Wild Connemara Cycling Route

Wild Connemara is a seven-day self-guided loop from Galway City, designed by Bike Hire Ireland, who have more than 28 years' experience running bike hire and tours on Ireland's west coast. Riders collect a fully equipped touring bike in Galway along with an information pack of day-by-day route maps and local tips.

The route heads west along the coast to Carna, then on to Clifden and the Sky Road, before swinging north via Cleggan to Letterfrack, Connemara National Park and Kylemore Abbey. From Leenane the ride continues to Westport, then turns south to Cong and Ashford Castle before returning to Galway.

Along the way it follows quiet country roads, sections of the Wild Atlantic Way, the Connemara Loop and the New Connemara Greenway, passing lake shores, windswept bog and the foothills of the Connemara Mountains. This is a bike hire and route package; riders arrange their own accommodation.

Highlights:

• The Sky Road loop from Clifden
• Connemara National Park and Kylemore Abbey and Gardens
• Sections of the Wild Atlantic Way and the New Connemara Greenway
• Killary Harbour and the village of Leenane
• Westport House and the town of Westport
• Cong village and Ashford Castle

Surface and terrain:
Mostly quiet sealed country roads, with sections of the Wild Atlantic Way, Connemara Loop and the New Connemara Greenway. Rolling terrain through bog and lake country, with some climbs in the foothills of the Connemara Mountains.

Likely weather:
Mild, changeable Atlantic conditions, typically 10 - 19°C from April to October and cooler in winter. Showers are possible on any day, with strong coastal winds at times. Waterproofs and warm layers are advisable year-round.

Suitable for:
Independent, reasonably fit riders comfortable with consecutive days of 55 - 70 km on public roads, who are happy to book their own accommodation and carry their own luggage. An e-bike upgrade makes the hills easier.