Beara Way Self-Guided Cycling Tour
Discover the hidden treasures of the Beara Peninsula on this engaging cycling tour
Self-Guided
Beara Way Self-Guided Cycling Tour Overview
Self-Guided cycling in Ireland is special. Quiet roads, charming villages, and some epic scenery, and one of our favourite cycling tours is the Beara Way! If you’re searching for an Irish adventure away from the crowds, the Beara Way cycling tour is the route for you.
The eight-day self-guided Beara Way cycling tour provides all the highlights of the Wild Atlantic Way without the tourists who flock to the Ring of Kerry. It’s the glorious Irish countryside at its best!
The route begins in Killarney, a major hub for the region with plenty of famous sights. Cut south to Kenmare, and then out along the northern flank of the Beara Peninsula, taking an inland detour to a gorgeous nature park and the captivating Uragh Stone Circle. Continue westward until you reach the very tip of the Beara Way, stopping in charming colourful seaside villages along the way. After a ride on Ireland’s only cable car to Dursey Island, work back eastward along Beara’s southern shores. You may never enjoy fresher seafood unless you catch it yourself! Finally cycle north back towards Kenmare, through idyllic rural scenes full of mountains, valleys, and rushing rivers to explore. The Beara Way is waiting for you!
If you're looking to walk, check out this Beara Way Walking Tour.
Trip highlights
Gaze upon Killarney’s Three Lakes from the famed Gap of Dunloe after an exhilarating bike ride.
Ride in Ireland’s only cable car to remote Dursey Island.
Dine on the freshest fish and chips in the port of Castletownbere.
Connect with the ancients at the Uragh Stone Circle.
Day By Day Itinerary
Arrive in Tralee and begin your cycling journey southeast towards Killarney and Killarney National Park. Ride through scenic views of Carrauntoohill, taking quiet backroads to reach the village of Fossa. Continue along the Fossa Way through the National Park, where you can add a looped cycle to explore Muckross Abbey and Muckross House. End the day enjoying Killarney’s vibrant atmosphere.
- Overnight Location:
- B&B in Tralee
- Distance:
- 33-53km, 376m of ascent
- Meals:
- None
Begin the day on the Fossa Way, away from main roads, and cycle to the famous Gap of Dunloe, with stunning lake views. Descend into the peaceful Black Valley before continuing to the heritage town of Kenmare, known for its Georgian architecture and local food and music.
- Overnight Location:
- B&B in Killarney
- Distance:
- 46km, 590m of ascent
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Cross Ireland's first suspension bridge from Kenmare and cycle along the coast of Kenmare Bay. Ride through the scenic Gleninchaquinn Valley, with an optional visit to the ancient Uragh Stone Circle. Option to detour to Gleninchaquinn Nature Park for walks and waterfalls.
- Overnight Location:
- B&B in Kenmare
- Distance:
- 58km, 663m of ascent
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Cycle west to Dursey Sound, with the option to visit Dursey Island by cable car (bikes remain on the mainland). Return to the mainland and cycle to Castletownbere, a fishing port with traditional pubs and fresh seafood.
- Overnight Location:
- B&B in Eyeries
- Distance:
- 49km, 786m of ascent
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Option to add 14 km by cycling to Bere Island (ferry ticket not included). Continue east through Adrigole along the coast to Glengarriff, where you can take a water taxi to Garnish Island for a scenic walk among beautiful gardens.
- Overnight Location:
- B&B in Castletownbere
- Distance:
- 36km, 496m of ascent
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Cycle through the rugged countryside, including the historic Caha Pass, which was built in the 19th century. Option to visit Bonane Heritage Park before descending along a riverside route to Kenmare.
- Overnight Location:
- B&B in Glengarriff
- Distance:
- 33km, 487m of ascent
- Meals:
- Breakfast
This scenic inland route winds through the rugged countryside that defines this region, with striking mountains and valleys surrounding you at every turn. You’ll travel along peaceful country roads with a few challenging uphill sections, including the historic Caha Pass. Built in the 19th century as part of a famine relief project, the Caha Pass is a prominent feature of the Beara Peninsula. It provided vital work to local communities during hard times and remains a testament to their resilience.
As you ride through Bonane, consider stopping at the Bonane Heritage Park, where you can explore exhibits and artifacts that shed light on the area’s rich cultural history. Afterward, continue on a gentle descent along a riverside route, arriving in the charming town of Kenmare.
- Overnight Location:
- BnB in Kenmare
- Distance:
- 33km, 487m of ascent
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast before a complimentary transfer back to Killarney or continue your travels from Kenmare.
- Overnight Location:
- None
- Distance:
- None
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Tour Map
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Inclusions
Included
- 7 breakfasts are included.
- Accommodations for 7 nights are included.
- Luggage transfers are included on a daily basis during the tour. Airport transfers are not included.
- Detailed road book with full area maps
- GPS-enabled app for navigation & points of interest
- 24-hour emergency/information support
- Full pre-departure information to maximize your experience
- In-house Holiday Specialist to assist with any additional services
Not included
- Flights
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Transport into Killarney or out of Kenmare
- Ferry tickets
- Entrance fees to any sites or parks
Optional Extras
- Additional nights before or after the tour
- Single room supplements
- Bike rental
Reviews
These reviews reflect all trips offered by this local tour partner on 10Adventures, not just the tour you’re viewing.
These reviews reflect all trips offered by this local tour partner on 10Adventures, not just the tour you’re viewing.
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FAQ
We rate this tour as a 3/5. A moderate level of fitness is required for the distance and elevation changes on this route, and previous cycling experience is recommended. The main routes are paved road, though some unpaved country roads are also involved.
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
7 breakfasts are included.
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover cycling. Get your Travel Insurance.
Fly into Kerry Airport (KIR). As a regional airport, you’ll likely need to connect through one of Ireland’s larger hubs. From Kerry Airport, Killarney is a 15-minute taxi ride. You can also drive straight from the larger Cork Airport (ORK), which is about 75 minutes from Killarney.
The tour ends in Kenmare. The closest airport is Kerry Airport (KIR), a 50-minute drive away. The larger international Cork Airport (ORK) is just a bit further, about 1 hour and 20 minutes by car.
Yes, you can rent a bike during the booking process. Rental bikes are offered in road, hybrid, and e-bike models.
Yes. If you bring your own bike, it should be a bike suitable for the demands of the tour.
Check with your family doctor.
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
Why book Beara Way Self-Guided Cycling Tour with 10 Adventures?
Self-guided Specialists
Combine the freedom of travelling on your own with the confidence that all of the logistics are taken care of.
Packed with Inclusions
Accommodations, luggage transfers, gear rentals, and more - all taken care of so you can focus on making memories.
World Class Support
Have peace of mind for when travel plans change with our hassle-free booking process and unbeatable support.
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