DINGLE PENINSULA

Self Led Bike Tour

Throughout the Dingle Peninsula there are magnificent views in all directions.   Incredibly green pastures stretch as far as the eye can see, completely empty save for small herds of sheep or goats. At almost every turn there are spectacular views of mist-covered mountains and wild stretches of uninhabitable coastline where deep fissures have been carved, over the centuries, by the pounding waves of the Atlantic Ocean.  The tip of the peninsula, west of Dingle town, is a stronghold of the Irish language and many traditions and customs have been preserved here along with the language.  This is a delightful one-week cycle and along the way you’ll enjoy plenty of good Irish cheer.

Day 1  Arrival Day, Cead Mile Failte.
Arrive to your tour start point in Tralee and check into your guesthouse. Your bike, maps and all of your trip details will have been delivered in advance of your arrival. A short cycle from Tralee is recommended as a warm up bike ride. This takes you to the lovely fishing port of Fenit and from there to the historic Ardfert with it’s newly restored cathedral and back to Tralee for your overnight stop.
Average Daily Miles 30km / 18ml

Day 2  Picturesque Biking
Today’s cycle takes you from Tralee along the northern shores of the Dingle Peninsula with the Slieve Mish Mountains on your left and Tralee Bay to your right. The route takes you through Castlegregory before finishing in the picturesque village of Cloghane and your overnight stop for the night in Cloghane village.
Average Daily Miles 38km /24ml

Day 3  Endless Views
Leaving Cloghane you head for the village of Brandon and Brandon Point and then on and over the famous Conor Pass with its breathtaking views that stretches for miles. In the distance you will see the fishing port town of Dingle and your stopover for the next three days. Dingle is the most westerly town in Europe and the chief town of the peninsula. It is an excellent centre for the visitor and though a progressive town, it still retains much of the old-world atmosphere of a fishing village. Dingle is an Irish-speaking fishing port and is home to Ireland's most famous dolphin "Fungie". Enjoy the beauty of Dingle and its surrounds, historical sites and warm hospitality for the next few days, cycling out towards the western shores and Slea Head with views of the Great Blasket Islands looming in the distance.
Average Daily Miles 34km /21ml

Day 4  Island Safari
Heading west from Dingle you cycle via Ventry to Slea Head with its magnificent breathtaking views across the Blasket Sound to the famous Blasket Island. From here you cycle on to Dunquinn and Ballyferriter on your way back to Dingle for the evening. Alternatively, today you can cycle to Dunquinn harbour and take the ferry to the Blasket Island and enjoy a walk around this mystical and enchanting place. Return to Dingle for your overnight stay.
Average Daily Miles 38km /24ml

 Day 5  Rest and Relaxation
Today you can take a rest day and explore the village of Dingle. Alternatively you can cycle north from Dingle through the village of Ballydavid and on to Brandon Creek. Alternatively if you fancy a walk you can leave the main route at the Bothar Pub and take the Saints Road up mount Brandon on foot, weather permitting. This is a 3 to 4 hour walk. Average Daily Miles 40km /25ml

Day 6  Shores of Dingle Bay
Cycling in an easterly direction by the shores of Dingle Bay you once again enjoy spectacular views and breathtaking scenery of this magnificent peninsula. Your destination is the tiny hamlet of Inch with its renowned and magnificent beach and ideal for a walk along its golden sands or a quick dip. On your way you can detour to visit the village of Annascaul, home to the famous explorer Tom Crean. Overnight in the village of Inch. Average Daily Miles 35km /22ml

Day 7  Inch to Tralee -
Today’s route continues along the coast to the historical village of Castlemaine with its neat little harbour and splendid bird sanctuary. From here you head north and take the "short mountain route" back to Tralee and your last night’s stopover. This is a very historical area and on your way you will pass the legendary mythological Queen Scotia’s grave which also offers fabulous views over Tralee Bay and North Kerry. Overnight in the town of Tralee. Average Daily Miles 30km /19ml

 Day 8  Sadly, we bid you farewell
After a final breakfast and farewell you leave your cycle behind you and follow your own arrangements for your onward journey.
The above cycle details are a guideline and all distances may vary according to your chosen route.

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CycleWest Ireland Ltd   Ph: +353 91 877323
Email: tours@cyclewest.com
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