Dia duit, a chairde!
I am excited to share with you the joys of cycling in and around our beloved and beautiful Connemara.
So whether you’re a hardcore cyclist with calves of steel or someone who thinks a ‘chain reaction’ is a dance move, I promise that you are in for a treat on two wheels in what I like to call the cyclist’s paradise along the Wild Atlantic Way!
The Connemara Cycling Experience
Picture this… You’re cruising along the Sky Road, the wind in your hair (well, under your helmet – safety first!), with the vast expanse of the Atlantic on one side and the majestic Twelve Bens on the other.
The landscape unfolds before you like a living, breathing postcard. And the best part? On a bike, you’re not just seeing Connemara you are really feeling it, breathing it, becoming part of it.
Cycling for Everyone
Now, I can almost hear some of you thinking, “Lorna, darling, I’m more Gucci loafers than cycling shoes!” Not to worry, my stylish friends. Cycling in Connemara isn’t just about breaking a sweat (though that can be part of the fun).
It’s about immersing yourself in the raw beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way at your own pace. It’s breathing in air so fresh, you’ll wish you could bottle it and take it home. It’s about creating memories that’ll have you reminiscing long after your tan (or windburn – let’s be realistic, this is Ireland!) has faded.
Bike Rentals and Equipment
For those of you who prefer to travel light, fear not! Our friends at Clifden Bike Shop on Market Street have got you covered. They offer a range of bikes to suit all tastes and terrains – from road bikes for the speed demons to electric bikes for those who like a little boost on the hills (no judgment here – have you seen some of our inclines?).
They even have tandems for the romantically inclined and buggies for the little ones. And don’t worry about the extras – they’ll kit you out with helmets, hi-viz gear, locks, and even route maps. It’s like having your very own support team!
Exploring the Wild Atlantic Way
Now, let’s talk routes. Oh, the places you’ll go! The Wild Atlantic Way isn’t just a pretty face – it’s a treasure trove of stories, history, and natural wonders. Keep an eye out for those Discovery Points with their distinctive steel posts. They’re like little nuggets of knowledge sprinkled along your route.
The ‘Taste of Connemara Tour’
For a taste of everything Connemara has to offer, why not try the ‘Taste of Connemara Tour’? Start in Roundstone (give us a wave as you pass Within The Village!) and treat yourself to some fresh Atlantic mussels or a hearty seafood chowder.
Then pedal on to the Connemara Smokehouse, where you can see how the finest Irish Smoked Salmon is made. And if you’re a history buff, the tour includes stops at the Marconi radio site and the Alcock & Brown landing site. It’s a feast for your taste buds and your mind!
Competitive Cycling: ŠKODA Tour de Conamara
For those of you with a competitive streak, mark your calendars for the ŠKODA Tour de Conamara. Provisionally scheduled for Saturday, May 24, 2025, it’s the crème de la crème of Irish cycling events.
With options for two absolutley beautiful 140km and 80km routes, it’s a chance to challenge yourself while soaking in some of the most breathtaking scenery Ireland has to offer. And if you’re quick off the mark, you might even snag an early registration code in December. It’s like getting a golden ticket to Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory, but with more lycra and energy gels!
Family-Friendly Cycling: Tour de Bog
But if you prefer your cycling with a side of family fun, don’t miss the annual Tour de Bog in August. This 32km circular route from Roundstone via Ballyconneely is a local favorite. The unveiling of the annual T-shirt design is an event in itself! These t shirts have become quite the collector’s items.
From grandparents to grandkids, it’s a beautiful sight to see families cycling these roads together year after year. And the best part? There’s a medal ceremony in the village afterwards. Who doesn’t love a bit of bling with their cycling?
Relaxing After Your Ride
After a day in the saddle, there’s nothing quite like returning to the comfort of Within The Village. Soothe those tired muscles with a long, hot shower in your luxury ensuite.
Wrap yourself in the softest Irish cotton robe and settle in for the evening with a cup of something warm (whiskey or cocoa – I wont judge)
Nightlife in Roundstone
But if you’ve still got some energy to burn, the village is calling!
If you do then head down to The Shamrock, Kings Bar, or O’Dowds for a well earned pint and some hearty food. There is nothing quite like swapping cycling stories over a creamy pint of the black stuff!
So there you have it, my dear pedal pushers – your guide to cycling in Connemara.
So if you are here for the challenge and to test yourself or you just want to enjoy a leisurely family cycles, know that you’re in for a unique experience and views that will take your breath away.
The roads are calling, and I promise, every turn of the pedal is worth it.
Remember, in Connemara, every cyclist is an explorer, every route holds a secret, and every ride offers a new perspective on this magical place we call home.
So hop on that bike (rented or otherwise), embrace your sense of adventure, and come discover the wonders of Connemara on two wheels. We’ll be here, ready to welcome you with open arms and, of course, a perfectly poured pint of recovery fluid (that’s Guinness to the uninitiated).
Slán go fóill, and may the wind always be at your back (except for that little bit of headwind that makes you feel like you’ve really earned your dinner)!
Book Your Cycling Holiday
P.S. If you’re intrigued by the idea of a cycling holiday in Connemara, why not make Within The Village your base? We offer secure bike storage, route advice, and the perfect place to rest your head after a day on the roads. For more details on our cycling-friendly packages, please email maria@withinthevillage.com. But do hurry – like a downhill with a tailwind, these offers won’t last long!
