Cycling
Did you bring your Bicycle on this trip? If so, we hope you really enjoy your time wandering through the glorious countryside, stopping along the way to admire a specular view, visit a monument or simply sit on a rock and have a well-earned rest.
Unlike many regions, the Burren Lowlands does not have any dedicated Greenways however cycling in the region is relatively safe. Like any activity however, it is not without risk, so please prepare well before you set out, make sure your bicycle is fit for purpose and observe some simple guidelines to ensure your safety :
wear a hi-viz jacket,
use your lights at dawn & dusk
don’t wear headphone
carry a charged mobile phone
let someone know your route and timeframe
listen out for motor vehicles
As this is very much a rural area, farm machinery & animals are common encounters on our roadways, and they always take priority over other road users! Always remember most of these routes are on public roads and due caution should be taken. Please remember to observe the rules of the road and cycle safe! Always maintain a 2m social distance.
We have listed a few sites that you can check out to see what’s around the area that is cycle friendly and well traversed by other cycling enthusiasts.
Avid cyclists in the area are keen that this region is well represented in any developing Greenways and the Red Route Cycle Page has a wealth of information that covers not just the Burren Lowlands but any associated cycle trails and sites to see along the way – Check out their blog and the group’s Facebook pages for more information.
Gort Cycle Trails has a large number of cycling routes identified on their page. They are happy to answer any queries you have or provide you with some advice based on their personal experiences of cycling in this region.
The entire Burren Lowlands region is a cyclist’s dream and a challenge for every level of ability. There is an abundance of sites to see along the way. You have little villages to stop at and chat with the locals, beautiful areas to just sit back and relax, commune with nature if that’s your thing, or have something to eat or drink to recharge those batteries for the next phase of your trip. Our photos give you an idea of the region so be sure to peruse and plan your cycle based on what you would like to see and do.
Below are just a few of the loops and sites that await you. Unless otherwise stated, links to these and many others can be found in the Gort Cycle Trails page. Stay safe & enjoy your trip!
Didn’t Bring your Bike?
Bicycle hire is available through West Ireland Cycling. They deliver to wherever you are, so you’ll have no worries if you’ve forgotten your bicycle on this holiday.
Bicycle repairs in Gort are provided by Jordan, a young man with many years’ experience in this trade – see his J.M. Cycles Facebook page for details or give him a call on 085 208 7296
Of course, you might fancy a fully-fledged cycling tour, so why not let West Ireland Cycling make all the tour arrangements for you – sit back and save your energy for the ride!
Below are just a few of the loops and sites that await you. Unless otherwise stated, links to these and many others can be found in the Gort Cycle Trails page. Stay safe & enjoy your trip!
Exploring Gort’s Mini-Greenway
Exploring Gort’s mini-greenway – a lovely route from the town of Gort to Coole Park Nature Reserve, predominantly off the main road and just a lovely route to relax on with the anticipation of walking around Coole Park and seeing the Lake and Autograph tree on your arrival – a stop at the tea rooms is a must do too!
Photo Credit: Gort’s Mini Green Way, Katleen Bell Bonjean
Finding Yeats Trail
An interesting 21km Finding Yeats Trail sets off from the Town Hall in Gort takes you through the town and out the Ennis Rd, R458, along the shores of nearby Lough Cutra , through the hills around Kilbeacanty. Near Peterswell, before turning into Thoor Ballylee, you cross the countryside onto the main Galway to Gort road and back into town.
Photo Credit: Finding Yeats Trail, Katleen Bell-Bonjean
The 17.5km Monastic Way Trail
The 17.5km Monastic Way Trail starts at the Town Hall in Gort. It takes you out of town through beautiful countryside on the R460, where you will pass the magnificent Kilmacduagh Monastic Site.
Photo Credit: Gort Monastic Trail, Katleen Bell-Bonjean
As you continue your trip, pass the stony foothills of the Burren at Poulataggle until you arrive at Tierneevan Church (check out the stained-glass window). Follow the blue route markers past the glorious 18 Hole Gort Golf Club. Cycling back towards Gort along what is locally referred to as The New Line, you will pass over part of Coole/Garryland Turlough before winding your way over the motorway and back into Gort.
Photo Cedit: Monastic Trail Poulataggle, Tubber, Katleen Bell Bonjean
Thoor Ballylee to Gort Looped Cycle Trail
Thoor Ballylee to Gort Looped cycle trail- an 18km looped trail that takes you through some beautiful parts of the countryside , past historical monuments and along the Gorgeous Gort river. It is a relatively flat route with lots to see along the way.
Photo Credit: Ardrahan Milestone Cycle, Marguerite Gaughan
Ardrahan Drumharsna Castle and Old Irish Milestones Looped Cycle Trail
This 17 km looped route from Ardrahan through lovely countryside, passes the old Irish milestones along the way. Stop at Drumharsna Castle to enjoy your light picnic before absorbing the tragic history associated with this building.
Photo Credit: Old Irish Milestone, Katleen Bell Bonjean
This is the most scenic of routes along parts of the Wild Atlantic Way as you leave Kinvara and head to the tiny coastal village of New Quay. Your route will take you along the foothills of the Burren and you will look out over Galway Bay and across to Galway city. Once at New Quay, you can either pop into Linnane’s for a delicious seafood lunch or cycle further along onto the Flaggy Shore and call to Café Linnalla for delicious homemade ice-cream before heading for home along the same route again.
Photo Credit: Flaggy Shore Heritage Trail, Kathleen Bell Bonjean