Smell the fresh, salty Atlantic sea air as you follow one of the world’s most beautiful stretches of coastline. Cycle past small bays, golden sandy beaches, towering cliffs and headlands. Step back in time as you visit historic sites dating back to the stone age. In the evenings stroll around welcoming historic towns like Donegal, Killybegs and Glenties, and experience the legendary local hospitality. With easy direct bus connections to Dublin Airport, the spectacular Donegal Coast is just waiting to be discovered.
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One of the great things about travelling by bicycle or by foot in Ireland is the chance to meet local people, and one of the best places to do this is at your accommodation. There is no better type of accommodation to suit cyclists and walkers than the type we use — the traditional Irish bed and breakfast (and occasionally small hotels). Here you will be guaranteed a warm welcome. The owners cater much more to the needs of the adventure traveller than the larger hotels.
Choose a single, double, twin, or family room. Rooms have their own private bathroom.
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This bike tour starts and finishes in Donegal Town. It is easily accessible from Dublin Airport, via regular direct buses. If you are flying Trans-Atlantic it is worth noting that most flights are overnight – arriving in Ireland in the early morning so you may want to consider a “recovery day” before starting to cycle.
Use the links below to check the bus timetables.
If you are arriving in Ireland at a different location and would like advice on how to get here, let us know and we will help you to plan your journey.
From Dublin Airport and Dublin City
By Bus: Direct buses (route 30/X30) run to Donegal Town from Dublin Airport and City every 90 minutes. For timetables see https://www.expressway.ie/ Look for route 30/X30
Parking
If you are arriving by car, on-street parking is available in Donegal Town. A permit lasting up to 1 month is available at a cost of €20.
To acquire a permit visit https://donegal-permit.giantleap.net/#/parking/products/agreement Select “Donegal Town”. We recommend No. 4 Car Park.
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This tour finishes in Glenties. It is a short local bus journey back to your starting point in Donegal Town. Alternatively the 30 minute taxi journey will cost approximately €60.
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1: Book Online
Please use the booking form opposite. Once you have completed the form you will be asked to pay a deposit of €150 to secure your booking. Please note that this deposit is non returnable so it is important that you have all your travel details correct before proceeding to book.
2: Pay Balance
Full payment is required at least 4 weeks before your arrival date. You will receive an automatic reminder close to the date when payment is due. Once we have received full payment we will email you your bike tour accommodation list, along with your bike tour guide notes and any other essential information. We will also send you GPX tracks. These can be loaded onto your own device or on a smartphone using an app such as Ride With GPS, Bike GPX, Map My Ride, etc.
3: Enjoy Your Adventure
We will meet you on the morning of your first cycle and get you set up with your bike, notes, GPS etc. Time to let the adventure begin…
Please see our Booking Terms and Conditions.
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Day 1: Arrive Donegal Town.
Your cycling holiday begins in historic Donegal Town. It was from here that the O’Donnell Chieftains once ruled over much of the northern half of Ireland. Their impressive castle still stands in the town centre. Donegal has direct bus services from both Dublin and Ireland West airports, making travelling to your bike tour start point easy. On your arrival you can spend the evening relaxing in this very pleasant town with its many great pubs and restaurants.
Day 2: Around Lough Eske. 26 km
After breakfast, we will meet you to provide you with everything you need for your upcoming bike tour and to answer any questions you may have. You will then be set to begin your new cycling adventure. Your first day of cycling takes you around tranquil Lough Eske, nestled at the foot of the Bluestack Mountains. Back in Donegal you can visit the 15th Century Donegal Castle, or you can take a trip on the Donegal Bay Waterbus. Alternatively, you can spend the evening relaxing (or shopping if you like!)
Day 3: Donegal to Killybegs. 38/ 53 km
Today you cycle along the ever-changing coastline between Donegal and Killybegs. You’ll pass quiet bays, beaches and inlets. An option here is to bike along St. John’s Point, where the Atlantic Ocean lies on both your left and right. The views in all directions are magnificent. Continue west to your overnight destination in the bustling fishing village of Killybegs, where much of Ireland’s Atlantic catch is landed.
Day 4: Killybegs to Carrick. 21/24/35 km
West of Killybegs you follow one of the most memorable stretches of coastline you will ever see. A short side-trip will take you to beautiful Muckross Head. Cycle through Kilcar Village, a centre for traditional tweed production, and then cycle on past more magnificent coast to your overnight destination of Carrick. A short bike trip from Carrick brings you to the stunning Sliabh Liag (Slieve League) Cliffs – one of Ireland’s greatest treasures, (and a sight not to be missed!) Here you also have the opportunity to view the cliffs from below, with a boat trip from nearby Teelin Pier.
Day 5: Carrick – Glencolmcille – Carrick. 25/33 km
Today your cycling holiday brings you through 5,000 years of Irish History. The title of a book about the area, “5,000 Years in Stone” says it all. Stone age court tombs, dolmens from the bronze age, early Christian standing stones and Celtic ring forts are overlooked by a watchtower from the Napoleonic era. But it’s not only the history that’s special. The area around Glencolmcille (Gleann Cholm Cille) is one of the most beautiful places you will ever visit. There could hardly be a better place to explore by bike.
Day 6: Carrick to Ardara or Glenties. 29 or 38 km
Cycle over wild boglands as you climb gradually to emerge at the head of dramatic Granny Valley. The bike ride down the valley will be one to remember. At the bottom of the valley, you will find pristine Maghera beach with its caves that can be explored at low tide. Nearby is dramatic Assarancagh waterfall. Cycle along Loughros Beag Bay to your overnight destination of Ardara or Glenties.
Day 7: Around Ardara or Glenties. 18/40 km
Leaving Glenties or Ardara follow a loop cycle by Portnoo and Rossbeg. Once again, the coastal views are magnificent and ever-changing. Stop at the impressive Kilclooney Dolmen, dating from the early Bronze Age. If you fancy a dip in the Atlantic Ocean there are several beautiful sandy beaches to choose from. If you would prefer a shorter route, there are easier options from either Ardara or Glenties.
Day 8: Depart
Time to leave. A local bus service or a taxi will bring you to Donegal where you can catch connections to the main airports or other parts of Ireland.
Arrival Day: Monday
Tours available: Monday 21 April 2025 – Monday 29 September 2025
Peak Season: Monday 02 June 2025 – Monday 18 August 2025
A 10% EARLY BIRD discount applies to the tour price if booked before 31 December 2024. In order to avail of the offer simply enter the discount code EARLYBIRD25 when booking. The discount will be applied automatically.
Price per person sharing: €1,290. €1,161 if booked before 31 December 2024.
Peak Season: €1,350. €1,215 if booked before 31 December 2024.
Single occupancy: €280 €252 if booked before 31 December 2024
27 Speed Bicycle (Ladies or Gents available): €100
Unisex E-bike: €230
• Bed and breakfast accommodation in B&B’s or small hotels
• Welcome meeting and bike set up on first morning
• Hotel to hotel luggage transfers
• Comprehensive guide booklet
• Maps and turn by turn directions
• GPS unit with all routes pre-programmed (one per room)
• GPX tracks available pre tour. (If you would like to use your own GPS device or mobile app)
• Emergency support
• Travel to and from start/finish of tour (Donegal Town)
• Meals other than breakfast
• Entertainment
• Entry to sites and attractions not included as part of the tour
“Everything about this tour was simply FANTASTIC. The views were jaw dropping. The E-Bikes were excellent (do get an E-Bike, its hilly and they are so much fun to ride). The routes were off the beaten track and so easy to follow with the GPS system and written instructions provided by our really wonderful Tour Hosts. The B&Bs were delightful with really terrific hosts, easy access to towns, always very clean and included the infamous HUGE Irish breakfasts each morning which will get you all the way to supper. We did every “extra” along the route and I’d encourage you to do the same, its always worth seeing another gorgeous spot. We took our time and stopped at historical sites, phenomenal beaches for picnics and crafts people along the route…there’s no need to rush because the mileage each day is so reasonable. I travelled with my husband and our three nieces on the 7 night Donegal Coastal Treasures Tour and all agreed it was the trip of a lifetime.” Tricia D, – Sep 2023 – Family
Posted on Tripadvisor
“This was an incredible adventure and one I happily recommend. My daughter and I were so impressed with everything about the experience. The accommodations were comfortable and having the baggage portaged by Seamus each day made it easy. Our BAndB hosts were lovely at each stop. The GPS on the bikes took us off the beaten path and allowing us to enjoy an “in the weeds” Irish experience. The people and sights along the way provided us with such an authentic Irish feel. At almost 70 I was just a bit nervous about the rigor of the rides but I had absolutely no problems. I would do it all over again. Ireland May be the only vacation destination I was “homesick” for when I returned to the states.” Peggy C, Aug 2023 – Family
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“We cycled six days on the Donegal Coastal Treasures Bike Tour, the lansdcapes were really nice. Sometimes we could not resist to stop every 100 meters to take pictures… We felt that Donegal County was as nice other more touristic places in Ireland, but a lot less crowded. Seamus and Nora provided everything needed to follow easily the tour, and a lot of interesting informations about the places to see along the way. They also helped us to arrange our arrival in Donegal when we missed our flight to Dublin and had to take the next one! All the accomodations and B&B were nice and comfortable, with lovely hosts.” Martin B, Brussels, Belgium – Aug 2023 – Couples
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“Great trip with Ireland by Bike. Bikes were great, wonderful B and Bs, directions good (GPS and cue sheets,) and gorgeous scenery. Felt like we saw the real Ireland. Rides were a great length – long enough to see things but short enough to stop, chat, take detours, photos, etc. Seamus and Nora thought of every detail, and even arranged for incredible weather. Liked the ebikes given the steeply rolling roads. Would recommend to anyone. Thanks for a great trip!” Quest66679047064 – May 2023 – Family
Posted on Tripadvisor
“Biking the hills and mountains of Donegal Ireland was challenging but well worth it. I must admit I think we should have taken our time a little more but the scenery was spectacular. The owners of Ireland By Bike are the the BEST. Seamus and Laura were always available and helpful. The weather can be as challenging as the ride but that is also an immersion into the culture. It does rain so bring wet weather gear. The wind can also hurt you on the climbs. The roadways and routes are well maintained and it looked like they had recently repaved most of the back roads. Some of the lanes are rather narrow but traffic is almost nonexistent and they have to watch for sheep as well as bikers.” Whishigi, Bradenton, FL – July 2019
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“We both really enjoyed the adventure! We especially liked Glengesh Pass on the ride to Ardara…….amazing beauty. Everyone needs to take the sea tour of Slieve League with captain Paddy! This trip was so exciting and we will always remember it. Finally, the Guinness really does taste better in Ireland!” Jaymie and Rick Caster, Texas, U.S.A. – April 2019
“Fantastic experience! Beautiful scenery, wonderful accommodations, and Nora and Seamus could not have been more helpful and responsive. We’re already planning our next trip!” Beth Manke, July 2019
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“Every one of our group of 4 had a ball, from the breakfasts to the Guinness in the pubs at night. The rides each day were stunning. The ride along the coast after leaving Killybegs being our favourite. Great experience. We’ll be back” J Rathborn, BC Canada – July 2019
“I had the adventure of a lifetime going solo with an E-bike. Did the Treasures of Coast and History Tour. The itinerary was excellently planned. The B&Bs were cozy. Nora and Seamus are the coolest. Highly recommend!” John Lauritzen,
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“This holiday was the perfect challenge; hills that were tough but pedal-able to the top, stunning scenery to distract us along the way, mostly quiet roads, lovely cafes, restaurants and B&Bs to revive us and friendly folk everywhere. Our two children (aged 10 and 7) loved the cycling adventure, and my partner (who is disabled) found this just the right amount of challenge with his electric bike. We did the ‘Treasures of Coast and Country over seven days and Nora and Seamus couldn’t have been more accommodating: finding us accessible accommodation and even rearranging some accommodation for us at late notice, making sure we had all the navigation tools we needed, and even giving us a lift to the restaurant one evening when our legs gave up! There were one or two sections along busy roads, which were a little hair-raising with my 7 year old, but other than that I would whole-heartedly recommend this holiday as a fantastic challenge for any family wanting an active holiday.” Asparagusandchives, York, UK – Aug 2018.
Posted on Tripadvisor
“Nora and Seamus provide wonderful service and hospitality. It’s sometimes challenging to come to a new country and navigate on your own by bike, but Ireland by Bike makes it simple with both GPS and clearly written laminated directions, hybrid bikes or custom specialty bikes and all one needs to explore Ireland. B&B’s were carefully researched and suited our needs. We’d do this again and highly recommend Ireland by Bike.” George Porter – Aug 2018
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“Seamus provided an excellent bicycle trip. My family and I bicycled for six days in Donegal. Although he reports that he will be updating his bicycles, I found that my bicycle worked well and I was pleased with it. The shock absorbers helped soften the ride, the gears shifted well, and the bicycle bags were easy to use. Two of my family members used e-bikes which helped smooth-out the hills. Seamus provided overview maps for each day, daily turn-by-turn instructions which included places to stop along the route, an odometer to help align with the instructions, and, perhaps most helpful, a pre-programed GPS. He also provided an additional set of information that elaborated on the trip and places to stop. The views were spectacular (even on our rainy day) and the stops interesting. The entire trip allowed us to appreciate the various terrains, history, and local life in Donegal. We stayed at excellent B&B’s along the route that Seamus arranged. The B&B’s allowed us to meet local people in the area that provided extra enjoyment to the trip.” Janet S, State College, PA – Jun 2018 • Friends
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“We really like Donegal County. Compared to the other places we went (Galway, Ring of Kerry, Dublin) it was much less crowded with tourists (ironic, coming from a tourist).” Richard Johnson, Seattle, USA. – April 2018
“My wife and I did a 7 night tour of Donegal in early April and it was spectacular. The rides along the coast were spectacular with many lambing sheep, spectacular rocky vistas and green fields with cozy houses sprinkled in. Rides were filled with rolling hills so some fitness (or an electric bike) are required- but it was more than worth any effort. The route was easy to follow and there were no problems with traffic. B&B’s were friendly and comfortable and it was amazing how the bags just showed up by the time we arrived at our next destination. Quick word of warning- don’t expect April in Ireland to be sunny and warm- BUT it will be beautiful and un-crowded. Enjoy!!” Leslie M, San Francisco, CA – Apr 2018 • Couples
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“My husband and I had such a fantastic cycling tour with Ireland by Bike that we returned the very next summer for a second trip! We even repeated the Treasures of the Coast and History route, although Seamus customized our tour so we could enjoy a few more rest days to taste the delicious seafood and beer and to visit with the friendly local folks. Donegal’s vistas are brilliant, even in the rain, and we loved riding on the small roads where we saw more sheep than cars. Don’t forget to see the Ring Forts! Seamus and Nora are superb hosts, gracious and attentive, and their support for the ride is excellent and well-organized. We’re coming back for a third trip, with our adult kids next time!” Tt Paxton, Sebastopol, CA. – Sep 2017 • Couples
Posted on Tripadvisor
“It was fabulous, and we have recommended to many.” The Tilles family. CA, U.S.A. – August 2017
“We did a 5 day bike tour.We were a party of three. My 24 year old son and good friend. It was perfect. Seamus and Nora were wonderful. All of the B&B’s they arranged for us had lovely hosts in local towns where we got to experience local culture. The biking was great. It was a beautiful route with the right amount of biking each day. I would highly recommend this to anyway who wants to experience Ireland in a non traditional way. It was one of the best vacations I have taken!” Sorgesue, San Mateo, CA – Aug 2017 • Friends
Posted on Tripadvisor
“I would recommend Ireland by Bike to ANYONE. If you are not an avid cyclist, get the electric bike. It does take some getting used to but it was a lifesaver on the hills for me. This route thru Donegal County was the perfect length and difficulty for us, and we did do every extra route that was provided. I would encourage everyone to do all the extra routes if you are able.” Susan Boyer, U.S.A.- May 2017
“First, Seamus and Nora are amazing and they know what they are doing. The maps, gps and information about the sites, places to eats, and suggested extra cycle destinations were spot on. The technical support was top notch (read when some of our group decided the hilly rides were too much, Seamus and Nora were on the spot with the electric bikes, which made the trip much more pleasant because the electric bike took the grump out of my spouse). What a beautiful part of Ireland, what friendly and kind people, amazing scenery, and so much ancient and interesting history. I can’t wait until we are able to return…next time I might not leave. Thank you Seamus and Nora for such an amazing experience.” JoJo, Sandia Park, NM – Oct 2016 • Friends
Posted on Tripadvisor
“We loved our experience with Ireland by Bike. Nora and Seamus were simply the kindest and most accommodating hosts we have ever had, or could ever hope for. Warning: the ‘easiest’ tours can be strenuous for those unaccustomed to biking tours! But in our case, when our stamina fell short, N&S supported us by transporting us right along with our luggage in the final days (Not saying they’ll do that for you, but it’s an illustration of the lengths they will go to assure you a memorable experience!) Five stars!!” Philipp Blume – Sept 2016
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“Ci congratuliamo con voi per la vostra brillante organizzazione del giro in bicletta. E’ la sesta volta che trascorriamo le vacanze in bicletta senza guida nel Nord Europa e la vostra agenzia è stata di gran lunga la migliore a cui ci siamo mai appoggiati, dalla gestione dei dettagli prima della partenza sino ai saluti finali. Abbiamo sinceramente apprezzato la vostra assistenza durante il giro, i suggerimenti circa i locali in cui mangiare e tutte le sistemazioni per dormire. Per cortesia, ringraziate tutti i nostri ospiti per la loro calorosa ospitalità. Uno speciale ringraziamento a Mary della cittadina di Carrick per le colazioni spettacolari e a Barbara ad Ardara per la sua stupenda energia e il suo entusiasmo (e per la sua nuova bellissima casa).”
(“I would like to congratulate you on your brilliant organization of the bike tour. It is the sixth time that we spend our holidays on self-guided bike tours in Northern Europe and your company is by far the most efficient we have ever used, from the pre-tour details to the final greetings. We have truly appreciated your assistance during the tour, the suggestions about where to eat and all the accommodations. Please, say thanks to all our hosts for their lovely hospitality. A special mention to Mary in Carrick for the fabulous breakfasts and to Barbara in Ardara for her wonderful energy and spirit (and for her beautiful new house.”) Simona and Marco, Italy. – July 2016
“My sister in law and I recently went on a 7 day bike tour. We really enjoyed the route, the bikes were well equipped, Seamus and Nora were so helpful, the B and B’s great and I’m hooked now. I want to do another trip.” Ruth Hunter Beardsley – July 2016
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“My partner and I recently took two self-guided cycling tours, back to back, with Ireland by Bike – the Yeats Country and Lakelands tour and the Treasures of Coast and History tour. These were both stunningly beautiful rides, mostly along quiet country lanes and secondary roads. We were so impressed with the first, that we booked the second before we finished. The tours were well organised, with route maps and GPS to keep us on track. The guidebook was comprehensive and well organised and the bikes were in good condition, with lights, bell, map holder and water resistant carrier bags. We liked the wide gear range of the Kalkoff bikes – the low first gear made hills very easy. The great majority of the accommodations were at B&Bs rather than hotels and our hosts were generally friendly and engaging. Seamus of Ireland by Bike was very helpful and took good care of us. He warned us of impending bad weather and even drove us to the next B&B on one particularly stormy day. Being Ireland, it rained about one-quarter of the time we were on the road, but we were reasonably well prepared for it and were uncomfortable on only a few occasions, particularly when the wind was high. We were both very impressed by Seamus and Ireland by Bike and would certainly book another tour with him and look forward to going back to Ireland – a beautiful, historic and friendly country.” Tom P, Rotorua, New Zealand, Jul 2016 • Couples
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“Eight of us, four couples, had the time of our lives! We enjoyed absolutely everything about the trip from the owners Seamus and Nora, to the scenery, to the pubs in the evening.. The B and B’s picked by Seamus and Nora were great. Riding the bikes was a challenge for most (all?) of us, but we enjoyed every minute of it. This was a great experience that we all would highly recommend.” William J, Jamestown, OH, Jun 2016 • Friends
Posted on Tripadvisor
“If you like to ride a bike and want to see a beautiful country, take this tour. It was my favourite vacation that I have ever taken. I highly recommend it!” Ron Pauley, Ohio, U.S.A. – June 2016
“My wife and I did a five day trip put together by Seamus and Nora. Our route was a beautiful loop around the Donegal Peninsula. We had a wonderful time. Seamus knows all the back roads in this area so traffic was almost non existent. The distances between B&Bs were just enough. Seamus gave us several options if we wanted to ride some additional miles each day. Help was just a phone call away if we ran into mechanical issues. Seamus gave us maps, a GPS and written instructions to guide us along the way.” Rex H Asheville, NC – May 2016 • Couples
Posted on Tripadvisor
“We’ve just finished a great tour! Excellent support! I highly recommend this company!” Sue Crowell – August 2015
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“Biking in Ireland should be on everyone’s bucket list! Biking in lovely Donegal County along the coast and through small towns is the way to go. Ireland by Bike is the best way to do this if you want an independent ride with maps, GPS, and sturdy bikes as well as terrific bnbs. Seamus met us at the bus in Donegal, drove us and all our gear to our first bnb, fitted us with bikes and explained the GPS and maps. It was great having our bags waiting for us at the next stop. All of the bnbs were wonderful. We were greeted by our hosts at the end of our ride each day with lovely tea and cookies. There was a separate map for each day with some optional ride extensions. We chose the “leisurely” Treasures of Coast and History.” That doesn’t mean that it was easy. Some times we chose the extra riding available and sometimes not. The maps Seamus provided, along with his background information booklet, led us to many natural wonders and ancient man-made sights. Our evenings were free for pub crawling in the lovely villages on the tour. We’re musicians and Seamus was kind enough to direct us to some of the best music we heard in Ireland. We had so much fun! Bring rain gear – the weather can be wet but it won’t dampen your spirits.” Linda L, San Francisco, CA – Jul 2015 • Couples
Posted on Tripadvisor
“A friend and I did the Donegal-Killybegs-Carrick-Ardara-Donegal loop in May 2014, and loved it! Seamus met us at the bus, gave us our bikes and maps for the trip, and went over the details with us. He was always on hand if we needed anything, and even gave us a cell phone to use for the trip in case we needed to reach him. (Which after the hills on the second day, I did, to call him and ask for one of his electric bikes!) Donegal is absolutely gorgeous, and a great area to see by bike. Most of the time we were on small roads, with very little traffic, and for much of the trip, beautiful coastal views. All of the B&B’s Seamus booked for us were very nice, with friendly, helpful owners. Very highly recommend!” Jacqui W, Oakland, CA – May 2014 • Friends
Posted on Tripadvisor
“We were a little surprised by the terrain the first couple of days. Enjoyed all the sites and just really took our time each day so that we could take it all in. Thank you for a wonderful experience that we will never forget.” Susanne Wolf and Scott Silker, MN, U.S.A.
“Seamus runs a great operation. 5 of us rode through the Donagal area. My 80 year old parents, my wife, brother in law and I. The rides were arranged to stay mostly to quiet country roads. There was almost no traffic to contend with. The hills are fairly gentle. Going from town to town on a bike is a great way to meet the Irish. It seems that everyone is anxious to carry on a conversation. I love Irish music an Seamus’ son is a fiddler and introduced me several great fiddle sessions. The B&Bs that were arranged were very comfortable. Even though our trip was unguided Seamus checked on us periodically to make sure all was going well. He even gave my mother a lift over the highest pass. the bike were well maintained and everything went well.” Biketravellers, Spokane, WA – Jun 2013 • Friends
Posted on Tripadvisor
“We are back in Evanston and sad to be gone from Ireland. We had the trip of a lifetime and most of it was due to our bike trip. It was such a wonderful way to experience the friendliness of the people of your country, the incredible beauty and ruggedness of the landscape and keep up our appetites for the brown bread and guinness (not to mention the Irish breakfasts) which were staples of the trip. Thank you for all your help and enthusiasm. I hope we meet again somewhere – let me know if you are ever in the states and need a guiding or helping hand. I would love that.” – Katie Brady, Evanston, IL, USA
“I was so impressed with how meticulously Seamus had everything planned and organized. From the moment we got off the bus, he made sure we had the best experience we could have. The accommodations were beautiful, the breakfasts superb and everyone was so friendly. That Seamus went the extra mile to show us authentic music at a session, make special arrangements for our last night – all of these things were incredible. I have travelled to many countries in Europe and planned a number of tours myself and this was the best overall experience I have ever had. It was a perfect mix of activity – from biking and hiking, historical site seeing, shopping, relaxing and enjoying the food, beer and music ( and the craic, of course) from restaurants and pubs. It was all really amazing!” – Katrina and Matthew Dallamann, Osceola, Wisconsin, USA
“Just to let you know that we are now back in London, with thighs of steel, a lot of (very smelly) wet clothes, and having had a great time. We enjoyed our holiday with Ireland by Bike immensely. It was well organised, the distances we had to cover were about right for our level – not so much that we didn’t have time to stop and look at standing stones or beaches, but enough that we felt we had achieved something by the end of the day. The booklet describing the routes was clear, and the only times we got lost were when we didn’t follow your instructions! The scenery is stunning, and even the fact that it rained heavily at least once on each of the days we were on the road didn’t spoil our trip.” – John Elmes, London, England
Below you will find the answer to some of the most commonly asked questions about this tour. For other more general FAQ’s please visit our FAQ page.
Who is this tour suitable for?
This tour is suitable for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness. The distances you cycle each day are relatively short. Typically 30 – 40 km with some extra options. However it is important to note that the routes are very hilly. For this reason we recommend using and electric bike.
Do I need to be a regular cyclist?
It is important that you are competent cyclist (as distinct from a fit cyclist) with adequate bicycle handling ability and a proper knowledge of the rules of the road. It is not recommended that you book a cycling holiday unless you have cycled at least occasionally before you arrive.
Will I be cycling along with others?
Possibly – but this is not guaranteed. At busy times of the year June/July/August is is quite likely (but again not guaranteed) that others will be following the same routes as you. In the quieter months when numbers are smaller it is quite possible that yours will be the only group on the road at that time.
Is this tour on cycle paths or public roads?
For the vast majority of this tour you are on roads that are also open to traffic. However as we focus on small back roads the traffic is almost non-existent in most places. There are some short stretches on roads with moderate traffic. However even here cycling is not difficult.
Are the routes hilly?
The routes on this bike tour are VERY hilly. (This is partly why it is so beautiful) The gradient varies constantly from gentle to very steep. On an average day of cycling 40 km you can expect an elevation gain of approximately 400 metres (1,300 ft). For this reason we recommend using an electric bike for this tour.
How do I get to the start?
This bike tour starts in Donegal Town. It has regular direct bus connections to Dublin Airport where most people arrive into Ireland. There are also direct connections to Ireland West (Knock) Airport. Belfast Airport has bus connections with one change. To see links to websites with more information and timetables click on the “Getting Here” tab above.
How do I get from the end of the tour?
The tour finishes in the village of Glenties or Ardara. There are a number of local bus connections to Donegal where you will find bus connections to the major airports and other parts of Ireland. It is also possible to take a taxi. The journey will take approximately 30 minutes. We provide a list of contact numbers in our tour notes.
Why does this bike tour itinerary say Glenties or Ardara on days 6 and 7?
Depending on the time of year, other events taking place, festivals etc. that may have reserved all of the available accommodation it may be suitable to choose one of these villages over the other. This makes very little difference to your bike tour. You cycle a little further to get to Glenties. In many ways the two villages are quite similar. The loop cycle from the two villages covers the same area and the same stretch of beautiful coast.
