Connemara and the Aran Isles

The arrival point for this trip is the famous and beautiful city of Galway. This bustling historic city played host to the 2020 European Capital of Culture, which is a testament to the city’s many festivals and captivating heritage.

The first leg of your journey takes you to Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands. A true Irish experience awaits you, locals speaking the beautiful Irish language as well as English in a setting of Celtic churches of historical significance and the World Heritage Site, Dun Aonghasa which is set on a dramatic 300 ft cliff edge (be sure to mind your step)! Between the south-facing cliffs and the white sand beaches of the northern shores, the landscape is dominated by limestone paving which has shaped life on the island and provides fascinating scenery for an afternoon on the bike.

Back on the mainland you will find yourself cycling through Connemara's countryside to the town of Clifden, here you can look forward to more stunning vistas and some authentic Irish music as you indulge in the delicious local produce.

Leaving Clifden you will ride through the Lough Inagh Valley to Leenane on the shores of Killary Harbour, with the chance to visit Kylemore Abbey on the way. Having explored Ireland's only fjord, you will then head north into the well-known town of Westport, famous for its exceptional hospitality, scenery and music.

Highlights

• Visiting Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands
• Admiring the wonderful views of the Twelve Bens from the Bog Road
• Sampling the menus of Clifden’s excellent restaurants
• Visiting Kylemore Abbey
• Listening to traditional music in Clifden’s and Westport’s famous pubs
• Cycling the marvelous coastal ride from Tully Cross to Leenane

The riding is generally undulating, but you can also expect some longer gradual climbs and shorter steep inclines along the way. While most roads are quiet, there will be some busier sections, particularly as you head into and out of towns. The majority of the route is on a tarmac surface, with a couple of short sections on hard-packed gravel.