Self-Guided Bike Tour

• Self-guided coastal biking on the Dingle, Iveragh, and Beara Peninsulas
• Ireland’s most famous scenery: Lakes of Killarney, the Gap of Dunloe, MacGillycuddy’s Reeks
• Two nights in Dingle Town, known for traditional music
• Pubs and nightlife in lively Kenmare
• Derreen Gardens on the Beara Peninsula
• Learn about “The Great Liberator” Daniel O’Connell at Derrynane National Park
• Ferry to monastery ruins and bird sanctuary on the Skelligs
• Browse at fine arts and crafts galleries

Day 1: We’ll meet you in Shannon for lunch and a bike fitting before your transfer to Dingle Town in County Kerry. Afternoon free to explore town or take a warm-up spin; then relax with a pint and traditional music at O’Flaherty’s Pub. Two-night stay at a four-star guesthouse overlooking the harbor. (4 or 17 mi).

Day 2: Cycle the Slea Head Drive, with views of the now-abandoned Blasket Islands. Stops at an Iron Age fort, the Blasket Heritage Center, and Gallarus Oratory, where monks spreading the word of St. Patrick once sojourned. (35 or 46 mi.)

Day 3: Follow the south coast of the Dingle Peninsula via the beach at Inch. Tiny back roads pass a reputed “fairy fort” en route to Killarney. Longer option visits stately Muckross House and Gardens. (43 or 48 mi.)

Day 4: Free morning for shopping or a warm-up spin along the Lakes of Killarney. Today’s route through the Gap of Dunloe is surrounded by MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, the highest mountain range in Ireland. Pedal on past glacial ponds and cascading streams in the Black Valley to Moll’s Gap. A five-mile descent leads to Kenmare for a two-night stay. (28, 41, or 53 mi.)

Day 5: A loop of the Beara Peninsula begins with easy cycling to exotic Derreen Gardens. Longer options lead to spectacular headlands, colorful fishing villages at Eyeries and Allihies, and a challenging climb over Healy Pass. (32, 66, or 84 mi.)

Day 6: Take breaks along the Iveragh Peninsula to meet a friendly family of artisans at Brushwood Studio Galleries, visit Staigue ring fort, and tour O’Connell’s estate at Derrynane National Park. Enjoy the panoramic view from Coomakesta Pass, then descend to the seaside village of Waterville for a two-night stay. (37 or 42 mi.)

Day 7: Free day to relax or ride: Take the ferry to monastery ruins at Skellig Michael and the puffin sanctuary on Little Skellig, or bike the challenging Ring of Ballinskelligs, a hidden pocket of Kerry’s best scenery. (0, 32, or 44 mi.)

Day 8: Follow the coast around Dingle Bay. Along the way, visit the British Garrison museum in Caherciveen, Bronze Age ring forts, and Valentia Island. Overnight at an 18th-century lakeshore estate with magnificent views of Lough Caragh. (35, 46, or 52 mi.)

Day 9: Transfer to Shannon Airport for early afternoon flights.

"Riding my bike through the Gap of Dunloe was like riding through a fairy tale."
– B.D., Massachusetts

"The tour route was incredibly beautiful! The day on the Beara Peninsula was everything I came to Ireland for."
– M.M., Colorado

"The land, the sea, the views, the food—all spectacular! I'll remember the experience for years to come."
– K.N., Maryland

• 8 nights accommodations in country inns and traditional B&Bs (double occupancy, with private bath) 
• Full Irish breakfasts every morning
• Use of a top-quality 24-speed Trek hybrid bicycle
• Baggage transfers between inns
• Transfers to and from Shannon Airport at specified times
• Detailed maps, written directions, and background information on sights along the way
• Easy Rider’s favorite restaurant recommendations for lunches and dinners
• Daily choice of cycling options; total mileage of 204 to 369 miles
• Comprehensive trip preparation information and training tips
• Easy Rider T-shirt and water bottle
• Not included: Airfare, guides, and van support.