motorbike trip ireland

Motorcycle Across & Around the Republic of Ireland & Northern Ireland

Guided and self-guided tours, choose from our selection of guided, self-guided and custom tours.

Guided Tours

Browse our selection of Guided Tours around Ireland

Self-Guided Tours

Browse our selection of Self-Guided Tours around Ireland

Custom, Go Anywhere Tours

Browse our selection of Custom Tours around Ireland

Exhilarating Motorbike Tours

Are you seeking an exhilarating adventure that combines the thrill of motorcycling with the charm of the Republic of Ireland? Look no further than a motorbike tour that will take you through the stunning landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant cities of this enchanting country. And to make your journey even more memorable, we’ve handpicked the best hotels in the country for you to stay in. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Embarking on a motorbike tour in the Republic of Ireland offers a unique and thrilling way to discover the beauty of this land. As you cruise along the winding roads, you’ll be captivated by the breathtaking scenery that unfolds before your eyes. From rugged coastlines and towering cliffs to picturesque countryside and verdant mountains, every twist and turn reveals a new and awe-inspiring vista.

One of the highlights of this adventure is the opportunity to stay in the finest hotels in the country. These accommodations boast world-class amenities, exceptional service, and a warm Irish welcome. Rest and rejuvenate in luxurious rooms that provide a haven of comfort after a day of exploration. Feel pampered as you indulge in spa treatments, savor delectable cuisine, and unwind in stylish lounges. These hotels are not just places to rest your head; they are an integral part of the Irish experience, offering a blend of traditional charm and modern luxury.

Throughout your motorbike tour, you’ll have the chance to visit iconic landmarks such as the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and the Giant’s Causeway. Immerse yourself in history as you explore ancient castles, medieval ruins, and charming villages steeped in Irish folklore. Engage with friendly locals who are always eager to share stories and recommendations, ensuring you have an authentic and enriching experience.

The Republic of Ireland is renowned for its lively cities, and during your motorbike tour, you’ll have the opportunity to visit some of the best. Dublin, the vibrant capital, is a melting pot of culture, history, and buzzing nightlife. Galway, known for its lively music scene and colorful streets, offers a taste of true Irish hospitality. Cork, with its rich heritage and charming waterfront, is a city that will capture your heart. Each city has its own unique character, ensuring that every stop on your tour is filled with excitement and discovery.

As you journey through the Republic of Ireland on your motorbike, you’ll create lifelong memories, forge new friendships, and experience the thrill of the open road. From the exhilarating rides to the breathtaking landscapes, every moment will be etched in your mind. And at the end of each day, you can look forward to unwinding in the comfort and luxury of the country’s best hotels, rejuvenating for another day of adventure.

So, rev up your engine, embrace the freedom of the open road, and embark on a motorbike tour through the Republic of Ireland. With the best hotels in the country awaiting your arrival, this thrilling adventure promises to be an experience you’ll cherish forever. Get ready to discover the hidden gems of Ireland, one exhilarating ride at a time.

Why Choose Bike Irish?

Our unique guided tours really show you the best of Ireland and make planning your motorcycle holiday nice and easy

Experienced and professional staff who know the country and your needs

We only tour around Ireland, nowhere else

We can help with your other travel arrangements, such as flights, stopovers, etc., however complex

Ride your motorcycle across The Emerald Isle

Incredible mountains, lakes and open National Parks to explore all the way from Cork to Donegal and everything in between.

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Reuthers Ireland / Europe Guided Motorcycle Tour

Discover with us, the Emerald Isle on this 8-day Guided motorcycle tour of Ireland that will take you around the whole island on a Harley-Davidson. Your motorcycle tour begins in the Northern Ireland capital of Belfast and leads you past beautiful country roads with ancient castles and abbeys over to the west to Donegal. Visit Dunluce Castle, Kylemore Abbey and the famous Cliffs of Moher, then the world famous Ring of Kerry awaits you, a roundtrip through the picturesque peninsula of Kerry with its rugged mountains and impressive cliffs. Through the seaport of Cork and the Hill of Tara, you will finally reach Belfast, where your Guided motorcycle tour through Ireland ends with a freshly drafted Guinness and a glass of Irish whiskey.

Day 1: Belfast

Welcome to Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland. After arrival we pick you up from the airport for a transfer to your hotel. In the evening we invite you for a Welcome Drink and Dinner and give you more information about our common Ireland adventure.

Day 2: Belfast > Donegal

Collecting the Harley-Davidson motorycles from the rental office, starting the motorcycle tour and heading to Carrickfergus Castle, Kinbane Head and the worldfamous Dunluce Castle. If possible, we also visit an original Game Of Thrones filming location. We will spend the night in Donegal where you can enjoy an Irish pub in the evening.

Day 3: Donegal > Clifden

We will cruise pass the impressive table mountain Ben Bulbin and visit Kylemore Abbey and its elaborately designed gardens. Our overnight stay is in the Connemara National Park in Clifden.

Day 4: Clifden > Tralee

The stone grave The Dolmen is a must to visit and of course we'll have a closer look at the world famous Cliffs of Moher with the O'Brien Tower.

Day 5: Tralee > Killarney

After a photo stop at the Blennerville Windmill, the largest windmill in Ireland, we will pass over the Connor Pass, visit the Gallarus Oratory and pass Slea Head directly on the coast. We will spend our lunch time in the typical Irish town Dingle. In the afternoon relaxing on Inch Beach is part of the plan.

Day 6: Killarney > Cork

Today on the agenda is a dream ride along the world famous Ring of Kerry, the Ring of Beara and the overwhelming Healy Pass as well as visiting Blarney Castle near Cork. According to a legend, kissing the Blarney Stone endows the kisser with the gift of persuasive speech - what a day!

Day 7: Cork > Dublin

Starting from Cork, we will reach early in the morning the Heritage Center in Queenstown, which gives us an insight on the migration of several million Irish to the New World. Queenstown was also the last port of call of the Titanic on its sad maiden voyage. A visit to the more than 800 year old Hook Lighthouse, the oldest still operating lighthouse in the world, will round off this eventful day.

Day 8: Dublin > Belfast

Our last day on the road with a cultural highlight at its best - the famous Hill of Tara, where once hundreds of kings reigned. After dropping off the Harley-Davidson motorcycles and meeting for our traditional Farewell Dinner we finish this wonderful tour of Ireland.

Learn more about this Guided Motorcycle Tour:

What's included - pricing - dates.

What's included: * The Original Tour - developed and organised by Reuthers * Reuthers Tour Guide - trained and multilingual * Rental Motorcycle for the Tour including third party and comprehensive insurance * Reuthers POMZEC© (Peace Of Mind Zero Excess Coverage) for the rental vehicle * 8x Accommodation Middleclass Hotels/Motels in shared Double Room * Accommodations including Breakfast * Reuthers Partner Vacation Program© (Escort Vehicle for Companions) * Luggage Transportation during the Tour * Secured Payment Certificate (Sicherungsschein) * Reuthers Tour Book with Itineraries and Tips * Reuthers Travel Lecture (in English) * Reuthers Welcome Drink * Welcome Dinner in Restaurant * Farewell Dinner in Restaurant * Local Ferries * Fuel for the Tour * Transfers Airport > Hotel > Rental Station > Hotel > Airport * Entrance and Parking Fees * Motorway and Road Tolls * Reuthers Rewards"> Reuthers Rewards Best Value - NO Hidden Costs > Why Reuthers ?

Pricing: Guided: Rider own Motorcycle = EUR 3085 Guided: Rider Rental Motorcycle = EUR 4335 Guided: Passenger Motorcycle = EUR 2415 Guided: Passenger Escort Vehicle = EUR 2525 Twin Room extra charge (2 separate beds instead of 1 common bed) = EUR 115 Single Room extra charge (instead of shared Double Room) = EUR 745

Optional Bookings: Additional Accommodation prior tour start in shared Double Room (1 common bed) = EUR 95 Additional Accommodation prior tour start in shared Twin Room (2 separate beds) = EUR 105 Additional Accommodation prior tour start in Single Room = EUR 165 Additional Accommodation after the tour in shared Double Room (1 common bed) = EUR 95 Additional Accommodation after the tour in shared Twin Room (2 separate beds) = EUR 105 Additional Accommodation after the tour in Single Room = EUR 165 Belfast Best Of - Sightseeing on Day 1 including additional Accommodation prior tour start in shared Double Room (1 common bed) = EUR 275 Belfast Best Of - Sightseeing on Day 1 including additional Accommodation prior tour start in shared Twin Room (2 separate beds) = EUR 295 Belfast Best Of - Sightseeing on Day 1 including additional Accommodation prior tour start in Single Room = EUR 345

All pricing payable in Euro . 3% Early Bird Discount (booking more than 12 months prior tour start) 2% Golden Ager Discount (age at least 60 years prior tour start) 10% Group Discount (from 8 registrations made within one week, one common Payment of Balance) 2% Harley Owners Group Discount 2% BMW Motorcycle Owners Club Discount 2% Indian Motorcycle Riders Group Discount 2% Riders Association of Triumph Discount Please note: The Total Discount for all applicable Discounts is a maximum of 10%.

Paying in the above tour currency is the cheapest way. If you prefer another currency - simply select:

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Important note about  >   Pricing

Please select from the popular > Harley-Davidson touring models

By the way, this Ireland motorbike tour and our Scotland Motorcycle Tour are part of the 25 day My Heritage trip which also includes England . If your ancestors once left the Old World in order to build a better New World, you now have the opportunity to learn more about the countries of your forefathers...

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Motorcycle Travel Guides IRELAND

Beautiful landscapes, incredible history, rugged roads and some of the most stunning riding in Europe. Welcome to the Ireland Motorcycle Travel Guides!  Here’s all of our motorcycle guides for overlanders and travellers in  Ireland.

Ireland International Motorcycle Shipping Companies

Ireland’s Secret Biking Road: The Ring of Beara

Ride Report: The Ultimate British Isles Motorcycle Tour

Ireland Motorcycle Rentals and Tours

10 of the Best Motorcycle Touring Roads in Ireland

Riding a motorcycle can be fun and one of life’s greatest joys. Travelling with it brings even more joy and excitement to enthusiasts. The world is big, and so you should get on your bike and go exploring.

However, the big question is where to go on your bike? Well, there are many best drives in the world for bikers, and there is something for every motorcyclist. Whether you are heading on a day trip to have a leisurely ride to take in the picturesque surroundings, to have some quality time alone, or riding across the country to see unique attractions and differing landscapes in other locations, there is a fantastic motorcycle tour in Ireland for you.

Riding a motorcycle in Ireland is an interesting, exciting, and unforgettable experience. From high mountain passes to wild winding coastal roads, gentle lakeside rides to road trips through endless lush green valleys, Ireland has some of the best scenic drives in Europe.

You not only enjoy the great scenery at every turn, but you experience Ireland’s rural villages, local people, pubs, ancient history, mythology, heritage, and ancient trading and pilgrim paths. When you return from your holiday, long vacation or weekend trip, you’ll have many stories to tell about riding on the left-hand side along the winding country roads.

If you are looking for the best motorcycle touring roads in Ireland, check out these 10 routes!

1. The Wild Atlantic Way

The Wild Atlantic Way is a 1,550-mile (2,500km) long road connecting Ireland to Northern Ireland. It is the longest coastal route in the world. That is why it’s a sensational journey full of astonishing views. This road is very popular for those who want to explore Ireland and Northern Ireland, and one of the best motorcycle touring roads.

Enjoy plenty of natural beauty along the way, a dark blue sea and a lot of greenery throughout nine counties on the route. Most riders cover one country a day, starting by getting a boat to a plane to Derry, moving through counties until Cork or vice versa.

Selected post offices provide Wild Atlantic Way passports for €10. While it may not be essential, it can be a good way of documenting your trip. It is a great souvenir after a long journey.

2. Ring of Kerry scenic drive and cycle (200km/124 miles)

The world famous Ring of Kerry in County Kerry, in the south west of Ireland, is one of them ‘must do’ scenic motorcycle drives or cycles. Several top travel publications have named it as one of the best motorcycle road trips or drives.

The Ring of Kerry is a 180 to 200 km riding and cycling loop, which follows the Kerry coastline along the Wild Atlantic Way, visiting several great places including Killarney, Valentia Island, Derrynane, Kenmare and more.

3. Lough Corrib Scenic Loop Drive, Cong and Galway City

The Lough Corrib Scenic Loop Drive is 150km, starting from the Galway City in the south to the Cong, Co. Mayo’s picturesque village in the north. It forms a spectacular and beautiful inland circuit of Lough Corrib, the second largest lake in Ireland.

This is one of Ireland’s great motorcycle touring roads with the ever-changing scenery, castles, ruins, sheep-lined roads and many places to visit. Lough Corrib covers an area of about 175 square kilometers, starting from Galway City and encompasses the villages and towns of Moycullen, Cross, Maam Cross, Cong, Oughterard, and Headford.

With picnic spots, walks, cycles and scenic views at every turn, Lough Corrib separates the Maumturk Mountains and Connemara to the west from the rest of county Galway and Ireland to the east.

4. Inishowen Peninsula 100 mile Scenic Loop Drive, Donegal

The Inishowen 100 scenic tourist drive is a 100-mile (160km) signposted scenic riding route around the beautiful Inishowen Peninsula, Co. Donegal on the Wild Atlantic Way. The coastal motorcycle touring route passes many places of interest and top tourist attractions on the peninsula, and every turn comes with greats things to do from golf to fishing, blue flag beaches to Whale watching, and from hiking to cycling.

5. Boyne Valley Scenic Loop Drive, Meath

Follow in the footsteps of Ireland’s ancient High Kings and wander through the rich Irish history (9,000 years) on the 120 miles (190km) Boyne Valley Scenic Drive in County Meath . County Meath, the epicenter of Irelands Ancient East, is still known as the Royal County because High Kings have sat in this place since the second century AD.

You can start anywhere along the route, but for now, we’ll start in Drogheda, a historic town, where a St. Peters church contains Oliver Plunket’s real head. He was an Irish saint from the 1600s.

The high number of historic monuments shows the significance of this area now and during ancient times. Starting your motorcycle tour with a bang, you visit some of the oldest man-made structures in the world, the Dowth, Knowth and Newgrange burial mounds from the Brú Na Bóinne Visitor Centre, The Hill of Tara, where The Book Of Kells originated, the Battle of The Boyne site, Slane Castle, Trim Castle (of Braveheart fame), ancient Cairns and more.

6. Causeway Coast Scenic Drive, Co. Antrim

The 212-km (130-mile) Causeway Coastal Scenic Drive takes its name from the Giants Causeway. It’s a motorcycle road trip along the rugged and stunning coast of Northern Ireland connecting Irelands Wild Atlantic Way to Belfast City.

The riding route, following the coastline from Derry to Belfast , is one of the most scenic motorcycle touring roads in Ireland with some of the premier tourist attractions including the Giants Causeway and the Carrick a Rede Rope Bridge among several other equally impressive sights and activities.

7. Lough Gill and Yeats Scenic Drive, Sligo

From a spectacular landscape and the people who inspired the great works of WB Yeats to Irish Mythology and ancient prehistoric tombs, the Yeats County and Lough Gill Scenic Loop Drive or Cycle in Co. Sligo is a 115-mile (185-km) motorcycle road trip and a heritage trail through the most scenic, awe-inspiring and interesting places on Irelands Wild Atlantic Way.

Starting and ending in the center of Sligo, this motorcycle drive gives you a perfect mix of scenic views, Irish culture, beaches, literary history, Irish mythology, walks, mountains, watersports, ancient tombs, cycles and more.

8. Dingle Peninsula Drive incl. Slea Head from Tralee

The Tralee to Dingle Scenic Drive is an 84-mile (135-km) full day or multiple days road trip on the Wild Atlantic Way. It’s one of Ireland’s most spectacular scenic motorcycle touring roads, with breathtaking coastline views, cliff top roads, nearly 200km of great beaches, high mountain passes, Blasket Islands, diving, surfing, walking and other awe-inspiring things to see and do along the way.

You can start the trip in either Dingle or Tralee, and it takes in the entire Dingle peninsula with a magnificent figure of 8-loop that lets you break up the route into many days or interesting places to stop for food and drink.

9. Copper Coast Scenic Drive, Waterford and Wexford

The Copper Coast Scenic Drive and Cycle Route is 100-mile (166-km) full day or multiple days, spectacular coastal road trip starting from Rosslare in Co. Wexford or Dungarvan, Co. Waterford.

The Copper Coast Drive is one of Ireland’s most scenic riding and cycle routes and a great way to explore Ireland’s Ancient East. The route takes in the entire Copper Coast European Geopark between Tramore and Dungarvan in County Waterford and extends onwards to Dunmore East, passing Waterford City, down to the Hook Head Peninsula and Lighthouse, Kilmore Quay, Tintern Abbey and more.

10. The Comeragh Mountains, Cashel and The Vee Drive, Co. Waterford, and Tipperary

Follow in the footsteps of the ancient hero of Irish Mythology FionnMacChumhaill on this scenic motorcycle-touring road, in a place that was home to Ireland’s first settlers almost 10, 000 years ago when ice covered the rest of Ireland.

This 140 mile (230 km) full day route takes over a week to finish properly and see all sights attractions including the secluded Nire Valley, the magical and scenic ComeraghMtns, the splendid Glen of Aherlow, The Vee scenic mountain pass, the banks of the River Suir, the world famous Rock of Cashel, Tipperary, the heritage town of Lismore, Cahir Castle, and the seaside town of Dungarvan in an area now known as the Munster Vales that covers Waterford, Tipperary, Limerick and Cork.

As you plan your motorcycle road trip, you should find and book your accommodation as well. You can book quality and affordable traditional Irish cottages at Donegal Thatch Cottages where you will stay while on your road trip.

If you are looking for a new motorbike to take on any of these routes, WeBuyAnyBike can help by buying your current one.

You can get a FREE Valuation for your motorbike and if you accept, we will come and collect it for FREE from anywhere in the UK. We will pay you via bank transfer within 4 working days, or you can choose our Premier Payment option to get your money instantly.

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11 Jul 2019

For any blog enquiries, please email [email protected] View all posts by Helmut

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Discover the western gems, Donegal, Westport and Bunratty on our seven day Celtic Rider self-guided motorcycle tour.

Kicking off your Celtic Rider experience is our one hour award-winning Safety Orientation Course followed by a ride out with a Celtic Rider team member. Donegal was voted ‘Coolest Place on earth 2017’ by the National Geotraveller. Mayo’s town of Westport is where you will be residing for two evenings, has been voted ‘Tidy Town of Ireland’ numerous times. Bunratty is neighboring the infamous Cliffs of Moher!

This midi sized tour offers a burst of culture, whilst taking in stunning land and seascapes along the way. Enjoy six evenings of Irish hospitality whilst staying in accommodations hand chosen by Celtic Rider, each aimed at providing for our riders.

Day 1 – Celtic Rider Offices to Donegal. (Two nights in Donegal) (140 Miles/ 223Km)

• Generally, we ask riders to make their way to Celtic Rider between 9.30 am and 10am. Then after the bit of paperwork, enjoy our short safety orientation video in the classroom, and just as important, on the road of today’s actual route, for about an hour or so.

Head North west along the N3, I recommend stopping at Lakeside Manor Hotel in Virginia for lunch, a nice hotel beside beautiful Lough Ramor, 50 miles from Celtic Rider, plenty of parking space at this quaint hotel

This ride briefly takes you through Northern Ireland, along upper and lower Lough Erne. There are no customs checks in Ireland anymore, the only difference you will notice are the speed signs are in miles per hour, not km.

Entering Donegal town, check out Donegal Castle and Magee’s tweed shop, conveniently located 100 yards from each other in the town centre.

Check into Donegal accommodation for 2 nights.

Good restaurants are ‘The Harbour’ and ‘The Olde Castle’

Call into Reels Pub, traditional music every evening and a real turf fire!

Day 2 – Your second day in Donegal. Donegal to Donegal (141 Miles/ 226 Km)

• Follow the Garmin route up through Barnesmore gap, a smugglers haven in time gone by.

Continue the ride to the stunning Glenveagh National Park and Castle in North West Donegal, with the majestic Derryveagh mountains all around you.

The Castle is set in a beautiful garden, nice to relax in for a while, have some refreshments and enjoy the short guided tour of the Castle itself.

Departing Glenveagh note Mount Errigal, Ireland’s most iconic mountain, with its quartzite top.

Continue riding along the route through wild and remote Donegal to Ardara, than ride the Glengash Mountain Pass.

Onwards to Carrick, than Teelin village, follow the route to ‘The Rusty’ a small old pub and just 100 metres after the pub you turn right to the start of the ascent to the highest sea cliffs in Europe, Slieve League Cliffs, at 2000 ft high.

The ride up is as memorable as the amazing view from the upper parking area, accessed by opening a farm gate on the way up. Often there are trawlers fishing, they look like tiny dots on the Atlantic Ocean from the summit of the cliffs.

Return to Donegal accommodation via Killybegs, Ireland’s deep sea fishing port, very photographic coastal town.

Day 3 – Donegal to Westport (2 nights in Westport) (156 Miles/ 250 Km)

• Departing Donegal head south , Drumcliff is where Ireland’s beloved poet W.B.Yeats is laid to rest. Benbulbin table top mountain dominates the skyline

Must visit is the Ceide Fields Visitor Centre, the oldest and largest stone walled village in the world, 5200BC

Ride south through Ireland’s most remote area, from Bangor ride Ballycroy National Park, please stop at the Ballycroy visitor centre, Europe’s largest expanse of blanket bog, local people working there will happily tell you the history of this region

View the Nephin Beg Mountains and look out for local people cutting turf

The ride to Mallarany is spectacular as it winds along the sea

There is a nice Abbey, Burrishoole Abbey, between Mallaranny and Newport, optional but worth visiting

Check into Westport accommodation for 2 nights.

Day 4 – Your second night in Westport. Westport to Westport (130 Miles/ 206 Km)

• Leaving Westport for Maam Cross we are now heading for the spiritually haunting experience of Connemara national park, a magical ride

From Maam cross ride to Roundstone coastal village than continue to Clifden

From Clifden town take the aptly named ‘Sky Road’ with outstanding sea views are you ride higher and higher to the viewing area

Continue to Kylemore abbey for hot scones and freshly brewed tea This is a magnificent Benedictine Abbey in a stunningly beautiful wooded valley

Ride to Leenane village look at Irelands deepest Fjord, than ride the incredible and narrow Doo Lough mountain pass, the Gem of Mayo, with towering mountains on either side of you

Doo Lough Pass is steeped in history, some quite sad as many Irish people died of starvation along this pass during the great hunger, the famine years of the late 1840s.

There is a stone cross commemorating those who perished and a famine walk every year along this stunningly beautiful area. The words on the cross are very poignant and it is worthwhile to stop here for a short while.

Ride back now Westport via Louisburgh and admire Irelands holy mountain ‘Croagh Patrick’ en route back to Westport

Day 5 – Westport to Bunratty (2 nights in Bunratty) (132 Miles/ 210 Km)

• Departing Westport ride to Leenane than skirt around Galway city.

Take the N67 coast road to Kinvara village, optional visit to Dunquire Castle, you can walk up a very narrow stone stairwell to the top of the castle

Optional visit to Aillwee caves, a subterranean cave deep under the Burren, a great tourist attraction. Park bikes in the upper car park with fantastic views across Galway bay.

The Burren National park is unique in the world; it is a vast limestone plateau covering 400 sq kms(250 sq miles).

Next stop is Poulnabrone megalithic portal Tomb, many thousands of years old. You are now in the heart of the Burren National Park Skirt around Ennis and continue to Bunratty Village.

Enjoy a four course medieval meal in Bunratty castle, or a traditional night of Irish food and dance in the Corn Barn, alternatively Durty Neely’s is a great old pub in the village

Day 6 – Your second day in Bunratty. Bunratty to Bunratty (117 Miles/ 186 Km)

• Ride to Ennistymon and continue to the Cliffs of Moher, magnificent vertical cliffs towering over the Atlantic Ocean, shortlisted to be one of the great natural wonders of the World.

Travel onwards to Doolin, optional and exciting ferry ride to see the cliffs from the ocean, spectacular on a sunny day.

Follow the route north along the coast road to Blackhead, stopping at Murrooughtoohy car park. Take a walk on this bizarre limestone beach with millions of boulders deposited from the last Ice age, and beautiful wild orchids living in cracks in the limestone rock. A short walk brings you to the ocean.

Continue along the route to Ballyvaughan than ride to Lisdoonvarna (famous the world over for its matchmaking festival in Sept) via Corkscrew hill, very tight hairpins.

Follow the route to Kilfenora, interesting visitor centre there, optional, continue back to Bunratty accommodation via Carrofin.

Day 7 – Bunratty to Celtic Rider Rental Station (138 Miles/ 230 Km)

• Leaving Bunratty ride to the M7, and take this pleasant 2 lane highway through the midlands of Ireland to Dublin and Celtic Rider.

From Kilkenny continue to Celtic Rider and fuel up before returning motorcycle/s.

Returning to our rental station, we can assist with unpacking, your motorcycle or Spyder check-over, and complete the paperwork and pre-auth. If you don’t have a taxi App on your phone we can call one for you.

Pricing & Details

• €3,750 Rider + Pillion
• €5,630 2 Riders Sharing
• €3,910 Rider + Pillion
• €5,940 2 Riders Sharing
• BMW R 1250 GS, BMW R 1250 GS Adventure
• €5,100 Rider + Pillion
• €7,000 2 Riders Sharing
• Can-Am Spyder

Optional extras

Hire of premium guaranteed waterproof KLIM riding gear is €20 per day.

The Celtic Rider Package

• Rental of motorcycle , which includes, top box, side cases and inner bags

Accommodation in Irish owned B&B guesthouses of a very high standard, personally hand selected by Paul Rawlins, founder and owner of Celtic Rider

Award winning 2 hour long orientation course specifically designed for riders from countries that ride on the opposite side of the road to Ireland which is guaranteed to enhance your overall riding experience, here in Ireland

Third Party insurance, with an excess of €1,500 which is the maximum charged for accidental damage or theft

Full tank of fuel on departure, to be returned with full tank of fuel, tank bags are free of charge if you want one.

• The latest Garmin Zumo 590, with our award winning routes pre-programmed for each days ride, map and comprehensive advice, prior to your departure

Helmet – Approved European Standard plus Richa Rainsuit

Breakdown cover, (excludes punctures as all bikes are supplied with repair kits)

Celtic Rider merchandise, Including t-shirt, baseball cap, neck bandana.

Free secure storage of luggage cases at our premises

Breakfast every morning at your lodgings

Not included are fuel, food, drinks, ferries, parking, entrance to tourist sites, fines, tickets or any other personal costs you may incur during your trip

Some of Our Small Print

Riders must have a full license for riding the category of motorcycles that we rent and the rider must be 25 years of age or older.A pre-authorisation for damage excess of €1500 will be reserved on your credit card on collection of the motorcycle. For motorcycles going abroad the damage deposit is €2500. This is the maximum cost charged in the event of accidental damage or theft. Your signature on the rental agreement page shall constitute authority for us to debit the final total charges against your account and your specific card-issuing organization. Celtic Rider office staff must be notified immediately of any accidents.

Please refer to our  Terms & Conditions

How to tour on a motorcycle in Ireland

By Geoff Hill

Geoff Hill is a critically acclaimed bestselling author and award-winning feature and travel writer based in Belfast. 

Since Northern Ireland is part of the UK, speed limits are the same as in GB. There are only four fixed speed cameras in Northern Ireland, all in Belfast – yes, you read that right – but they’re front-facing, so won’t pick up bikes.

There’s been a 20mph limit in Belfast city centre for over a year, but not a single prosecution for it. I’ve only seen one mobile speed patrol in Northern Ireland in the past year, but here’s a handy guide to where they operate: www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/types-and-locations-safety-cameras

In the Republic of Ireland, speed limits are in km/h, and are 30 (18mph) outside schools, 50 (30mph) in towns and cities and towns, 80 (50mph) on B-roads, 100 (62mph) on A-roads and 120 (75mph) on motorways.

There are 45 mobile cameras in large white vans with broad blue and yellow stripes at 600 locations in Ireland, but I’ve never seen one in action, and again, they’re front-facing. Details at www.irishspeedtraps.com .

On the M50 – Dublin’s equivalent of the M25 – there are automated toll cameras, also front-facing.

In Belfast, bus lanes can be used by bikes, but not in Dublin, although many Dublin bikers use them anyway, and the police seem to turn a blind eye.

In Northern Ireland, former race ace Phillip McCallen – now the owner of a top Triumph, Kawasaki and KTM dealer in Lisburn, 30 miles from Belfast – rents bikes from £50 a day for a 125cc scooter, to £175 a day for a 2.3litre Triumph Rocket III, including comprehensive insurance, unlimited mileage and 24-hour recovery breakdown service. You can also rent all kit if needed. See www.motorcyclehireireland.com .

An alternative in Northern Ireland is Belfast Motorcycle Rentals in Moira, 18 miles from Belfast.

In the Republic, Celtic Rider , 16 miles from Dublin, rents BMWs, Hondas, Indians, Harleys, Indians and Yamahas from €135 a day including comprehensive insurance, 320kms a day mileage, helmets and breakdown recovery, with a minimum rental of three days, or six for Harleys and Indians.

It also rents Klim clothing and Garmin Zūmo sat-navs, and provides three to 21-day organised tours.

Others worth checking out are Lemon Rock Tours , Rental Motorbike or, if you fancy chugging around on a Royal Enfield in tweed jacket with leather elbow patches while smoking a pipe, Retro Ventures.

Inside the EU, which we are still until March 2019, your normal insurance will automatically give you the minimum legal requirement in each country, although some insurers class the Republic of Ireland as abroad and do not offer cover as standard.

So check with your insurance company, and even if it does include minimum cover, think about extending that to include damage to your bike or theft for the period of the trip, and consider getting separate breakdown cover.

Just like any holiday, a trip on a motorcycle – be it in the UK, Europe or beyond – can be ruined by delays, lost documents, illness and more. There are plenty of travel insurance options, but you need to make sure you get a policy that includes riding motorcycles, and if it does, that it's for bikes of the engine size you'll be riding (many only cover up to 250cc). At its most basic, you should look for insurance that provides cover for the following: 

Medical expenses

Loss or theft of personal possessions

Lost or delayed luggage

Loss of your passport and other documents

Travel delays and disruptions

Having to cut your holiday short

In addition though, if you’re taking a motorcycle (or you're renting one while you’re away) be sure that your insurer will cover you for any medical expenses, should you have an accident. You must also think about where you’re riding – some policies won’t cover you if you’re trail or enduro riding, or if you’re on a race track. Remember – this isn’t about your bike being covered, it’s about your medical expenses, should the worst happen.

If you're only going away once, a single-trip policy will likely be all you need, but also consider an annual policy, which could extend to cover your family holidays too (a good insurer should also be able to offer cover for your whole family). 

You’ll find people in Ireland incredibly friendly, particularly in the south. On the road, they’ll generally pull over to let you overtake or filter, so acknowledge that with a cheery wave. I know Europeans stick a leg out, but to me that looks a bit like a dog cocking its leg at the nearest lamp post.

In Cork, the accent is so impenetrable that you may well need an interpreter. Just smile a lot and have another pint.

In the North, don’t bother asking anyone to explain the politics. If you understand Northern Ireland politics, you’re missing the point.

And if anyone mentions religion, just say: “I’m an atheist, thank God”, and order another pint.

If you’re from England, you’ll be stunned by how empty the roads are, and they’re generally in excellent condition as well, both North and South of the border.

And talking of the border, until the Brexit negotiations come to a conclusion, the border is a seamless affair. You just ride straight through with no checks, and officials and business folks on both sides want to keep it that way.

For Northern Ireland it’s https://discovernorthernireland.com/ , for the Republic use www.discoverireland.ie .

For the Wild Atlantic Way, which includes all the tiny B-roads and winds its way for 1,553 miles up the west coast of Ireland from Kinsale to Malin Head, visit www.wildatlanticway.com .

For the best biking routes in Ireland, click here .

Remember your instructor’s advice to always go around a corner as if there was a tractor parked on the other side, because one day there could be? Make it your mantra on Ireland’s rural B-roads, because there will be. Or if not a tractor, a sheep or two farmers having a natter.

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Home » Biking Routes - Ireland » Wild Atlantic Way Motorcycle Touring Guide – Overview

Wild Atlantic Way Motorcycle Touring Guide – Overview

Denis Smyth February 26th 2015 04:56 pm

First off, the Wild Atlantic Way, or Slí an Atlantaigh Fhiáin in Irish is a tourism trail that follows the Atlantic coastline from the north of Donegal to south coast of Cork. The 2,500 km (1553 miles) driving route passes through nine counties and three provinces, stretching from County Donegal’s Inishowen Peninsula to the southern town of Kinsale in County Cork on the coast of the Celtic Sea.

A large part of this route is most definitely closed to coaches and “difficult” for any large vehicle due to the small roads which I’ll get to later. But to get to the point, the best way to travel this route is by motorcycle for good reason.

Being Irish I may be a little biased in my opinion, but after 20 years traveling extensively throughout Europe on two wheels I hold one solid conclusion of this route. It is, without any doubt one of the greatest routes in Europe any biker can undertake, it is in fact world class.

Myself – Somewhere in Connemara

Along with time honored pilgrimages to the Alps and Pyrenees Irelands west coast is utterly unmissable! From brutally rugged coastal landscapes and cliff’s carved by 20 meter waves to challenging and remote mountain back roads that never leave one’s memories is only part of the deal. From north to south the landscape never ceases to change, sometimes radically from the rugged Donegal coast, the magically mythical mountain views of the Connemara National Park to the unique limestone scenery of the Burren in County Sligo and brooding harsh mountainscapes of Kerry, but again this is just another part of the incredible journey. There is also the Irish themselves who have an inherently open, curious and friendly nature, always game for a bit of craic.

The WAW Map – 2500km – If you don’t go off-route !

It’s not so easy to describe the scenery of Ireland’s west coast but this video of one of my guided tours around Kerry might help get a proper picture in your head.

One of the things Ireland is best know for is the pub culture. This character came about from Ireland’s mainly farming culture where the only focal points in small towns and communities for meeting ones friends and neighbours was either in church or in the pub. Often the village pub would double job by being a grocery or hardware store during the day and bar by night which is where the tradition of hanging old bicycles, kettles, farm tools or any old shite on walls and shelves. Up until the late 19th century village pubs were the only building that had a cold storage room, and so would also act as morgues for keeping the dead, so some bars were also the village undertakers. There is also the ancient tradition of “entertaining yourself and others” which has not been lost in Ireland, especially in the west. So if you do go for a quick pint and a chat in a pub you can often find yourself surrounded by traditional musicians (pre TV entertainment) whereupon one is infected by “the craic” and your “quiet pint” turns into what most foreigners would describe as an impromptu party, AKA – a piss-up.

Along Ireland’s west coast it’s a common occurrence, usually every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights during the summer in the touristy towns. Eh, you might also count on a bit of a session on every other Sunday afternoon which can drastically affect your expedition unless you can keep a tight rein on your festivities.

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Even if you are of the tea totaling quite conservative persuasion the pubs are not to be avoided as many of the pubs house world class chefs lurking in wait to tickle your palate with gourmet food. The reason for this is the mountain landscape itself which makes industrial size farming in the west impossible. The rocky, mountainous terrain has now given rise to small farms specialising in organic foods and cottage industries offering produce of the highest quality to be found anywhere. From gourmet veggie burgers to hot/cold smoked salmon and hams, organic mussels and fish, it’s all produced here and of exceptional quality. As an ex-chef myself and a fussy bastard when it comes to food I assure you that visiting the area for the food alone is a worthwhile endeavor.

Slea Head Drive Dingle

The lush rich soil and grass has a lot to do with the quality of the food, and a good example of this can be seen, and tasted on the Dingle Peninsula. Once a rocky and barren landscape Irish peasants forced out of of the far more fertile land in the east by the English transformed this peninsula. Now known for it’s 40 shades of green the soil on Dingle and elsewhere was created by peasant farmers dragging countless tons of seaweed up into the hills where the now lush grass springs from a rich mix of seaweed, sand and peat.

The Dingle Peninsula

Local Dairy

Here one of the local specialist farms is blessed by the Kerry Cow, an indigenous and rare breed. In fact there are more giant pandas then there are Kerry Cows, the locals prefer the Kerry Cow to the panda however, probably because it’s far easier to milk. With that in mind I’ve little doubt ye won’t mind taking your pallet for a stroll into Dingle town to let loose your inner child in Murphys Speciality Ice Cream Parlor to try a lick of the Kerry Cow for yourself.

Seafood also takes up a large chunk of real estate on most menus, again thanking to the landscape which lends countless coves and safe harbours for the brightly colored fishing boats. Some chefs will simply drive by the harbour on their way to work to hand pick the catch for the evening menu. So when the menu says “fresh fish” it should not be out of the rich atlantic waters for more than a few hours. If in Westport don’t miss an opportunity to order a bucket of locally farmed fat and tender mussels cooked in white wine, cream and leek in the Tower Bar & Restaurant down on the Quay . I highly recommend ye wash down this massively proportioned starter or main course with a liberal dose of Donegal Brewery’s Atlantic Amber Ale before the band kicks in and you find yourself talking to strangers – again lol…

Points of Interest Along the Way

Along the route there are places and attractions which have been designated as points of interest for travellers. Some inevitably are tourist traps designed for normal folk, i.e. the poor sods driving cars or camper vans packed full of kids and in-laws which the average motorcyclist may well want to avoid. But if taking this route on a motorbike as Manannán mac Lir (Irish, Scot & Manx God of the sea, creator of the WAW) intended you get to experience far more than the average car or cattle coach plodding tourist.

Cliffs on Achill Island

I found this view by riding down a tiny country lane off the Ring of Kerry. This POI is almost impossible to get to in anything larger than a small city car (and even then it would be difficult) making a motorbike the ideal tool for exploring the WAW.

The Slieve League Cliffs for example, rising 2000 feet / 600 meters offering unmissable views over Donegal Bay to counties Leitrim, Sligo and Mayo to the south. Near by at Carrowmore lies one of the largest and oldest known Neolithic cemeteries on the planet. From the top of Slieve League can be seen the island of Inishmurry home to early Celtic Christian monks and near the staging point for the monks passage to Iceland to turn those Viking louts from their heathen ways.

Poulnabrone Dolmen in the Burren, County Clare

Further along the coast in county Mayo is the little port of Killala , scene of the French landings in 1798. Signal towers built by the British to warn of a return of a French fleet can still be seen here too. You may also notice “Eire” spelt out in painted rocks from the cliffs too. During WW2 the south of Ireland, while neutral, had agreements with the allies, one of which was the “Donegal corridor”. This was a free fly zone for allied aircraft to fly from Enniskillen in Northern Ireland out over the Atlantic. The word Éire was placed in stone on headlands around Donegal, to act as navigation aids, here on Sliabh League you can see one today beside the viewing point car park. It’s difficult for those with an interest in the past not to feel the weight of five and a half thousand years of historical facts being hurled at you throughout the whole journey.

History of WAW Route

Unique scenery in the Burren, County Clare

In the last 6 years or so since the rebranding the western coastal roads have been upgraded with WAW Route signposts liberally planted along the way so the mapless tourist won’t get lost. Wonder off the route however and you better have a SatNav or a good map because the rest of Ireland is still devoid of proper road signs. This is partly due to the Irish Governments in-ability to give a shit and teenagers wandering out from the pubs after closing time, or from the fields after picking happy mushrooms and thinking it a good idea to rehouse the said signposts in their bedrooms. Sign post collecting is a popular passtime for many Irish teenagers, I should know as I once had a fine collection of signposts myself.

The west of Ireland has changed little since my parents brought me as a witless kid on our summer holidays over to the west coast. The only real change has been some serious upgrading of the motorway network. Back in the day the drive from Dublin to Baltimore on the south west coast of Cork could take 9 hours or more, it can now be done in 5 hours if you take a liberal view of the national speed limit and skip lunch. Unless of course you try driving there on the June or August Bank Holidays in which case your back to a 9hr drive or 7 on a motorbike.

Ireland Main Road Map

A major increase in tourists, camper vans and cattle trucks (coaches) is another fairly recent change. In July and August the west coast is plagued with them as it is in the rest of the more popular spots across western Europe. But Irelands west remains a rural area and therefore underdeveloped, not many people actually live on the west coast due to the lack of jobs outside of farming, fishing and tourism. This is a good thing from a visitors point of view and the main points of actually coming here.

Irelands shoreling is blissfully free of ugly towering hotels. The west coast is a highly protected area and planning permission for anything is very difficult for non locals.

Being underdeveloped it retains it’s wild, empty rugged nature and the absolute opposite of the ruined French and Spanish Mediterranean coasts destroyed by ugly high rise hotels and apartment blocks. So, Irelands lack of this type of development makes booking hotels, B&B’s etc essential well in advance of your trip during high season, at least 6 months in advance. If riding solo you’ll be fine, there are plenty of small B&B’s down many country lanes. But for popular towns like Dingle or Killarney you’d be well advised to book 1 year up front if you want a hotel in August and most especially if riding in a group.

Plenty of B&B’s off the beaten track, these are near the Black Valley, Co. Kerry..

Best Time to Ride WAW Route

For my money the best time to ride this route is from late March to mid June and September to mid November. July and August is likely to see the warmes weather but it’s obviously far busier and you are sill just as likely to get wet. It’s also easily possible to ride it from December to February as snow is rare along the coast, but there are some amazing routes through the mountain regions which can easily be off limits during the coldest months due to snow or ice. December to early March will see some proper Atlantic storms blow in and some small roads closer to the sea may simply disappear. You’d be surprised at just how much damage a full blown Atlantic storm can do as it pounds 15-20 meter waves at the Irish coastline. Taking a stroll down a pier or along the western beaches during one of these storms is a sure fire way to tempt fate or commit suicide. Many tourists, and locals over the years have also misjudged the force of the wind while walking along the 100’s of kilometers of remote and fenceless cliff walks with lives sadly lost every year.

The Cliffs of Moher have claimed many an unwary tourist. Children in these areas are brought up hearing stories that these places are home to malevolent fairies that will drag them out to drown in the sea if disturbed. Such stories sound like romantic nonsense like leprechauns and the like, but they were tolled to scare the kids from going too close to the cliffs or sea. So, consider yourself warned or face the wrath of the sea fairies and stay the hell away from the coast during an Atlantic storm! Unless of course you’re a surfer, in which case you will be in a world class location to ride the monster waves thrown forth from the massive Atlantic swells..

If ye fall over here there ain’t no coming back..

The posted “official” route is aprox 2,500km and hugs the coastline. The reality is much of the roads are narrow, windy one track affairs and are very slow going, I’d not plan on covering much more than 250km-300km per day max. However, while the roads are little more than boreen tracks the views of the atlantic, tiny coves, islands and coastline are simply breathtaking and few places in the world can offer so many reasons to stop and stare. My prediction of 300km per day is dependent on you not stopping at every opportunity to pull out a camera and taking 2hr lunch breaks. There is also another upside of these tiny one track roads, there’ll be few cars, fewer campervans and no sheeple coaches blocking your way along, and even in mid summer you’ll find deserted coves and beaches to explore. The boreens however are slow going, engine size matters little and smaller, more nimble bikes will win the day and average speed will be around 30kmph.

The Kerry mountains are not on the WAW route, butyou’d have to be mad to miss an opportunity of riding through the Gap of Dunloe or the Black Valley?

I really don’t think anyone can possibly get the most of the WAW in less than 3 weeks as there is so much to see, do and ride. I can’t stress enough the fact that the official coastal route is only part of the ball game. The optional mountain roads along the WAW route are for me as a motorcyclist of equal pleasure and in many cases more-so. For this reason the Wild Atlantic Way is simular to the Alps. I think most bikers who have ridden in the Alps, or Pyrenees will agree that just one visit will never be enough. With this in mind, unless you’re lucky enough to afford a month on the road don’t try to see it all in one trip. It’s best to split it into two sections, the southern section, Kinsale to Killary Harbour, and the northern section being Killary to Mallin Head and Derry + 2 days for Northern Irelands Causeway Coast. In the following guide I’ll break it down further starting in the north, e.g. Donegal to Sligo, and each with various route options taking in the official coastal WAW route plus my own perfered or alternative mountain routes which I hope will give you a good base for planning your own trip. Each route is available to download as .GDB or .GPX in the download page.

Ireland County Map

More than once I’ve chatted to fellow bikers where I’d ask, “have you ridden the Route des Grande Alpes?” Inevitably and inexplicably some would boast that they rode the full route from Lake Geneva to the French Riviera in 2 or 3 days!! Sadly I’d can’t help think to myself, “ well done, you’ve been to the Alpes but seen and experienced almost nothing! Outside of an enduro rally, in motorbike touring terms I’d call this a missed oppertunity! The Wild Atlantic Way is no different so the best advice I can give is slow down and take the time to look around and get off the beaten track as many of the mountain roads are as brilliant as those along the coast.

Ride Through The Gap of Dunloe, Killarney, Co. Kerry, Ireland

One of the main reasons I’m spending my time with this website is so fellow bikers don’t fall into the trap speeding along the fast lane. Riding the world is one thing, but truelly seeing, and experiencing the world is something completely different. Our world is constantly and rapidly changing, rarely in a positive way. Riding a motorcycle of any shape or form is one of the most amazing ways to see our world before it’s all flushed down the corporate toilet. Modern life trains us as tourists to see more and spend more in the fastest way possible, I’d urge you to take a breath and slow down for the Wild Atlantic Way. Irelands west coast is one of Europes few bastions of wild, unspoilt areas full of ancient history and tradition left in western Europe, the Alps, Pyrenees, Picos, Northern Scotland and Scandinavia being its only real rivals. But unlike anywhere else, you’re as likely to enjoy it just as much on the back of a simple moped as you are on a 1200GS Adventure.

Practical Advice

On the road….

There will be 2 main classification of roads you will face outside of towns and motorways:

• N – National roads , e.g. N17 speed limit 100kmph, expect all and any type of traffic which can be very heavy nearing large towns like Killarney, Galway etc. Usually well maintained surfaces with fair road markings and signage. Many corners can be deceptively tight, be wary of sheep and especially farm equipment in rural sections. Beware of mud and shit near farm and field entrances. Mobile speed traps are now a common nuisance.
• R – Regional roads , e.g. R551, speed limit 80kmph, these can be well maintained roads between towns in which case you can make good headway but expect all and any traffic, inc. sheep and the same dangers as above.However these (R) roads can also be rough mountain single tracks with traffic jams caused by sheep, cyclists, tractors etc. Even if they are traffic free a posted speed limit of 80kmph would seem optimistic due to the nature of the road with an average speed of 40kmph more likely. Distances on these roads can be very deceptive so don’t plan on covering big miles quickly. It’s impossible to tell by a map or SatNav how fast you will actually be able to travel on these roads even if traffic free. Additional dangers include severe potholes, deer, gravel, water run-off, flooding, milk tankers, stray dogs and hippies. Some mountain roads may close or be highly dangerous due to snow or black ice in winter.

Not all the roads are rough, far from it as the rough sections are well mixed with beautiful smooth EU funded roads none of which are straight for long periods and perfect for any motorbike.

(!) Very Important:

The Irish are used to narrow roads and “usually” take into account potential oncoming traffic on narrow roads with blind corners. However, many R roads on tourist routes like the R559 on the Dingle Peninsula need extra care where coaches are a big problem for bikers. On these very narrow roads you will often come around a blind corner only to face a coach taking up the whole bloody road. Most Irish coach drivers are well used to these roads, are sympathetic to cyclists and bikers alike and drive accordingly. Foreign coach drivers however are a different matter entirely. They are unused to driving on the left and are unaccustomed to the narrow roads and it may seem that they are intentionally targeting you for execution. Foreign RV drivers aren’t much better with the Spanish, Italian and French drivers being the worst offenders – by far! I’ve had many close calls with these guy’s, especially with my metal panniers making my F800GS as wide as a small car. It was specifically for this reason that I choose soft 30ltr panniers for riding Irelands west coast, rural and mountain roads.

Top Tip to avoid the cattle waggons of death and stay safe:

On R roads like Dingle’s R551 and the Ring of Kerry the coaches tend to drive from the south to the north on the left hand side of the road. This is to allow the cattle, eh passengers the best view over the cliffs to the sea views. So, if you want to make headway it is sometimes quicker to ride from the north heading south to avoid the bulk of the tourist traffic. As a motorcyclist you will have many more opportunities than cars to pull across the road to enjoy the views and take photos. Either way, be extra cautious, on these roads speed and inattention WILL be the major factor in traffic accidents. Be mindful, just because the posted speed limit is 80km/h it does not mean that it is safe to do so as you will also have potholes, gravel and mud to deal with as well as other road users that are distracted by passengers or the views. Unlike the UK or the continent there will be many more American drivers who tend to be nervous being very unused to dealing with the narrow roads as well as driving on the wrong side. Matters will be made worse if the car rental company gave them a manual (stick shift) drive instead of an automatic more common in the US. Because of this I’ve found it safer to give myself a little more braking space between me and the car ahead in case they slow quickly (driver hits wrong gear) when you least expect it. City drivers may also needlessly slow down, or swerve sharply to the right for roadside sheep which you may not see, so like I said, there is any number of reasons to give yourself and extra 2-3 meters braking distance more than you may normally do at home, and never overtake another vehicle if there are sheep on either side of the roadside ahead. Nine times out of 10 the sheep will ignore traffic and carry on with their business, but it only takes one stupid wooly fecker to make a nervous tourist swerve or brake quickly to ruin a perfect day, and on Irelands “R” roads there is little room to make emergency maneuvers.

What’s the best type of motorcycle to ride the WAW route?

Any bike will do the job. If you’re going to follow my routes which include mountain sections I’d recommend a mid sized adventure style bike as the ideal choice. I found the F800GS the perfect tool for the job with it’s narrow profile, high upright seating position, with it’s off-road’ish suspension perfect for soaking up the rougher roads. 1200 GS/Adventure and R1200RT type bikes are also perfect for the job, but the size and weight will get very annoying for some on the boreens and many back roads. As many of the roads are small, one track as as good as any big bike will loose it’s advantage over more learner friendly bikes for example.

Anyone looking to do the full route on a sports bike is sure to get pissed off at some stage, it’s obviously easy to do but on many of the roads along the route an old single F650GS will be faster and far more practicle than a S1000RR. I’ve ridden much of the WAW on a F800R which is a road-only bike which was excellent for the most part. But my wrists and arse suffered on the rougher roads and my DSLR was also destroyed even though it was well padded in the top box. I’ve also ridden the route on a Kawasaki Vulcan VN800A (Jap type Harley) and thoroughly enjoyed it, although unsurprisingly enough the suspension and rear shocks got a battering and the exhaust inner header pipe broke off where it enters the engine which made the ride home shockingly noisy. However the roads have improved a lot since that trip on the VN. For this trip small is good, for this reason the WAW is an excellent choice for a young rider on their 1st big trip to get a taste for motorcycle touring. Remember, not all the roads are rough, far from it as the rough sections are well mixed with beautiful smooth EU funded “N” roads none of which are straight for long periods. So if the boreens or “R” roads are slowing you down, or pissing you off for any reason it’s easy enough to pull out and join a main road. Therefore, if planning to ride in a group of mixed bike styles make sure everyone knows how to get to the nights accomodation to allow others in the group to choose their own road preferences as the roads/bikes dictate. To get an idea of the road types you can watch the vids I’ve uploaded to my YouTube Channel. I was pleasently surprised during my last trip 2014 to this region how good the roads actually were, even large sections of mountain back roads beautifully smooth and better than many I’ve ridden in France or Spain lately.

Generally petrol stations are easy to find. Most mid sized villages will have one either in town or just outside. On “N” roads you will find them easily, but as unlikely as it seems, Irish motorways dont have them and you will need to ride off the motorway to find one. So if you’re riding the Dublin to Galway or Cork motorway be sure to fuel up before leaving the “Big Smoke” – Dublin. Large areas of Connemarra and most mountain regions are uninhabited so fuel stations also run a little thin in these areas.

July and August are the warmest months (15-25 degrees C) and winters are generally mild (6-10C) due to the Gulf Stream. Ice and snow along the coast is rare and never lasts for more than a few days but can linger on high ground. In winter Atlantic storms with high winds may make riding highly dangerous for 24-48 hours in exposed areas. Packing good rain gear is absolutely essential at any time of the year. A mid level base layer or fleece is also essential in summer. Don’t bother bringing sun screen, if ye see someone with a red face it’s more likely to be from the drink or high blood pressure from too many Irish breakfast’s.

Atlantic storms can roll in at anytime. If you’re staying overnight near the sea or in an exposed location it’s a good idea to try and remember this and park your motorbike behind some kind of sturdy shelter. A 40kmph wind can easily gust to twice that speed to blow over and damage even the heaviest bike, and driving rain or salt water spray can get up into the electrics of a bike causing all sorts of trouble.

Accommodation ranges from €15-€25 for a campsite or hostel. €25 to €65 for a B&B, €50 to €80 for a 2 / 3 star inn or hotel, €80-€130 for a 4 star. In Ireland all prices including accommodation, food etc. are inclusive of tax and usually includes a good Irish or Continental style breakfast.

Wild camping is legal in the Republic of Ireland but private, government body (e.g. ESB Electricity Supply Board) and military grounds are obviously off limits and can result in a heavy fine. Some areas of the national parks allow camping (check first) but building camp fires or lighting BBQ’s is almost always prohibited. A “No Camping” “Private” or “No Public Access” sign will usually be in view in those areas. Most farmers will also happily allow you to camp on their land as long as you ask before pitching up camp. This is very important to do as some cattle farmers may have a bull on their land and you will need to know which field to stay well clear of as they can be big and highly aggressive, the bulls even more-so. You should also be aware that Irish home and landowners can legally shoot anyone who enters their property posing a threat under a “reasonable force” (Defence and Dwelling Act 2011), and as most Irish farmers own a gun it’s ill advised to pitch a tent without asking for that reason alone. Remember, most farmers are happy to allow camping if asked, if they do refuse it’s often for safety reasons (bulls) and especially during harvest season when outside contracters with large heavy machenery may access the land at anytime and will not be aware of your presence.

Ireland enjoys a tourism (and related activities) VAT tax rate of just 9%, this is the tax you pay for tourism related goods and services within the country. This includes accommodation, hotels, B&B’s, campsites, food and drink (excluding alcohol, cigs etc) and as stated above will be included in your bill and also inclusive of the price shown on restaurant menus. The 9% VAT (Value Added Tax) makes a trip through Ireland very good value, while the price for food and accommodation may be comparative to the rest of Europe the standard is generally higher, if not exceptional. For example many similarly priced 3 star hotels or B&B’s in Ireland may often be of far higher standard than those found in France or Spain. The same applies to restaurants.

In Ireland most restaurants must be of a high standard these days as the Irish now see themselves as gourmet foodies. It’s not uncommon to see a couple of manly lads in dirty overalls at a bar arguing over how best to cook a pheasant. If a chef can’t cook better than his clientèle then God help him. The Irish are also completely addicted to complimenting or complaining on review site’s like Tripadvisor.com , so if you want to know what a hotel, pub or restaurant is like before you go simply check out Tripadvisor.com or Booking.com .

Getting on with the Irish

The Irish love to talk to foreigners or strangers and can happily strike up a conversation with a lamp post. If stopping someone for directions in a rural area it’s usual for the Irish to first strike up a short conversation (usually about the weather – a national obsession) before diving in to ask a specific question.

In Irish pubs it’s generally accepted that if you sit down at a table it means that you want to be left alone, or to eat which is essentially the same thing. Sit at the bar however and it’s accepted you are open for a chat with the locals, and/or thirsty with intent and want be as close to the beer tap as possible.

Some bars may have a specific corner in the sitting area for wandering musicians, there may be a plaque “Musicians Corner”. You are better off not sitting here as you will be expected to move if musicians pop in to play a reel, feel free to buy them a pint in return for a few requests.

When chatting to the locals in a bar it’s best to steer the conversation well away from politics, the Irish are very well read and educated, they may easily know far more on the subject then you do, especially history and current world politics. A huge proportion of Irish families have a son, daughter or cousin (sometimes the majority of the family) working abroad, so they know well what the real story is and not the government sanctioned utter bollox shown on Sky News.

The Irish won’t really give a rats ass what race, color, sexual persuasion or religion you are (as long as you’re not looking for a job lol). Although once they get to know you, you may face the national hobby of “taking the piss”. This is an art form in Ireland and involves the contestants making light hearted fun at the others expense with the quick witted and those most verbally creative winning the contest. Best to just have a laugh and don’t take it personally as the first person to get upset, frustrated or mentions the opponents blessed mother in a poor light loses.

If you are planing to stay in the Irish speaking areas and you want to give a really good impression to the locals a fine way would be to learn a little Irish. Everyone will be happy to speak English so you only need to know the very basics.

Hello = Dia dhuit (DEE-a GHWIT) [Shortened form of, 'Go mbeannaí Dia dhuit', literal meaning is, 'May God bless you'] – the response to this greeting is Dia is Muire dhuit (DEE-a iSS MWIRR-a Gwit) [literally (May) God and (The Virgin) Mary bless you]

How are you? = Conas atá tú? (CUNN-us a-TAW too?) I’m well = Táim go maith (TAW’m guh MAH)

What is your name? = Cad is ainm duit? (COD iss ANNim ditch?) My name is John = John is ainm dom (John iss annim dum)

Nice to meet you = Deas bualadh leat (JAHSS BOO-loo lyaht)

Please = Le do thoil (singular), Le bhur dtoil (plural). (LE do HULL, LE wur DULL)

Thank you/you (pl.) = Go raibh maith agat/agaibh (GUH ROH MAH ug-ut/ug-iv) You’re welcome (in response to ‘thank you’ = Go ndéanaí mhaith duit/daoibh (singular/plural). (“Goh nyae-nee wah ditch/dee-iv”) or : Tá fáilte romhat/romhaibh (TAW FOIL-chyeh ROWt/ ROW-iv)

Yes = Sea (SHAA; note that there is no real translation for yes and no in Irish – the words here literally mean ‘it is’. People usually use the question verb again in their replies, in the positive or negative, in the same tense, voice and person as the question was asked.) No = Ní hea (Nee haa; literally, ‘it is not’)

How to get there & where to rent a bike?

• Dublin Port – UK, Isle of Man and France
• Dun Laoghaire – Holyhead (Wales UK)
• Rosslare – France, UK
• Cork – France
• Belfast – Isle of Man, UK

Airports to Fly & Ride

Dublin Airport and Shannon Airport – Celtic Rider Motorcycle Rental & Tours Ireland . Celtic Rider Motorcycle Rental & Tours Ireland is officially approved by Tourism Ireland and Failte Ireland. Located close to Dublin Airport they can arrange for airport transfers. Bike gear also available for rent. For more info see Rental stations in Dublin and Shannon , both international Airports for North American and Canadian tourists.

Belfast Airport – Phillip McCallen Motorcycle Rentals , 30 mins from Belfast, less than 2 hours from Dublin and offers airport transfers. For more info see Phillip McCallen Motorcycle Rentals website

Killarney – LemonRock Motorcycle Rental Based at the Brehon Hotel 20mins from Kerry Airport and the only business directly associated with myself as I have been working with LemonRock designing their self guided tours and will be working with them from time to time as a guide. Contact myself for custom tours or the lads directly to book a shiny new R1200GS, R1200R, F700GS or my favorite the F800R, for more info see LemonRockBiketours.com

Note: I am not associated in any way with any company or business held within this guide – with the exception of LemonRock.

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Biking Routes - Ireland , The Wild Atlantic Way 11 Responses so far

11 Responses to “Wild Atlantic Way Motorcycle Touring Guide – Overview”

Dear Dennis,

As I am planning to cycle the WAW in May, I have been lucky to stumble into yr article, which answers most of my questions. Though I am in search of 1 thing I can’t find : the GPX coordinates file for the route to use on a GPS. Would you happen to have such a file for the WAW, and if so, would it be possible to share it with me ?

Thank you so much for letting me know, and I really hope to hear from you soon !

With warm regards from northern Belgium,

The full route can be downloaded as .gpx or.gdb from the GPS download page ( http://www.roadtrooper.com/download-gps-routes ) You will need to register to access them but it’s free. The route is broken down into “county” sections – Cork, Kerry etc. Within each download you’ll also find the official coastal WAW route plus alternative mountain route sections which are a little more remote but offer less traffic and equally amazing scenery. Let me know if you have any problem accessing them at [email protected] and I’ll email the routes to you.

We are a year further down the line, and still prepairing the trip, which will take off of next May 3rd in Donegal. I hope that 10 days on the road will be sufficient to lay back the whole WAW. I will come over with my own bike, F800GS. Sorry I did not thank you last year for your help, which I will do now via this way : your info proved to be of great help, and I have managed to download the routes (and convert them to use on my TomTom rider). Thank you again for your input. Hope to meet with you one day ! Ferre – Belgium

The mountain route via the Gap of Dunloe seems cool. Is that advised rather than the coastal route to Killarney?

Are there any gravel or unsealed road section to enjoy along the route anywhere?

Hi Mike, sorry for the very late reply, I was away for s bit then completely forgot. Personally I really prefer the mountain route over the coastal route. The coastal route is a beautiful and mostly relaxing ride if you don’t get stuck behind a string of coaches. As you are coming in late May the tourist traffic will be starting to pick up with the Ring of Kerry being tourist central. The mountain route mostly consists of in track roads, some are smooth, some are of the rough variety with grass growing down the middle. The scenery along these roads is often spectacular, very much like the Scottish Highlands but more remote. Very few tourists find their way up there and I’d say it’s perfect for any dual sport adventure bike a GS or your 950 Adv. The mountain route demands far more attention for a safe ride and between that, the scenery, the remoteness and lack of traffic I really enjoy riding there more than the main coastal road. There are very few opportunities for off roading on big bikes here. There are some mountain tracks but these are really suited more for proper off trials bikes, 125′s or 250′s. I think though you’ll really get a blast on the mountain roads or the less touristy peninsulas like Beara.

I’ll be in Killarney, so if I’m free I’d be happy to bring you round some of my favorite back roads for a day or two, I’ll take any excuse to get out for a ride. Drop me an email ([email protected]) and we might be able to meet up. If not have a safe trip, I’m sure you’ll enjoy it no matter which route yu take..

All the best, Denis

Hi there, looking to ride the Wild Atlantic Way in May, which mapping software would you suggest I use. I can download the GPX data from here but not sure which maps to use. Thanks for all the information contained on the site, it’s been really helpful Regards Tim

There’s a number of free mapping software solutions you can use but the one I use which is very popular many folks is Tyre. Tyre is a route mapping software which uses Google Maps to plot the routes so the maps are always up to date and better than the Garmin maps. Tyre works equally well with Garmin, TomTom, generic .gpx and other SatNav file formats as well as Google Map/Earth KML and KMZ files. The basic version is free to use. It also integrates with MyRouteApp and Sygic so you can use the .gps/.gdb/.itn etc files in Tyre for free and transfer them via MyRouteApp to your IOS or Android phone easily enough although.

Download Tyre: http://www.tyretotravel.com/

Hope this helps get you sorted, Rgds Denis

Hi Denis, This is a great article and has whet my appetite for coming to Ireland on the bike, I am potentially going to be traveling with 3 other guys, I ride a Honda Crosstourer, 2 are on BMW GS’s and 1 rides an BMW RT 1250. We would be looking to spend a week riding round, some of us are not quite as young as we once were, with the oldest of us being 75. What part of your route would you think would be most suitable please?

Hi Ceiyates

Thank you for taking the time to respond. Sorry it has taken me so long to acknowledge. I am still looking and discussing with the rest of the group and will certainly email you with any further questions.

Regards Chris

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Discover the best of South-West Ireland with this two-day motorcycle route

Ollie Rooke discovers the joy of riding the Emerald Isle on a stunning two-day motorcycle route in south-west Ireland

There’s something almost mythical about the lure of Ireland. Some are attracted by magnificent scenery, others enjoy the warmth of the locals and the craic in the evening, and for a few, including myself, a look into their family tree will show a genetic attachment to the land.

It’s a country that pulls at my heartstrings more than any other and one of the most alluring destinations for riders looking for adventure on the British Isles. This route showcases the very best of the southwest of Ireland for those looking to explore the mythical Emerald Isle for themselves.

Two-day motorcycle route in south-west Ireland

I’ve designed the route to be ridden across two days, leaving plenty of time to explore the sights along the way. However, there is a one-day option which skips the stunning Ring of Kerry for those short on time or people who have already journeyed around this famous loop.

We start in Cobh, the final stop of the world’s most famous passenger ship, the Titanic, before her fateful maiden voyage, and then travel west through County Cork. The riding here is stunning, especially the coastal roads where you’ll find the rugged coastline on your left and rolling green hills to your right.

After travelling through Cork, we’ll cross into County Kerry, exploring the wild and remote peninsulas that jut out into the Atlantic Ocean like wandering tree roots.

Along the way, we’ll stop at a series of poignant, quirky, and awe-inspiring sights that display Ireland’s diverse and varied landscape and history. We’ll travel along the iconic Ring of Kerry, a must-do for anyone visiting the area for the first time, while also tackling the remote and achingly beautiful Healy Pass.

So, without further ado, let’s get started.

Our journey begins at Cobh, a quaint seaside town nestled outside the city of Cork. Located about a two-hour ride from Rosslare Harbour ferry port, it is   the perfect place to spend the night, especially for those travellers who have made the crossing of the Irish sea on the ferry from Fishguard in Wales to ride this Amazing Ireland route.

There’s more to Cobh than meets the eye though. As you sit by the harbour, enjoying the colourful collection of townhouses that line the streets, you’ll be looking out over the RMS Titanic’s final stop before her fateful voyage across the Atlantic in 1912. A memorial in the town honours the 79 passengers who didn’t survive the journey.

2. Blarney Castle

From Cobh, we skirt around Cork on a quick 40-minute ride to Blarney Castle. The castle is a medieval stronghold dating back to the 1400s, but we’re more interested with what is located within. After surveying the towering battlements, head inside and join the queue to kiss the Blarney Stone.

According to local legend, when the Lord of Blarney heard he was to be deprived of his traditional land rights, he set off to see Queen Elizabeth I. Worried that he wasn’t a good enough orator to change the Queen’s mind, an old woman told him to kiss a particular stone in Blarney Castle to receive the gift of the gab.

The Lord’s trip was successful, the Queen’s opinion was swayed, and it’s now said any visitor who lays their lips on this block of limestone will be similarly armed with great eloquence.

3. Ringfinnan Garden of Remembrance

Leaving Blarney Castle behind, with eloquence guaranteed for life, we head back towards the coast and pass through typically picturesque Irish countryside. Shortly before our next stop, we pass through Kinsale, which is home to a number of cafés where you can grab a snack or your fix of caffeine.

Refuelled, we head across the River Bandon to the Ringfinnan Garden of Remembrance. The garden was created by Kathleen Murphy, a nurse in New York City who was born in the area, in tribute to the firefighters who lost their lives in the 9/11 attacks.

Isolated on top of a hill, it’s a moving place to visit. Lines of trees stand to attention, each one honouring the life of the 343 heroic firefighters who didn’t return from that fateful emergency call out. A small American flag flutters at the base of each tree. With your respects paid, it’s time to saddle up again and hit the road. 

4. Béal na Bláth

Heading back inland, we once again wind our way along country roads to the small village of Béal na Bláth. This stop gives us a small insight into a crucial moment in Ireland’s formative history.

It was just outside this village in 1922 that Michael Collins, leader of Ireland’s newly established Free State, was ambushed and killed by anti-treaty Irish Republican Army forces. In many ways his death typifies the events of the Irish Civil War, as Ireland’s forces became divided over what to do next following the signing of a peace treaty with Britain in 1921.

Collins was instrumental in the War of Independence and had been sent to London to negotiate the peace treaty with Prime Minister David Lloyd George. However, the Anglo-Irish Treaty was not supported by many Republicans back home and a splinter occurred that split friends, families and Irish society, ultimately leading to further conflict, and Collins’ early death in his home county of Cork.

5. Drombeg Stone Circle

Moving on, we drop back onto some stunning coastal roads that meander along the coastline as we approach the Drombeg Stone Circle.

Also known as The Druid’s Altar, the collection of 17 tightly packed stones appears to have been a funeral pyre in the Bronze to early Iron ages after excavations found the cremated remains of an adolescent in a pot at the very centre of the circle.

After you’ve wondered at the skill of those early humans who managed to create such a monument, it’s time to re-join the road that will take us to our final stop for the evening.

6. Bantry Bay

The road into Bantry is a cracking one to finish up an enjoyable day of riding, leaving us with plenty of time to relax in the town in the evening. Twisty and wide, it offers the perfect balance to the narrow countryside lanes we tackled earlier in the day, quickly bringing us into the town of Bantry.

Made famous in song, Bantry is associated with the failed Irish Rebellion of 1798. Two years earlier, iconic Irish revolutionary Wolfe Tone had tried and failed to launch a rebellion with the help of 15,000 French troops. In the modern era the town is a fun stop for an evening, with plenty of typically Irish pubs hosting live music late into the night.

Get yourself into the swing of things with a pint of the local stout, a Murphy’s, and enjoy the craic. Sláinte!

7. Healy Pass

Any hangovers from the previous night will quickly be vanquished by some of the best riding the southwest of Ireland has to offer. We start off with a quick ride across to the Beara Peninsula where we tackle the magnificent Healy Pass.

Created in 1847, the road has a dark history as one of Ireland’s many famine roads, where poor and hungry workers were forced to work to earn food. Following some modern improvements, it’s now a phenomenal ride although not one to take quickly. The narrow twists and turns take you up to an altitude of over 300m where you’ll be gifted with stunning views over the otherworldly landscape it cuts through.

It’s worth taking this one cautiously though, the majority of the road is too narrow for two cars to pass and sheep frequently drop their own slippery obstacles on the road.

8. Ross Castle

Moving on from Healy Pass we hug the coast while enjoying terrific views across Kenmare Bay, before riding onto the famous Ring of Kerry briefly on our way to our next stop. Ross Castle was the last stronghold to surrender to Oliver Cromwell’s Roundheads during the Irish Confederate Wars, but it’s also home to a local legend.

Word has it that O’Donoghue Mór, who built the castle, lives under the waters of the vast Lough Leane. Once every seven years, on the first morning of May, it’s said he rises on his white horse to circle the lake. Anyone fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of him is said to be guaranteed good luck for life.

9. Ring of Kerry

Next up we have the famous Ring of Kerry. While some may be dissuaded by the numerous campervans and tourist coaches that litter the road, there’s no doubt that it’s a road that needs to be ticked off at least once by any travelling motorcyclist in the area.

It’s a fantastic ride, offering plenty of twisty bends through narrow lanes that suddenly opens up with breathtaking views over the vast expanse of County Kerry. There are plenty of lanes to turn off as you reach the most westerly point, where you can catch your and breath dip your toes in the Atlantic Ocean.

If you’re feeling a bit peckish as you near the end of the loop, punch The Strawberry Field into your SatNav. It’s a small cottage café that serves up mouth-watering pancakes, while the lyrical Kerry accents of the staff will have you dreaming of a move to this delightful corner of the world. 

10. Gallarus Oratory

Tearing yourself away from those delicious pancakes, we cut across the Ring of Kerry, taking some of the lesser-used roads, before we join another coastal road on the Dingle Peninsula. The small fishing town of the same name will be our final stop for the day but we’ll take a quick detour to visit the Gallarus Oratory.

This chapel located at the very tip of the peninsula is estimated to have been built 1,000 years ago. Each stone has been cut perfectly to fit together, making the structure waterproof without any evidence of mortar being used to build it.

The interior is lit by a tiny window and legend says anyone who climbs through it is guaranteed access to Heaven. Attempting to do so is frowned upon, although they do say God loves a trier.

Finally, we loop around the end of the peninsula on our way to the small fishing town of Dingle, our final stop of the day and a beautiful place to spend an evening after a cracking day in the saddle.

Reward yourself with spectacular views, a well-earned pint and a trip to Murphy’s Ice Cream, home to some of the best ice cream I’ve ever tasted (mine’s a Honeycomb Caramel).

Here ends the Amazing Ireland Route, leaving you with the choice of a ride back to the ferry or continuing on northward to discover the Wild Atlantic Way.

The full motorcycle route in south-west Ireland

Plug these waypoints into your SatNav to follow, as near as dammit, the ABR and TomTom Amazing Ireland route. It’s also available to download as a gpx. file so that you can stick it straight into your device without the hassle of thumbing in a new stop every so often.

Simply head HERE and your download will be waiting for you.

Day One (133 miles)

• Blarney Castle and Gardens
• Ringfinnan Garden of Remembrance
• Garretstown Beach
• Béal na Bláth
• Drombeg Circle Stone
• Ross Castle
• Cahersiveen   taking the N70
• Blackwater Bridge, taking the N70
• Gallarus Oratory, V92 Y028

Overall total: 366 miles (without the Ring of Kerry 271 miles)

Create your own Amazing Britain Route

As part of the TomTom Amazing Britain series, we’re asking ABR readers to create their own route and send it into us. We’ll select the best submission, ride it, and then feature the route in the magazine.

As is the case with all the TomTom Amazing Britain routes, yours will need to be in the UK or Ireland, it will need to be rideable in a weekend, and should feature a series of places to stop at and explore along the way.

So, if you’ve got a favourite ride you think others will love, plot it on the TomTom Road Trips portal at www.tomtom.com/roadtrips , publish the route to the community, and send the link of your marvellous ride to: [email protected] to enter the contest. We look forward to seeing it!

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What are the best motorcycle touring roads in Ireland?

words Alexa Wang

Ireland has some of the most beautiful motorcycle routes in Europe. Enjoy high mountain passes, coastal roads, lakeside rides and endless green valleys in one trip. You can stop off in Ireland’s rural villages and enjoy a pint of Guinness with the locals. 

Make sure to invest in motorcycle insurance before setting off on your next trip. It’s always best to be prepared for any unforeseen problems and accidents.

Here are the best motorcycle routes that Ireland has to offer.

The Wild Atlantic Way

This route is a whopping 2,500kim long road from Ireland to Northern Ireland . It is the longest coastal route in the world and has some breath-taking views to offer. Watch the dark blue sea go by as you cycle through the countries. 

For the most part, riders cover one country per day and get a boat to Derry, before moving through the counties to Cork.

Kinsale to Killarney

The A-road from Kinsale to Killarney offers a magnificent view of greenery on your right and sea to your left. Kinsale and Killarney are fantastic towns and make for great city breaks on either end. Kinsale has the most restaurants in Ireland and is considered ‘Top Nosh Central’ by the Irish.

Lough Corrib Scenic Loop Drive

Take a 150km drive from Galway City to the south of Cong County. Lough Corrib is the second largest lake in Ireland and features some stunning views. You can see castles, ruins and multiple sheep-lined roads – although sheep traffic may slow you down a little.

You can also visit the towns of Moycullen, Cross, Maam Cross, Oughterard and Headford.

The Phoenix Park Loop

If you’re looking for a short and chilled route for a week, try Phoenix Park. Enjoy a few loops on a Sunday afternoon and make it home by dinner. 

Copper Coast Scenic Drive

You can cover the 166km Copper Coast Drive in a full day or a few chilled days. The ride goes from Rosslare in County Dungarvan, Waterford, or Wexford. The choice Is up to you! 

You can look down on Hook Head Peninsula and Lighthouse from Waterford city and enjoy the views of Tintern Abbey. 

Ireland is one of the best places to take a motorcycle trip. Enjoy a day-long ride or venture on a week-long expedition through the various Irish villages and towns. Stunning views and motorcycle rides are the best way to spend a summers weekend.

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With Ireland’s ever-changing hilly terrain it is important that you are equipped with the most suitable bicycle or e-bike.  We have carefully chosen the best components and equipment to make your biking adventure as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. 

• Amuigh Faoin Aer Teo. T/A Ireland By Bike Port Eachrann, Carrick, Co Donegal, Republic of Ireland
• Eircode: F94 VY84
• + 353 87 2118638
• All Cycling Holidays / Bike Tours
• Biking and Hiking Tours
• Northern Ireland Bike Tour

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Cork City Cycle Tour - Standard & Electric Bike Options

• Local guide
• Use of bicycle
• Use of helmet
• Entry/Admission - Beyond the Glass Adventure Tours
• Food and drinks
• 34 St Patrick's Quay, Victorian Quarter, Cork, T23 T624, Ireland The cycle tour begins beside the river directly across the street from 33 Saint Patrick's Quay in Cork city centre.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Dress code: Wear comfortable clothing suitable for cycling in.
• Not recommended for travellers with back problems
• Not recommended for pregnant travellers
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Most travellers can participate
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travellers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Similar experiences

• lilgoestravel 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Perfectly balanced tour! What a great experience the 8-Day Tour with Beyond the Glass was! From the beginning of the booking process to the drop-off and e-contact after the tour, I felt that my vacation was in good hands. At all times James, tour guide and owner of the company, was very attentive and showed great flexibility for adapting to our wishes and needs. His Irish spirit and love for the country were apparent and he did a great job in inspiring similar feelings in me. The tour's itinerary is thought through very well and combines the most important spots with calmer areas and hidden gems - giving a chance for an all-around Irish experience. James' knowledge of the regions travelled, as well as their history, flora and fauna was very impressive and I learned loads during the tour. Besides the great hikes, cycles and traveling parts, there was ample opportunity to explore Irish culture and cuisine (with the group and alone). Both the restaurants and accomodations chosen for our group were of excellent quality and made the trip even more enjoyable. To summarise: The tour was a perfect combination of activities along the beautiful Wild Atlantic Way with many interesting insights into Irish history and culture making for a fun and memorable trip. If you want to explore Ireland "beyond the glass" you will be in the right place on one of James' tours! :) Read more Written 27 July 2023
• deirdreilaosullivan 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wonderful 8 days Wonderful 8 day tour around the wild Atlantic Way. Edwina, our driver and guide really knew the ropes and the ways around and also gave great overview of the context of the many places we visited. It was great there were only 12 people on the tour. I was the only Australian with 11 Americans but we all had lots of fun. The tour included excellent accomodation and 4 star eating options, free time to explore and interesting historical places to visit. The Skelligs Michael boat tour was a personal highlight for me and we were lucky the boat could brave the seas on the day we booked. The tour also listened to the preferences of the travellers and made and effort to include them. Highly recommend this Company . Read more Written 17 July 2023
• gag70 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Small group, adventurous Ireland with excellent guide Simply amazing! You never know what you will get when booking a tour: hotels, people, activities. Traveling with Beyond the Glass was as close to perfect as you can get. I was traveling with my wife and upper teenage kids. James is not just the guide, he owns the company. His lifelong love of Ireland came clearly through even before the tour started. Hotels were great, every one of them. James personally knew many of the proprietors, which afforded us some special access along the way. Activities. I wanted an active, adventurous holiday, and got just that. From the first bike ride, through challenging hikes in rain and shine. We got an excellent taste of many of the core Ireland tour spots and even more off the beaten track ones. Group. We were a small group, 12 in all. The van is quite comfortable, even when full. The group consisted of people from their late teens and into their 50s. We all got along quite well, which makes for an even better experience. Bottom line. I am 100% happy with my choice to join the Beyond the Glass tour rather that go it alone. I would not have chosen one of the larger, more sedate tours. My family feels the same way. Read more Written 14 July 2023
• 938galek 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Active, fun, well-balanced tour! What a fantastic week we had on the 8 day Wild Atlantic Way tour. This was our first group tour and we had a blast. James offered a perfect amount of activity each day and every day was different, beautiful, and exciting. James was a great tour guide and really cared about giving us a meaningful and fun experience. Besides learning a lot from him about the history of Ireland, he was a really fun guy to hang around with during our week. If you want an active, but not hard-core experience in Ireland, this is the trip for you! Read more Written 4 July 2023
• S2093AAcarols 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fabulous Experience James did a fabulous job. He had just the right amount of hiking or biking each day and he chose beautiful locations. We liked every hotel we stayed in and the food was great. I appreciated that James gave us suggestions of places we could go in the evening by recommending restaurants or pubs with authentic Irish music. Also, James took good care of us. For example, he was very helpful in calling the airlines for us when our luggage was delayed, or ordering an e-bike for me when I was nervous about a particular ride. He always made sure to individualize a hiking path if someone in our group needed an easier route -they were able to do that and meet us at the end. Lastly, James shared great information about Ireland and he was just an all around good, caring, fun guy. Read more Written 1 July 2023
• marksG3464HN 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Book with Confidence! This is a magical trip! Wow! The 8-Day Adventure on the Wild Atlantic Way takes you on an epic journey that's an absolute blast! Simply magical! Our guide James designed a terrific trip! His hospitality and passion for Ireland shined throughout each day. He showed us places my wife and I would never have figured out on our own. The hotels were delightful. The restaurant choices were delicious. Our travel group was great fun! We listened to some great Irish music along the way. Each of the biking and hiking excursions featured some breathtaking scenery. Every day just seemed to be more beautiful than the day before. It kinda felt like we were going "further up and further in"! (to borrow a quote from C.S. Lewis' Narnia books.). Do yourself a favor. Just book this trip and go. You will not regret it. Read more Written 28 June 2023
• Jayne M 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Memory making adventure! Our 8 day excursion was filled with stunning views, wonderful hikes and cycling through the Wild Atlantic Way region of Ireland. What we enjoyed the most was the camaraderie within our small tour group and James sharing his stories and passion for nature. Our hotels were exquisite, restaurant choices were great and just the right amount of daily exercise to fully enjoy the experience. We'd highly recommend Beyond The Glass Tours for those wanting a combination of walk/hiking, cycling and enjoying Ireland's beautiful landscapes. It was a wonderful adventure! Read more Written 27 June 2023
• Lorraine W 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles An Unforgettable Experience Our Beyond the Glass Cycle and Hiking Tour of the West Atlantic Way of Ireland is an experience that will remain an absolute highlight of travel for us. The Owner and Tour Guide of Beyond The Glass enthusiastically works to ensure all his clients are happy with every day of their time with his tour and is informative, knowledgeable and considerate in every way. I had a minor medical issue during our tour with James and his concern and advice was truly valuable and helpful - we had an amazing time with a great group and I think it was James’ personality that ensured the group just gelled. It was a fantastic time. Read more Written 27 June 2023
• X8390VMdeborahm 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Just do it! Truly a life-changing experience for my husband and for me. James provided such a unique itinerary, with lots of exercise to stunning vistas and scenic panoramas. As we traveled, he played traditional and contemporary Irish music, and he always entertained and educated us with Irish history and interesting tid-bits. We stayed at a variety of quaint inns that provided sumptuous breakfasts, and several for dinners that included Fabulous music at night. We were also fortunate to share this experience with six other world travelers, and that added enormously to our adventure. James- great job! We’ll be back☘️ Read more Written 20 June 2023
• syramonk 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Unforgettable Week in Westerrn Ireland If you want beautiful scenery and just enough exercise to offset those pints of stout, Beyond the Glass is a perfect choice. Our group of 11 bonded in the care of James, an attentive, amusing and knowledgable host whose love of Ireland quickly becomes contagious. A reasonable fitness level is enough to complete the hikes and cycles, with more challenging options on some days. We covered a lot of ground, including Killarny National Park, Dingle and the Isle of Inishmore, all of it breathtaking. By the time the trip ended, it felt like we were all friends. What more can you ask of a tour? A wonderful introduction to Ireland. Read more Written 21 October 2022
• larsig 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles We did the 8 day cycling and hiking Wild Atlantic Way adventure with James and loved it. The three days of cycling were The cycling rides were really spectacular. Everything James does was first class. Learning Irish history from James and his interesting stories were icing on the cake. Read more Written 12 October 2022
• Z468PAmikea 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Tremendous trip! James used a wonderful combination of personal experience and local guides to give us a unique look at the amazing west coast of Ireland and the Wild Atlantic Way. We saw the major attractions like Blarney Castle but were also treated to off-the-path gems like the Gougane Barra Hotel. James’s knowledge of the areas and the activities allowed him to adapt the day’s schedule as weather and/or the participants abilities required. We would HIGHLY recommend James and Beyond The Glass. Read more Written 17 September 2022
• L2746RNroberth 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Seeing Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way My wife and two children 21 and 18 just got back last week from our 8 day Adventure Tour with James from Beyond the Glass. What a great trip!! The mix of hiking and biking was a fabulous way to see the Atlantic coast of Ireland. Throw in a beautiful boat trip through the lakes of Killarney and a day trip to the Aran isle of Inishmore. All the logistics are taken care of, including excellent accomodations each night. The pace of each hike or bike was moderate and something that everyone in my group was able to sustain. If you have not done a small group tour of Ireland, I could not recommend James and BTG more highly. On foot or bike, it's truly the best way to see Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way. Read more Written 26 August 2022
• D2715RLwilliamm 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles One of the best times you will ever have. Truly one of the most enjoyable experiences in our lives. Seeing the beauty of Ireland's western coast from atop a bicycle or from seaside hiking path can't be beat. James was a fantastic guide. He filled us in on the history and geography of all of the areas along the tour route. Accommodations were first rate, the food was delicious, and the people were always warm and welcoming. We didn't want it to end. We have already decided to go back and do it again. Read more Written 23 August 2022
• sarahyW9093DG 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Unforgettable Wild Atlantic Way Trip James was an awesome tour guide and planned a wonderful trip along the Wild Atlantic Way. The 8 day tour was a good mix of hiking and biking along with visiting castles, abbeys and doing a bit of shopping/site-seeing among the small towns along the coast. He scheduled everything which was a nice change. The large passenger van was very comfortable and spacious. Everything about the trip was enjoyable and seamless from my point of view. I'd highly recommend the 8 day trip or any outing with Beyond the Glass/James! Read more Written 20 August 2022

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Cork City Cycle Tour - Standard & Electric Bike Options provided by Beyond the Glass Adventure Tours