Look Ma! Look Da!
Connemara and the west coast is Ireland at its most beautiful, remote, mythical best. Out here, the mountains dip down and level out into the lunar landscape of the bog and the diversity of nature, coupled with the constantly changing weather, breeds a character all its own. In the numerous villages and towns we’ll bike through, one can’t help but feel a true Irish welcome. With all this, who needs the leprechaun's gold?
Trip Details
Moderate
Galway to Galway
6 Days / 5 Nights
Price per person from: $4,495
Single supplement: $400
See departure dates for exact pricing
Choose a Date
Day by Day
Explore the heart of Connemara, biking through the rugged contours of Cashel Bay. Kids enjoy a fun round of mini-golf while parents pedal north toward the Maumturk Mountains and the Twelve Pins. Later, join an Irish storyteller for some lilting tales.
Kids start the day with pony rides on the beach, as adults bike to charming Clifden, Connemara’s main market town. Join the kids for a ride out the jawdropping cliff-top loop known as the Sky Road, surrounded by endless church spires and castle ruins.
Pedal to the lovely village of Leenane for a morning of exploration. Later, parents remount bikes for an afternoon ride around the head of Killary Bay and into the Murrisk, while kids take on a high ropes course or some indoor climbing.
Kids engage in a morning of archery as the grown-ups bike a glorious ride to Louisburgh. Together, ride into the shadow of Croagh Patrick, the highest peak in the region, before rolling into Westport, a vibrant market town.
Take a morning jaunt along the Great Western Greenway, crossing rivers and traversing forests, with panoramas of the Newport Bay's islands around every turn. Walk to the Westport House gardens and adjoining Pirate Adventure Park for some history and fun.
After breakfast this morning, embark on the hour-long drive down to Galway City to exchange goodbyes with new friends, and from where rental cars, trains for Dublin or connecting transfers to Shannon Airport are available.
Hotels
Lough Inagh Lodge, Recess
This beautiful old fishing lodge is set in the most stunning area of the Inagh Valley, with amazing views from virtually every room. The huge beds, great fireplaces and good food are hallmarks of Irish comfort, all offered with loving care by brother-and-sister team, and long-time friends of B&R, Dominick and Máire. View hotel website »
Delphi Mountain Resort, Delphi
The perfect spot for active families, DMR prides itself on offering experiences, not stays. Organized on-site activities are the resort’s forte, with options galore for children of all ages. Adults will appreciate equally the Delphi Spa on the premises. View hotel website »
Knockranny House Hotel, Westport
Knockranny’s position on a hill above the town centre gives it tranquility in the evening, and tremendous views over Croagh Patrick and Clew Bay. Common areas and rooms are spacious, and its spa is excellent. On the main floor, its highly-rated Le Fougere restaurant is a great option for those wanting a more formal dinner with romantic atmosphere. View hotel website »
Activity Level
Moderate
We rate this trip Moderate. The terrain is generally up or down, with rare flat sections. That said, the climbs (and descents) are generally neither long nor steep. Daily distances average around 35 km (22 mi.) for adults, with a couple of challenging longer options available. The kids’ average ride is about 20 km (12 mi.). Please be advised that on this trip only adult hybrid bikes are available, in both men’s and women’s styles, as well as a range of children’s equipment. Please call for details.
Gear
The Bikes
You can't enjoy a great biking trip without a really great bike. On this trip to Ireland, we’ll use well-tuned, high-quality hybrid bikes that provide a good fit to your size and weight. A range of kids equipment, from trailers to hook tandems to smaller bikes, is also provided.
What's Included
- All hotel accommodation
- All breakfasts, two lunches (three for kids) and four dinners, including wine
- Services of B&R guide(s) and support van(s)
- All special events, private tours, guest experts and entrance fees
- Use of a hybrid bike fitted to your personal specifications, and equipped with handlebar bag and helmet
- Detailed maps, route suggestions and water bottle
- All transportation from rendezvous to drop-off
- All gratuities for baggage, porters and hotel service
At Your Service
We take pride in choosing guides who are not only exceptional travelling companions, but who’ll go far beyond the call of duty to ensure an unforgettable experience.
Accolades
“We loved our experience with B&R and truly fell in love with the unforgettable Connemara region, its stunning scenery and rich history.”
— The Gradeen Family,
Ireland with the Kids 2008
Notes from the Road
- In Ireland, an Ancestral AdventureTo set the mood for writing this Irish yarn, I am sitting here drinking a pint of Guinness and listening to the Chieftains, picturing green pastures and Jack Dillon, my Irish-Catholic New Yorker grandfather (who ironically cared neither for Guinness …
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