From the green countryside to the Atlantic coast, Ireland has no shortage of scenic bike trails. And with St. Patrick’s Day right around the corner, we’ve got a list of the best bike trails the country has to offer. For nature lovers to thrill seekers, Ireland has bike rides and trails for everyone.
Photo courtesy of www.ireland.com.
Mourne Mountains
One of the most popular and diverse places for a ride would be at the infamous Mourne Mountains. The highest mountain range in northern Ireland, the Mourne Mountains feature trails for all types of riders with loops lasting for hours, days and even weeks. There is no shortage of scenic routes either, as the mountains are huge and feature gorgeous views of lakes, rivers, forests, and even castles. In fact, the mountains have provided inspiration for many classic novelists, including C.S. Lewis, for their beautifully dramatic landscape. This mountain range really is a must-do for bikers visiting the area.
Photo courtesy of TripSavvy.
Galway City
For a shorter but breathtaking ride, try the 25-mile road from Galway city along the southern coastline, towards Spiddal. Between the views of the Atlantic coast and the green Irish countryside, this ride is a favorite of local bike riders and tourists alike. Be sure to take the time to stop at the Spiddal village for a snack and some souvenirs before heading back to the city.
Dublin’s Phoenix Park
If a city ride is more your style, check out any of the numerous parks across Dublin, the largest and most popular of which is Phoenix Park. Located on the east side of the city, Phoenix Park is one of Europe’s largest enclosed city parks that also happens to be home to over 450 deer as well as the Aras an Uachtarain, otherwise known as the President’s House. Pack a picnic and spend the day biking, jogging or walking around this beautiful 350-acre urban park.
Photo courteys of Mobilus In Mobili / Flickr.
Cliffs of Moher
While the real name of this dangerously gorgeous location is the Cliffs of Moher, those who’ve seen “The Princess Bride” will know it by its nickname, the “Cliffs of Insanity.” Insane doesn’t even begin to describe the crumbling, narrow path. While the Cliffs are not an official bike trail, those brave enough to conquer them will need a little more than the luck of the Irish to make it through the treacherous cliff sides. Rising over 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, the paths rarely reach more than 4 feet wide. This bike trail is more of an extreme fantasy for most and definitely not for the faint of heart.