motorbike tour ireland

Motorcycle Across & Around the Republic of Ireland & Northern Ireland

Guided and self-guided tours, choose from our selection of guided, self-guided and custom tours.

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Exhilarating Motorbike Tours

Are you seeking an exhilarating adventure that combines the thrill of motorcycling with the charm of the Republic of Ireland? Look no further than a motorbike tour that will take you through the stunning landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant cities of this enchanting country. And to make your journey even more memorable, we’ve handpicked the best hotels in the country for you to stay in. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Embarking on a motorbike tour in the Republic of Ireland offers a unique and thrilling way to discover the beauty of this land. As you cruise along the winding roads, you’ll be captivated by the breathtaking scenery that unfolds before your eyes. From rugged coastlines and towering cliffs to picturesque countryside and verdant mountains, every twist and turn reveals a new and awe-inspiring vista.

One of the highlights of this adventure is the opportunity to stay in the finest hotels in the country. These accommodations boast world-class amenities, exceptional service, and a warm Irish welcome. Rest and rejuvenate in luxurious rooms that provide a haven of comfort after a day of exploration. Feel pampered as you indulge in spa treatments, savor delectable cuisine, and unwind in stylish lounges. These hotels are not just places to rest your head; they are an integral part of the Irish experience, offering a blend of traditional charm and modern luxury.

Throughout your motorbike tour, you’ll have the chance to visit iconic landmarks such as the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and the Giant’s Causeway. Immerse yourself in history as you explore ancient castles, medieval ruins, and charming villages steeped in Irish folklore. Engage with friendly locals who are always eager to share stories and recommendations, ensuring you have an authentic and enriching experience.

The Republic of Ireland is renowned for its lively cities, and during your motorbike tour, you’ll have the opportunity to visit some of the best. Dublin, the vibrant capital, is a melting pot of culture, history, and buzzing nightlife. Galway, known for its lively music scene and colorful streets, offers a taste of true Irish hospitality. Cork, with its rich heritage and charming waterfront, is a city that will capture your heart. Each city has its own unique character, ensuring that every stop on your tour is filled with excitement and discovery.

As you journey through the Republic of Ireland on your motorbike, you’ll create lifelong memories, forge new friendships, and experience the thrill of the open road. From the exhilarating rides to the breathtaking landscapes, every moment will be etched in your mind. And at the end of each day, you can look forward to unwinding in the comfort and luxury of the country’s best hotels, rejuvenating for another day of adventure.

So, rev up your engine, embrace the freedom of the open road, and embark on a motorbike tour through the Republic of Ireland. With the best hotels in the country awaiting your arrival, this thrilling adventure promises to be an experience you’ll cherish forever. Get ready to discover the hidden gems of Ireland, one exhilarating ride at a time.

Why Choose Bike Irish?

Our unique guided tours really show you the best of Ireland and make planning your motorcycle holiday nice and easy

Experienced and professional staff who know the country and your needs

We only tour around Ireland, nowhere else

We can help with your other travel arrangements, such as flights, stopovers, etc., however complex

Ride your motorcycle across The Emerald Isle

Incredible mountains, lakes and open National Parks to explore all the way from Cork to Donegal and everything in between.

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10 of the Best Motorcycle Touring Roads in Ireland

Riding a motorcycle can be fun and one of life’s greatest joys. Travelling with it brings even more joy and excitement to enthusiasts. The world is big, and so you should get on your bike and go exploring.

However, the big question is where to go on your bike? Well, there are many best drives in the world for bikers, and there is something for every motorcyclist. Whether you are heading on a day trip to have a leisurely ride to take in the picturesque surroundings, to have some quality time alone, or riding across the country to see unique attractions and differing landscapes in other locations, there is a fantastic motorcycle tour in Ireland for you.

Riding a motorcycle in Ireland is an interesting, exciting, and unforgettable experience. From high mountain passes to wild winding coastal roads, gentle lakeside rides to road trips through endless lush green valleys, Ireland has some of the best scenic drives in Europe.

You not only enjoy the great scenery at every turn, but you experience Ireland’s rural villages, local people, pubs, ancient history, mythology, heritage, and ancient trading and pilgrim paths. When you return from your holiday, long vacation or weekend trip, you’ll have many stories to tell about riding on the left-hand side along the winding country roads.

If you are looking for the best motorcycle touring roads in Ireland, check out these 10 routes!

1. The Wild Atlantic Way

The Wild Atlantic Way is a 1,550-mile (2,500km) long road connecting Ireland to Northern Ireland. It is the longest coastal route in the world. That is why it’s a sensational journey full of astonishing views. This road is very popular for those who want to explore Ireland and Northern Ireland, and one of the best motorcycle touring roads.

Enjoy plenty of natural beauty along the way, a dark blue sea and a lot of greenery throughout nine counties on the route. Most riders cover one country a day, starting by getting a boat to a plane to Derry, moving through counties until Cork or vice versa.

Selected post offices provide Wild Atlantic Way passports for €10. While it may not be essential, it can be a good way of documenting your trip. It is a great souvenir after a long journey.

2. Ring of Kerry scenic drive and cycle (200km/124 miles)

The world famous Ring of Kerry in County Kerry, in the south west of Ireland, is one of them ‘must do’ scenic motorcycle drives or cycles. Several top travel publications have named it as one of the best motorcycle road trips or drives.

The Ring of Kerry is a 180 to 200 km riding and cycling loop, which follows the Kerry coastline along the Wild Atlantic Way, visiting several great places including Killarney, Valentia Island, Derrynane, Kenmare and more.

3. Lough Corrib Scenic Loop Drive, Cong and Galway City

The Lough Corrib Scenic Loop Drive is 150km, starting from the Galway City in the south to the Cong, Co. Mayo’s picturesque village in the north. It forms a spectacular and beautiful inland circuit of Lough Corrib, the second largest lake in Ireland.

This is one of Ireland’s great motorcycle touring roads with the ever-changing scenery, castles, ruins, sheep-lined roads and many places to visit. Lough Corrib covers an area of about 175 square kilometers, starting from Galway City and encompasses the villages and towns of Moycullen, Cross, Maam Cross, Cong, Oughterard, and Headford.

With picnic spots, walks, cycles and scenic views at every turn, Lough Corrib separates the Maumturk Mountains and Connemara to the west from the rest of county Galway and Ireland to the east.

4. Inishowen Peninsula 100 mile Scenic Loop Drive, Donegal

The Inishowen 100 scenic tourist drive is a 100-mile (160km) signposted scenic riding route around the beautiful Inishowen Peninsula, Co. Donegal on the Wild Atlantic Way. The coastal motorcycle touring route passes many places of interest and top tourist attractions on the peninsula, and every turn comes with greats things to do from golf to fishing, blue flag beaches to Whale watching, and from hiking to cycling.

5. Boyne Valley Scenic Loop Drive, Meath

Follow in the footsteps of Ireland’s ancient High Kings and wander through the rich Irish history (9,000 years) on the 120 miles (190km) Boyne Valley Scenic Drive in County Meath . County Meath, the epicenter of Irelands Ancient East, is still known as the Royal County because High Kings have sat in this place since the second century AD.

You can start anywhere along the route, but for now, we’ll start in Drogheda, a historic town, where a St. Peters church contains Oliver Plunket’s real head. He was an Irish saint from the 1600s.

The high number of historic monuments shows the significance of this area now and during ancient times. Starting your motorcycle tour with a bang, you visit some of the oldest man-made structures in the world, the Dowth, Knowth and Newgrange burial mounds from the Brú Na Bóinne Visitor Centre, The Hill of Tara, where The Book Of Kells originated, the Battle of The Boyne site, Slane Castle, Trim Castle (of Braveheart fame), ancient Cairns and more.

6. Causeway Coast Scenic Drive, Co. Antrim

The 212-km (130-mile) Causeway Coastal Scenic Drive takes its name from the Giants Causeway. It’s a motorcycle road trip along the rugged and stunning coast of Northern Ireland connecting Irelands Wild Atlantic Way to Belfast City.

The riding route, following the coastline from Derry to Belfast , is one of the most scenic motorcycle touring roads in Ireland with some of the premier tourist attractions including the Giants Causeway and the Carrick a Rede Rope Bridge among several other equally impressive sights and activities.

7. Lough Gill and Yeats Scenic Drive, Sligo

From a spectacular landscape and the people who inspired the great works of WB Yeats to Irish Mythology and ancient prehistoric tombs, the Yeats County and Lough Gill Scenic Loop Drive or Cycle in Co. Sligo is a 115-mile (185-km) motorcycle road trip and a heritage trail through the most scenic, awe-inspiring and interesting places on Irelands Wild Atlantic Way.

Starting and ending in the center of Sligo, this motorcycle drive gives you a perfect mix of scenic views, Irish culture, beaches, literary history, Irish mythology, walks, mountains, watersports, ancient tombs, cycles and more.

8. Dingle Peninsula Drive incl. Slea Head from Tralee

The Tralee to Dingle Scenic Drive is an 84-mile (135-km) full day or multiple days road trip on the Wild Atlantic Way. It’s one of Ireland’s most spectacular scenic motorcycle touring roads, with breathtaking coastline views, cliff top roads, nearly 200km of great beaches, high mountain passes, Blasket Islands, diving, surfing, walking and other awe-inspiring things to see and do along the way.

You can start the trip in either Dingle or Tralee, and it takes in the entire Dingle peninsula with a magnificent figure of 8-loop that lets you break up the route into many days or interesting places to stop for food and drink.

9. Copper Coast Scenic Drive, Waterford and Wexford

The Copper Coast Scenic Drive and Cycle Route is 100-mile (166-km) full day or multiple days, spectacular coastal road trip starting from Rosslare in Co. Wexford or Dungarvan, Co. Waterford.

The Copper Coast Drive is one of Ireland’s most scenic riding and cycle routes and a great way to explore Ireland’s Ancient East. The route takes in the entire Copper Coast European Geopark between Tramore and Dungarvan in County Waterford and extends onwards to Dunmore East, passing Waterford City, down to the Hook Head Peninsula and Lighthouse, Kilmore Quay, Tintern Abbey and more.

10. The Comeragh Mountains, Cashel and The Vee Drive, Co. Waterford, and Tipperary

Follow in the footsteps of the ancient hero of Irish Mythology FionnMacChumhaill on this scenic motorcycle-touring road, in a place that was home to Ireland’s first settlers almost 10, 000 years ago when ice covered the rest of Ireland.

This 140 mile (230 km) full day route takes over a week to finish properly and see all sights attractions including the secluded Nire Valley, the magical and scenic ComeraghMtns, the splendid Glen of Aherlow, The Vee scenic mountain pass, the banks of the River Suir, the world famous Rock of Cashel, Tipperary, the heritage town of Lismore, Cahir Castle, and the seaside town of Dungarvan in an area now known as the Munster Vales that covers Waterford, Tipperary, Limerick and Cork.

As you plan your motorcycle road trip, you should find and book your accommodation as well. You can book quality and affordable traditional Irish cottages at Donegal Thatch Cottages where you will stay while on your road trip.

If you are looking for a new motorbike to take on any of these routes, WeBuyAnyBike can help by buying your current one.

You can get a FREE Valuation for your motorbike and if you accept, we will come and collect it for FREE from anywhere in the UK. We will pay you via bank transfer within 4 working days, or you can choose our Premier Payment option to get your money instantly.

SELL MY MOTORBIKE

11 Jul 2019

For any blog enquiries, please email [email protected] View all posts by Helmut

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Reuthers Ireland / Europe Guided Motorcycle Tour

Discover with us, the Emerald Isle on this 8-day Guided motorcycle tour of Ireland that will take you around the whole island on a Harley-Davidson. Your motorcycle tour begins in the Northern Ireland capital of Belfast and leads you past beautiful country roads with ancient castles and abbeys over to the west to Donegal. Visit Dunluce Castle, Kylemore Abbey and the famous Cliffs of Moher, then the world famous Ring of Kerry awaits you, a roundtrip through the picturesque peninsula of Kerry with its rugged mountains and impressive cliffs. Through the seaport of Cork and the Hill of Tara, you will finally reach Belfast, where your Guided motorcycle tour through Ireland ends with a freshly drafted Guinness and a glass of Irish whiskey.

Day 1: Belfast

Welcome to Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland. After arrival we pick you up from the airport for a transfer to your hotel. In the evening we invite you for a Welcome Drink and Dinner and give you more information about our common Ireland adventure.

Day 2: Belfast > Donegal

Collecting the Harley-Davidson motorycles from the rental office, starting the motorcycle tour and heading to Carrickfergus Castle, Kinbane Head and the worldfamous Dunluce Castle. If possible, we also visit an original Game Of Thrones filming location. We will spend the night in Donegal where you can enjoy an Irish pub in the evening.

Day 3: Donegal > Clifden

We will cruise pass the impressive table mountain Ben Bulbin and visit Kylemore Abbey and its elaborately designed gardens. Our overnight stay is in the Connemara National Park in Clifden.

Day 4: Clifden > Tralee

The stone grave The Dolmen is a must to visit and of course we'll have a closer look at the world famous Cliffs of Moher with the O'Brien Tower.

Day 5: Tralee > Killarney

After a photo stop at the Blennerville Windmill, the largest windmill in Ireland, we will pass over the Connor Pass, visit the Gallarus Oratory and pass Slea Head directly on the coast. We will spend our lunch time in the typical Irish town Dingle. In the afternoon relaxing on Inch Beach is part of the plan.

Day 6: Killarney > Cork

Today on the agenda is a dream ride along the world famous Ring of Kerry, the Ring of Beara and the overwhelming Healy Pass as well as visiting Blarney Castle near Cork. According to a legend, kissing the Blarney Stone endows the kisser with the gift of persuasive speech - what a day!

Day 7: Cork > Dublin

Starting from Cork, we will reach early in the morning the Heritage Center in Queenstown, which gives us an insight on the migration of several million Irish to the New World. Queenstown was also the last port of call of the Titanic on its sad maiden voyage. A visit to the more than 800 year old Hook Lighthouse, the oldest still operating lighthouse in the world, will round off this eventful day.

Day 8: Dublin > Belfast

Our last day on the road with a cultural highlight at its best - the famous Hill of Tara, where once hundreds of kings reigned. After dropping off the Harley-Davidson motorcycles and meeting for our traditional Farewell Dinner we finish this wonderful tour of Ireland.

Learn more about this Guided Motorcycle Tour:

What's included - pricing - dates.

What's included: * The Original Tour - developed and organised by Reuthers * Reuthers Tour Guide - trained and multilingual * Rental Motorcycle for the Tour including third party and comprehensive insurance * Reuthers POMZEC© (Peace Of Mind Zero Excess Coverage) for the rental vehicle * 8x Accommodation Middleclass Hotels/Motels in shared Double Room * Accommodations including Breakfast * Reuthers Partner Vacation Program© (Escort Vehicle for Companions) * Luggage Transportation during the Tour * Secured Payment Certificate (Sicherungsschein) * Reuthers Tour Book with Itineraries and Tips * Reuthers Travel Lecture (in English) * Reuthers Welcome Drink * Welcome Dinner in Restaurant * Farewell Dinner in Restaurant * Local Ferries * Fuel for the Tour * Transfers Airport > Hotel > Rental Station > Hotel > Airport * Entrance and Parking Fees * Motorway and Road Tolls * Reuthers Rewards"> Reuthers Rewards Best Value - NO Hidden Costs > Why Reuthers ?

Pricing: Guided: Rider own Motorcycle = EUR 3085 Guided: Rider Rental Motorcycle = EUR 4335 Guided: Passenger Motorcycle = EUR 2415 Guided: Passenger Escort Vehicle = EUR 2525 Twin Room extra charge (2 separate beds instead of 1 common bed) = EUR 115 Single Room extra charge (instead of shared Double Room) = EUR 745

Optional Bookings: Additional Accommodation prior tour start in shared Double Room (1 common bed) = EUR 95 Additional Accommodation prior tour start in shared Twin Room (2 separate beds) = EUR 105 Additional Accommodation prior tour start in Single Room = EUR 165 Additional Accommodation after the tour in shared Double Room (1 common bed) = EUR 95 Additional Accommodation after the tour in shared Twin Room (2 separate beds) = EUR 105 Additional Accommodation after the tour in Single Room = EUR 165 Belfast Best Of - Sightseeing on Day 1 including additional Accommodation prior tour start in shared Double Room (1 common bed) = EUR 275 Belfast Best Of - Sightseeing on Day 1 including additional Accommodation prior tour start in shared Twin Room (2 separate beds) = EUR 295 Belfast Best Of - Sightseeing on Day 1 including additional Accommodation prior tour start in Single Room = EUR 345

All pricing payable in Euro . 3% Early Bird Discount (booking more than 12 months prior tour start) 2% Golden Ager Discount (age at least 60 years prior tour start) 10% Group Discount (from 8 registrations made within one week, one common Payment of Balance) 2% Harley Owners Group Discount 2% BMW Motorcycle Owners Club Discount 2% Indian Motorcycle Riders Group Discount 2% Riders Association of Triumph Discount Please note: The Total Discount for all applicable Discounts is a maximum of 10%.

Paying in the above tour currency is the cheapest way. If you prefer another currency - simply select:

Your selected Currency

Important note about  >   Pricing

Please select from the popular > Harley-Davidson touring models

By the way, this Ireland motorbike tour and our Scotland Motorcycle Tour are part of the 25 day My Heritage trip which also includes England . If your ancestors once left the Old World in order to build a better New World, you now have the opportunity to learn more about the countries of your forefathers...

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MAD HATTER​

Motorcycle adventures.

A Coastal Craic

Duration: 6 Days  

Dates:   10 - 15 May 2023

Spaces:   Available

This trip is a real favourite - it takes in the amazing south coast of the Emerald Isle with its stunning landscapes and near-empty roads. We will take you down ‘roads less travelled’, across mountain passes, round the wonderful coastline, famed for its beauty and a myriad of magnificent, wild Irish places. You will enjoy dramatic views, lighthouses, harbours and quaint seaside villages, full of heritage and history. 

The south coast of Ireland is one of the most beautiful and inspiring parts of the British Isles and this adventure will bring you the best of it!

The trip officially starts at the charming fishing village of Kinsale, with its delightful pubs and restaurants clustered around the picturesque harbour. 

You will need to get yourself to the port at Fishguard where you will be met in time to catch the lunchtime ferry across to Rosslare. You will ride to Kinsale for the first night and dinner in one of Ireland's most famous fish restaurants.

You will spend the next few days riding through some stunning country, over mountain passes (including the famous Healy Pass) and along gorgeous coastlines, including the beautiful Ring of Kerry and the Dingle peninsula where you will ride the wonderful Conor Pass.  You will stay in some great little places, steeped in Irish mystery and enjoy some of the legendary Irish hospitality along the way.

The route will take you up the west coast via delightful villages like Doolin (where you will have the chance to jump on a boat to view the spectacular Cliffs of Moher) and on to Galway, before heading back to Dublin to catch the ferry to Holyhead and into Snowdonia for the final night.  

We leave in the morning at 9.00am and aim to be at our destination by 6.00pm in the evening.  This equates to around 6 hours in the saddle - we typically ride for an hour and a half before a 20 minute break for coffee with a 1 hour stop for lunch and another break in the  afternoon . We are definitely happy to stop to admire the view and for photo opportunities along the way.

Adventure Overview

We will meet you at  Fishguard harbour before boarding the ferry to Rosslare

You will ride to the fishing village of Kinsale on the South coast ​ for the  first night

You will enjoy a wide variety of wild Irish landscape from coastline to mountain passes including the famous Healy Pass amongst others

Nights will be spent in small but charming hotels or B&Bs in picturesque villages along the coast

You will have the chance (optional) to enjoy boat trip to see the famous Cliffs of Moher following a musical night in Gus O'Connell's legendary bar in Doolin

The pace will not be quick as most roads will be small coastal lanes but you will be able to enjoy the views to the full!

 The final night in Ireland is spent in the lively  town  of Galway from where you will head to Dublin harbour to take the ferry to Holyhead

The trip ends after a night in a quaint village in Snowdonia .

Minimum: 3 bikes, 3 people

Maximum: 6 bikes 

1 rider, 1 room

£1,695

1 rider, 1 pillion, 1 room

£2,195

2 riders, 1 room

£1,435 per person

Prices include:

Ferry crossings from UK to Ireland return

All accommodation 

Breakfast every day

Dinner on 1 evening

An experienced guide throughout your stay

Some awesome riding!

Prices exclude:

Insurance - we recommend that you take out personal travel insurance before you set off

Any food and drink consumed along the way except as stated above

All fuel throughout the trip

Motorway tolls

Motorcycle rental - this can be arranged for you given sufficient notice and subject to availability

Please note that routes and trip details may change due to circumstances beyond our control.  We will inform you of this as soon as is practicable.

The Best of the Emerald Isle

Ride the roads voted the best by Irish bikers and discover this amazing country and its fascinating history.

Select Date

Select Rider Type

Select Accommodation Type

Select Bike Choice 1 (Price shown excludes motorcycle rental)

Select Bike Choice 2 (Price shown excludes motorcycle rental)

Select Bike Choice (Price shown excludes motorcycle rental)

EMAIL US FOR PRICING

What's included?

• Guided Tour
• 12 Day Tour
• Peak District, UK
• HIRE BIKE AVAILABLE

05/07/24 – 16/07/24 30/08/24 – 10/09/24 04/07/25 – 15/07/25 29/08/25 – 09/09/25 03/07/26 – 14/07/26 28/08/26 – 08/09/26

Ride to the Peak District national park to meet up with your guide and tour mates and break the ice over dinner in a beautiful country house hotel. You'll be all set to head to Holyhead port the following day for your crossing to Ireland. After docking, stay overnight in Dublin before riding the east coast to Belfast, arriving in time for an afternoon in the city. The following day is dedicated to exploring Belfast, with a visit to the Titanic quarter at the docks to explore both the history of the most famous passenger ship in the world, and visit the beautifully restored SS Nomadic Titanic’s sister ship and the last surviving White Star liner. There are also added options to tour the infamous Crumlin Road jail, walk in the lush botanical gardens or visit Queen's University.

From here we say goodbye to Belfast and journey to Londonderry, with lots to see off the bike- including visits to two iconic Irish sites, the Giant's Causeway and the birthplace of modern Irish Whisky in the village of Bushmills, where you can take a distillery tour. A nice relaxing ride the next day to Ballina as you cruise down the west coast of Ireland and cross into the Irish Republic, where our lunch stop incorporates a water-bus tour of Donegal bay that is not to be missed!

I love riding the rural roads in Ireland. Traffic free, glorious views, and just over the water. One of my favourite tours for sure.

Beautiful roads & scenery

Heading south to Galway bay, we find ourselves on some of the very best biking roads in Ireland as voted by Irish bikers themselves. Following the waypoints to stay on track, our route skirts both Ballycroy and Connemara national parks - which will guarantee an appreciation for the Irish love of road racing!

Leaving Galway we ride around (not through!) the prehistoric bogs of Ireland, including the areas around the famous Maghera and Woodcock hill bogs. After lunch we find ourselves on one of the most scenic roads in Ireland, the internationally famous World Heritage route called The Ring of Kerry. Another firm favourite riding route with Irish bikers. This coastal route is widely acclaimed as one of the top 5 most beautiful road journeys in the British Isles.

Heading to Waterford, with its amazing Viking history, we ride around Kenmare Bay and again pass several prehistoric peat bogs before following the river Lee to Macroom. We then have a short ride to Blarney castle to kiss the world-famous Blarney stone, which Irish legend has it will give you the ‘gift of the gab’.

We have a short final day in Ireland as the ferry check-in closes at 2pm with some nice scenic roads in the Wicklow Mountains National Park, and a chance to buy last minute souvenirs too. From here we cross to the island of Holyhead, next to Anglesey and the British mainland once more. Your final night of the tour will be back in the beautiful Peak District national park, ready to head for home the following day, or to explore the Peaks before joining our Scotland tour heading north!

If you’ve never been across the sea to Ireland….. believe us there is no better way to see the Emerald Isle in all its glory than on this tour!

Tour highlights

Explore the Emerald Isle on routes selected from the roads voted ‘The best biking roads in Ireland’ by Irish bikers.

Visit the iconic Giants Causeway, with its fascinating hexagonal rock steppingstones, and follow in the footsteps of prehistoric man.

Visit the Titanic Museum, and explore the history of this ill-fated ship built in Belfast.

Visit the towns and cities of Limerick, Belfast, Dublin and Donegal.

'Deep blue sea, a cold sky, winds off the north Atlantic. Sheep graze above rocky cliffs, fields defined by stone walls, ancient structures ignore the passage of time, pleasant empty stretches of road. Periodic settlements of tightly clustered buildings, some with little castles hinting the Vikings could be just over the horizon….Magellan Motorcycle Tours did a great job.'

Visit and explore the Crag cave system, one of the best underground experiences in Ireland.

Visit Blarney Castle and kiss the legendary Blarney Stone to get the famous “gift of the gab”.

Visit Waterford Crystal, and the Waterford Viking triangle, with its museum and replica longship.

Visit the Bushmills distillery and take a tour of the oldest whisky distillery in Ireland.

Take a water bus tour of Donegal bay, and see seals and even dolphins if you are fortunate.

Ride the acclaimed World Heritage route around the Ring of Kerry, and see some of the most breath-taking views anywhere in the British Isles.

Tour Map / Itinerary

Full Itinerary

Day 1 170 Miles

Ride to the Peak District national park to meet your guide and group, and get to know everyone over dinner.

Day 2 150 Miles

Head to Holyhead for the ferry to Dublin where you will spend the night.

Day 3 165 Miles

Dublin to Belfast, you ride up the east coast of Ireland and visit Kirkistown motor racing circuit, home of the Kirkistown 500, and Strangford Lough. Time to begin exploring Belfast on arrival in the afternoon.

Day 4 Explore Day

Day off the bike to explore Belfast. Visit the Titanic museum and maritime Belfast, the botanical gardens and the University quarter.

Day 5 144 Miles

Scenic coastal riding, a haunted house, the Giant's Causeway and the oldest whiskey distillery in Ireland are all on the route today.

Day 6 165 Miles

A beautiful, classic Magellan riding day down the west coast on some of the roads voted the best in Ireland by Irish bikers themselves. A water bus tour of Donegal Bay and great views are a couple of today’s treats.

Day 7 195 Miles

National Parks and peat bogs galore, as once again you follow some of the best biking roads in Ireland and continue down the west coast.

Day 8 224 Miles

Visit Limerick and the beautiful Crag caves, before riding the internationally famous World Heritage route ‘The Ring of Kerry’.

Day 9 216 Miles

Ride around Kenmare Bay and then on past prehistoric peat bogs to reach Blarney Castle and kiss the famous Blarney Stone, then on to Waterford, the home of Waterford Crystal, and the Viking discovery triangle.

Day 10 109 Miles

Visit a Celtic craft centre, an ancient monastery and then ride through the Wicklow Mountains on the route back to Dublin for the 2p.m. ferry back across the water to Holyhead in Wales.

Day 11 150 Miles

From Wales, head back to the Peak District national park once more, in the heart of the English midlands.

Say farewell to the rest of your touring buddies and depart for home, or explore the Peaks before joining our Scotland tour.

Common questions about this trip

Where does this tour start from?

This tour meets up in the Peak District, but we can easily include additional nights to suit your schedule. Just let us know when you book. If you are renting a motorcycle then the tour will start from our rental facility in the south-east of England near London.

Can I choose a different crossing to Ireland?

Of course, alternate ferry routes include Liverpool, Cairnryan or Fishguard, if you would like to make your own way to Dublin and join the route on Morning 3 of the itinerary just let us know in the comments box and we’ll deduct the outbound crossing cost from your trip.

What’s the weather like on this tour?

We pick the tour dates to make the best of the weather and also avoid the crowds in peak season. With it being the UK however it could be sunshine, rain or anything in between. A sensible mix of vented kit and waterproofs with some base layers should cover all eventualities. Full kit and packing lists are supplied and we are happy to offer advice on packing for any of the trips.

Can I extend this trip?

Of course, we run a 12 day Scotland trip that starts the day this trip finishes and these are designed to be done back to back, click here for more info.

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• SELF GUIDED

Discover the western gems, Donegal, Westport and Bunratty on our seven day Celtic Rider self-guided motorcycle tour.

Kicking off your Celtic Rider experience is our one hour award-winning Safety Orientation Course followed by a ride out with a Celtic Rider team member. Donegal was voted ‘Coolest Place on earth 2017’ by the National Geotraveller. Mayo’s town of Westport is where you will be residing for two evenings, has been voted ‘Tidy Town of Ireland’ numerous times. Bunratty is neighboring the infamous Cliffs of Moher!

This midi sized tour offers a burst of culture, whilst taking in stunning land and seascapes along the way. Enjoy six evenings of Irish hospitality whilst staying in accommodations hand chosen by Celtic Rider, each aimed at providing for our riders.

Day 1 – Celtic Rider Offices to Donegal. (Two nights in Donegal) (140 Miles/ 223Km)

• Generally, we ask riders to make their way to Celtic Rider between 9.30 am and 10am. Then after the bit of paperwork, enjoy our short safety orientation video in the classroom, and just as important, on the road of today’s actual route, for about an hour or so.

Head North west along the N3, I recommend stopping at Lakeside Manor Hotel in Virginia for lunch, a nice hotel beside beautiful Lough Ramor, 50 miles from Celtic Rider, plenty of parking space at this quaint hotel

This ride briefly takes you through Northern Ireland, along upper and lower Lough Erne. There are no customs checks in Ireland anymore, the only difference you will notice are the speed signs are in miles per hour, not km.

Entering Donegal town, check out Donegal Castle and Magee’s tweed shop, conveniently located 100 yards from each other in the town centre.

Check into Donegal accommodation for 2 nights.

Good restaurants are ‘The Harbour’ and ‘The Olde Castle’

Call into Reels Pub, traditional music every evening and a real turf fire!

Day 2 – Your second day in Donegal. Donegal to Donegal (141 Miles/ 226 Km)

• Follow the Garmin route up through Barnesmore gap, a smugglers haven in time gone by.

Continue the ride to the stunning Glenveagh National Park and Castle in North West Donegal, with the majestic Derryveagh mountains all around you.

The Castle is set in a beautiful garden, nice to relax in for a while, have some refreshments and enjoy the short guided tour of the Castle itself.

Departing Glenveagh note Mount Errigal, Ireland’s most iconic mountain, with its quartzite top.

Continue riding along the route through wild and remote Donegal to Ardara, than ride the Glengash Mountain Pass.

Onwards to Carrick, than Teelin village, follow the route to ‘The Rusty’ a small old pub and just 100 metres after the pub you turn right to the start of the ascent to the highest sea cliffs in Europe, Slieve League Cliffs, at 2000 ft high.

The ride up is as memorable as the amazing view from the upper parking area, accessed by opening a farm gate on the way up. Often there are trawlers fishing, they look like tiny dots on the Atlantic Ocean from the summit of the cliffs.

Return to Donegal accommodation via Killybegs, Ireland’s deep sea fishing port, very photographic coastal town.

Day 3 – Donegal to Westport (2 nights in Westport) (156 Miles/ 250 Km)

• Departing Donegal head south , Drumcliff is where Ireland’s beloved poet W.B.Yeats is laid to rest. Benbulbin table top mountain dominates the skyline

Must visit is the Ceide Fields Visitor Centre, the oldest and largest stone walled village in the world, 5200BC

Ride south through Ireland’s most remote area, from Bangor ride Ballycroy National Park, please stop at the Ballycroy visitor centre, Europe’s largest expanse of blanket bog, local people working there will happily tell you the history of this region

View the Nephin Beg Mountains and look out for local people cutting turf

The ride to Mallarany is spectacular as it winds along the sea

There is a nice Abbey, Burrishoole Abbey, between Mallaranny and Newport, optional but worth visiting

Check into Westport accommodation for 2 nights.

Day 4 – Your second night in Westport. Westport to Westport (130 Miles/ 206 Km)

• Leaving Westport for Maam Cross we are now heading for the spiritually haunting experience of Connemara national park, a magical ride

From Maam cross ride to Roundstone coastal village than continue to Clifden

From Clifden town take the aptly named ‘Sky Road’ with outstanding sea views are you ride higher and higher to the viewing area

Continue to Kylemore abbey for hot scones and freshly brewed tea This is a magnificent Benedictine Abbey in a stunningly beautiful wooded valley

Ride to Leenane village look at Irelands deepest Fjord, than ride the incredible and narrow Doo Lough mountain pass, the Gem of Mayo, with towering mountains on either side of you

Doo Lough Pass is steeped in history, some quite sad as many Irish people died of starvation along this pass during the great hunger, the famine years of the late 1840s.

There is a stone cross commemorating those who perished and a famine walk every year along this stunningly beautiful area. The words on the cross are very poignant and it is worthwhile to stop here for a short while.

Ride back now Westport via Louisburgh and admire Irelands holy mountain ‘Croagh Patrick’ en route back to Westport

Day 5 – Westport to Bunratty (2 nights in Bunratty) (132 Miles/ 210 Km)

• Departing Westport ride to Leenane than skirt around Galway city.

Take the N67 coast road to Kinvara village, optional visit to Dunquire Castle, you can walk up a very narrow stone stairwell to the top of the castle

Optional visit to Aillwee caves, a subterranean cave deep under the Burren, a great tourist attraction. Park bikes in the upper car park with fantastic views across Galway bay.

The Burren National park is unique in the world; it is a vast limestone plateau covering 400 sq kms(250 sq miles).

Next stop is Poulnabrone megalithic portal Tomb, many thousands of years old. You are now in the heart of the Burren National Park Skirt around Ennis and continue to Bunratty Village.

Enjoy a four course medieval meal in Bunratty castle, or a traditional night of Irish food and dance in the Corn Barn, alternatively Durty Neely’s is a great old pub in the village

Day 6 – Your second day in Bunratty. Bunratty to Bunratty (117 Miles/ 186 Km)

• Ride to Ennistymon and continue to the Cliffs of Moher, magnificent vertical cliffs towering over the Atlantic Ocean, shortlisted to be one of the great natural wonders of the World.

Travel onwards to Doolin, optional and exciting ferry ride to see the cliffs from the ocean, spectacular on a sunny day.

Follow the route north along the coast road to Blackhead, stopping at Murrooughtoohy car park. Take a walk on this bizarre limestone beach with millions of boulders deposited from the last Ice age, and beautiful wild orchids living in cracks in the limestone rock. A short walk brings you to the ocean.

Continue along the route to Ballyvaughan than ride to Lisdoonvarna (famous the world over for its matchmaking festival in Sept) via Corkscrew hill, very tight hairpins.

Follow the route to Kilfenora, interesting visitor centre there, optional, continue back to Bunratty accommodation via Carrofin.

Day 7 – Bunratty to Celtic Rider Rental Station (138 Miles/ 230 Km)

• Leaving Bunratty ride to the M7, and take this pleasant 2 lane highway through the midlands of Ireland to Dublin and Celtic Rider.

From Kilkenny continue to Celtic Rider and fuel up before returning motorcycle/s.

Returning to our rental station, we can assist with unpacking, your motorcycle or Spyder check-over, and complete the paperwork and pre-auth. If you don’t have a taxi App on your phone we can call one for you.

Pricing & Details

• €3,750 Rider + Pillion
• €5,630 2 Riders Sharing
• €3,910 Rider + Pillion
• €5,940 2 Riders Sharing
• BMW R 1250 GS, BMW R 1250 GS Adventure
• €4,690 Rider + Pillion
• €6,720 2 Riders Sharing
• Can-Am Spyder F3

Optional extras

Hire of premium guaranteed waterproof KLIM riding gear is €20 per day.

The Celtic Rider Package

• Rental of motorcycle , which includes, top box, side cases and inner bags

Accommodation in Irish owned B&B guesthouses of a very high standard, personally hand selected by Paul Rawlins, founder and owner of Celtic Rider

Award winning 2 hour long orientation course specifically designed for riders from countries that ride on the opposite side of the road to Ireland which is guaranteed to enhance your overall riding experience, here in Ireland

Third Party insurance, with an excess of €1,500 which is the maximum charged for accidental damage or theft

Full tank of fuel on departure, to be returned with full tank of fuel, tank bags are free of charge if you want one.

• The latest Garmin Zumo 590, with our award winning routes pre-programmed for each days ride, map and comprehensive advice, prior to your departure

Helmet – Approved European Standard plus Richa Rainsuit

Breakdown cover, (excludes punctures as all bikes are supplied with repair kits)

Celtic Rider merchandise, Including t-shirt, baseball cap, neck bandana.

Free secure storage of luggage cases at our premises

Breakfast every morning at your lodgings

Not included are fuel, food, drinks, ferries, parking, entrance to tourist sites, fines, tickets or any other personal costs you may incur during your trip

Some of Our Small Print

Riders must have a full license for riding the category of motorcycles that we rent and the rider must be 25 years of age or older.A pre-authorisation for damage excess of €1500 will be reserved on your credit card on collection of the motorcycle. For motorcycles going abroad the damage deposit is €2500. This is the maximum cost charged in the event of accidental damage or theft. Your signature on the rental agreement page shall constitute authority for us to debit the final total charges against your account and your specific card-issuing organization. Celtic Rider office staff must be notified immediately of any accidents.

Please refer to our  Terms & Conditions

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Geoff Hill is a critically acclaimed bestselling author and award-winning feature and travel writer based in Belfast.  His 15 books include accounts of epic motorbike journeys Way to Go, The Road to Gobblers Knob, Oz and In Clancy’s Boots, recreating the journey of Carl Stearns Clancy, the first person to take a motorbike around the world 100 years ago – complete with Clancy’s original boots. His novels are Angel Street, Smith and The Butler’s Son.

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If you’ve never ridden in Ireland, you don’t know what you’re missing.

We’ve got glorious scenery, virtually empty roads, very few speed cameras, friendly drivers who’ll pull over to let you pass, and when you get off the bike at the end of the day, more pubs than you can shake a pint of Guinness at. Walk into any one of them, and within five minutes you’ll be special best friends with everyone inside.

Here are best-selling Irish travel author Geoff Hill’s ten best roads on the island, in clockwise order so you can link them up for a fabulous riding adventure starting from Belfast or Dublin, depending on which ferry crossing you take.

Leave two weeks for all of it, or just do a bit and come back later for more. You’ll always get céad míle fáilte* …

1: A ferry stop with a happy ending | Belfast to Dublin

Where does it start? Belfast

Where does it end? Dublin

How long is it? 166 miles

Why is it great?

Belfast to Dublin on the motorway is a 90-minute blast, but if you have the time, this is a pleasant combination of inland, coast and mountains.

Ride from Belfast to Portaferry, have home-made ice cream in Blaney’s or lunch in the Portaferry Hotel, and hop across on the short ferry ride to the pretty village of Strangford.

If you thought the hotel was too formal, the Cuan in Strangford does great pub grub, then it’s on through the lovely Georgian village of Killough, which feels like being in France, to the Victorian seaside resort of Newcastle, down the coast for great fish and chips in The Galley in Annalong, then west through the soaring Mourne Mountains to join the motorway south to Dublin.

What do I need to know?

Give yourself a day or two to enjoy Belfast, a city reborn since the dark days of what locals call the Troubles.

For accommodation, my favourite city hotel is Tara Lodge in the leafy University Quarter: great value, friendly and helpful staff, perfect breakfasts, free Wi-Fi, off-street parking and comfortable rooms.

Visit Titanic Belfast , the world’s biggest museum dedicated to the doomed ship which was built by Harland & Wolff when Belfast had the world’s biggest shipyards, linen mills, tobacco factories and ropeworks.

Another great museum is the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum eight miles from Belfast. The transport section has some great bikes, including several raced by local hero and TT legend Joey Dunlop.

Anything Else?

In the evening, head for Hill Street. This cobbled street in the Cathedral Quarter has become the buzzing heart of the city’s nightlife, with eight pubs within three minutes’ walk, making it the perfect venue for a civilised pub crawl.

Start at one end with The Harp Bar, which has live music nightly, as does the permanently popular Duke of York, and if you have the stamina, end up at The National Grande Café in High Street.

For dinner, the best restaurant in the area is The Muddlers Club in Warehouse Lane, just off Hill Street. The waiting staff are young, impossibly good looking and have PhDs in food, wine and charm, and the food is so good that a Michelin star could be in the offing.

Elsewhere in the city, bars like The Crown, the only pub in the UK owned by the National Trust, are still a must.

2: Toast Sally with a Guinness | Dublin to Dublin

Where does it start? Dublin

Where does it end? Guinness Storehouse, Dublin

How long is it? 82 miles

The road through Sally Gap, one of two east to west passes through the Wicklow Mountains south of Dublin, was built by the British Army to make it easier to flush rebels from the hills after the Irish rebellion of 1798, and to this day is known as the Military Road.

These days, signposted helpfully by the tourist board, it provides spectacular views of the Glencree valley, the dark waters of Lough Tay, Kippure Mountain and Glenmacnass Waterfall.

To get there, the road from Dublin is well-surfaced open sweeping single carriageway through the hills, sundappled woods, lakes and rivers of Wicklow, Dublin’s back garden, and on through the Gap to the pretty villages of Roundwood and Laragh to Glendalough.

You can then come back the same way, or head east on the route marked to the coast road and back to the Guinness Storehouse for a tour on the history of Ireland’s most famous beer and a pint in the rooftop bar.

In the Sally Gap, stop halfway at Glenmacnass Waterfall for a great photo.

Also worth a visit if you have time are the magnificent formal gardens at Powerscourt , the inspired fabrics and colours at reinvented traditional weavers Avoca and Avoca village itself, the setting for the Ballykissangel TV series.

A must if possible is the ancient monastic settlement at Glendalough . Monks arrived in this beautiful wooded river valley in the 6 th Century for a bit of peace and quiet. Unfortunately they forgot to tell the Vikings (who raided the monastery four times), the Normans (who pillaged it once), and Henry VIII (who finished the job with the Reformation). Today, it’s one of the best preserved monastic sites in Ireland.

Top spots to get fed and watered are Bates in Rathdrum for excellent food at a decent price, and the Cartoon Inn pub next door.

If you want to stay locally, Aughavannagh Cottage , beautifully restored by owner Dave Deighan, is up a leafy lane in a wooded valley with a stream burbling through the garden.

3: Great food, and a leap of faith | Kinsale to Killarney

Where does it start? Kinsale

Where does it end? Killarney

How long is it? 103 miles

The lovely sweeping A-road from Kinsale to Killarney takes you through a magnificent panorama of soaring green to your right, crashing waves to our left, and in between a winding road steaming through a panoply of bright villages.

This part of West Cork, you see, has for years been a favourite holiday or retirement haven for Dutch and Germans who arrived, took one look at grey Irish houses, sighed, and got out a paintbrush.

As a result, most villages are now all the colours of the rainbow, although in a tastefully pastel kind of way.

Even better, it’s got great towns at each end of the route, Kinsale and Killarney – and a nice little diversion in the middle.

Kinsale was just a sleepy fishing village until 12 local hoteliers and restaurateurs formed the Good Food Circle in 1976 to promote gastronomic tourism.

It worked, and then some; today Kinsale has the highest concentration of restaurants in Ireland and is firmly established as Top Nosh Central.

Having said that, the effect has spread to smaller bistros and cafés, so you don’t have to pay top dollar to get great food here.

My top-end recommendations are Man Friday, one of the original Circle members, for a magical harbourside terrace and fabulous seafood, Max’s Wine Bar for a French take on local ingredients, and impressive newcomer Finn’s Table.

Midrange favourites are Fishy Fishy and The Black Pig wine bar, and for pub or café grub, The Spaniard, The Bulman just outside town, Hoby’s and Jim Edward’s.

For information on accommodation, visit www.kinsale.ie , and for restaurants, www.food.kinsale.ie and www.kinsalerestaurants.com .

Killarney’s been a tourist town since local landowner Henry Herbert invited that well known biker Queen Victoria over in 1855 for tea and buns at his Muckross House mansion just outside the town. “Love to,” said Her Majesty, checking her royal diary, “see you in six years.”

Sadly, Henry then spent so much redecorating the place that after HM arrived with her own bed and an entourage of 100, he had to sell it.

Still, Thomas Cook tours soon followed, and today Killarney is buzzing year-round with pubs, restaurants and the clip and clop of horses trotting around the lakes pulling jaunting cars filled with Americans saying: “You know, Harry, this isn’t a bit like Texas”.

Because it’s so popular, book accommodation well ahead, especially in summer.

That nice little diversion in the middle is Priest’s Leap, the highest rideable pass in Ireland at 1,516ft and according to local legend named after a priest who, during the time when Catholicism was banned, escaped from pursuing British soldiers by a miraculous leap from the top on his horse.

We’ve marked it on our route, but after Bantry, you ride north on the open and sweeping N71 through the mountains for 25 miles, then turn right for Gerha then at Gearhanagoul left up the four and a half miles of farm track to Priest's Leap.

It’s patchy tarmac for about half the way, then hard-packed gravel with grass up the middle, and fairly upsie-downsie, but if an off-road wuss like me can breeze through it, anyone can.

And the reward is spectacular, as you climb off the bike at the top and take in glorious views of the mountains sweeping down to gently cradle distant Bantry Bay far below.

Back on the N71, ride on to the lovely coastal village of Glengarriff, nestled between mountain, oak forest and ocean. Its oldest inhabitant, 103-year-old Dutchman Jan Linzel, was a Second World War RAF pilot.

4: Lonely wolf seeks love | Killarney to Dingle

Where does it start? Killarney

Where does it end? Dingle

How long is it? 126 miles

The Alps? Who needs them when you’ve got scenery like Killarney National Park as you leave Killarney town on a well-surfaced road winding past deep blue lakes, rugged mountains and the last great virgin forests in Ireland, an island that was covered in mighty oaks until they were chopped down to make ships for the Royal Navy.

At least the oaks survived, which is more than can be said for the last wolf in Ireland, who was killed here in 1700, presumably after wandering through these forests for months wondering why no one had replied to his ad in the lonely hearts sections of Wildlife Weekly saying: Partner wanted for friendship and possible romance. Must have own fur coat and like long walks, cold nights out and raw sheep. Non-smoker preferred. Must be a wolf.

After that, Kenmare’s a pleasant market town with a lovely view up Main Street of pastel coloured buildings, then the church spire and the mountains beyond.

From there it’s the famous Ring of Kerry, a stunning loop on a two-lane road that dances between the soaring green on your right and the aching blue of ocean crashing onto rocks on your left.

In high season, most folks doing the Ring of Kerry are either on a tourist coach or in a snail trail of cars, but on a bike, you can soar past both with a cheery wave. Note that the coaches do the Ring anti-clockwise, so most car drivers do the opposite, as you will be.

In Dingle, have a drink in Dick Mack’s, a former spirit grocer’s dating from 1899 and now a tiny haven outside; the name plaques in the pavement show that everyone from Julia Roberts to Dolly Parton and Robert Mitchum called in to have a pint or try the astonishing selection of Irish whiskies behind the bar.

Then have dinner in The Global Village , whose six-course tasting menu at €60, or €90 with wines, is better than I’ve eaten in some Michelin-starred restaurants. At one stage, a chap who turned out to be called Martin Bealin came wandering out from the kitchen dressed in whites.

“Are you the chef, by any chance?” I said.

“No, the plumber. I called in to fix a leak and they made me wear this,” he said, proving his wit is as inspired as his cooking.

5: A Fungi to be with | Dingle to Galway

Where does it start? Dingle

Where does it end? Galway

How long is it? 153 miles

Starting in Dingle, it’s only five miles to the top of the Conor Pass, but what a five miles.

It’s a fairly narrow road, but well-surfaced, and snakes its way aloft with cliff faces on one side and steep drops to the lakes below on the other.

The good news is that because it gets even more narrow and twisty down the other side, caravans, camper vans and lorries are banned, and coaches tend to avoid it, so you may well have it to yourself as you crack on, drinking in the curves and the sound of your engine echoing off the cliffs.

From the car park on top at 1500ft, the view before you is so much like Middle Earth that you expect Bilbo Baggins to wander up clutching a pint of Guinness at any moment, nod wisely, and potter off on his merry way before the pub shuts.

In the last third of the ride, you’ll think you’re on the Moon riding through the bleak, rocky landscape of the Burren, and be glad to return to Earth in Galway, one of the most pleasant cities in Ireland, with its university and winding medieval streets lined with traditional music pubs creating a vibrant, cosmopolitan, fun-loving feel.

In July, Galway Arts Festival has 500 performers of theatre, spectacle, dance, visual arts, music, literature and comedy showcasing their talents over two weeks.

In September, the city’s oyster festival has been running since 1954, making it the world's longest running celebration of the little slimy darlings.

If you’ve time before you leave Dingle, go sea kayaking with Irish Adventures and meet Fungi, the bottlenose dolphin who’s been resident in the bay for the past 32 years and still loves leaping out of the water for tourists.

6: To Doo is to be | Galway to Westport

Where does it start? Galway

Where does it end? Westport

How long is it?   129 miles

This route has all the variety and scenery you’ll ever need, from winding along the coast road out of Galway as far west as Cleggan, then cutting back to the brooding magnificence of the slopes, woods, lakes and waterfalls of the Delphi Gap and the road around breathtaking Doo Lough.

At journey’s end, Westport may not be as buzzing as Galway, but it’s one of my favourite little towns in Ireland: designed with Georgian grace by architect James Wyatt and beautifully situated on the tree-lined Carrowbeg River. Just perfect for wandering up the Mall to the Octagon and stopping in at any of the very good pubs and restaurants on the way.

A good value three-star hotel is the Westport Woods Hotel , or for a treat, the four-star Knockranny House hotel and spa.

If you’ve had enough of twisties, sheep on the road, almost falling off while admiring the view or are just running short of time, cut inland to the fast, sweeping N59.

7: Life’s a beach. But what a beach | Westport to Rossnowlagh

Where does it start? Westport

Where does it end? Rossnowlagh

This takes you through a world of mountains and mist through Ballycroy National Park, one of the largest expanses of peat bog in Europe and a wild and lonely place where if you’re lucky you might see whooper swans in the icy lakes or peregrine falcons soaring among the peaks, or hear the strange whirr whirr call of the corncrake, a bird which was common when I was growing up but is now almost extinct.

Get to Rossnowlagh early enough to go for a bracing walk on the apparently endless beach, one of the best on the west coast and a popular spot with surfers. Amazingly, I knew an Australian who came all the way to Ireland to surf here.

If you leave Westport late and are running short of time to do that, take a short cut on the fast N15 for the first part of the journey.

For something a bit weird and wonderful, stop in Strandhill for a seaweed bath at Voya , started as a tiny family business by Neil Walton 15 years ago and now exporting its products to 42 countries where customers are rejuvenated by the iodine and alginate gel derived from bladder wrack. If you don’t like it, just phone the 24-hour kelpline.

The Shells Café next door is a great spot for a light lunch.

In Rossnowlagh, stay in the Sandhouse and have dinner in Smugglers Creek overlooking the beach.

8: A date with Arnold | Rossnowlagh to Dunfanaghy

Where does it start? Rossnowlagh

Where does it end? Dunfanaghy

How long is it? 107 miles

If you’ve done all the little twisties along the coast on the previous routes, you and your trusty machine may well be begging to get out of third gear, so now’s your chance, with a lovely fast and flowing road across high moors which calls in at two friendly villages and ends up in a deservedly popular hotel.

Isolated Donegal is often overlooked by tourists, leaving it to the happy few who fall in love with its wild beauty.

My favourite spot in Donegal is Ardara, where Nancy’s Bar is the watering hole of choice. Naturally, it’s owned by a woman called Margaret.

A major weaving and knitwear centre, the town’s a great place to pick up Aran sweaters or tweeds from Kennedy’s in the town or Molloy’s just outside, and a 10-minute ride takes you past tumbling Assaranca waterfall to the white sands of Maghera Strand for a paddle or a bracing dip if you’re brave enough.

In Glencolumbkille, the Folk Village is a cluster of thatched cottages which shows how life was in Ireland’s most isolated county until not that long ago.

In Dunfanaghy, Arnold’s is a welcoming family-run three-star hotel with scrumptious nosh.

9: There the north is the south | Dunfanaghy to Londonderry

Where does it start? Dunfanaghy

Where does it end? Londonderry

How long is it?   98 miles

This is your only chance to confuse your friends that you’ve been to the most northerly point in Ireland; and that it’s in the south. You see, Malin Head, that northernmost point, is in the Republic of Ireland, which locals call the South, as opposed to Northern Ireland, or the North.

Still confused? Don’t worry: if you’re not bothered with geography, just get to Londonderry and be more confused, since Protestants tend to call it Londonderry, and Catholics Derry. Just call it Derry, since most locals do.

Either way, the roads are empty apart from the occasional sheep, allowing you to enjoy the wild and lonely scenery of Ireland’s most rural county.

Derry is the oldest walled city in Europe, and the birthplace of the Civil Rights movement for Catholic equality which led to the 30 years of mayhem locals call the Troubles.

If you’d like to know more, the Tower Museum has two fascinating permanent exhibitions, one on the city history, including the siege which changed the course of European history, and the story of La Trinidad Valencera, one of the largest ships in the Spanish Armada. In 1588, it foundered in a storm off the Donegal coast, and was discovered nearly 400 years later by local divers.

In Londonderry, stay at The Merchant’s House , a beautifully restored Georgian town house within walking distance of the city centre, with great communal breakfasts around a big table.

For dinner, eat at Browns in my view the best restaurant in Northern Ireland, but still with reasonable prices.

If you prefer pubs, Peadar O’Donnell’s, with three separate bars and live music every night, is always jumping.

10: A road fit for giants | The Antrim coast road

Where does it start? Londonderry

Where does it end? Belfast

How long is it? 124 miles

What have a dead diplomat, Sir Winston Churchill and a cult TV series in common?

The glorious Antrim Coast Road, that’s what. I’ve done this countless times, but still love riding it or showing it to visitors as one of the great routes anywhere.

Leaving Derry, it’s a fast road to Bushmills village, home of the world’s oldest licensed distillery , with a licence granted in 1608, several tours daily and a shop.

Next stop is the world-famous Giant’s Causeway. The fairy story goes that these 37,000 basalt columns are the result of a huge subterranean explosion 60 million years ago, but locals know the cold scientific truth – that they’re the remnants of a causeway built by a Scottish giant so he could come over and fight local giant Finn McCool.

Thinking quickly, Finn’s wife tucked Finn up in a cot, and the Scottish giant thought: “If that’s the size of Finn’s baby, I’m out of here”, and fled back to Scotland, tearing up the causeway as he went.

After that it’s the clifftop ruins of Dunluce Castle, the kitchen of which fell into the sea in 1639, taking seven cooks with it.

At Carrick-a-Rede, walk a swaying rope bridge 80ft above the sea to an island, give yourself a pat on the back, then realise you have to walk back again.

In Ballycastle, have an ice cream in harbourside Maud’s, and try the local speciality dried seaweed, dulce (pronounced duls), then half a mile out of town, turn left for the winding road to Torr Head, and after six miles turn left on the Murlough Road for spectacular Murlough Bay.

You can see why former British diplomat Sir Roger Casement asked before he was executed for treason in 1916 to be buried here.

Cushendun, the next stop, was designed as a Cornish-style village by Clough Williams-Ellis, whose Portmeirion in Wales was the setting for The Prisoner, and in Carnlough, the cosy Londonderry Arms Hotel was once owned by Churchill.

Leave a full day for this ride if you can. It’s too good to rush.

At the Giant’s Causeway, the walk down to the stones is free, but parking and the visitor centre admission is a steep £11.50 per person.

Instead, park for free at the Causeway Hotel next door and spend the money on lunch.

If you’re on a lazy schedule, have lunch or stay at the Bushmills Inn , with open turf fires, cosy nooks, exposed oak beams, gas-lit bar, secret library, heli-pad, private cinema and its very own whiskey blended by the distillery down the street.

If you’re running short of time, at Larne just take the fast A8 dual carriageway and motorway to Belfast rather than the scenic coast road I’ve suggested.

Do I need travel insurance?

Just like any holiday, a trip on a motorcycle – be it in the UK, Europe or beyond – can be ruined by delays, lost documents, illness and more. There are plenty of travel insurance options, but you need to make sure you get a policy that includes riding motorcycles, and if it does, that it's for bikes of the engine size you'll be riding (many only cover up to 250cc). At its most basic, you should look for insurance that provides cover for the following: 

• Medical expenses
• Loss or theft of personal possessions
• Lost or delayed luggage
• Loss of your passport and other documents
• Travel delays and disruptions
• Having to cut your holiday short

In addition though, if you’re taking a motorcycle (or you're renting one while you’re away) be sure that your insurer will cover you for any medical expenses, should you have an accident. You must also think about where you’re riding – some policies won’t cover you if you’re trail or enduro riding, or if you’re on a race track. Remember – this isn’t about your bike being covered, it’s about your medical expenses, should the worst happen.

If you're only going away once, a single-trip policy will likely be all you need, but also consider an annual policy, which could extend to cover your family holidays too (a good insurer should also be able to offer cover for your whole family). 

BikeSocial’s parent company, Bennetts, has a motorcycle-specific travel insurance policy – find out if it suits your needs by  clicking here .

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Since 2008, RetroVentures has been providing all sorts of modes of transport for a fun rental or tour in Ireland. Check out our new line up of rentals and tours for 2024. Click on the options below to explore what we have available and get booking. We have motorcycle hire, scooter hire, sidecar hire, campervan hire, bicycle hire, e-bike hire, and tours here in Ireland and overseas. RetroVentures has become known for our low prices and highest customer service!

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A bit about us - We're based in the beautiful village of Adare, Co. Limerick. Our HQ is in the town with easy public transport access direct to our door. We are just 30 mins from Shannon airport and a short enough low cost bus ride direct from Dublin airport. We offer private airport and city transfers upon request and have secure parking available for your own car or rental car if you drive here. Collect your motorcycle rental, motorcycle tour, sidecar rental, scooter rental, e-bike rental or bicycle rental in the comfort of our large facility with indoor space, changing area, toilet and direct access to our motorcycle shop - the now famous Sprocket & Hubs Motorcycle Emporium!

Bicycle hire is easy from RetroVentures - we are only a few metres from the leafy rural back roads of Co. Limerick and a short ride to the start of the Limerick Greenway - a dedicated safe tarmac walking and cycling path reaching from Rathkeale to Abbeyfeale with scenic stops and amenities on the way. We offer one way rentals and transport back to base but with our electric bikes you'll easily make it all the way there and back!

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Offering European transport, we can accommodate anything up to 100 motorcycles and kit at any one time in our specifically designed vehicles and transport systems. Our transport service typically works on a prescheduled calendar to set destinations with the possibility to provide bespoke shipments for groups, companies, clubs, track days etc. The Overlanders team are all motorcyclists themselves so you can rest assured your motorcycle receives the utmost care and attention it deserves.

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• Ireland and Scotland Motorcycle Tour

Ireland and Scotland Tour

Tour Code: LRBT

Ireland and Scotland motorcycle tour. UK motorcycle tours , Ireland and UK motorcycle tours. The motorcycle tour of Ireland and Scotland is run over 19 days including arrival and departure days. The Ireland and Scotland motorcycle tour has 17 riding days with an option 2 rest days. The motorcycle tour of Ireland and Scotland give you an option to spend 2 nights in castles plus an evening dinner cruise in the Isle of Skye.

Join one of our most popular motorcycle tours of Ireland and Scotland and experience the beautiful Irish and Scottish landscapes, and culture. Explore Scotland and Ireland on a guided motorcycle tour of Ireland and Scotland.

The motorcycle tour starts with beautiful motorcycle rides through the Wild Atlantic Way on the West coast  of Ireland, the world’s longest coasting motorcycle touring route . The west coast of Ireland offers some of the best magnificent and splendid views, very distinct regions but all with breath-taking motorbike tour experiences. Ride over the peninsulas in the south to the sheer cliff coast, the bay coast to the wild surf coast and ultimately to the Northern headlands. You will be blown away by the absolute beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way motorbike route.

We depart Ireland and ride into Northern Ireland where we spend a night in a castle from where we catch a ferry to the awesome much sought after motorcycle tour destination of Scotland. We spend a night in Loch Lomond and the beautiful Trossachs National Park before proceeding with the Ireland and Scotland motorcycle tour to the Isle of Skye where you get the opportunity to rest for a day and reminisce of the sheer exciting past few days of our Ireland and Scotland motorbike tour.

From the Isle of Skye the motorcycle tour proceeds to the magnificent Scottish highlands where you get another opportunity to stay in a grand Scottish castle. From here the motorcycle tour proceeds south to the Cairngorms National Park, from where we then ride to Edinburgh the Scottish capital to experience the legendary and famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival. We shall be riding on beautiful motorcycling routes, sharp mountain passes, through forests, driving through scenic villages. We shall be driving for 5 to 6 hours a day. Every evening and night is spent in quiet fascinating towns at nice hotels where you will relax and interact with the local Irish and Scottish residents. We shall have meals at very nice restaurants and pubs for a beer or two. You will have an awesome and most memorable motorcycle tour experience of Ireland and Scotland.

The Bike & Gear 

• 17 days motorcycle rental equipped with panniers, removable linings and top box.
• GPS Satellite Navigation with pre-programmed carefully planned routes.
• Paper road maps for orientation
• EU Approved Helmet for rider and pillion
• Bluetooth Intercom
• Comprehensive motorcycle insurance once you meet our insurer’s requirements, subject to excess.
• Full orientation to make sure you feel comfortable riding the motorbike prior to start of the motorcycle tour.
• Unlimited mileage
• Breakdown cover & puncture repair kit

• 12 nights in 4 star hotels.
• 6 nights in 3 star hotels.
• Start and finish your motorcycle tour at the 4 star Trim Castle Hotel.
• 11 evening group dinners, one on an evening boat cruise
• Airport transfers from Dublin Airport to Trim
• 4 Local ferries and a ferry to Scotland 
• Irish or Scottish breakfast every morning of your motorcycle tour.
• Daily riding coffee stop.
• Cliffs of Moher; Sliabh League, Giants Causeway 
• Lunch & Guided tour at Scotland’s oldest working distillery
• Evening dinner on the Isle of Skye Cruise boat
• Access to a  personal app / virtual road book which you can download to your smartphone
• welcome reception & dinner on the evening of your arrival to meet your fellow riders and tour guides plus support staff.
• Motorcycle tour merchandise (buff, earplugs, and t-shirt)
• Complimentary luggage storage at our premises

from €5,250

per person sharing riding own bike

24th July  Arrive Trim Dublin.

• Upgrade your bike to a different model
• BMW R1250GS motorbike 30 per day)
• BMW R1200GS motorbike (+€20 per day)
• BMW R1200R motorbike (+€20 per day)
• BMW F750GS motorbike (+€10 per day)
• Price reduced by €140 per day if you ride your own motorbike

Riding Gear

• Rent protective clothing for €15 per day
• Jacket, pants, gloves and boots 
• Reduced collision damage waiver for €25 per day
• Preauthorised credit card €1000
• Damage maximum liability €1000
• Theft maximum liability €1500

Not included.

• Travel insurance (recommended)
• Meals (other than stated)
• Admission fees (other than stated)

To book this Ireland and Scotland Motorcycle Tour

OR to enquire about any of our other  motorcycle tours

OR to hire a motorcycle for a self guided tour of Ireland, Scotland and England,

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Donegal Coastal Treasures Bike Tour

• Iconic Donegal and Connemara Cycling Tour

The Causeway Coast Bike Tour

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Highlights of Donegal Bike Tour

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Discover The Best Of Ireland on Two Wheels

Locally based authentic irish cycling holidays/bike tours.

Ireland by Bike is a locally based, family owned and operated company offering self-guided bike tours in Ireland’s North West and Northern Ireland. Founded in 2010 our tours are carefully planned allowing you to discover Ireland’s most stunning and interesting locations.  

Why not get away from the crowds? Join us for a unique off the beaten track bike tour, and experience the best of the real Ireland at your own pace. 

experience Ireland at its very Best

Iconic wild atlantic way cycle.

We have teamed up with our partners in Connemara Adventure Tours to bring you a great new tour for 2024.  Explore the beautiful regions of Donegal and Connemara the two most stunning destinations on the Wild Atlantic Way.

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Ireland by Bike is a locally based, family owned and operated company offering self-guided bike tours and bike hire in Ireland’s North West and in Northern Ireland. Our tours are carefully planned following mostly quiet back roads allowing you to discover Ireland’s most stunning and interesting locations.

Join us for a unique off the beaten track bike tour and experience the best of Ireland at your own pace.

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If you’re contemplating an Irish cycling holiday, selecting the right destination is crucial.  Here are seven eight irresistible reasons why Donegal stands out as the ultimate choice for an enriching and enjoyable biking experience.  Read on to

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Man bounces back from life altering crash to complete 1000 mile bike trip around Ireland - One handed!

Proof that you can’t keep a good man down… 33-year-old Joseph Parry from the Forest of Dean has got back on a bike and completed a 1000-mile tour of Ireland, despite a horror crash that left him partially paralysed on his left side.

• Related: Former MCN journalist and stroke survivor, Andy Ibbott runs London Marathon

Parry has been riding for four years, and was involved in a collision with a van in 2022 that left him without use of his left arm.

Following an eight month recovery process, he defied expectations to get back on two wheels, and more recently completed the trip aboard his converted Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory alongside friend Mitchell Austen.

“It was just bikes everywhere, all the time. It was everything,” Parry told MCN. “I wanted to ride 100 motorcycles before I die, and I got to 62 before I crashed.”

The incident left Parry with a severe brachial plexus injury. It occurred during a commute home from work, with Parry explaining: “It was just a leisurely sixth-gear 10% on the throttle kind of thing and then I woke up in hospital.

“I pulled all the nerves out of my spine, paralysed myself from the side of my throat, down to my fingertips, including my left pec and my left lat. So, pretty devastating damage, and I’ve got a permanent break in my right hand.

“Where that hand was on the handlebar, the bar went through my thumb, shattered my forearm into three pieces, dislocated the elbow, broke multiple ribs, and I got a stent. Essentially, it means I currently have one hand, and am riding with a permanently broken wrist, because there’s a missing bone that disintegrated in the crash, and they can’t fix it.”

Despite the ordeal, getting back on a bike was never in doubt, with Parry inspired by one-armed road racer, Chris Mitchell who first completed the 37.73-mile Isle of Man TT course back in 2013 at the Manx Grand Prix.

“I saw a picture of him going over Ballaugh Bridge with both wheels off the ground, and I just thought ‘it’s possible. I don’t care what anyone else says, this guy is absolutely slamming it at the IoM with one arm, it’s possible’.”

With only one hand on the bars, Parry has had his Tuono kitted with a Kliktronic K-Lever 2 system, which places both the clutch and brake on one side. In this case, it’s the right side – along with the throttle and switches.

“The trip was hard,” Parry told MCN. “I was in extreme amounts of pain and immense fatigue, but from a growth perspective, I needed to do it and set that challenge.

“It doesn’t matter if it hurts because it’s going to hurt at home,” he continued. “It’s never going to stop hurting, so do something regardless.”

“I want to be the Chris Mitchell to other people,” he commented.

To mark the trip around Ireland, and to inspire others, Parry and riding buddy Austen produced a near-eight-minute short film for YouTube, which can be found here .

By Dan Sutherland

News Editor - I joined the MCN team straight from studying at the University of Sheffield, having achieved Class One Honours in Journalism Studies and a Gold Standard Level 3 Diploma in Journalism from the National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ). I started out as Acting Consumer Editor, before becoming the Senior Online Reporter, Senior Writer and more recently the News Editor. Although my first love will always be performance bikes and racing, I have a passion for all things two-wheeled. I have reported on everything from breaking new bike news to charity fund raising, as well as attending countless international new model launches and nurturing the growth of MCN’s amazing YouTube channel alongside a very talented team. I did my Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) on my 16th birthday and passed my full test around a year later. I now covers around 20,000 road miles a year on motorcycles of all genres and in all weathers. I have also experienced elements of advanced rider training, tackled countless UK and international short circuits and achieved an ACU race licence to begin a fledgling competition career. When I’m not at the track, I can be found chugging along the back lanes aboard my Royal Enfield Classic 350 two-up with my girlfriend.

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National Bike Week! Enjoy the incredible sights and sounds of Northern Ireland

Have a "wheely" good time in northern ireland during national bike week, taking place may 11 -19..

National Bike Week is May 11-19!  There’s no better time to embrace active travel and take in the sights and sounds of the natural world around you.

Take the opportunity to view the rugged Causeway Coast on two wheels, pedal through the awe-inspiring Mourne and Sperrin Mountain ranges or gear up for some enchanting forest trails, during unforgettable cycling experiences in Northern Ireland .

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Whether you’re exploring one of Northern Ireland’s historic cities or venturing off the beaten path, you’re only a short cycle away from a giant adventure bursting with fantastic vistas, challenging climbs and peaceful traffic-free paths.

And, with many of these sustainable pedal-powered activities less than two hours from Dublin , Discover Northern Ireland has compiled the following guide showcasing unique and fun cycling experiences that offer something new in every mile.   

Bike in Belfast

Belfast City Bike tours, Botanic Gardens, Belfast. Credit: www.durstonphoto.com

Belfast City Bike Tours offers a selection of six fun, friendly bike tours as well as an extensive range of bikes for hire. The most popular tour - the City Bike Tour - explores the historic Cathedral, Titanic and University Quarters. It stops at St. George's Market and takes in over 40 places of interest. Also on offer is a tour along the Lagan Towpath to the Hilden Brewery where you will receive a tutored craft beer sampling and lunch. The city offers miles of continuous cycle routes and greenways through the beating heart of Belfast’s industrial past in the east. Stay in the heart of the action along the Maritime Mile at the AC Hotel Belfast .  

Discover Derry

Foodie City cycle tour, The Peace Bridge, Derry.

The Far & Wild Foodie City Cycle tour of Derry takes in culinary experiences focusing on quality local produce. Eateries like Pykes N’ Pommes and The Bron offer samples of their freshest, locally sourced fare, while the tour also takes in an historic view of St Columb’s Park, Ebrington, the Peace Bridge and the best of Derry. Or, if you’re eager to explore more of ancient Mid-Ulster, Far & Wild’s Cycle Sperrins tour invites you to saddle up and go off the beaten track to trace the ancient route of Bronze Age settlers. Stay at The James Suite in the centre of Derry for that little bit of luxury at the end of your day.

Embrace an Electric Escape in County Fermanagh

Electric Escape Bike Experience with Corralea Activity Centre in Fermanagh.

Cruise along old bog roads and forest tracks and enjoy sweeping views over Fermanagh’s stunning Lakelands as you make your electric escape thanks to Corralea Activity Centre’s bespoke E-Bike Tours. The power assisted bikes will make hills a breeze as you effortlessly explore the untapped wilderness and discover megalithic tombs hidden in the forest. Afterwards, why not relax in the centre’s Forest Eco Spa which includes a Nordic sauna, wood-fired hot tub and relaxation pod. Stay in Enniskillen Watersedge Apartments and enjoy the sweeping views of Lough Erne from the outskirts of the island town. 

Cruise through County Down’s Mourne Mountains

Mournes Trails & Ales Tour with Life Adventure Centre in Castlewellan, Co Down.

If you like your ales and enjoy tackling the trails then Mournes Trails & Ales Tour is the experience for you. This half day, fully guided cycle tour on an electric bike explores the very best of the Mourne Mountain region and introduces you to some delicious local tipples. Bike Mourne has an extensive fleet available to hire for your own experience or through a guided tour with passionate guides. For something a little bit more exhilarating, take on some of the best mountain bike trails in the region at Rostrevor’s Kilbroney Park, and make sure to take a selfie at #KodakCorner on the 27km red trail. Stay at the bike-friendly Burrendale Hotel Country Club and Spa for some truly breath-taking views of the Mourne Mountains.

Explore County Tyrone’s trails

Davagh Fores Mountain Bike Trail in Co.Tyrone.

There are over 150km of purpose-built mountain-biking trails on offer across Northern Ireland but some of the best can be found in County Tyrone. The Davagh Forest trails offer high-octane singletrack thrills, while those in search of a cracking mix of wide-flowing blue trails, and more technical red trails, need look no further than Blessingbourne Country Estate . The trails here have lots of features including jumps, table-tops, berms, rock-gardens and drops - as well as chicken-runs for your kids. Pick from a range of bike friendly, self-catering options in this 550-acre country estate in Clogher Valley.

Giro d’Causeway Coast

Giant's Causeway, County Antrim. Credit: Getty Images

Those looking to experience a physical challenge and embrace a few heartbreak hills with the reward of truly awe-inspiring vistas along the way should head for the Causeway Coast. If you’ve ever fancied yourself as the next Marcel Kittel, Mark Cavendish or Mario Cipollini then challenge yourself to complete the 23-mile Causeway Coast Cycle Route which runs from the seaside village of Castlerock to the iconic Giant's Causeway. The route was taken by riders of the 2014 Giro d’Italia when Northern Ireland hosted three stages of the prestigious race. Make it a journey to remember by enjoying a unique stay in the quirky and modern Me and Mrs Jones boutique hotel in Portstewart. 

For more information or to plan your perfect two-wheeled adventure visit discovernorthernireland.com

Related: Northern Ireland , Belfast City , Giant's Causeway , Dublin

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