Say hola to Sierra Nevada
The stunningly visual Sierra Nevada area is large and diverse, with fantastic accommodation options among the mountains or down by the sea.
Sierra Nevada
The Sierra Nevada in Andalusia is a fantastic emerging destination for all levels of cyclists. Sunny all year round, the Sierra Nevada accommodates everyone.
Whether you’re a Training Camp enthusiast or just someone who wants a sunny beach holiday with some added cycling, this area is second to none.
Say hola to Sierra Nevada
The stunningly visual Sierra Nevada area is large and diverse, with fantastic accommodation options among the mountains or down by the sea.
The Sierra Nevada in Andalusia is a fantastic emerging destination for all levels of cyclists. Sunny all year round, the Sierra Nevada accommodates everyone.
Whether you’re a Training Camp enthusiast or just someone who wants a sunny beach holiday with some added cycling, this area is second to none.
BLOG - REVIEW
Cycling Adventure to the heart of The Ring of Kerry
Cycling through the heart of The Ring of Kerry offers a remarkable blend of scenic beauty, physical challenge, and rich cultural experiences. Our four-day, unguided cycling trip was a perfect way for our group of four friends, with varying cycling abilities, to immerse ourselves in the breathtaking landscapes of Ireland. Whether on traditional bikes or e-bikes, we found the journey challenging yet manageable, with the relatively low altitude making it accessible for most cyclists.
DAY 1: DUBLIN TO PORTUMNA
Our adventure began in Dublin, where we hopped on a train to the outskirts before setting off along the Royal Canal Greenway. This 100-kilometer stretch provided a serene and safe route, ideal for those seeking a leisurely pace. The greenway's smooth surface was perfect for our racing bikes, allowing us to enjoy the beautiful canal-side scenery without the worry of heavy traffic.
We stopped for a leisurely lunch in Mullingar, a town that served as a perfect mid-point to rest and refuel. The local eateries offered a variety of options, ensuring we were well-nourished for the remainder of our ride. Continuing along the greenway, which follows an old railway line, we marveled at the blend of historical and natural beauty. The absence of rain was a pleasant surprise, enhancing our overall experience.
Given the four-day constraint, we pushed southward to Portumna, where we spent the night in a cozy glamping space. This unique accommodation added a touch of adventure to our trip. For those with an extra day to spare, we highly recommend an overnight stay in Athlone at the Radisson Blu, followed by a journey to Ballyvaughan in the Burren. This detour offers a glimpse of West Clare's rugged beauty, which is truly worth the extra time.
DAY 2: PORTUMNA TO LISTOWEL
After a restful night, we set off from Portumna, cycling along the picturesque shores of Lough Derg. The route provided occasional glimpses of the lake's shimmering waters, with a delightful coffee break in Mountshannon, a quaint lakeside village. This stop was a perfect opportunity to relax and soak in the tranquil atmosphere before continuing our journey.
We rode on to Ennis, a vibrant town where we enjoyed a hearty lunch. Ennis marks the gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way, a route renowned for its dramatic coastal scenery. The real adventure began as we tackled the hills beyond Ennis, following the EuroVelo 1 route towards the Killimer Ferry. This stretch offered a mix of challenging climbs and peaceful, winding roads through the West Clare uplands.
Time was of the essence as we raced to catch the second-last ferry to Tarbert, making it with just minutes to spare. The adrenaline rush from this race against time added a thrilling edge to our journey. Crossing into the Kingdom of Kerry, we made a short ride to Listowel, a charming town in North Kerry. The Listowel Arms Hotel provided a welcome respite after a strenuous 150-kilometer day. The hotel, with its historic charm and modern comforts, was a perfect end to a tough day.
Dinner at Gapo's, a lovely Armenian restaurant, was a culinary delight. The evening continued at John B Keane's Pub, where Billy Keane's warm hospitality made us feel right at home. Sharing stories and pints in such a storied pub left us with a deep sense of accomplishment and camaraderie.
DAY 3: LISTOWEL TO CAHERSIVEEN
Following a sumptuous breakfast overlooking the Listowel Racecourse, we set off for Tralee, marking the first leg of our 100-kilometer journey. The route grew increasingly scenic, with each kilometer offering more stunning views. A significant climb brought us into Kilorglin, a gateway to the Ring of Kerry.
Entering the Ring of Kerry felt like stepping into another world. The back roads we took from here provided a mix of challenging climbs and breathtaking vistas, with expansive beaches and towering mountains. The weather remained favorable, with sunshine highlighting the natural beauty of the landscape.
Arriving in Cahersiveen with plenty of time to spare, we treated ourselves to a delightful dinner at The Point, a seafood restaurant with panoramic views of Valentia Island. The fresh seafood and spectacular scenery made for an unforgettable dining experience. Cahersiveen offers numerous hotels and B&Bs, all welcoming to weary cyclists looking for a comfortable place to rest.
DAY 4: CAHERSIVEEN TO KILLARNEY AND BEYOND
Our final day began with a sense of fulfillment and excitement as we set off from Cahersiveen towards Killarney. This leg of the journey was filled with more breathtaking scenery, making it a fitting conclusion to our adventure. Arriving in Killarney, we caught a train back to Dublin, reflecting on the incredible journey we had undertaken.
For those with an additional day, extending the trip to Kenmare is highly recommended. This extra day offers even more stunning landscapes and vibrant nightlife, providing a perfect capstone to the journey.
CONCLUSION
This four-day cycling trip through the Ring of Kerry is an exceptional blend of manageable distances, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. The journey offers a mix of leisurely greenway paths, challenging climbs, and immersive cultural encounters, making it ideal for both seasoned cyclists and enthusiastic beginners. Whether you stick to the four-day itinerary or extend your stay to explore more of Ireland's west coast, this trip promises to leave you with lasting memories and a profound sense of achievement. The camaraderie, natural beauty, and personal challenges make this cycling adventure a truly unforgettable experience.
If you would like to organise an extended cycling trip like this, talk to GoBike here.
The scenery throughout the Ring of Kerry is simply breath taking
ON SIERRA NEVADA
"It's almost like Aix-Les-Bains except a little bit warmer, but it will be too warm in the summer, but it has lovely roads"
KRISTIAN BLUMMENFELT, NORWEGIAN TRIATHLETE