Highlands of Donegal

Donegal is one of Ireland’s hidden treasures, offering a mix of coastal cycling and highland landscapes that feel wonderfully remote. Its stunning beaches, vibrant hues of browns, greens, and purples, and ever-changing light create an enchanting setting. The region is also known for its strong traditional music culture and the warm, gentle nature of its people.

This cycling holiday features quiet, tarmacked backroads with occasional short stretches on busier roads where necessary. The route includes some climbs to fully immerse you in Donegal’s majestic scenery, making a bit of training on varied terrain worthwhile before your trip.

The adventure starts along Donegal’s coastline, passing the dramatic Slieve League Marine Cliffs, among the highest sea cliffs in Europe. The first night is spent in Glencolmcille, a village rich in Irish culture and tradition.

You’ll then cycle through Glenveagh National Park, Ireland’s largest, renowned for its natural beauty and conservation efforts. A rest day in Dunfanaghy, a peaceful seaside village, provides a chance to recharge.

The journey continues to the historic town of Ramelton, celebrated for its Georgian architecture, before exploring the rugged beauty of the Fanad Peninsula. The tour concludes with a transfer to Donegal Town, where you can relax and reflect on your week of adventure.

This tour showcases Donegal’s unparalleled coastal and rural charm, blending natural wonders like the Slieve League cliffs and Glenveagh with cultural highlights, including Leo’s Tavern and traditional villages. With its varied routes and incredible scenery, this cycling holiday offers unforgettable experiences for cyclists of all levels.

The roads are all tarmacked and the route is designed to ensure that you spend most of the week on quiet backroads. Occasionally it will be necessary to ride on busier roads which is unavoidable as there may be no minor roads on certain stretches of the route.