Experience the best of Ireland on a panoramic cycling tour through West Cork
Set off on a classic Irish adventure! This eight-day self-guided cycle through the famed West Cork region is the perfect opportunity to see Ireland’s finest attractions. From bustling cities to tiny seaside villages, from mountain lakes to ocean spray, you’ll find it all on this route.
This journey is a half loop that begins in the city of Cork and ends in lovely Killarney. You’ll first head south to explore the coast, with plenty of beaches, cliffs, and dramatic views – not to mention the fresh seafood! As you begin to work northward, you’ll scale the mountain passes that make for Ireland’s most striking scenery. The final descent into Killarney provides a vista you’ll never forget.
You’ll find opportunities to explore Ireland’s proud history, dine on their very best food and drink, and at every turn enjoy the region many call “Ireland’s Playground.”
Highlights of the West Cork Cycling Tour
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West Cork Cycling Tour Itinerary
Day 1 Tralee Arrival Day
Arrive in Tralee and begin your cycling journey southeast to Killarney and Killarney National Park. Ride through scenic views of Carrauntoohill, taking quiet backroads to Fossa and onward through the National Park to Killarney. Optional loop to explore Muckross Abbey and Muckross House.
Overnight Location: BnB in Tralee
Distance: 33-53km, 376m of ascent
Meals: None
Day 2 Tralee to Killarney
Depart from Killarney via the Fossa Way and cycle to the iconic Gap of Dunloe, enjoying lake views and serene Black Valley. Continue to the heritage town of Kenmare, known for its Georgian architecture and local cuisine.
Overnight Location: BnB in Killarney
Distance: 46km, 590m of ascent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3 Killarney to Kenmare
Ride into the Borlin Valley, crossing hills between Cork and Kerry with spectacular views. End the day in the coastal town of Bantry, known for its scenic harbor and rich Georgian architecture.
Overnight Location: BnB in Kenmare
Distance: 50km, 629m of ascent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4 Kenmare to Bantry
Pass through the charming villages of Durrus and Ballydehob, both known for their arts and music scenes. Arrive in Skibbereen, a vibrant town with historical sites, museums, and a lively atmosphere.
Overnight Location: BnB in Bantry
Distance: 44km, 716m of ascent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5 Bantry to Skibbereen
Choose a scenic coastal route or a direct road to Clonakilty, passing through the beautiful villages of Glandore and Unionhall. In Clonakilty, enjoy the lively music and arts scene, and visit Inchydoney Beach nearby.
Overnight Location: BnB in Skibbereen
Distance: 55km, 795m of ascent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6 Skibbereen to Clonakilty
Cycle towards the "Old Head of Kinsale," passing through forests, countryside, and coastal scenery. Conclude in Kinsale, known as Ireland’s "Gourmet Capital" for its renowned culinary offerings and medieval history.
Overnight Location: BnB in Clonakilty
Distance: 52km, 644m of ascent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 Clonakilty to Kinsale
The latter part of today’s cycling journey offers stunning coastal views as you head towards the iconic Old Head of Kinsale. Before reaching this scenic landmark, you’ll ride through charming inland landscapes, passing forests and open countryside, with the region’s lush farmland creating picturesque views all around.
While there are a few uphill stretches, the day is well-paced with a mix of landscapes and vistas. Be sure to carry extra drinks, as shop hours along the route can be unpredictable, ensuring you stay hydrated throughout the ride.
Your final stop, Kinsale, is a town rich in history and often called the "Gourmet Capital of Ireland" for its vibrant culinary scene. Known for its medieval architecture and the historic Battle of Kinsale in 1601, Kinsale offers plenty to explore, from its historic sites to the scenic harbor. Its unique charm and inviting atmosphere make it a memorable highlight of your journey through southwest Ireland.
Overnight Location: BnB in Kinsale
Distance: 52km, 644m of ascent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 8 Departure
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.
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast
West Cork Cycling Tour Price and Dates
This self-guided cycling tour of West Cork is run as a custom tour for your group and the price per person is fixed.
Prices below are per person:
- Self-guided groups of 2+: $1,675 USD per person
Accommodation on West Cork Cycling Tour
This tour is based in B&B’s and/or guesthouses. The B&Bs have ensuite washrooms and daily hot Irish breakfast.
In some cases, the accommodations below may need to be swapped for other comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
Rooms are double occupancy. If you can request a for single room with an extra charge.
Hotels on Standard Tour
Hotel in Tralee
Welcome to County Kerry – enjoy the night in a hand-picked hotel room in a convenient location.
Guesthouse or B&B in Killarney
There’s plenty of quality accommodations in Killarney, and yours are no exception. Warm ensuite rooms and daily hot Irish breakfast help you make the most of your tour.
Guesthouse or B&B in Kenmare
Enjoy some of the finest food & drink in all County Kerry in your welcoming Kenmare accommodations.
B&B in Bantry
Enjoy a comfy bed and basic amenities at your B&B in Bantry, known for its great food.
B&B in Skibbereen
Close to pubs and shops, your B&B in Skibbereen is a perfect base for the night.
B&B in Clonakitty
Clonakitty is in a lovely farming region, and your home here will reflect the region’s welcome atmoshpere.
B&B in Kinsale
Coastal hospitality is on full display in your lovely Kinsale B&B.
What’s Included in the West Cork Cycling Tour?
Meals
7 breakfasts are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 7 nights are included. Accomodations before or after the tour are not included but can be added as a supplement.
Transportation during the Tour
Luggage transfers are included on a daily basis during the tour. Airport transfers can be added as a supplement.
Also Included
- GPS-enabled app for navigation & points of interest
- Detailed roadbook with full area maps
- 24-hour emergency/information support
- Full pre-departure information
- In-house holiday specialist to assist with any additional services
Not included
- Flights to Cork or from Killarney
- Transfers into Cork or out of Killarney, though these can be added for a supplemental fee.
- Accommodations before the tour in Cork and after the tour in Killarney.
- Breakfast on Day 1
- Meals, drinks, and snacks not previously mentioned
- Ferry tickets
- Entrance fees to any archeological sites (optional)
Optional Extras
- Private transfers from the airport to your accommodations or vice versa
- Bike rental:
- Hybrid bike
- Road bike
- E-Bike
- Additional nights before or after the tour
- Single occupancy upgrades
Frequently Asked Questions about West Cork Cycling Tour
Ireland Walk Hike Bike was set up with one purpose in mind – to show you the real Ireland that we know and love. Having watched many visitors “flash” through Ireland – founder Linda Woods decided back in 1994 to find a better way to see the country. “My aim was to slow people down, so they really get their feet into the soul of the country, meet the locals & discover what makes Ireland & the Irish tick………” and 25 years later – this is exactly what Ireland Walk Hike Bike is still doing today…
Whatever holiday you want – walk, hike, bike, more active than that or less active than that – we will be delighted to chat with you, help plan your holiday with you to ensure you have a really memorable trip to Ireland.
Learn MoreMap of Ireland-West Cork Cycling Tour
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