Most Popular Cycling Routes Per County
Welcome to the latest instalment of our Member Insights Blog Series
In this edition, we are highlighting some of the most popular cycle routes in Ireland, broken down by county. These insights have been provided by See.Sense, our Official Bicycle Lights and Data Insights Supplier.
From the winding, twisty roads of Mizen Head, to the iconic Phoenix Park, this blog covers some of the best cycling routes that Ireland has to offer. Although not all counties have been included here due to data coverage, the list provides a good snapshot of popular routes across all four corners of Ireland.
Let us know if your favourite cycle route is featured here, and if not, make sure to get involved to put your county on the map!
R340 - R341 Loop - County Galway
The R341 in County Galway runs from Ballynahinch to Clifden via a 37-km-long loop off the N59 passing through Roundstone and Ballyconneely. It is a scenic coastal route popular with cyclists looking to go on a longer journey, while also being able to enjoy the stunning landscape on show. Passing near-by to Connemara National Park and Kylemore Abbey, this route encompasses some of the most beautiful scenery and attractions that Ireland has to offer.
R604 leading to Old Head - County Cork
Cyclists flock to Old Head in County Cork, Ireland, enticed by its mesmerising coastal views that create a captivating setting for biking adventures. The peninsula is accommodating to riders of different skill levels, with a variety of loops making it easy to adjust the length and difficulty of rides here.
R257 - County Donegal
The scenic coastal R257 road remains to be one of the most popular routes for cyclists in the North-West. This long stretch of rural road sweeps right around the west coast of Donegal and boasts extreme natural beauty. The roads are perfect for cyclists who want a longer journey to take in all of the scenery this route has to offer. Stop off at Magheraroarty for one of the best beaches Ireland has to offer.
Portaferry Road - County Down
Nestled along the coast of Strangford Lough, Portaferry Road in County Down offers cyclists a lovely journey through the scenic Ards Peninsula. The stunning views of the lough make every pedal stroke worthwhile along this wide, and often windy, road.
Comber Greenway - County Down
Starting at the vibrant Titanic Quarter in Belfast, the Comber Greenway guides cyclists on a tranquil seven-mile ride through County Down's picturesque countryside. This route is a commuter's dream, allowing you to escape the city and soak in the charming landscapes.
Foyle Embankment - County Derry/Londonderry
For a relaxing ride with beautiful river views, the Foyle Embankment in County Derry/Londonderry is a cyclist's dream. Cyclists can start their journey in a newly opened section of greenway just north of the city in Strathfoyle. After a quick crossing of the iconic Peace Bridge, the city side greenway continues for more than 12 kilometres, following the course of the Foyle River as it meanders southward toward the border.
Dunluce Road - County Antrim
The north coast of Antrim is one of the most popular routes amongst cyclists in the county, and when you see the scenery, it’s no surprise why. Incredibly sea-vistas are around every corner of Antrim’s coastline - there’s certainly worse ways to spend a day or two than making the beautiful cycle around the north coast from Portrush to Glenarm!
R807 into Howth - County Dublin
One of the most popular routes in Dublin is the R807 road leading into Howth. The designated cycle paths located right on the coast prove to be very popular with cyclists. This road leads into Howth, boasting lovely scenery and the very popular Baily lighthouse. A great route for cyclists looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Dublin!
Phoenix Park - County Dublin
The most iconic park in Ireland, it’s no surprise that Phoenix Park is one of the most popular routes in the country. Cyclists can be found to be utilising the cycle paths going through the park to avoid traffic and head towards central Dublin. The cycle infrastructure in place here is perfect for cyclists of all levels to enjoy a ride through this beautiful area.
Killybearn road - Anneater road - County Tyrone
Heading out from Cookstown towards Lough Neagh, Killybearn Road in County Tyrone is a favourite amongst cyclists. With sweeping views of Lough Neagh, this is the perfect route for those seeking a longer and more challenging ride.
Route to Mizen Head - County Cork
Cyclists in Cork can be seen taking advantage of the small country roads on the way down to Mizen Head. These small and relatively quiet roads are ideal for cyclists who want to take in the amazing scenery while heading down to one of Ireland’s most stunning locations. As the starting /ending point for Ireland’s Malin - Mizen route, this is one of the most traversed rural routes in Ireland.
A47 Route around Lough Erne - County Fermanagh
This popular route running through Kesh and alongside the north coast of Lough Erne is popular amongst cyclists. This unique route which travels across Boa Island offers brilliant views of the lough. This route is particularly nice when the traffic is quiet on these windy country roads.
Get Involved
We'll have more member insights blogs coming throughout 2023, so make sure to get involved by anonymously contributing your ride stats using the free See.Sense App. You need to own a See.Sense light to contribute, however, Cycling Ireland Membership offers an exclusive 30% discount code off all See.Sense award-winning reactive bike lights - check your membership newsletter to find your unique code.
If your county isn't featured here, put it on the map! Our coverage is still building in some counties, particularly in areas outside major population hubs, so if you'd like to see your county rank higher, be sure to use your exclusive discount and hit the roads with a See.Sense light.
Not Just A Bike Light
It's not just about the insights. If you own a See.Sense product and have joined the See.Sense community through their mobile app, you'll see some unique and fun stats about your own rides too. These include:
- The distance you've cycled
- The calories you've burned
- How much CO2 you've saved by cycling
- More unique and fun stats.
Remember, all Cycling Ireland members get 30% off See.Sense lights!
