It has been a difficult time for all of us. I booked a self driving tour through Irish Tourism that was cancelled due to Covid issues with travel. The booking process was excellent and thorough. It wa Read more »
Every thing was as promised. B&B's were awesome and the proprietors very gracious. Big van with lots of space for the 6 of us as well as our luggage with room to spare. We will definitely use Irish ... Read more »
The Mayo tour is like stepping back 20 years to an Ireland before the Celtic Tiger! It is the quietest of our routes in terms of traffic and offers up a wild windswept landscape full of changing light. You will get to visit the largest stone age site in Europe, an ancient cattle field system and also spend your rest day on Achill Island with its wonderful mountains and white sandy beaches as well as its breathtaking cliff walks. This is also the country of Grainnuaile, a famous female pirate in the 16th Century whose ships attacked fleets all along the coastline and we visit one of her fortress houses. Finally we stop at a wonderful early Christian monastic site situated in a most peaceful setting, before heading back to Westport and the less mystical real world.
Arrive at Dublin or Dun Laoghaire Port and make your way to the west of Ireland. After checking into your hotel in the vibrant city of Galway, enjoy a welcome drink before dinner. Overnight Galway DBB Distance approx. 220 km/137 miles; Driving Time approx. 2 hours 15 minutes
This morning after breakfast travel through the lime stone landscape of the Burren with its unique flora and fauna to one of Ireland’s natural wonders, the Cliffs of Moher. The cliffs rise to over 200 meters along an 8 kilometre stretch of the Clare/Atlantic coastline, affording magnificent 360 degree views. Following the visit, enjoy the scenery as you drive to one of the most complete castles in Ireland, Bunratty Castle. Built in 1425 it was restored in 1954 to its former medieval splendour and now contains mainly 15th and 16th century furnishings, tapestries, and works of art which capture the mood of those times. Within the grounds of Bunratty Castle is Bunratty Folk Park where 19th century life is vividly recreated over 26 acres. Lunch (not included) can be had at one of Ireland’s oldest pubs, Durty Nellies, and there will be the opportunity to visit Blarney Woollen Mills for some quality Irish made goods. Return to Galway late afternoon where the remainder of the day will be free for independent sightseeing, shopping and dining. Overnight Galway BB Distance approx. 230 km/143 miles; Driving time approx. 3 hours 30 minutes
Today explore another of Ireland's famous scenic regions, Connemara. Here the constantly changing cloud formations give hills, lakes and peat bogs an added dimension. Visit Connemara History & Heritage Centre, were you will be introduced to the history of the area from prehistoric times to the foundation of the Irish Free State and visit Dan O’Hara’s Homestead. Next stop is Kylemore Abbey which is home to the Benedictine Nuns. Here you can visit their walled garden and Gothic church whilst enjoying the tranquility of the estate. Continue around Connemara to Clifden and on your return you may call at Ballynahinch Castle for afternoon tea before returning to Galway late afternoon. Overnight Galway BB Distance approx. 180 km/112 miles; Driving time approx. 3 hours
After your final Irish breakfast check out of your hotel and make your way back to Dublin for your return ferry. Distance approx. 220 km/137 miles; Driving Time approx. 2 hours 15 minutes
Notes
Distances
The average cycling distance is an easy 30m (45km) with longer routes being available most days. The tours are suitable for adults of all ages, but a certain level of fitness is required and taking in a few practice rides is strongly recommended. The tours are not suited for children under 13 years of age. The Ring of Kerry, the Highlands of Donegal and the Antrim tours have more hills than the other routes and are more suited to the keener cyclist.
Meals
Your guide will recommend a lunch stop each day where a snack lunch will cost between €8 and €12. A group evening meal is organised by the guide each night which costs between €18 and €25. One evening meal during the tour is included in the tour price.
Your Bicycle
We supply 18-21 speed hybrid touring models for your tour. Each booking must give your name and approximate height. Repair equipment, helmets and pannier bags are available on request.
Starting Times
Each of the tours start with a meeting group at 6:30pm on the Saturday evening in a central hotel close to the local train station and bus station. This is only a meeting point, typically the group will be staying in nearby guesthouses. The guide is able to return to the meeting place at 9:30pm again that evening and the following morning for those arriving late. After an introductory talk the guide will organise an evening meal and direct you to your first nights accommodation.
Insurance
There is an additional charge of €35 for insurance cover. We insist that riders avail of our insurance policy or else have alternative cover in place
Prices in other currencies are indicative only. Please note that we charge in Euro.
Please enter your vacation requirements in the form below. If your enquiry requires a more immediate response, please use the Tollfree & International numbers as listed down the page.
For customers based in North America, please note that as we are based in Ireland, we are 5 hours ahead of EST.
See what people say about the vacations we plan
Let us help you create that dream Irish vacation that you will remember forever.
UK FreeFone
USA & Canada
Australia
International
USA & Canada Toll Free 1877 298 7205
Send us your enquiry