West Cork Cycling Tour

Arrive in Cork, Ireland’s second-largest city. Check into your accommodations, then pick up your bicycles (if renting) and your welcome pack with route guides and contact information.

The day is yours to explore the city! Cork is chock-full of notable architecture, excellent dining, and shops of all kinds. St. Patrick’s Street is the central shopping area, but there’s plenty more to uncover.

Time to hit the road! Set off for the beautiful fishing village of Kinsale on Ireland’s southern coast.

Kinsale is a favourite destination for tourists and locals alike, particularly in the summer months when sailing and yachting commence. There’s even a Michelin-starred restaurant for the foodies among us!

Today’s cycle begins along the coast, reaching the “Olde Head of Kinsale.” A dramatic headland that saw its first castle built in the 3rd century, this is a perfect place to stop and admire the breathtaking views.

Turning inland, make your way through the forest and open countryside. This is a lovely farming landscape, but shops can be a bit unpredictable – we recommend picking up refreshments in Kinsale before you set off.

Arrive in the town of Clonakilty to end the day’s cycle. There’s plenty of live music, and they’re famous for their black pudding!

Head for the town of Skibberee along the south shores of Ireland. The direct road sees high traffic, so the scenic route – passing along coastlines and inland forest alike – is recommended. Traditional West Cork villages such as Glandore and Unionhall make excellent stops.

There are a handful of steep climbs today, but plenty of time to tackle them. Your idyllic surroundings make it well worth the effort!

Today is traveller’s choice! For maximum exploration, cycle down to Baltimore and hop on a ferry to the delightful Cape Clear Island. This is the southernmost inhabited land in all of Ireland, and its peaceful atmosphere is good for the soul. A second ferry brings you back to the mainland, where you’ll cycle from the fishing village of Schull to your final destination in Bantry.

The alternative is to cycle straight from Skibbereen to Bantry, via the village of Ballydehob. Total cycling time is about the same for each route but tack on about 4 hours to your day for the island route.

Continuing northward,you’ll choose between another set of routes. One takes you up through the mountainous Healy Pass, one of the must beautiful roads in Ireland. The other (less challenging) option winds through the Borlin Valley, nestled between lush green hills. You can’t go wrong!

Both routes offer opportunities for refreshments along the way, but bringing some along is encouraged. These views deserve plenty of stops! You’ll end in the small town of Kenmare, popular for its food and pubs.

Your final day on the road is a journey north to world-famous Killarney. The scenery offers gems at every turn: the mountain pass of Moll’s Gap, the wild beauty of The Black Valley, and iconic views of the Three Lakes of Killarney.

The trip’s last evening is here in Killarney, renowned for its natural splendour and impressive heritage. Hop in a horse-drawn “jaunting car” to take in the sights and celebrate a successful trip in one of its many pubs.

After breakfast, it’s time to depart! Check out from your Killarney accommodations, return your bikes (if renting), and say farewell to this slice of Irish paradise.