Beyond the Map
A cultural cycling adventure off the beaten path
This loop is the perfect mix of spectacular scenery and quiet roads. Cycle along the rugged, cliff lined coast sharing the roads with more sheep traffic than cars. You will visit Ireland’s largest island, have time to explore some of Europe’s more pristine blue flag golden beaches and, of course, have lots of time to visit the pubs to mingle with the friendly locals. Having toured and raced the entire 2400km of the Wild Atlantic Way, this is still my favourite section. As it happens it passes by my hometown of Ballina and I look forward to meeting you there.
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Public transport
to Ballina
Ballina is an ideal base to explore the Wild Atlantic Way on the bike. The town is well connected to Dublin with trains running several times a day from and to Dublin Heuston station. The bus line 22 Expressway also connects to Dublin city centre and directly to Dublin airport multiple times per day.
THE ITINERARY
Enjoy browsing through the example itinerary day by day. Get a taste of how discovering Ireland’s west coast with your local guide could look like. Any questions? I would be delighted to have a chat with you about all possibilities.
Exploring the Sligo Coast
Distance: ~80km (loop)
Elevation gain: ~600m
Depending on your time of arrival the distance of your cycling route can be adapted.
Highlights of the day:
Your first cycle takes you through remote countryside landscapes and along the beautiful coastline of County Sligo. The back and country roads are scenic and quiet. Still don’t forget to watch out for sheep crossing the road when you pass by lakes, a castle on the coast, pristine beaches and fishing villages. This is the perfect day to test your bike and find your groove.
Accommodation: B&B in Ballina
North Mayo
Distance: ~80km (point to point)
Elevation gain: ~660m
Highlights of the day:
On the “Monasteries of the Moy”-Greenway, through Belleek woods, you’ll leave Ballina to follow the North Mayo coastline. The route will take you to discover the ruins of abbeys, a historic port town with a round tower and some of Ireland’s most spectacular cliffs and coastline. The Wild Atlantic Way Signature Point Downpatrick Head with the majestic sea stack is a highlight of your trip.
Accommodation: B&B in remote location along the coast
Ballycroy National Park to Achill
Distance: ~80km (point to point)
Elevation gain: ~580m
Highlights of the day:
Start your cycle along the coast before you head inland for a while to cycle along a lake and through remote bog lands. The Wild Nephin National Park is renowned for its vast remoteness. The Great Western Greenway will then take you towards Achill Island. When you cross over the bridge you will notice a change in the pace of life to island time.
Accommodation: B&B on Achill island
Achill Island
Distance: ~75km (loop)
Elevation gain: ~900m
The mileage can be adapted to meet your needs.
Highlights of the day:
Today’s cycling mileage is up to you. Achill island is a hilly cyclist’s paradise and you are spoiled for route choices. Of course your package will include a route recommendation so you don’t miss out on any highlights.
Accommodation: B&B on Achill island
Achill to Westport
Distance: ~70km (point to point)
Elevation gain: ~550m
Highlights of the day:
You will enjoy magnificent views over Clew Bay. Did you know that there are 365 islands in Clew Bay? One for every day of the year. Following quiet coastal roads and the Great Western Greenway you will make your way towards Ireland’s friendliest town where you can enjoy an evening of live music.
Accommodation: Hotel in Westport
For a shorter adventure you can arrange for your rental bikes to be picked up from Westport on the evening of this day.
Bike pick up and transfer Westport to Ballina: €100 (1-6 bikes)
South Mayo
Distance: ~100km (loop)
Elevation gain: ~700m
Highlights of the day:
You’ll pass by Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s holy mountain, where every year thousands of pilgrims hike up to a small church on the top and follow the route of what I call Ireland’s most scenic road trip. The quiet country road will take you along Ireland’s biggest fjord and as the cultural highlight of the day you’ll visit a working sheep farm to spectate a sheep dog demonstration.
Accommodation: Hotel in Westport
Back to Ballina
Distance: ~70km (point to point)
Elevation gain: ~600m
Highlights of the day:
It’s time to head back to Ballina and to explore once more a very remote part of County Mayo on the way. The roads are very quiet and the scenery is stunningly beautiful. Alternatively you can also finish your trip in Westport and a transfer of the rental bikes back to Ballina can be organised.
