Best cycling routes in Ireland: a guide for cyclists

Best cycling routes in Ireland: a guide for cyclists

April 11, 2025

Ireland, known for its picturesque landscapes and lush greenery, offers an unforgettable experience for cycling enthusiasts. From mountainous trails to hilly terrain, the island abounds with cycling routes that will satisfy both experienced cyclists and amateurs looking for adventure on two wheels. In this guide, we'll take you on a journey through some of the best cycling routes in Ireland, showcasing places that combine the beauty of nature with the adrenaline rush of cycling. Whether you're a fan of extreme descents or prefer a leisurely ride with the family, Ireland has something to offer every cyclist. Get ready to discover the hidden gems of the Irish landscape, experience the local culture and create unforgettable memories on two wheels.

Ad

Ballyhoura - a paradise for MTB enthusiasts

We begin our journey with the Ballyhoura mountain bike trails, a true paradise for mountain bikers. Located on the border of counties Limerick and Cork, the Ballyhoura trails offer the largest complex of mountain bike trails in Ireland. The trail system encompasses more than 90 kilometers of diverse trails, making it an ideal destination for beginners and advanced cyclists alike.

Ballyhoura is famous for its perfectly groomed trails that lead through scenic forests and hills. The main attraction is the so-called 'Coillte Loop,' a 51-kilometer route that offers unforgettable views and a variety of technical challenges. The trails are divided into different levels of difficulty, from easy blue to challenging black, so there is something for everyone.

One of the biggest advantages of Ballyhoura is the supporting infrastructure. There is an on-site bike rental shop, where you can rent high-quality equipment, as well as receive advice from experienced instructors. It is also worth mentioning the sanitary facilities and a cafe where you can relax after an intense ride.

Ballyhoura stands out from other cycling destinations in Ireland because of its versatility. The trails are carefully designed to provide a smooth ride and maximum enjoyment. There are both technical singletracks and wider paths ideal for enjoying the scenery. What's more, Ballyhoura also offers trails for families with children, making it a great place for the whole family to get active.

It is worth noting that Ballyhoura is not only about bicycle trails. The area is famous for its beautiful views of the Galtee and Ballyhoura mountains, as well as its rich flora and fauna. After an intense ride, take a break and savor the tranquility of Irish nature. For those who want to extend their stay, there are numerous accommodation options in the area, from campsites to cozy B&B.

Slieve Bloom Mountains - a new mecca for mountain biking

The next spot on our map of the best cycling routes in Ireland is the Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Center. It's a relatively new but rapidly gaining popularity destination for mountain bikers. Located in the heart of Ireland, in counties Laois and Offaly, the Slieve Bloom mountains offer a unique cycling experience surrounded by unspoiled nature.

The cycling center at Slieve Bloom opened relatively recently, but has already managed to gain recognition among cyclists from all over Ireland and beyond. It currently offers some 35 km of trails of varying levels of difficulty, with plans to expand to an impressive 100 km in the coming years. The trails are carefully designed to maximize riding pleasure while minimizing environmental impact.

One of the main advantages of Slieve Bloom is the variety of trails. There are easy paths ideal for families and beginners, as well as challenging singletrack for experienced cyclists. Particularly noteworthy are the 'green' trails, which are accessible to all and offer beautiful views of the surrounding valleys and forests.

Slieve Bloom stands out from other cycling centers in Ireland for its location. The trails lead through some of the oldest mountains in Europe, which gives the ride a unique character. Cyclists can enjoy panoramic views of central Ireland, with visibility reaching up to four provinces of the country in good weather.

It's worth noting that Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Center is committed to sustainability and environmental education. The trails are designed to minimize erosion and protect local flora and fauna. This is a great opportunity to combine your passion for cycling with exploring the Irish countryside.

The infrastructure at Slieve Bloom is constantly being developed. There is a parking lot, restrooms and an information desk on site. There are also plans to build a visitor center, which will further enhance the experience of the trails. It's worth noting that admission to the trails is free, making Slieve Bloom an attractive option for cyclists looking for an affordable destination.

Wicklow -. mountain biking in the heart of 'the garden of Ireland'

The last, but certainly not least, point on our tour of Ireland's best cycling routes is Biking.ie Wicklow. Located in County Wicklow, often referred to as the 'garden of Ireland' for its picturesque landscapes, the center offers an unforgettable experience for mountain bikers.

Biking.ie Wicklow is not just about bike trails, but a one-stop cycling service center. It offers rentals of high-quality bicycles, including electric models that are gaining popularity. This is an excellent option for those who want to try mountain biking but don't have their own equipment.

The trails in Wicklow are extremely varied and offer something for everyone - from easy trails for families to challenging singletrack for experienced cyclists. Particularly popular is the route at Ballinastoe, which offers spectacular views of Lough Tay, also known as 'Guinness Lake' for its distinctive shape and color.

One of the main advantages of Biking.ie Wicklow is its professional approach to customer service. Experienced instructors are available on site to offer courses and training for cyclists of all levels. This is a great opportunity to improve your technical skills and increase your confidence on the trail.

Wicklow also stands out for its location. The trails run through a variety of terrain - from dense forests to open moorland, offering unforgettable views of the Wicklow Mountains and the Irish Sea coast. This makes riding in this region not only a sporting challenge, but also a true feast for the eyes.

It is worth noting that Biking.ie Wicklow is committed to sustainability and environmental protection. Trails are carefully maintained to minimize erosion and protect local wildlife. This is a great opportunity to combine your passion for cycling with environmental education.

All in all, Ireland offers an incredibly rich selection of biking trails to satisfy any two-wheeled enthusiast. From the technical trails of Ballyhoura, to the scenic routes in the Slieve Bloom mountains, to the diverse trails of Wicklow, each destination has its own unique character and offers an unforgettable experience. Whether you're an experienced mountain biker or just starting out on your MTB adventure, Irish bike trails are sure to charm you. Remember to always ride responsibly, respect nature and enjoy the beauty of the 'green island' from the perspective of the bike saddle.

Similar articles

Ad