One-Stop Resource for Bike Tours in Europe - and Now Beyond!
Representing Overseas Bike Tour Companies
More Than 200 Tours in 40 Countries
Get our newsletter | Contact Us
Call (877) 462-2423 or (423) 756-8907
One-Stop Resource for Bike Tours in Europe - and Now Beyond!
Representing Overseas Bike Tour Companies
More Than 200 Tours in 40 Countries
Get our newsletter | Contact Us
Call (877) 462-2423 or (423) 756-8907
|
Tour search View all tours
Choosing a tourTop 10 questions to askGuided Self-guided Ability level Riding style Choosing a destination |
DestinationsIn EuropeBeyond Europe
Special programsCustomGroups Clubs Help |
|
Book now |
Booking guideHow to bookTerms and conditions Payments Tour documents Insurance Help |
PreparationPassports, visas and vaccinationsPacking tips Weather Training tips Fixing a flat
TransportationInternational flightsGetting around Europe
Extending your tripHotels |
To bringMoneyClothing and equipment Packing list Phones Books and maps Insurance
|
Bike Tours DirectAbout usOur philosophy Our team Published praise Client feedback Contact us FAQs |
Bike tours (general info)Why tour by bike?Why go local? Pros and cons Green travel Blog Newsroom Help |
| Type of tour: | Self-guided |
| Level: | Challenging |
| Duration: | 7 Nights |
| Distance: | 43 Miles/day average |
| Dates: | Self-guided: Daily: April 1 to Oct 31, 2012 |
| Tour price: | €699 |
| Start city: | Lenane, Ireland |
| End city: | Lenane, Ireland |
This is a wonderful tour for independent cyclists, who wish to cycle more challenging distances each day. The circle is for the more advanced and avid cyclist wanting to enjoy cycling in fantastic settings, and explore the many attractions in the area at their own pace and leisure by covering around 43 miles/70 km per day.
There are still several choices you can decide upon, and shorter options should you decide on a more restful day. We provide well chosen pre-booked accommodation, as well as bikes and any equipment that is needed. The luggage is transferred each day in order to lighten the load. A full itinerary, maps, and suggested options are also part of this attractive package.
This is a wonderful tour for independent cyclists, who wish to cycle more challenging distances each day. The circle is for the more advanced and avid cyclist wanting to enjoy cycling in fantastic settings, and explore the many attractions in the area at their own pace and leisure by covering around 43 miles/70 km per day.
There are still several choices you can decide upon, and shorter options should you decide on a more restful day. We provide well chosen pre-booked accommodation, as well as bikes and any equipment that is needed. The luggage is transferred each day in order to lighten the load. A full itinerary, maps, and suggested options are also part of this attractive package.
Day 1: Arrival
Arrive in the village of Leenane (we can help arranging transfer). Warm welcome and chance to settle in. You will be given your route pack and general information to study overnight. If there is time we will allocate bikes and equipment. Dinner is available in Leenane village.
Day 2: Leenane - Westport (35 miles/56 km)
The first day's cycle is to Westport, via Leenane, Aasleagh Falls, Delphi Valley and Doo Lough, Louisburgh and along Clew Bay (56km with longer and shorter options). Stay the next two nights in B&B in the town of Westport, and choose dinner from one of the many wonderful restaurants.
Overnight in Westport.
Day 3: Westport - Achill Island - Westport (56 miles/90 km)
A day to explore Westport, various options ranging from the climb of Croagh Patrick and visit of Westport House, home of the Marquess of Sligo, and a fine Georgian Mansion. For your cycling itinerary there is a loop to Newport, and to Burishoole Abbey (15th century) and Carrigahooley Castle, stronghold of Grace O'Malley, where she dismissed her husband, and as far as Achill Island (approx 90km - with shorter alternatives). Return via the road along the shores of Clew Bay to Westport. Alternatively cycle along Clew Bay to Louisburgh, visit Murrisk Abbey (14th century) along the way.
Overnight in Westport.
Day 4: Westport - Cong (44 miles/70 km)
You leave Wesport today heading for Cong. Depart after breakfast via Aghagower, Toormakeady, Lough Mask, Finny, and Clonbur to Cong (70km). A good long cycle through a variety of scenery; hills, fine trout lakes, small country roads and you will stop at a suitable pub along the way to buy your own lunch. You stay the night in a Cong B&B. There are a number of restaurants in the village of Cong where you can get your evening meal.
Overnight in Cong.
Day 5: Cong - Carna (44 miles/70 km)
Continue your cycle from Cong today further south along the shores of Lough Corrib to Maam and across a small mountain pass to Maam Cross, before heading for Screeb and Kilkieran and to Carna, a small fishing village in South Connemara. Stay the night in B&B in Carna (Approx 70km).
Overnight in Carna.
Day 6: Carna - Leenane (38-50 miles/60-80km)
Depart Carna after breakfast to cycle to Leenane. You have the option of a loop going around Roundstone, and Ballyconneely, to Ballynahinch and via the Lough Inagh Valley (80km) as you cycle back to Leenane. Alternatively a more direct route to Cashel and Ballynahinch, via the Lough Inagh Valley (60km). You stay in Leenane for the next two nights in B&B/guesthouse in the village.
Overnight in Leenane.
Day 7: Leenane Loop (31-50 miles/50-80 km)
A lot to see on this day as you cycle pass Kylemore Abbey, Connemara National Park, Renvyle Castle and back to Leenane (50km). Longer option includes a cycle further south to Cleggan and Streamstown Bay (80km).
Overnight in Leenane.
Day 8: Departure
Departure after breakfast.
Daily: April 1 to Oct 31, 2012
| Category A |  |
||||||||||||||||
| 3-star hotel accommodations | |||||||||||||||||
|
|||||||||||||||||
| Category B | |
||||||||||||||||
| Bed and breakfast accommodations | |||||||||||||||||
|
|||||||||||||||||
Category A: 3-star hotel accommodations
Day 1: Leenane Hotel, Leenane
www.leenanehotel.com
Located on the N59 20 miles from both Westport and Clifden and 5 minutes walk from the Village of Leenane it has been operating close to 200 years as a coaching Inn.
Days 2 and 3: Clew Bay Hotel, Westport
www.clewbayhotel.com
Beautifully situated in the heart of Westport, Co. Mayo, this popular family-run hotel was renovated, extended and refurbished to a superior level in 2005.
Day 4: The Lodge at Ashford, Cong
www.thelodgeatashford.ie
The lodge is located at Ashford Castle estate, which was the home of the Guiness family until the 1900’s. The lodge overlooks the Lough Corrib and is spread upon a 365 acre estate.
Day 5: Carna Bay Hotel
www.carnabay.com
Carna Bay Hotel is a family run hotel situated in the heart of the Connemara Countryside. All rooms are en suite, with direct dial telephone. A la Carte or Table d'hote menus are available. You can relax and enjoy the very best in our specialties of fresh local seafood and Connemara lamb.
Days 6 and 7: Leenane Hotel, Leenane
www.leenanehotel.com
Located on the N59 20 miles from both Westport and Clifden and 5 minutes walk from the Village of Leenane it has been operating close to 200 years as a coaching Inn.
Category B: bed and breakfast accommodations
Day 1: Portfinn, Leenane
www.anu.ie/portfinn
Set among some of the most spectacular scenery in Ireland, and situated in the village of Portfinn Lodge is a family run Seafood Restaurant and Guesthouse.
Days 2 and 3: Linden Hall Guesthouse, Westport
http://new.lindenhallwestport.com/
The Linden Hall Guesthouse is located on Altamont Street, a residential street very close to the town centre, and just a short walk from the train station. The guesthouse is within easy walking distance of Westport town center.
Day 4: Michaleen Manor, Cong
www.congbb.com
Michaeleen's Manor Bed & Breakfast Accommodation is Cong's new and exciting B&B! If you are a Quiet Man fan then this B&B has been designed for you to give you a new Quiet Man experience.
Day 5: Sonas, Carna
www.sonasbandb.com
With Fantastic views of Mynish Island where there are many fine beaches, all within walking distance, Sonas B&B is the ideal place to relax and explore the surrounding area. “Sonas” is beautifully situated within walking distance of Irish Music Bars and fine Seafood Restaurants.
Days 6 and 7: Portfinn, Leenane
www.anu.ie/portfinn
Set among some of the most spectacular scenery in Ireland, and situated in the village of Portfinn Lodge is a family run Seafood Restaurant and Guesthouse.
Category C: hostel and bed and breakfast accommodations
Day 1 Sleepzone Hostel Connemara, Leenane
www.sleepzone.ie
Sleepzone Connemara is spectacularly situated in the heart of Connemara overlooking The Killary – Ireland’s only fjord, which runs 16km from the village of Leenane to where it opens onto the Atlantic Ocean. In his famous book of 1,000 'Unforgettable Places to See Before You Die' Steve Davey included Killary Harbour in the Top 40 - and we agree!
Days 2 and 3: Old Mill, Westport
www.oldmillhostel.com
The Old Mill Holiday Hostel is owned and run by the Carr family. It is set in an old courtyard, just off James Street, giving it a very central location in Westport, Co.Mayo. We hope you enjoy your time at the Old Mill and will return some day.
Day 4: The Quiet Man, Cong
www.quietman-cong.com
The Cong Hostel, can be rented outright and used in any way for groups.
Cong and its surrounding area are proving to be an incredibly popular area for Geological Studies Groups, so why not use Quiet Man Hostel as your groups' base to explore the area.
Day 5: Sonas, Carna
www.sonasbandb.com
With Fantastic views of Mynish Island where there are many fine beaches, all within walking distance, Sonas B&B is the ideal place to relax and explore the surrounding area. “Sonas” is beautifully situated within walking distance of Irish Music Bars and fine Seafood Restaurants.
Days 6 and 7: Sleepzone Hostel Connemara, Leenane
www.sleepzone.ie
Sleepzone Connemara is spectacularly situated in the heart of Connemara overlooking The Killary – Ireland’s only fjord, which runs 16km from the village of Leenane to where it opens onto the Atlantic Ocean. In his famous book of 1,000 'Unforgettable Places to See Before You Die' Steve Davey included Killary Harbour in the Top 40 - and we agree!
Category A: 3-star hotel accommodations
Day 1: Leenane Hotel, Leenane
www.leenanehotel.com
Located on the N59 20 miles from both Westport and Clifden and 5 minutes walk from the Village of Leenane it has been operating close to 200 years as a coaching Inn.
Days 2 and 3: Clew Bay Hotel, Westport
www.clewbayhotel.com
Beautifully situated in the heart of Westport, Co. Mayo, this popular family-run hotel was renovated, extended and refurbished to a superior level in 2005.
Day 4: The Lodge at Ashford, Cong
www.thelodgeatashford.ie
The lodge is located at Ashford Castle estate, which was the home of the Guiness family until the 1900’s. The lodge overlooks the Lough Corrib and is spread upon a 365 acre estate.
Day 5: Carna Bay Hotel
www.carnabay.com
Carna Bay Hotel is a family run hotel situated in the heart of the Connemara Countryside. All rooms are en suite, with direct dial telephone. A la Carte or Table d'hote menus are available. You can relax and enjoy the very best in our specialties of fresh local seafood and Connemara lamb.
Days 6 and 7: Leenane Hotel, Leenane
www.leenanehotel.com
Located on the N59 20 miles from both Westport and Clifden and 5 minutes walk from the Village of Leenane it has been operating close to 200 years as a coaching Inn.
Category B: bed and breakfast accommodations
Day 1: Portfinn, Leenane
www.anu.ie/portfinn
Set among some of the most spectacular scenery in Ireland, and situated in the village of Portfinn Lodge is a family run Seafood Restaurant and Guesthouse.
Days 2 and 3: Linden Hall Guesthouse, Westport
http://new.lindenhallwestport.com/
The Linden Hall Guesthouse is located on Altamont Street, a residential street very close to the town centre, and just a short walk from the train station. The guesthouse is within easy walking distance of Westport town center.
Day 4: Michaleen Manor, Cong
www.congbb.com
Michaeleen's Manor Bed & Breakfast Accommodation is Cong's new and exciting B&B! If you are a Quiet Man fan then this B&B has been designed for you to give you a new Quiet Man experience.
Day 5: Sonas, Carna
www.sonasbandb.com
With Fantastic views of Mynish Island where there are many fine beaches, all within walking distance, Sonas B&B is the ideal place to relax and explore the surrounding area. “Sonas” is beautifully situated within walking distance of Irish Music Bars and fine Seafood Restaurants.
Days 6 and 7: Portfinn, Leenane
www.anu.ie/portfinn
Set among some of the most spectacular scenery in Ireland, and situated in the village of Portfinn Lodge is a family run Seafood Restaurant and Guesthouse.
Category C: hostel and bed and breakfast accommodations
Day 1 Sleepzone Hostel Connemara, Leenane
www.sleepzone.ie
Sleepzone Connemara is spectacularly situated in the heart of Connemara overlooking The Killary – Ireland’s only fjord, which runs 16km from the village of Leenane to where it opens onto the Atlantic Ocean. In his famous book of 1,000 'Unforgettable Places to See Before You Die' Steve Davey included Killary Harbour in the Top 40 - and we agree!
Days 2 and 3: Old Mill, Westport
www.oldmillhostel.com
The Old Mill Holiday Hostel is owned and run by the Carr family. It is set in an old courtyard, just off James Street, giving it a very central location in Westport, Co.Mayo. We hope you enjoy your time at the Old Mill and will return some day.
Day 4: The Quiet Man, Cong
www.quietman-cong.com
The Cong Hostel, can be rented outright and used in any way for groups.
Cong and its surrounding area are proving to be an incredibly popular area for Geological Studies Groups, so why not use Quiet Man Hostel as your groups' base to explore the area.
Day 5: Sonas, Carna
www.sonasbandb.com
With Fantastic views of Mynish Island where there are many fine beaches, all within walking distance, Sonas B&B is the ideal place to relax and explore the surrounding area. “Sonas” is beautifully situated within walking distance of Irish Music Bars and fine Seafood Restaurants.
Days 6 and 7: Sleepzone Hostel Connemara, Leenane
www.sleepzone.ie
Sleepzone Connemara is spectacularly situated in the heart of Connemara overlooking The Killary – Ireland’s only fjord, which runs 16km from the village of Leenane to where it opens onto the Atlantic Ocean. In his famous book of 1,000 'Unforgettable Places to See Before You Die' Steve Davey included Killary Harbour in the Top 40 - and we agree!
Daily cycling will average 43 miles/70 km on low traffic back-roads, the terrain isn’t flat, but neither is it hilly, rather a rolling countryside. The tour is rated challenging and is for experienced cyclists in above average physical condition.
Daily cycling will average 43 miles/70 km on low traffic back-roads, the terrain isn’t flat, but neither is it hilly, rather a rolling countryside. The tour is rated challenging and is for experienced cyclists in above average physical condition.
Tour start and end
Nearest airport:
Nearest train station
You depart from your last night’s accommodation in Leenane. The operator can help with arranging transfers if required. There is a daily direct bus service in the summer only (June- August).
Tour start and end
Nearest airport:
Nearest train station
You depart from your last night’s accommodation in Leenane. The operator can help with arranging transfers if required. There is a daily direct bus service in the summer only (June- August).
Ireland has a long and storied history, and the rich culture embraces both the triumphs and struggles of this ancient land. From the earliest Celtic inhabitants to invasions, religious struggles, and seven centuries of Anglo-Irish conflict, the Irish spirit remains alive today in this land of spectacular landscapes and friendly people.
Ireland's lush landscapes provide the backdrop for charming villages, sprawling acres of grazing animals, and ancient and medieval ruins. The endless green hills unfold across the island to dramatic coastal cliffs. The glens and rivers offer a mystical feel to the storied countryside, while Ireland’s thriving cities offer the best of modern amenities and old European character. Visitors are often welcomed in pubs and taverns to enjoy hearty fare, a good pint, and, with any luck, a bit of traditional Irish music.
More on bicycling in Ireland >
Ireland has a long and storied history, and the rich culture embraces both the triumphs and struggles of this ancient land. From the earliest Celtic inhabitants to invasions, religious struggles, and seven centuries of Anglo-Irish conflict, the Irish spirit remains alive today in this land of spectacular landscapes and friendly people.
Ireland's lush landscapes provide the backdrop for charming villages, sprawling acres of grazing animals, and ancient and medieval ruins. The endless green hills unfold across the island to dramatic coastal cliffs. The glens and rivers offer a mystical feel to the storied countryside, while Ireland’s thriving cities offer the best of modern amenities and old European character. Visitors are often welcomed in pubs and taverns to enjoy hearty fare, a good pint, and, with any luck, a bit of traditional Irish music.
More on bicycling in Ireland >
Connemara Adventure Tours is leading Irish Tour Operator with more than 25 years experience in organizing guided, self-guided and customized travel packages for cyclists, walkers and horse-riders.We offer you accommodation options on our self guided cycling and walking tours in Connemara. You can choose the accommodation that suits your budget: hotel, Bed & Breakfast or hostel.
We look forward to seeing you on our tours!
Connemara Adventure Tours is leading Irish Tour Operator with more than 25 years experience in organizing guided, self-guided and customized travel packages for cyclists, walkers and horse-riders.We offer you accommodation options on our self guided cycling and walking tours in Connemara. You can choose the accommodation that suits your budget: hotel, Bed & Breakfast or hostel.
We look forward to seeing you on our tours!
Booking
A deposit has secured your booking. This is a non-refundable payment. The balance of payments is due 60 days before the tour starts.
Cancellations
Cancellations must be made in writing and the deposit is non refundable. The balance is due 30 days before the start of the course and when taken is also non refundable. We strongly recommend that you purchase air fare and tour package cancellation insurance at the time you make the deposit.
For guided tours only:
In case of less than stated minimum numbers for any one tour, Connemara Adventure Tours reserves the right to cancel up to four weeks before commencement date. In this case we will refund total received amounts. Wherever possible we will suggest alternative comparable tour, or if we have to cancel due to small numbers and the participants are still interested we will offer the tour at a newly calculated price. In the case all participants agree the tour will go ahead.
Travel + Airport Transfers
We include airport transfers in our prices for guided tours only, please note that these are subject to the Connemara Adventure Tours time-table; normally we meet guests between 12.00 - 16.00 on day one and transfer back on the last day to be at the airport at approx. 12.00. Please contact us in advance so we can help plan your arrival and departure arrangements. We can and do arrange taxis from all airports to any of our tour destinations. Furthermore timetables and rates for National Rail and Bus services can be supplied. We do not organize travel to Ireland from overs eas destinations.
Health and Fitness
Most tours are active holidays, and require at least moderate fitness levels according to description. Tours may involve 4 - 6 hours walking, or 3 - 5 hours cycling a day. Checking the suitability of each tour can help you to avoid disappointment. Those unaccustomed to activity are advised to take gentle exercise before the tour to fully enjoy the experience. Please advise us of any special medical, physical, or health requirements you may have, or conditions such as diabetes, epilepsy, asthma, disabilities, severe allergies, etc. and any medication you may be on.
Climate and Clothing
Ireland's climate is mild, frequently damp, highly changeable, with temperatures ranging from 53° to 82° F. we advise that both light and warm clothing is carried, rainwear is essential.
Food
Most special diets can be catered for, provided we are notified in advance
Children A lower age limit applies to some tours, please check with us in advance of booking.
Insurance
We provide full public liability for guests on our tours, however, we require you to purchase full health insurance, including coverage for repatriation. Please provide us with an indication that you have purchased this insurance at the time full payment is made. You can purchase this insurance from your travel agent.
Resonsibility
Connemara Adventure Tours act as agents for the traveler and can accept no responsibility for the service of any hotel, restaurant or carrier used in connection with these tours, nor any liability for claims, damages, expenses or other financial loss to persons or property. In the event that it becomes necessary or advisable Connemara Adventure Tours reserves the right to alter a tour should weather, clients preference, or other circumstances intervene. The right is reserved to cancel a tour and to decline to accept any pers on as a member of a tour at any time.
Due Diligence
The tours in our program have been designed to provide participants with an exposure of the true nature of the environment visited and therefore involve an element of personal risk and exposure to potential hazards above those associated with normal 'package holidays'. Bookings are accepted on the unders tanding that such risks are appreciated by the client.
Booking
A deposit has secured your booking. This is a non-refundable payment. The balance of payments is due 60 days before the tour starts.
Cancellations
Cancellations must be made in writing and the deposit is non refundable. The balance is due 30 days before the start of the course and when taken is also non refundable. We strongly recommend that you purchase air fare and tour package cancellation insurance at the time you make the deposit.
For guided tours only:
In case of less than stated minimum numbers for any one tour, Connemara Adventure Tours reserves the right to cancel up to four weeks before commencement date. In this case we will refund total received amounts. Wherever possible we will suggest alternative comparable tour, or if we have to cancel due to small numbers and the participants are still interested we will offer the tour at a newly calculated price. In the case all participants agree the tour will go ahead.
Travel + Airport Transfers
We include airport transfers in our prices for guided tours only, please note that these are subject to the Connemara Adventure Tours time-table; normally we meet guests between 12.00 - 16.00 on day one and transfer back on the last day to be at the airport at approx. 12.00. Please contact us in advance so we can help plan your arrival and departure arrangements. We can and do arrange taxis from all airports to any of our tour destinations. Furthermore timetables and rates for National Rail and Bus services can be supplied. We do not organize travel to Ireland from overs eas destinations.
Health and Fitness
Most tours are active holidays, and require at least moderate fitness levels according to description. Tours may involve 4 - 6 hours walking, or 3 - 5 hours cycling a day. Checking the suitability of each tour can help you to avoid disappointment. Those unaccustomed to activity are advised to take gentle exercise before the tour to fully enjoy the experience. Please advise us of any special medical, physical, or health requirements you may have, or conditions such as diabetes, epilepsy, asthma, disabilities, severe allergies, etc. and any medication you may be on.
Climate and Clothing
Ireland's climate is mild, frequently damp, highly changeable, with temperatures ranging from 53° to 82° F. we advise that both light and warm clothing is carried, rainwear is essential.
Food
Most special diets can be catered for, provided we are notified in advance
Children A lower age limit applies to some tours, please check with us in advance of booking.
Insurance
We provide full public liability for guests on our tours, however, we require you to purchase full health insurance, including coverage for repatriation. Please provide us with an indication that you have purchased this insurance at the time full payment is made. You can purchase this insurance from your travel agent.
Resonsibility
Connemara Adventure Tours act as agents for the traveler and can accept no responsibility for the service of any hotel, restaurant or carrier used in connection with these tours, nor any liability for claims, damages, expenses or other financial loss to persons or property. In the event that it becomes necessary or advisable Connemara Adventure Tours reserves the right to alter a tour should weather, clients preference, or other circumstances intervene. The right is reserved to cancel a tour and to decline to accept any pers on as a member of a tour at any time.
Due Diligence
The tours in our program have been designed to provide participants with an exposure of the true nature of the environment visited and therefore involve an element of personal risk and exposure to potential hazards above those associated with normal 'package holidays'. Bookings are accepted on the unders tanding that such risks are appreciated by the client.
|
|
|
Gold Corporate Member
|
