Clew Bay

Clew Bay boasts some of Ireland's most spectacular views, with more than a hundred islands overlooked by the Nephin Beg mountains and Croagh Patrick, Ireland's holy mountain. It is also the heart of the O'Malley clan's territory, once ruled by Granuaile, the Pirate Queen. This self-guided tour combines the scenery of the Wild Atlantic Way with the region's history and heritage.

From Westport, riders follow the traffic-free Great Western Greenway to Newport, Burrishoole Abbey and Lough Furnace, then continue via Mulranny and the Curraun Peninsula to Achill Island. Two days on Achill take in the White Cliffs of Ashleam, the Slievemore Deserted Village and Keem Bay.

A ferry to Clare Island visits Grace O'Malley's castle and ancient tombs. A final ride passes the Bunlahinch clapper bridge, Old Head and the National Famine Memorial on the way back to Westport.

Highlights:

• The Great Western Greenway, Burrishoole Abbey and Lough Furnace
• Mulranny Causeway and the Curraun Peninsula
• Achill Island's White Cliffs of Ashleam, Slievemore Deserted Village and Keem Bay
• Clare Island and Granuaile's Castle
• Megalithic monuments and the Bunlahinch clapper bridge
• Westport's pubs and traditional music

Surface and terrain:
The traffic-free Great Western Greenway on a former railway line (gentle gradients), plus quiet sealed coastal and rural roads on the mainland and islands. Gradient is rated easy to moderate.

Weather:
The tour runs April to October, so riders should expect changeable Atlantic conditions and pack wet-weather gear.

Suitable for:
Recreational riders comfortable with 30–58 km days who enjoy history, heritage and island scenery. E-bikes make it accessible to less confident riders.