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 Welcome to Cork
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.
Overnight Location: B&B in Cork
Distance: None
Meals: None
Day 2 Depart for the Coast
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!
Overnight Location: B&B in Kinsale
Distance: 2-3 hours, 47.9km, 706m ascent, 140m descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3 Westward to Clonakilty
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!
Overnight Location: B&B in Clonakilty
Distance: 2-3 hours, 53.3km, 674m ascent, 651m descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4 Ride to Skibbereen
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!
Overnight Location: B&B in Skibbereen
Distance: 3-4 hours, 57.6km, 777m ascent, 800m descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5 A Day on the Island
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.
Overnight Location: B&B in Bantry
Distance: 2-3 hours, 43.6km, 731m ascent, 713m descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6 Conquer the Mountain
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.
Overnight Location: B&B in Kenmare
Distance: 3 hours, 49.2km, 686m ascent, 698m descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 Home to Killarney
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.
Overnight Location: B&B in Killarney
Distance: 3-4 hours, 51.2km, 679m ascent, 659m descent
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. Note that you can upgrade your package for a fee to include a welcome briefing and follow up calls during the tour. Every basic tour still includes 24-hour support, pre-departure information, and route maps. Please request these rates if you’d like to upgrade.
Prices below are per person:
- Self-guided groups of 2+: $1,150 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. You can pay a supplement to have a single room where possible. The required solo traveller supplement is included in the price above.
Hotels on Standard Tour
B&B in Cork City
Locally called the “Real Capital of Ireland,” Cork City is a vibrant place, and your B&B will be well-located to take it all in.
B&B in Kinsale
Coastal hospitality is on full display in your lovely Kinsale B&B.
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 Skibbereen
Close to pubs and shops, your B&B in Skibbereen is a perfect base for the night.
B&B in Bantry
Enjoy a comfy bed and basic amenities at your B&B in Bantry, known for its great food.
Guesthouse or B&B in Kenmare
Enjoy some of the finest food & drink in all County Kerry in your welcoming Kenmare accommodations.
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.
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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