of the Dublin area remain close at hand. These contrasting landscapes make the east of Ireland a great option for those who want to combine a cycling trip with more traditional sightseeing, in Dublin and beyond.

2. The South – Kerry and Cork

Ireland’s south is a little harder to reach than Dublin but is well-connected to the capital by train. There is also a small regional airport in Cork.

South Ireland offers even better scenery than the east, particularly the Ring of Kerry and Beara Peninsula. The coastal roads around Cork are also home to spectacular scenery. The south of Ireland is generally home to more challenging cycle routes, which may be better suited to more experienced cyclists. And although there are plenty of accommodation options in Cork, Killarney, Limerick and elsewhere, cyclists will definitely notice how much more rural and isolated this part of the country is compared to Dublin.

3. The West – Connemara and the Wild Atlantic Way

If it’s a popular coastal cycling region that you’re after, then Ireland’s west coast is the place to visit when cycling Ireland. Home to the iconic Cliffs of Moher, the Wild Atlantic Way is well marked and ever-changing, with coastal roads, mountain paths and quiet countryside.

As a popular cycling region, there are plenty of cycling businesses including rental shops and places for repairs and equipment, making it a convenient area for a cycling vacation in Ireland. Paired with the unique bogs of Connemara, the west of Ireland offers a challenging but rewarding cycling experience.

Now that we've had a broad overview of the different areas in the country that are great for cycling, we now discuss some of the best routes for cycling in Ireland.

1. Wild Atlantic Way & Mizmal

The Wild Atlantic Way spans the entire western length of Ireland, encompassing some of Europe’s most dramatic coastal scenery.

More than 2,300 km (1,429 mi) of surfaced roads offer excellent territory for cyclists. There are plenty of challenging climbs too, making this a good cycle for experienced riders.

In fact, if you were to complete the Wild Atlantic Way, you will have experienced an elevation change three times the height of Mount Everest!

There’s no need to tackle the entire length of the route, and the shorter Mizen Head to Malin Head segment offers the best of the Wild Atlantic Way for those with less time or a lower budget.

2. Great Western Greenway

Mayo’s Great Western Greenway takes in a chunk of the Wild Atlantic Way but this much shorter route of just 49km (30 mi) is more manageable for novice cyclists or those with only a day to spare. It’s an off-road cycling route, stretching from the seaside town of Westport to Achill Island, with stops in Newport and Mulranny along the way, both good places for cyclists to recharge.

It's not as steep as sections of the Wild Atlantic Way, with mild gradients as you pedal over the rolling hills of the Irish countryside. The route passes through bogs, woodlands and sheep-grazed farmland, and was voted as one of the best cycle trails in the world by the New York Times.

3. Ring of Kerry

Showcasing the best of Ireland’s south, the Ring of Kerry is one of the country’s most famous cycling routes. A deep dive into the countryside of Country Kerry, it takes in a nice mix of rugged coastline and rural inland areas.

There are no big towns or cities in the area, and cyclists will enjoy quiet roads and the chance to visit lesser-known rural villages. Kerry is also known for its archaeology, and cyclists will be able to take in ancient tombs, abandoned mines and ruined forts as they journey along the 216km (134 mi) route.

Best Season for Cycling Ireland

Although Ireland can be cycled all year round, the summer and early autumn offer the best conditions, particularly from May to September. The weather is at its best during these months, with warmer temperatures, less rainfall and more hours of daylight.

The average temperature during this time varies between 14 to 16 °C (57.2 to 60.8 °F near the coast and 19 to 20 °C (66.2 to 68.0 °F) inland.

May and June in particular see little rainfall. September can be a bit wetter but much quieter, as school term time has resumed, and many families are no longer on vacation. It is always sensible to prepare for adverse weather and rainfall when cycling in Ireland, even during these months.

Peak Season for Cycling Ireland

Unsurprisingly, the best months of weather coincide with the peak season for cycling in Ireland. The high summer months of July and August are also the school holidays, with families flocking to Ireland’s coastal beaches and many more cyclists embarking on their vacations.

Although the weather is at its best, these months can be a challenging time to cycle Ireland, with routes busy and accommodations fully booked. If you are planning a cycling trip to Ireland for this time, we recommend booking early to secure the best deals and availability. If possible, the shoulder seasons of May to June and September will offer similar conditions but without the higher prices and crowded routes.

The Off Season for Cycling Ireland

The winter months from October to March are a less popular time to cycle Ireland. Although it is still possible, these months experience cooler temperatures, shorter days and more rainfall. The average temperature is in the range of 4 and 7 °C (39.2 and 44.6 °F) in January and February.

In the mountainous areas, cyclists may even experience the odd flurry of snowfall or a morning frost.

There are advantages to planning an Ireland cycling trip at this time of year, however. Roads and cycling routes are much quieter, and there is less competition for transport and accommodation, meaning these are usually quieter. As long as you take precautions such as not riding when roads are icy, and you don’t mind riding in the cold, this can be a good time to visit Ireland for cycling.

Irish cuisine is simple and deeply rooted in the country’s agricultural heritage. The focus is on hearty, warming meals that keep the hardy Irish people warm and healthy during cold winters.

The humble potato, introduced to Ireland in the 16th century, is the bedrock of many Irish dishes.

Other important ingredients in the Irish diet are fresh (and local) dairy products, such as milk, cream and cheese. Beef, pork, lamb and mutton are also popular.

As an island, Ireland is blessed with seafood, and coastal restaurants will often serve fresh mussels and oysters alongside the catch of the day. Many rural Irish communities still grow their own vegetables, with leeks, carrots and cabbages often used in dishes.

Here are some must-try Irish foods when cycling in Ireland:

Irish Stew

Often called the national dish of Ireland, a traditional Irish stew is a must for any visitor, especially during the winter months. Usually made with beef or lamb alongside potatoes, carrots, onions and other vegetables, the whole lot is slow cooked for many hours, resulting in a soft, tender, and hearty meal. It is best enjoyed with a slice of homemade soda bread, made without yeast and enjoyed with a large dollop of local butter.

Boxty

Another popular dish is boxty, a potato pancake that can be served with many different toppings. Colcannon is another potato-based dish, this time mashed and mixed with a vegetable such as cabbage or kale, it is often served as an accompaniment to meat.

Guinness

Also known as the black stuff, the rich, creamy, velvety, black beer is synonymous with Ireland. When cycling in Ireland, make sure to relax with a pint or two of Guinness in one of Ireland’s many cozy pubs.

The Republic of Ireland is an EU member state, and shares visa-free travel arrangements with many other European countries, including France, Germany and Spain. The UK voted to leave the European Union in 2016, but a Common Travel Area was established to ensure British citizens do not need a visa to enter Ireland.

Travelers from many countries, including the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand can enter Ireland without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, citizens of Ukraine also don’t need a visa to enter Ireland.

Travelers from other countries can apply for a short stay visa of up to 3 months or a long stay visa of more than 3 months, though these are only granted if travelers are coming to Ireland to work, study or settle permanently with family.

Currency

Ireland is a member of the Eurozone, along with most members of the European Union and uses the Euro as the official currency. If your Ireland cycling trip takes you to Northern Ireland, then the currency here is the British Pound Sterling.

As of September 2024, 1 Euro = 1.11 USD

Euros banknotes are available in denominations of €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500, whilst coins range from 1 cent to €2.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted across Ireland, though in small local pubs and restaurants you may be required to pay in cash. Cyclists are advised to carry a small amount of cash with them throughout their trip.

Transport

The Dublin airport is Ireland's main international airport and is well connected to most major international capitals.

Traveling around Ireland is easy for cyclists, with trains posing a good option for those carrying bicycles and other kit with them. Some of the rail routes between major cities such as Dublin to Cork are incredibly scenic, passing through pristine countryside and mountains.

Most major cities offer local bus services and there are ferry routes connecting both internal Irish destinations and international routes such as Dublin to Liverpool, Dublin to Cherbourg (France) and Rosslare to Bilbao (Spain).

Internal flights are also possible, with flight connections from Dublin taking travelers to Cork, Limerick and County Mayo. However, many of these routes are limited and are anyway unnecessary due to Ireland’s compact size. Car rental should be a consideration, as the country has a modern road network.

Language

The two official languages in Ireland are Irish (Gaeilge) and English. English is the dominant language and is spoken fluently by the majority of citizens, whilst Irish is taught in schools and is spoken more in the countryside and rural areas. Most of the country’s road signs and other public information are bi-lingual, displaying information in both languages.

Culture and Religion

Religion remains important in Ireland, with around 78% of the country’s population identifying as Roman Catholic. St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland and is held in high regard by the Irish.

As a free secular society, and with the free movement of people as a result of Ireland’s membership of the EU, other religions such as Protestantism, Islam and Judaism are practiced in Ireland.

Ireland boasts of an exceptionally rich heritage when it comes to literature, music, and the performing arts.

Some of the greatest writers of the modern era including Oscar Wilde, George Bernard Shaw, James Joyce, Bram Stoker ( of Dracula fame), and the poet Seamus Heaney were Irish. Jonathan Swift, who wrote Gulliver's Travels was born in Dublin, Ireland and spent much of his life there, though his family was of English origin.

Similarly, some of the most popular musicians of the 20th century including the rock band U2, the singer Sinead O'Connor, and the rock band The Cranberries (famous for their hit "Zombie") are all Irish.

Some of the most popular Hollywood actors of our time such as Pierce Brosnan, Liam Neeson, Cillian Murphy, and Colin Farrell are also Irish.

Interestingly, one of the founding fathers of Chile, General Bernardo O'Higgins, was of Irish ancestry. He descended from the famous O'Higgins family of Irish noblemen. The O'Higgins region of Chile, famous for its fruit orchards, is named after him.

As well as taking in Ireland’s dramatic scenery and coast whilst cycling the country, travelers can visit some of Ireland’s cultural and historic attractions.

Dublin’s Trinity College is steeped in history and home to the Book of Kells, whilst Blarney Castle is probably the pick of all the country’s numerous ruined and restored fortresses. The Rock of Cashel is well worth a visit and traditional life clings on in the isolated Aran Islands.

Pubs and live music are an integral part of Irish culture, whilst St Patrick’s Day on the 17 March sees the entire country erupt into celebration in honour of Ireland’s patron saint.

Appliances and Devices

The standard voltage in Ireland is 230V with a frequency of 50Hz. Plug sockets are type G, the same as in the UK, featuring three rectangular prongs – not the European Type C plug. Cyclists are recommended to bring a universal travel adapter with them, and US travelers will need a voltage converter and a plug adapter to use their appliances safely in Ireland.

Mobile Coverage

Mobile coverage in Ireland is generally good, though in remote and mountainous areas the coverage can be weaker. Major network operators in Ireland include Vodafone, Three and Eir, which all make use of 5G networks. Travelers to Ireland can purchase local SIM cards or e-SIM cards for the duration of their travels. Airalo and Holafly are both good options for e-SIMs.

Time Zone

Ireland operates on Irish Standard Time (IST) during summer (UTC+1) and switches to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) during winter (UTC+0).

Through the Notes

Read: Jonathan Swift (1667 – 1745) is one of history’s most famous authors, having penned Gulliver’s Travels. Poet, novelist and playwright Oscar Wilde was also Irish.

Listen: Ireland is a global music powerhouse, having blessed the world with U2, Westlife, Boyzone and Sinead O’Connor to name a few. Also, Jedward, but we recommend you give them a miss.

Watch: Game of Thrones, the blockbuster HBO series that took the world by storm. Several parts of the show were filmed in Ireland, and Game of Thrones filming locations such as the Dark Hedges in County Antrim and Castle Ward in County Down, can be visited. The Wind That Shakes the Barley is a 2008 film about the Irish Civil War by Ken Loach that won the Palm d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival and is one of the highest grossing Irish films. It stars Cillian Murphy of Peaky Blinders fame.

Eat: Irish stew. A hearty comfort food that is the perfect way to end a hard day of cycling.

Drink: Guinness! This iconic black stout was born in Ireland, and you’ll find the best of the black stuff here.

Learn: Gaelic football. A sport that barely exists outside of this country, travelers can join lessons or head to professional games to watch as a spectator.

Experience: Bog snorkeling. Not for everyone, this adventure sport is exactly as it sounds. If you’re already muddy from a day on the bike, why not give it a go?

If you’re interested in cycling in Ireland, drop us an email, and we will be happy to craft a dream Ireland cycling itinerary for you. Each guided bike tour we offer is organized by a passionate local trip leader who will provide you with all the support you need, world-class bikes and equipment, and plenty of tips and information on what to visit, where to eat local, and what to try.

Electric bikes are also available for all our bike tours.

You can also explore some of our other guides to cycling in Europe, such as our Spain Cycling Guide and Portugal Cycling Guide.