Kerry to Cork

Introducing a brand new place to place self-guided leisure holiday that will see you exploring the beautiful West Cork coastline in Ireland.

The route will take you along the dramatic coastline; a landscape that will constantly be changing as you traverse through peaceful river valleys and ride alongside the vast Atlantic Ocean. This is an area of strong traditions, ancient culture and many relics from Ireland's past including standing stones, stone circles and medieval architecture.

Your adventure will start in Killarney, a wonderful town surrounded by waterfalls, lakes and woods beneath a backdrop of 1000m-plus peaks. If you have time you may be able to squeeze in a warm up ride, exploring the simply beautiful Killarney National Park, home to the 15th Century Muckross Abbey and the 19th Century Muckross House.

Your first day on the bikes will take you to Kenmare, a haven of gourmet food, lovely accommodation, and peaceful scenes. Make sure you try out one of the delicious local restaurants, and have a stroll around the picturesque shops, perfect for picking up a postcard to send back home.

After you've had your fill in Kenmare, you'll travel along to Bantry in West Cork, a modern harbour town, and from here you'll cycle on beautiful country roads, flanked on either side by bluebells and fuchsias, before arriving at the wonderful town of Skibbereen. Skibbereen is located right on the bank of the River Ilen and is known as the 'hub' of West Cork. Your next stop in Kinsale is located at the start (or end!) of the Wild Atlantic Way and is famous for its colourful streets and long history. It is a vibrant coastal town bursting with personality, fuelled by great people, food and culture. Don't forget to try the world famous fish and chips in this beautiful seaside town!

Your final stop is Cork; the second largest city in the Republic of Ireland, with a maritime history spanning over a thousand years. There is plenty to do in the city of Cork with historic forts and churches, regional parks, and a great deal of shopping for souvenirs and more! After a wonderful final breakfast in Cork, it's time to say slán to West Cork and your Irish adventure.

Highlights

• World famous fish and chips in the beautiful seaside town of Kinsale
• Captivating scenes of patchwork green fields laid before you in the Glorious Borlin Valley
• Enjoying rural coastal towns and villages
• Spectacular views over the Gap of Dunloe and the Black Valley
• Admiring the stone circles and standing stones that bring Ireland’s long history to life
• Enjoying the ever-charming city of Cork

The majority of the route is on well-surfaced roads, with some small sections on mixed-use cycle paths.

We generally try and stick to quieter roads with minimal traffic, however there will be some busier roads, particularly in and out of the towns and villages. This route therefore is best-suited to riders confident riding on the road.

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