What is a self led tour?
CycleWest Ireland's self led bike trips are designed for the experienced, independent
cyclist. Our trips offer the opportunity to explore the unique and legendary
landscape of Western Ireland.
Who Travels on our Self Led tours?
On a self led tour, there is no guide and no vehicle support. Set your own pace
and take advantage of the flexible schedule. Our self led tours are designed for the
experienced, independent traveler used to cycling long distances, alone and unsupported.
It is therefore advisable that all participants on a self led tour are capable cyclists
equipped with basic bike mechanical skills, including puncture repair.
While we have prepared an itinerary with great care for you, it is up to you to get to
your next overnight stop under your own steam! At times, the route is quite remote and
there are often no mechanical or medical facilities available. We do offer a help
line while you are touring. This help line is available to cater to unforeseen
emergencies. Through the help line, we can refer you to the nearest medical centre, Garda
(police station), local taxi services and other facilities as needed.
For tandem touring, we highly recommend that you and your
stoker have tandem cycling experience prior to your cycling tour! Tandem cycling is skill
that is perfected with practice!
For families with children - we do not recommend our Self
Led tours for families with children under 12 years of age. The routes can be quite
challenging for children, especially under conditions of incremental weather. See our Guided tours for recommended tours for young children.
Level of Difficulty
Our self-led routes are considered of moderate to intermediate levels
of difficulty. For the experienced cyclists, we have more challenging routes
available to add those extra miles! Our routes can be enjoyed if you have a basic
degree of fitness (approx. 2-4 hours of cycling and another regular activity per week) and
a good understanding of basic bike mechanics. (We recommend an introduction to bike
maintenance: contact your local bike shop for classes / assistance).
Our self led
itineraries and routes are generally are not considered suitable for children less than 12
years of age, unless they are riding on trailerbikes. The actual cycling usually
takes, on average, up to five hours per day, depending on your level of experience. For
more details see Our Helpful Hints Also see
our selection of family adventures that are guided and supported.
Please look at
our website for information on our guided and fully supported options, if you would like
to consider a Guided Tour as an alternative.
We take
care of the background details such as transporting your luggage, selecting a charming
restaurant for your evening meal and providing you with emergency back up information
before you depart on your tour.
What is included
Prearranged Accommodation
Breakfasts on all tour days
21 speed hybrid touring bikes (Trek or Gary Fisher Hybrids) or you may elect to bring your
own bike
Helmet Handle bar bag, pannier, pump, helmet, repair kit
Comprehensive route directions and maps
Emergency help line and contact phone numbers for back up support
Luggage transfers
Accommodation
Accommodation is booked on your behalf at a selection of charming inns, private
hotels, country manors, historic hotels. These can be hand picked to suit your individual
itinerary. See each tours for details.
Accommodation has been selected to ensure the highest quality and comfort,
combining with old world charm with a friendly, contemporary touch!
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