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Within Mayo, there is a feast of great cycling options through a series of scenic routes. There are country roads leading to seaside coves, and to mountain tops.
The variety of scenery is almost endless: islands, lowlands with rural villages and towns, castles, historic sites and parks to visit; highlands with fantastic scenery; and the Atlantic coastline of the County. Rich in breathtaking scenery, the area has been referred to as the cyclist’s paradise.
The choices of terrain on offer range from hill-climbs to flatland so a trip may be planned which will tax the seasoned cyclist’s ability or alternatively will make for a holiday of gentle exercise. So why not hire a bike and explore many of the Mayo Greenways, and Cycle Hubs.
The National Cycling Network is being developed throughout Ireland. A number of cycle towns are located across the county. Each hub has a number of looped cycle routes consisting of day and half day cycles.
The West Mayo Cycle Network, with the Island of Achill as its hub offers three routes varying in distance from 12km to 44km with numerous shorter alternatives. Each cycle offers breath taking views off the west coast off Mayo and Achill Island. Numerous picnic stops are dotted along the route as well as a number of local pubic houses and restaurants.
Wild, windy and stunningly beautiful, Achill has numerous historic sites and excellent facilities and activities. The island has a long history of human settlement with megalithic tombs and promontory forts dating back 5,000 years. There’s also a 15 th century fortifield tower house, Kildamhnait Castle, the 19 th century Acaill Mission, and the poignant deserted villages at Slievemore and Ailt. The Acaill landscape is also a major draw with picture postcard Blue Flag beaches, some of Europe’s highest cliffs and large tracts of blanket bog sweeping over the island’s two peaks and down to the shore. Walking and cycling along the quiet lanes and trails is a wonderful way to discover the islands interior.
Start / Trailhead: An Caol – Keel
Distance: 44 km
Estimated Time: 3-4 Hours
Terrain: Some Moderate Climbs & a Steep descent/ascent. Spectacular sea cliff scenery along the Atlantic Drive
Traffic: Generally light but can get busy during holiday Season
To Suit: Suitable for people with medium levels of fitness.
Minimum Gear: Helmet, Bike, Mobile Phone, Fluid, Snacks & Waterproofs
Services: Services are available throughout the Island
Start / Trailhead: An Caol – Keel
Distance: 28 km
Estimated Time: 2-3 Hours
Terrain: Quiet Roads & Bog Tracks.
Traffic: Generally light but can get busy during holiday Season
To Suit: Suitable for people with medium levels of fitness.
Minimum Gear: Helmet, Bike, Mobile Phone, Fluid, Snacks & Waterproofs
Services: Services are available throughout the Island
Start / Trailhead: An Caol – Keel
Distance: 12 km
Estimated Time: 1-1.30 Hours
Terrain: Moderate Climbs and some wonderful views of the Atlantic
Traffic: Generally light but can get busy during holiday Season
To Suit: Suitable for people with medium levels of fitness.
Minimum Gear: Helmet, Bike, Mobile Phone, Fluid, Snacks & Waterproofs
Services: Services are available throughout the Island
Bike Hire is available on the Island, further information is available from Achill Tourism, Cashel, Achill Sound, Co Mayo.
Telephone: 098 47353
Web: www.achilltourism.com
Start / Trailhead: Westport Town
Distance: 9.2 km
Estimated Time: 1-1.30 Hours
Terrain: Town Greenway, cycle path alongside the R355. Spectacular scenery of Clew bay.
Traffic: light – moderate but can get busy during holiday Season
To Suit: Suitable for people with medium levels of fitness.
Minimum Gear: Helmet, Bike, Mobile Phone, Fluid, Snacks & Waterproofs
Services: Services are available throughout Westport Town and its environs.
Cycle the Great Western Greenway. Escape the bustle of urban life on the Great Western Greenway, Irelands first longest off-road cycling and walking trail in Ireland.
Meandering along the old Westport to Achill railway line which closed in 1937, this 45km almost entirely traffic-free route is ideal for getting out on a bike for a spin and is perfect for a day of family fun. Local bike hire companies also offer shuttle services to and from Newport, Mulranny and Achill, so cycling a partial stretch is also an option.
In addition, you can also explore:
