Connemara, Castles and Celtic Charm

There is no better way to experience Ireland’s rugged western coast than by bicycle. Explore all that is truly Ireland with this luxury bicycle tour of Ireland—weathered stone remains of ancient Celtic ruins, velvety pastures speckled with flocks of grazing sheep, and the timeless charm of traditional Irish pubs. By bike, the grandeur of the scenic Connemara comes alive, from the misted Valley of Inagh to the quartzite peaks of the Twelve Bens, the mystical Irish countryside envelopes you.

Ride the surreal, unspoiled terrain of Inishmór, the largest of the remote Aran Islands. And each day, as daylight fades, active travelers can settle into the welcoming warmth of a local pub, sharing in the jovial banter and the undying mercurial spirit of this enchanting Emerald Isle!

August 4, 2008 - 6 Days / 5 Nights
(similar itinerary for 2009)

Tour begins and ends in Galway
Activity Level: Moderate

Daily Rides:
Options from 10 – 50 miles

Beyond Biking:
Historical Site Visit, Cultural Tour, Boat Cruise

2008 Price:
$4,295 per person (USD)
$950 single occupancy supplement

Itinerary

Day 1 | County Mayo
Picnic on the grounds of Ashford Castle. Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of rural County Mayo and the Maumturk Mountains. Stay at Ashford Castle

Days 2 & 3 | Connemara
Ride quiet country roads past Irish villages and the scenic Killary fjord. Visit Kylemore Abbey. Visit the colorful seaside town of Roundstone. Visit a traditional Irish drum maker. Enjoy stunning views along the Sky Road of Clifden. Stay at Ballynahinch Castle or Zetland Country House

Day 4 | Aran Islands
Cycle the remote countryside and sheep-lined bog roads | Explore the ancient stone fortress of Dún Aengus | Pedal past fields of ancient stone walls and the rocky cliffs of the Atlantic. Stay at Kilmurvey House

Days 5 & 6 | Galway Bay

Ride along the northern shores of Galway Bay. Stay at Glenlo Abbey

Accommodations:

Ashford Castle | Cong
The majestic Ashford Castle is set on the shores of Lough (Lake) Corrib with stunning lake and river views surrounded by walking trails and a 9-hole golf course. The rooms are elegant, and amenities abound, such as massage, fitness center, and sauna. Member of The Leading Small Hotels of The World

Ballynahinch Castle | Recess

Ballynahinch Castle Hotel is an intimate 4-star hotel set in 450 acres of woodlands, rivers and walks in the heart of Connemara. Proud and majestic overlooking the infamous Ballynahinch River, whilst being surrounded by the splendor of the Twelve Bens Mountain Range.

OR

Zetland Country House | Cashel Bay County Galway

Zetland Country House Hotel Galway stands on the edge of Cashel Bay in Connemara. This country house is an oasis in this untamed landscape of mountains, lakes and white sandy beaches. The House was originally built as a Sporting Lodge in the early 1800s. Today, the Prendergast family has recreated the charm and elegance of those days combined with all the sophisticated luxury expected by discerning guests.

Kilmurvey House | Inis Mór, Aran Islands

Kilmurvey House is a family-run bed and breakfast. This comfortable inn is found just below the imposing ruins of Dún Aengus, and boasts a warm, cozy atmosphere and the friendliest hosts on the island.

Glenlo Abbey | Galway, Ireland

Built in 1740, the Glenlo Abbey is expertly decorated with period furniture and remarkable antiques. Each room is decorated with care, and the surrounding grounds offer a 9-hole golf course and acres of private, lush landscape to explore.

For details about Luxury Biking in Ireland,
2009 schedules and availability, contact
Linda Terrill, Destination Specialist-Tourism Ireland
800-863-9067 / 404-869-7412