TOUR REF: SGC BW
The scenic Beara Peninsula still retains an air of mystery. West Cork is one of the most scenic areas in Ireland, yet, because of its remoteness, it has been so far left untouched by mass tourism.
For those who enjoy history, there is a tangible sense of the past here, archaeological remains from pre-history mingle with romantic castle ruins, stone circles, wedge graves and ring forts are all set in dramatic scenery - mountain, lake, rock and sea.
It is a unique place in many ways as it has something to offer everyone - traditional farming and fishing still prevail. Altogether, the Beara Peninsula is a magical place, a place that will tempt you to return again and again. This week long self-guided cycling tour will enable you to make the most of the West Cork Beara Peninsula.
Daily cycling distances range from 35 - 48 km (22 to 30 miles) and we organise your luggage transfer daily. Accommodation is in family run guesthouses and B&B's along the route and we provide you with a full set of notes and maps for each leg of your cycle.
DAY 1: Arrival
Transfer from Shannon or Kerry Airport (see below). Arrival at accommodation in Killarney, a very scenic town set in the heart of County Kerry. Collect your bike and time permitting, you have the option of cycling round Killarney National Park and places of interest around Killarney town, before returning to your family run B&B for your first night' accommodation.
DAY 2: Killarney to Kenmare - Distance: 40km / 25 miles
You leave Killarney town and travel through the Robber's Den and Roughty Valley passing through the little village of Kilgarvan en route to Kenmare. Kenmare is an award winning town, full of interesting shops, lively pubs and good restaurants. Before retiring to your overnight accommodation in Kenmare, take a stroll to the ancient Stone Circle on the edge of this Heritage Town.
DAY 3: Kenmare to Castletownbere - Distance: 48km / 30 miles.
Today's cycle takes you from Kenmare along the Kenmare River through the scenic area of Lauragh and Ardgroom to the fishing town of Castletownbere where there are many archaeological sites. Admire the lush sub-tropical vegetation and enjoy a break along one of the many little sea coves along this wonderful stretch of Kenmare Bay. Overnight in the fishing town of Castletownbere, with its sea air and many pubs.
DAY 4: Castletownbere - Allihies - Eyeries - Castletownbere - Distance 40km / 25 miles.
Today you can enjoy a circular cycling route, which takes you through the most beautiful part of the Ring of Beara. Palm trees, wild flowers and colourful cottages and gardens abound. Stop off at the little villages and take time to chat to the locals. Return at your leisure to Castletownbere for another night in your local B&B.
DAY 5: Castletownbere to Glengariff - Distance: 45km / 28 miles
Leave the fishing town of Castletownbere to cycle along the coast to the beautiful village of Glengariff. Here you have a chance to take a boat and visit Garnish Island which is renowned for the richness of its plant life. There you can admire the Greek Sun Temple, an Italian Design Garden, De Medici Tower and its herbaceous borders. Overnight in a local B&B in Glengariff.
DAY 6: Glengariff to Kenmare - Distance: 35km / 22 miles.
Today you are heading back to Kenmare through the tunnel known as the Healy Pass which is cut into the mountains, where you get fantastic and unforgettable views over the valleys. Make the most of Kenmare by enjoying the many traditional music sessions in the town. Overnight in Kenmare.
DAY 7: Kenmare to Killarney - Distance: 35km / 22 miles.
Just when you thought you had seen it all, this may probably be the most scenic day of your tour. You cycle through the renowned Molls Gap (steep ascent) and down into Killarney passing the famed Ladies View and Muckross. Time permitting, take a visit of Muckross House, a 19th century Manor, or stop off in Molly Darcy's pub for some well deserved refreshment. Overnight in Killarney.
DAY 8: Departure
After your final Irish breakfast, optional complimentary transfer to Shannon or Kerry Airport (see transfer times below)
Dates 2008:
This self-guided cycling tour can be booked commencing on any Saturday during the year.
Price 2008:
€635.00 per person sharing
Accommodation is based on a twin sharing basis. A limited number of single rooms are available at a supplement of Euro 189.00 for the week.
Price Includes:
- 7 nights accommodation in Irish Tourist Board approved guesthouses or B&B's
- 7 Full Irish Breakfasts
- Luggage transfers between each accommodation
- 21 speed touring bike
- Detailed notes and maps of the route
- Courtesy transfer from/to Shannon or Kerry airports as per our schedule below.
- Note: We recommend that clients bring their own helmets and raingear for comfort and hygiene purposes
Transfer Times
Shannon Airport to Kerry (May-September) at 12.00 on Saturdays from the information point in the arrivals hall at cost of EUR35.00 per person each way. Return transfer arrives at Shannon Airport at 12.00 on Saturdays.
Kerry Airport to accommodation, between 08.00 and 18.00 Hrs. Return transfer arrives at Kerry Airport between 08.00 and 18.00 Hrs on Saturdays. Note: These transfers must be confirmed at time of booking with flight numbers and times for arrival and departure. If these transfers aren't confirmed at time of booking we will assume they are making their own way to their first nights accommodation. Arrangements can be made for a private taxi transfer (at clients own expense) should the Go Ireland transfer timetable not suit.