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      | Ballymastocker Beach overlooking Lough Swilly.

      Biking

      The Wild Atlantic Way

      9 reviews

      Deposit From: €1,617
      Region: Multi-Location
      Duration: 14 Days / 13 Nights
      Confirmed: When 3 Travellers Book

      Next Departure: 24th - 6th Jun 2025
      Accommodation: Classic

      Grading:

      Carbon Footprint: 255kg ? What does this mean?
      Click here to find out about our carbon labelling project and what we're doing to be more sustainable.

      All you need to know about your trip, this essential document is a must for all adventures.

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        From:  €6,281 View Prices & Dates

        Trip Overview

        Created by: Darragh Devaney

        The epitome of an adventure challenge: this is the bike tour of a lifetime. On this bucket-list adventure, you’ll bike the Wild Atlantic Way, pedalling along iconic cycling routes and through the best of the dramatic west coast of Ireland.

        On this point-to-point bike trip from Ireland’s southernmost to northernmost points, traverse wild mountain passes, discover secret beaches, admire steep cliffs, stroll through adorable villages and wind through vast bogs as you witness the dramatic Wild Atlantic Way coast from one end to the other. You’ll traverse all of Ireland by bike, barring a quick transfer in and out of Galway city for a chance to explore one of Ireland’s most beloved cities.

        In Ireland, history and culture are everywhere, varying from one landscape to the next. Biking 875 km (543 miles) over 14 days, we’ll explore the best Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way has to offer on two wheels. On this unique itinerary, you’ll bike nearly every step of the way on this cross-country trip. Of course, whenever your bike gets tired, remember you can always hop in the support van.

        While our expert guides interpret this wild place, you can focus on the challenge of biking the Wild Atlantic Way. Expect breathtaking panoramas, fantastic food, and cosy accommodations. Without a doubt, biking the Wild Atlantic Way is an epic ride you’ll remember for years to come.

        Road bike hire/rental is included in this itinerary, and an E-bike upgrade is available for an additional supplement. For more details, see our bike rental page.

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        Day by Day
        Itinerary

        Day 1 – Mizen Head Read Less

        Day 1

        Mizen Head

        Our Wild Atlantic Way cycling journey begins at remote Mizen Head, Ireland’s southernmost point. Ride past an idyllic crescent-shaped beach, meandering through the rocky coves and maritime villages of Cork’s south coast before ending at the snug village of Bantry. After dinner and a briefing with our guides, we retire to our comfy rooms to get some rest before our adventure really kicks off tomorrow.

        Meals Included: Lunch and Dinner
        Ride Details: 45 km / 28 miles | 496 m / 1,626 ft

        Day 2 – Peninsulas of Cork & Kerry Read Less

        Day 2

        Peninsulas of Cork & Kerry

        Welcome to the first big day of our Wild Atlantic Way tour, where we’ll cross three peninsulas and one mountain pass. As we pass through lovely West Cork villages overlooking Bantry Bay, we enter a lush valley in the foothills of the Caha Mountains before our first big climb. At the summit of the impressive Caha Pass, we enter an unusual rock tunnel before being rewarded with spectacular views down to Kenmare Bay, when we emerge on the other side. Passing through the stunning landscape of Moll’s Gap, we head towards Killarney and the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountains. Finish up in the colourful town of Killarney on the edge of Killarney National Park.

        Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
        Ride Details: 70 km / 43 miles | 1,037 m / 3,402 ft

        Day 3 – Killarney to Ballybunion Read Less

        Day 3

        Killarney to Ballybunion

        There’s a reason why Kerry is renowned throughout the world. From the mountains of the Iveragh Peninsula – where the Ring of Kerry is located – to the rolling farmlands of north Kerry, enjoy a range of beautiful scenery in this lush, little-visited corner of Kerry. Arriving in Ballybunion, leave the bikes behind to walk along the dramatic Bromore Cliffs, descending almost 200 feet into the Atlantic. Marvel at sea stacks, natural arches and medieval towers, and listen to the calls of the nesting seabirds who live on the cliffs. Perhaps you’ll even spot seals and dolphins in the ocean below.

        Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
        Ride Details: 65 km / 40 miles | 602 m / 1,976 ft

        Day 4 – Ballybunion to Doolin Read Less

        Day 4

        Ballybunion to Doolin

        Give the legs a bit of a rest as we bike through the fairly flat farmland of northern Kerry towards the mouth of Ireland’s biggest river – the Shannon. A ferry takes us across the estuary and into County Clare. Crossing the quiet landscapes of Clare, we finish up on the Wild Atlantic coast in the charming seaside village of Doolin, close to another coastal cliff, the famous Cliffs of Moher.

        Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
        Ride Details: 80 km / 50 miles | 821 m / 2,695 ft

        Day 5 – The Burren to Galway Read Less

        Day 5

        The Burren to Galway

        Our journey takes us into the other-worldly limestone landscape of the Burren National Park, renowned as having one of the highest diversities of wildflowers in Europe. In spring and summer, the Burren transforms into a myriad of colours and perfumes with wildflowers from the Arctic all the way to the Mediterranean blossoming between the crags. Our ride includes short climbs and rolling terrain, including one of the best descents of the whole tour, Corkscrew Hill. Today, we have one transfer by van to take us safely to Galway, where we settle in the coastal village of Barna for a relaxing evening by the sea.

         

        Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
        Ride Details: 64 km / 40 miles | 634 m / 2,081 ft

        Day 6 – Coasts of Connemara Read Less

        Day 6

        Coasts of Connemara

        This morning, we transfer from Barna to the lovely wee village of Oughterard on the shores of Lough Corrib. We head deeper into Connemara, crossing the region’s wild hills and vast bogs. This is what the Wild Atlantic Way is all about shimmering mountains, remote coastal communities and idyllic biking routes. Tucked between land and sea, Connemara is one of Ireland’s most spectacular regions, offering great vistas and wild landscapes. Perhaps with the option to bike the perfectly named Sky Road, one of Ireland’s most iconic routes, we head into Clifden for the night, one of Connemara’s iconic villages.

        Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
        Ride Details: 80 km / 50 miles | 684 m / 2,244 ft

        Day 7 – Clifden to Westport Read Less

        Day 7

        Clifden to Westport

        Following the Wild Atlantic Way, we continue past the magnificent shores of Killary Fjord under the shadow of Mweelrea Mountain, the highest peak in Connacht. This area has long been a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts due to its wild, windswept, and remote landscapes. North of Connemara, this is the perfect cycling country with rolling hills and spectacular scenery. Passing under the mountainous cone of Croagh Patrick, known for its association with St Patrick, we roll into the picturesque town of Westport, full of bustling shops and cheery pubs.

        Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
        Ride Details: 80 km / 50 miles | 596 m / 1,957 ft

        Day 8 – Rest Day in Westport Read Less

        Day 8

        Rest Day in Westport

        You’ve just completed seven days of biking through some of the wildest and most breathtaking roads of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, so it’s time for a well-earned rest! Westport is a busy country town full of great pubs, restaurants and shops, and a great place to kick back and relax at your accommodation, or to set out on foot to explore its colourful and quirky shops, galleries and cafés.

        Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

        Day 9 – Westport to Ballina Read Less

        Day 9

        Westport to Ballina

        Leaving the hubbub of Westport behind, we head into the quiet wilds of north Mayo. Pedal through unspoilt hills and open bogland in a corner of Ireland where few ever venture. Our route passes via Lough Feeagh, skirting the edge of the Nephin wilderness. One of the last truly wild places in Ireland, the Nephin wilderness has taken its cue from the US version of a ‘wild area’ – setting aside tracts of land protected from human habitation and activity. Keeping a lookout for flora and fauna in this protected space, our route follows winding lanes that traverse this rugged little-travelled region, finishing up in the traditional Irish town of Ballina.

        Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
        Ride Details: 78 km / 48 miles | 400 m / 1,312 ft

        Day 10 – Ballina to Sligo Read Less

        Day 10

        Ballina to Sligo

        Heading back towards the coast, we enter County Sligo, another one of Ireland’s hidden gems. Beautiful beaches, coastal villages, castles, lakes and bogs await us as we travel along the Sligo coast. Stopping off at Easkey village, admire the medieval tower and listen to the crash of waves popular with surfers. Bordered by the Ox Mountains on the other side, delve into the myths and legends of these beautiful mountains. As we head into Sligo town, we’ll stop by one of the region’s most important (and beautiful) holy wells. Tonight, perhaps you’ll get a chance to hear some traditional Irish music at one of Sligo’s many pubs.

        Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
        Ride Details: 100 km / 62 miles | 522 m / 1,713 ft

        Day 11 – Sligo to Donegal Read Less

        Day 11

        Sligo to Donegal

        Starting out from Sligo town, we bike into Yeats Country, the captivatingly beautiful landscape that fed the famous Irish poet’s imagination. The narrow lanes that meander through the foothills of the Dartry Mountains make for some easy biking, and it’s not long before you find yourself in County Donegal. Before reaching our accommodation in Donegal town, there’s time for an afternoon stop at Rossnowlagh Beach, a stunning three km-long Blue Flag surfing beach. Though small, Donegal and its castle have long played host to important regional historical events and characters.

        Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
        Ride Details: 80 km / 50 miles | 644 m / 2,114 ft

        Day 12 – Donegal to Lough Swilly Fjord Read Less

        Day 12

        Donegal to Lough Swilly Fjord

        Leaving the coast, we pedal to northern Donegal through the Barnsmore Gap, which is still the only passage through the Bluestack Mountains. After a challenging day in the saddle through the vast landscapes of the Donegal interior, we reach Lough Swilly, a glacial fjord that separates Fanad Head from the Inishowen Peninsula. To cross this massive expanse, we’ll hop on a boat into Buncrana for a good nights’ rest before the final push along the Wild Atlantic Way.

        Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
        Ride Details: 83 km / 52 miles | 922 m / 3,026 ft

        Day 13 – Malin Head Read Less

        Day 13

        Malin Head

        The final leg of our Wild Atlantic Way bike journey begins with another Irish classic: the steep climb to the top of the Mamore Gap. The road then descends towards the Atlantic Coast before winding around to Ireland’s northernmost point. Malin Head is an exposed headland with almost 360-degree views of the Atlantic and is known as a filming location for Star Wars: The Last Jedi. You’ll get an idea of the region’s wild and rugged nature through names such as Hell’s Hole and the Devil’s Bridge. Malin Head, at the very top of Ireland, is the perfect place to finish this epic bike trip. Now it’s time for a very well-earned celebratory dinner with our group.

        Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
        Ride Details: 51 km / 32 miles | 811 m / 2,660 ft

        Day 14 – Departure Read Less

        Day 14

        Departure

        After breakfast at your accommodation, it’s time to say goodbye to the Wild Atlantic Way. A transfer takes us to Sligo Train Station, where there are regular trains back to Dublin. On the way, we take the time to visit an ancient Neolithic monument older than the pyramids of Giza. In fact, this tomb is one of Ireland’s best-preserved court tombs, dating to the 3rd century BC.

        Meals Included: Breakfast

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        Biking
        The Wild Atlantic Way

        To download a PDF copy of our Trip Itinerary, containing full details about this holiday, please complete the form below:

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        Trip Dates & Prices

        All payments taken in local currency EUR

        Trip Dates for 2025AvailabilityStatusPriceBook
        24th May - 6th Jun 2025 5 place(s) leftGuaranteed €6,281 Book Now

        Make This Trip Private

        Fancy this trip just for your group? Get together with family and friends spend quality time exploring wild places. A private trip allows you to benefit from all the features of the group departure, including hand-picked accommodation and expert local guides but with the advantage of the flexibility to tailor the days to your group. Make the trip more or less challenging depending on your experience or choose to add in some optional extras like castle or distillery visits depending on your interests. The price of a private trip will depend on the number of travellers in your group. Let us know your preferred departure date and we'll take care of the rest.

        Enquire Now Learn More
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        Biking
        The Wild Atlantic Way

        For private departure enquiries, please complete the form below:

        Trip Details

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        Accommodation Read More

        This trip features accommodations chosen for their excellent location, service and comfort. All accommodations provide breakfast. All the accommodations we use on the Wild Atlantic Way Bike Tour are comfortable, unique and part of the adventure. Known for their high quality of service, they are a great place to kick back after a long day biking the wilds of Ireland.

        Each day, lunch is either a Wilderness Picnic in the great outdoors or taken at a local cafe/pub. Drinks and snacks are provided throughout the day. Evening meals are included on the first and last nights only. For the other evenings, your Wilderness Guide can provide expert recommendations.

        Single Rooms

        There is no supplement charged to solo travellers, however, you will be required to share a room with another person of the same sex. If you request a double room for single occupancy, a supplement of €1300 is charged.

        Due to the nature of the accommodations we use, single supplements are limited and are allocated on a first come first served basis.

        Meals Read More

        Breakfast is provided each morning, as well as lunch and snacks throughout the trip. Dinner is provided on the first, seventh and final nights. Local pubs and restaurants offer a wide choice of local dishes.

        On this trip, we generally eat dinner as a group however if you would like to make alternative arrangements you are free to do so. Your guide will have an evening off during this trip where they do not eat with the group. They will recommend options for dinner that evening and will help you make any necessary reservations.

        Inclusions Read More
        • 14 days of biking with a lead guide plus an assistant guide/support driver
        • 13 nights accommodation in unique and cosy 3 star and 4 star guest houses and hotels
        • Meals as stated in the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
        • 14 days of road bike hire/rental, with an option to upgrade to E-bike
        • Pickup and transport during trip, starting in Cork and finishing in Sligo
        • Vehicle transport throughout, including ride support if required
        • Regular luggage transfers
        • Entrance and admission fees, as stated in the itinerary
        • Delicious Irish snacks and drinks throughout the day
        Grading Read More

        Red Graded 7-9

        The road cycling trips that we offer are graded to take into account a combination of the general level of fitness required and the number of miles cover as well as the daily ascent and estimated saddle time.

        Our red graded trips would involve some longer days with some taxing climbs and descents, there are still breaks throughout the day but overall daily distance will be longer. These trips are designed for road cyclist enthusiast who loves cycling and spends many weekends beach year in the saddle. The prospect of testing climbs and speedy descents brings a grin to your face.

        The red graded trips may involve several challenging days in a row and a significant amount of climbing, sometimes exposed to the elements. Distances typically range for 40-70 miles each day through hilly and often mountainous landscapes, meaning that there are regular ascents and descents. These trips include some of the most testing road climbs in the Ireland – but our support vehicle is always in the background if required.

        Travel - Arrival and Departure Read More

        You will be met by your Wilderness Ireland Guide at Cork Kent Train Station at 11:00 on Day 1 of your trip. We’ll drop you off at Sligo Macdiarmada Train Station by 13:00 on the last day of the trip. For full details on how to get there, please see the travel page of our website.

        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. If you are doing a red graded trip, then please also ensure it is not an E-bike.

        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.

        Speak to an Expert

        Darragh Devaney

        One of our team members, Darragh is Wilderness Ireland’s Operations Manager. As the team’s resident bike expert, Darragh has helped research, design and even guide nearly all of Wilderness Ireland’s bike trips. When not in the office, Darragh can usually be found exploring a little-known corner of Ireland on two wheels or camping in the countryside with his family.

        Ask Darragh a Question

        Meet Your Guide

        Declan Faulkner
        24th May - 6th Jun 2025

        View guides for all departures

        Difficulty Grades Explained

        Red Graded 7-9

        The road cycling trips that we offer are graded to take into account a combination of the general level of fitness required and the number of miles cover as well as the daily ascent and estimated saddle time.

        Our red graded trips would involve some longer days with some taxing climbs and descents, there are still breaks throughout the day but overall daily distance will be longer. These trips are designed for road cyclist enthusiast who loves cycling and spends many weekends beach year in the saddle. The prospect of testing climbs and speedy descents brings a grin to your face.

        The red graded trips may involve several challenging days in a row and a significant amount of climbing, sometimes exposed to the elements. Distances typically range for 40-70 miles each day through hilly and often mountainous landscapes, meaning that there are regular ascents and descents. These trips include some of the most testing road climbs in the Ireland – but our support vehicle is always in the background if required.

        Find Out More

        Trip Reviews

        Rated 4.78 out of 5 based on 9 review(s) of Bike Tour – The Wild Atlantic Way

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        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.

        SG

        Sally Gallimore

        Reviewed on 25/06/2024

        Age: 70 - 80
        Country: Australia
        Trip Date: 01/06/2024
        Trips Taken: 2

        The Bottom Line

        The Bottom Line

        This was our second trip with Wilderness Ireland, which speaks for itself. It is are wonderful way to experience the many facets of Ireland. We were glad we got the ebikes. We didn’t need most of the power, but they were stable on the down hills and really came into their own when ploughing through bad weather at the end of a long day.

        Show More
        RG

        Richard Gallimore

        Reviewed on 25/06/2024

        Age: 70 - 80
        Country: Australia
        Trip Date: 01/06/2024
        Trips Taken: 2

        The Bottom Line

        The Bottom Line

        Everything Sally said in her feedback I repeat. One disappointment for this trip relates to Wilderness Ireland clothing. When we did the Donegal trip we were given distinctive (admittedly more oriented to Wilderness Scotland) cycling jerseys which we wear regularly in Australia. The jerseys generate lots of discussion about our trip and have been an excellent marketing tool for Wilderness Ireland.

        Show More
        PO

        Peggy O'Neil

        Reviewed on 21/06/2024

        Age: 60 - 70
        Country: United States
        Trip Date: 01/06/2024
        Trips Taken: 1

        The Bottom Line

        The Bottom Line

        Probably my favorite trip to date of many, many guided cycling tours.

        Show More
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