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    51 reviews

    Bike Trips in Ireland

    Cycle quiet country roads, rugged mountain passes and meandering lanes through the rolling fields, soaring mountains and stunning coasts that make Ireland special. Bike the Wild Atlantic Way, relax on a biking and yoga escape, pedal the backcountry of Donegal or discover the little-known corners of the iconic Kerry peninsulas.

    Small Group Tours
    Bike with 2 Guides
    Vehicle Support
    Cultural Adventure

    Pedal Through Ireland on our Bike Tours

    On Wilderness Ireland’s guided bike tours, you’ll pedal through Ireland’s meandering, scenic routes – the perfect way to slow down and discover the most majestic and scenic corners of the Emerald Isle.

    Discover the best of Ireland’s sublime landscapes, history and culture on a journey through the centuries. Rural Ireland is perfect for a biking trip so let us take you on a journey through stunning scenery and rich cultural intrigue. Our bike trips combine cycling with other enticing activities such as boat rides, scenic hikes, great cuisine, and local pubs and traditional Irish music. In the evenings, enjoy Ireland’s famed hospitality in snug country houses and grandiose castles.

    We offer a range of bike tours in Ireland, from gentle routes along the west coast to off-the-beaten-path itineraries through the rugged wilds of northwest Ireland to the ultimate bike trip on the Wild Atlantic Way coast. Most bike tours offer the chance of cycling on road bike or E-bike. Meet the bike fleet here

    We'll Handle the Logistics Read More

    During our guided bike tours in Ireland, you’ll immerse yourself in a care-free cycling tour – your two guides and support vehicle will take care of the logistics, such as setting the route, explaining local history and culture, providing drinks and snacks during the day, finding the best local eatery for meals, and providing a friendly ride in the support vehicle if you’re in need of a break! Our vehicle will also handle luggage transfers, so you’ll have everything you need close at hand while enjoying a light-weight bike on the path.

    Developed by our local team of bike and cycling experts along with input from our counterparts in long-established sister company, Wilderness Scotland (founded 2001), our bike tours are the perfect combination of speed and relaxation, enabling you to explore Irish landscapes at the just the right pace.

    Trip Grading Read More

    Each of our bike tours in Ireland are graded for difficulty so you can easily choose the right tour for you and your trip ambitions

    Green Graded: Difficulty 1-3

    Our green-graded biking trips usually include shorter days, with less ascents and more stops. Green graded trips are suitable for people with a reasonable level of fitness who enjoy biking and want an active but relaxed trip, as well as for active people new to multi-day bike trips. Daily distances are generally 25 – 40 miles (40 – 65km), biking at an average speed of around 12mph. We ride on mostly rolling terrain with one or two notable climbs, with the option of riding in the support vehicle if you need a break. Expect to be on the bikes for 4-6 hours each day plus the odd longer day.

    Blue Graded: Difficulty 4-6

    Our blue graded road biking trips are suitable for people with a good level of bike fitness, who bike regularly and may have done a multi-day bike trip before. Daily distances range from 35 – 45 miles (55 – 70km), including the occasional steeper climb interspersed with opportunities to stop and admire the view. Blue trips usually have an easier day followed by a more difficult day. Expect to be on the bikes for  5 – 7 hours plus the odd longer day.

    Red Graded: Difficulty 7-9

    Our red graded trips are suitable only for very fit and experienced cyclists who love biking and enjoy the challenge of longer days in the saddle, with consecutive challenging days. Daily distances are generally from 45 – 60 miles (70 – 95km) on a variety of terrain from rolling countryside to hilly and mountainous areas. Most days will be challenging and the trip will include some of the more testing climbs in Ireland including high mountain passes. These harder climbs are rewarded with fast and exhilarating descents. We will often be on the bikes for 7 hours each day plus the odd longer day. There is also time each day for breaks and lunches plus visits to some sites of interest.

    All trips include the option of getting a break from cycling in the support van for as much or as little as time as you prefer. One guide will be out on the the road cycling with the group while the other guide drives the support vehicle. 

    Bike Hire / Bring Your Own Bike Read More
    Bike Hire/Rental

    Road bike hire/rental is included in this itinerary, and E-bikes are supported on this trip. If you prefer an E-bike, they are available for a supplement.
    Find Out More

    Bring Your Own Bike

    You are also more than welcome to bring your own bike.

    If you choose to do so, please ensure it’s in excellent working condition and has been recently serviced – either by you or by a reputable bike shop.

    In addition, please bring the following:

    • Multi-tool, including a chain tool
    • Mini pump and/or CO2 canisters
    • Two spare tubes and a puncture repair kit

    Because we will need to load your bike onto one of our trailers, please ensure that:

    • Your rear wheel is clear of any obstructions; including lights, mudguard or panniers
    • Your tyres are no wider than 45mm

    Due to the nature of our trips, we are unfortunately unable to carry bike boxes or bags with us, so please make prior arrangements if necessary.

    If you have any questions at all, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our friendly and knowledgable sales team are always delighted to answer any queries you may have.

    Our Biking Holidays

    8 Biking Trips

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    Road Cycling
    The Five Countries Tour

    This trip is operated by our Scotland team. Clicking on the links below will redirect you to the Wilderness Scotland website.

    Trip Flag
    X
    Road Cycling
    The Five Countries Tour

    This trip is operated by our Scotland team. Clicking on the links below will redirect you to the Wilderness Scotland website.

    Load More Departures

    First Time Visitors

    We love welcoming new travellers to Ireland and sharing our passion for its wild places. Ask any one of us about our favourite trip or region, and you’ll get as many different answers as there are members of our team. From north to south, our beautiful, rainbowy, ancient island offers incredible places perfect to explore by bike, and we can’t wait to share them with you.

    As a first-time visitor, you’ll likely have questions about our adventures and perhaps also about Ireland in general. Luckily, our friendly office team is always on hand to chat through any queries you may have, and we are happy to provide local insight and solid advice about anything from arrival airports to average temperatures, breakfast options, and bird life. Plus, once you arrive in Ireland, our guides will take care of every aspect of your trip, so there is no need to worry about accommodation, meals, trail choice or transfers. Whether it’s enjoying a traditional music session at one of our favourite little pubs after an afternoon’s ride or exploring a stunning backroad that only the locals know about, our aim is to make your journey with us as seamless, beautiful, and memorable as possible.

    Pre-Trip Planning and Customer Support

    Ok, I’m All Booked, But What Do I Pack? Read More

    Not sure what to pack? Not to worry – we have created a handy and comprehensive kit list for each type of trip – find the biking kit list here. This list includes essential items (such as gloves, a lightweight waterproof jacket and bike shoes), as well as recommended ones, that will ensure you have everything you need for an amazing biking trip in Ireland. Ideally, if you can pack into a soft duffle bag, it makes life easier packing up our vans.

    Where will your luggage be stored during your trip? While you’re in Ireland with us, your luggage will be kept safe at your accommodation or securely stored in the van during transfers. The only thing you need to bring with you each day is a small day bag large enough for your water, snacks, extra layers, camera and phone, and packed lunch. We are always happy to offer additional advice, so do not hesitate to contact us if you have any queries.

    In Ireland, we have a saying that we can get all four seasons in one day. Due to our location in Ireland, the weather is lovely, cool, and fresh, but it can also be changeable. It’s best to be prepared with a variety of layers and include raingear, sunglasses, and, yes, sunscreen. Temperatures are generally mild, ranging from 7° to 21° Celcius (and 45° to 70° F), but as Alfred Wainwright famously said, ‘There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.’

    How do I Get to Ireland? Read More

    Ireland has three major international points of entry: Dublin Airport on the east coast, Shannon Airport on the west coast, and Belfast Airport in Northern Ireland. Additionally, smaller airports like Kerry, Knock, Derry, Cork, and a second Belfast airport offer flights to destinations in the UK and Europe.

    For those travelling by sea, ferry services connect Ireland to the UK and Europe, with routes serving Dublin, Belfast, Larne, Rosslare, and Cork. If your journey involves Belfast Airport, transiting through London, or travelling within Northern Ireland (which is part of the UK), an ETA will be required – – find more details on our FAQ page.

    Read more about travel to and within Ireland on our comprehensive travel page.

    The Start of Your Trip – Where Do I Meet My Biking Guide? 
 Read More

    Ireland’s public transport connections make getting around the country relatively easy. All our guided group bike tours begin and end at a train station or in a city centre, which makes the start and end of any adventure relaxed and stress-free.

    Exactly where and when to meet your Wilderness guide is stated on your chosen cycling trip page under the “Trip Details” section and reiterated in correspondence with your travel consultant before your adventure begins.

    Before and After Your Trip – Stay, See Guides Read More

    Our friendly sales team, who are always on hand to answer any queries, will happily provide you with Stay, See guides for various destinations across Ireland. These guides highlight our recommended accommodations and must-see attractions, ensuring you experience the very best each location has to offer.

    Impeccably researched and designed to make your journey that much smoother, these documents are perfect for making the most of your time before and after your adventure with us.

    Destination Experts

    The Emerald Isle’s enduring and irresistible appeal is anchored in its diverse natural wonders. On a bike tour here, you will be surrounded by elemental landscapes rich in history and infused with myth.

    Not sure which region of Ireland you would most like to visit? With so many wonderful places to explore, deciding where to go can be tricky. From the salt-stung Wild Atlantic Way to the rugged mountains of Donegal, the mellow landscapes of West Cork or the unique geology of the Causeway Coast, we have a number of bike tours to suit every taste. Find out more about some of our best-loved destinations below, and remember, our Adventure Consultants are always pleased to provide advice or inspiration via email, phone, or live chat.

    Sustainability and Responsible Travel

    If our reviews are anything to go by, how we operate our vacations proves that it is possible to travel responsibly without compromising the traveller’s experience. Our hiking itineraries are designed to minimise our carbon footprint, support local communities, and protect the wild places we visit so they can be enjoyed by future generations.

    What Do We Mean By Responsible Travel?

    Travel allows us to visit beautiful, wild places and connect with different cultures around the world. As travellers, we can travel more sustainably by making well-informed choices. We accept that flying to a destination may be the best available option, but once we’ve arrived, we think about staying longer, choosing back-to-back tours, and making our journeys count once we arrive. By choosing Wilderness Scotland, Wilderness Ireland, or Wilderness England, you’re choosing a world-leading travel company fully committed to sustainable travel.

    Our Sustainability Goals

    Our vision for 21st-century travel decisively aims for a more sustainable future. We have taken an industry-leading position on climate change and are one of only a handful of companies committed to the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), the first global science-based standard with the aim of achieving true net zero.

    Carbon Labelling Scheme

    By implementing a carbon-labelling scheme in 2021, we have been able to measure the carbon output of every one of our tours. This allows our trip designers to see where there is room for improvement on existing itineraries and also to design new itineraries with the learning baked in. Carbon labelling also enables our travellers to make an informed decision when choosing their holiday.

    Learn More

    Wilderness Conservation and Community Fund

    Established in 2010, the Wilderness Conservation & Community Fund (WCCF) enables our travellers to give back to the environments and communities central to our adventures. We are proud of this initiative, which has supported a number of grassroots environmental and community organisations since its inception.

    Learn More

    Our Vehicle Fleet

    We have a large range of efficient vans and hybrid vehicles which gives us considerable flexibility as a tour operator. Vehicle transfers are included as required on all our itineraries and they make for comfortable, quiet transfers and improved views for those scenic Scottish drives. Transitioning our fleet towards increased hybrid and eventually fully electric vehicles is an ongoing project that we have committed to delivering in order to prioritise sustainability. Having a large fleet at our disposal means we can respond with ease and efficiency to any unforeseen challenges.

    All bike tours are accompanied by a support van that allows cyclists to take a break and get a lift, as well as access to snacks, water, mechanical support equipment, and guide assistance.

    Learn More

    Iconic Sites and Hidden Gems

    Customer Experience

    At Wilderness Ireland, we specialise in creating unforgettable bike tours designed to showcase the most beautiful corners of Ireland. With an unparalleled passion for cycling, Irish culture, and the great outdoors, our trip designers draw on their wealth of local expertise to craft journeys that blend scenic routes, historic landmarks, and authentic Irish charm. Every detail of our small group bike trips is carefully planned so that all you need to do is hop into the saddle and enjoy the ride.

    Our small group sizes ensure a more personalised experience, with expert guides sharing their in-depth knowledge of Ireland’s culture, history, and hidden treasures. Your guide also takes care of all the logistics and necessary bike maintenance so you can concentrate on the important stuff: enjoying yourself. Additionally, we are committed to reducing our environmental footprint and keeping as many elements of our trips as local as possible, ensuring that your adventure not only enriches your experience but also helps protect Ireland’s natural beauty for future generations.

    Local Connections Read More

    At the heart of any great adventure is the joy of discovering a place through the eyes of those who call it home. Conversations over pints at the pub, chats with a farmer about the weather (find out how many ways we can describe a cloudy day!), storytelling in front of a roaring fire – it is these local connections that make your bike tour go from good to exceptional.

    At Wilderness Ireland, we treasure our strong connections with local communities and businesses. From cosy family-run accommodations to traditional craft shops and bustling markets, our bike tours celebrate Ireland’s rich tradition. These meaningful interactions turn a cycling trip into a journey of genuine connection and discovery.

    Expert and Passionate Guides Read More

    Our guides are the beating heart of our bike adventures. They’re not just cycling experts who can fix a puncture or adjust your gears – they’re passionate storytellers with a deep knowledge of Ireland’s history, wildlife, and traditions. Whether sharing the legends of ancient Ireland, introducing you to the best local dishes, or pointing out a rare bird flitting in the sky above, their enthusiasm adds richness to every mile. Above all, they prioritise your safety and comfort, ensuring every moment of your cycling trip is seamless and memorable.

    Storytelling That Brings Ireland to Life Read More

    History, folklore, and culture are woven into Ireland’s storied landscapes, brought through the ages to the present by our guide’s engaging storytelling and deep local knowledge of Irish myth and legend. Whether recounting tales of ancient Celtic heroes, sharing legends of mischievous fairies, or unveiling the stranger-than-fiction history behind iconic ruins, our guides bring a sense of wonder to every Irish journey. Their stories will no doubt deepen your connection and understanding of Ireland’s landscapes, making each cycling adventure as inspiring as it is relaxing.

    Route Planning and Adjustments Read More

    Skilled in adapting routes to suit the group, reacting to challenges, changes in weather, or the group’s particular interests, our guides are incredible at making the most of each day’s opportunities. If a sudden rain shower rolls in or a hidden gem is discovered along the way, your guide can adjust the itinerary to ensure your experience accommodates your group’s interests. Whether it’s a detour to take in an incredible hilltop vista or to visit a cosy pub – this flexibility ensures your route is maximised for adventure, allowing for spontaneity without compromising on the quality of the experience.

    On guided bike tours, there will always be a guide on the road with you, and another in the van. On self-guided+ bike tours, there won’t be a guide on the road, but you’ll still have access to your guide in the support vehicle. Bike computers and pre-programmed maps ensure you can ride at your own pace without worrying about getting lost. Each day, your guide will go through the route with the group, pointing out must-sees, hidden gems, and scheduled stops along the way.

    Your Personal Concierge Read More

    Our guides are not just cycling experts – they’re your Irish hosts, dedicated to making your journey unforgettable. Their goal is to ensure you feel informed, comfortable and cared for throughout your trip. From organising meal arrangements, transport, luggage transfer, bike maintenance, and accommodation, your guides manage all the logistics seamlessly, so you can simply enjoy the adventure. Their warm, thoughtful approach ensures every detail of your cycling trip flows smoothly, leaving you free to focus on the beauty of Ireland.

    Peace of Mind Read More

    With an experienced guide by your side, you can fully embrace the joy of exploring Ireland by bike. From choosing the most scenic routes to adapting plans for changing weather, your guide takes the hassle out of decision-making. They’ll know the best viewpoints, the cosiest pubs, the quietest roads, and even where to find the freshest scones with clotted cream. Whether you’re craving a relaxed journey or a thrilling challenge, our guides provide reassurance and expertise, every pedal stroke of the way.

    Flexibility Read More

    Our itineraries are designed with flexibility in mind. For those who enjoy the challenge of testing climbs and thrilling descents – we have a guide who will keep up with you every step of the way; likewise, if you would prefer to take each day at a slightly more leisurely pace, then you are free to do so by hopping in the support van. E-bikes are also a great equaliser. For example, if your partner, friend or family member would love to join a trip but is a less experienced rider, they could hire an E-bike, allowing you both to enjoy an incredible adventure together.

    Group Size and Its Benefits Read More

    Our small group sizes enhance every aspect of your cycling trip. With fewer people, our guides can dedicate more time to each traveller, ensuring everyone feels supported and engaged. Small groups foster camaraderie and make logistics like transfers and meal arrangements seamless. They also allow for spontaneous stops and deeper immersion in Ireland’s culture and landscapes. Many of our guests form lasting friendships during their bike tours, often returning to explore more of Ireland together – or even the wild spaces of the UK with our teams in Wilderness Scotland and Wilderness England.

    Our holidays reviewed in your own words...

    Every client receives a feedback survey when they return from their guided, self guided or tailor made holiday with us. Once completed the review is published on our website just as soon as our database updates. The little touches and details are important to us and where issues are raised we make positive changes to our trips to improve your experience.

    That’s why we read each of our client’s reviews and although we don’t respond to all of them, if it’s glowing feedback then we get the satisfaction of helping to make your holidays truly memorable.

    MR

    Mike Rothwell

    Bike Tour - Donegal From Cliffs to Coast

    Age: 70 - 80
    Country: England
    Trip Date: 24/08/2024
    Trips Taken: 4

    The Bottom Line

    The Bottom Line

    A well organised tour, my 3rd with Wilderness (Scotland being my first) and a memorable week with recollections aided by the photographs taken by our hard working and long suffering guides!

    SH

    Sarah Healy

    Bike Tour - Donegal From Cliffs to Coast

    Age: 60 - 70
    Country: United States
    Trip Date: 24/08/2024
    Trips Taken: 1

    The Bottom Line

    The Bottom Line

    I would go on another trip with Wilderness Ireland without hesitation. It was a fantastic trip and the beauty and ruggedness of the country and the bike routes was unforgettable!

    MH

    Mike Hagerty

    Bike Tour - Donegal From Cliffs to Coast

    Age: 70 - 80
    Country: USA
    Trip Date: 24/08/2024
    Trips Taken: 1

    The Bottom Line

    The Bottom Line

    I had a great time. Guides and fellow travelers added to the experience. I am already thinking about my next trip. Maybe Mizen Head to Malin Head.

    As Recommended By...

    You'll be in good company on a Wilderness Ireland Trip. Some of the biggest and best known names in the business have recommended us.

    Los Angeles Times
    National Geographic Adventure
    Vogue
    Men's Health
    USA Today
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