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Ireland

Ring of Kerry, Glencar Valley and Kenmare

There is no better way to experience Ireland’s rugged southwestern coast than by bicycle. You'll explore all that is truly Eire, like weathered stone remains of ancient Celtic ruins, velvety pastures speckled with flocks of grazing sheep, and the timeless charm of traditional Irish pubs. The grandeur of County Kerry will come alive, from the rugged beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way to the glacier-carved Glencar Valley to the peaks of the Macgillycuddy's Reeks mountain range. Have your camera ready for the unspoiled terrain of the Beara Peninsula, steeped in myths and legends and rich in archaeological history. Then, settle into the warmth of our outstanding accommodations, share in jovial banter over a pint, and absorb the undying spirit of the enchanting Emerald Isle on your bicycle vacation of a lifetime.
From:
$4099 Per Person
Duration:
6 Days & 5 Nights
Rider Type: ?
3 - Active Non-riders Welcome
Hotel Style: ?
Luxury
Reviews:
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Close Details
Trip Wows
The wild, pale grey mountains and stunning patchwork of peat bogs provide a truly unique backdrop for cycling
Enjoy a fresh pint of Guinness or a glass of Irish Whiskey in the pub with friends. They call this cherished part of culture the “craic”
Out here, the only traffic is the sheep wandering between pastures
The spectacular beauty of the Ring of Kerry provides an amazing insight into the ancient heritage of Ireland
The people embody the truest sense of Ireland, their lives are focused on sharing stories and laughs with friends
Watch the Experience
Both guides had above average knowledge of the area. Geology, vegetation, cultural history. Obviously they love this part of the world and it showed. We felt truly ‘hosted’ – as in, “let us show you this great place"!
-Kathleen

Dates & Prices

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  • 10+ Guests Price as advertised*
  • 8-9 Guests +$500 per person to trip price*
  • 6-7 Guests +$1,000 per person to trip price*
  • 4-5 Guests +$1,500 per person to trip price*
  • 2-3 Guests +$2,500 per person to trip price*
*Pricing, availability and guest minimums are all subject to change at any time. Certain dates have a minimum number of guests required, please contact us for details. Private pricing is not available on Ride Camp, Race, Special Edition or Cross Country style trips.
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*Pricing, availability and guest minimums are all subject to change at any time. Certain dates have a minimum number of guests required, please contact us for details. Custom dates are not available on Ride Camp, Race, Special Edition or Cross Country style trips.
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*Pricing, availability and guest minimums are all subject to change at any time. Certain dates have a minimum number of guests required, please contact us for details. Custom trips are not available on Ride Camp, Race, Special Edition or Cross Country style trips.
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Day To Day

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Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at Killarney Station at 11:00 AM on the first day of the trip. After a shuttle, you’ll arrive at our stunning lakeside hotel, where you'll enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch. You'll then have some time to explore the magnificent gardens before your Trek Travel guides familiarize you with your Trek bicycle, ensuring that you and your bike are the perfect fit. Your warm-up ride will take you through the surrounding countryside, providing a small taste of the delights that are in store for the week, and concludes at the magnificent Ard na Sidhe Country House. Lovingly restored to its original glory as one of the most beautiful hideaways in Ireland, this country manor has a timeless quality with fine antique furnishings. This evening, you’ll gather with the rest of the group for cocktails, introductions and a discussion of the wonderful week ahead. Then, you and your traveling companions will enjoy a sumptuous dinner, overlooking Lake Caragh and surrounded by the mountainous Kerry countryside.

Today's Ride:

Caragh Lake to Milltown
Approximately 23 miles with 950 feet of climbing

Hotel:

Ard na Sidhe Country House

Included Meals:

Lunch | Social Hour | Dinner

This morning you will explore the famous Ring of Kerry, along the most beautiful parts of the Iveragh Peninsula. Today's ride will lead you to one of the largest islands off the southwest coast of Kerry, Valentia Island, home of the first transatlantic communications link. You’ll stop in the fishing village of Cahersiveen for a relaxing lunch of your choice, whether it's pub-style or at a cozy café. Opt to shuttle back to the hotel from here, or continue your ride. Today’s longer option takes you through the Glencar Valley, a popular forested birding site, and over Ballaghisheen Pass. At day’s end, you'll retire to your stately country hotel and enjoy a pre-dinner stroll through the grounds or a pint in the cozy lounge. This evening, you’ll savor local specialties at our hotel's sumptuous restaurant.

Today's Ride:

Caragh Lake to Cahersiveen to Ballaghisheen Pass Loop
Approximately 50 miles with 3,480 feet of climbing

Short Option:

Caragh Lake to Cahersiveen
Approximately 22 miles with 975 feet of climbing

Avid Option:

Caragh Lake to Cahersiveen to Ballaghisheen Pass Loop with Valentia Island
Approximately 70 miles with 4,330 feet of climbing

Hotel:

Ard na Sidhe Country House

Included Meals:

Breakfast | Dinner

This morning, you’ll ride the winding road beside Caragh Lake and eventually follow the shoreline of the Upper Caragh River. The stunning views of Glencar Valley will lead you to the Gap of Dunloe, the most famous and picturesque pass in the Ring of Kerry. Enjoy lunch at the gourmet Heather Cafe before you ascend the pass by bike or in the shuttle. Be sure to capture the panorama of Macgillycuddy’s Reeks before enjoying a well-earned descent. Shuttle home from there, or master one final climb up through the Black Valley and up Moll’s Gap before enjoying a long descent into Kenmare. Cradled in the heart of Kenmare Bay, the bustling town of Kenmare will be your home for the next three nights. Enjoy a historic and hilarious walking tour with one of the few true Kenmare locals. Our tour culminates with a pint at a pub, naturally, and we may get a few special stories from our guide in exchange for a few pints of Guinness. Afterward, you are free to explore Kenmare for dinner. Your guides can provide recommendations for excellent dining in this delightful town. 

Today's Ride and Activity:

Caragh Lake to Gap of Dunloe | Walking Tour of Kenmare
Approximately 30 miles with 3,200 feet of climbing

Short Option:

Caragh Lake to Beaufort
Approximately 23 miles with 2,025 feet of climbing

Avid Option:

Caragh Lake to Gap of Dunloe to Kenmare
Approximately 43 miles with 4,600 feet of climbing

Hotel:

Sheen Falls Lodge

Included Meals:

Breakfast | Lunch

This morning’s ride will take you through the vast countryside along the Beara Peninsula. You’ll follow winding roads alongside weathered stone walls, past quiet bays, and enjoy views of the dramatic coastline. For a short option, follow the rolling country roads back to Kenmare for a delightful bistro lunch. If you’re looking for more miles, continue on to Castletownbere for lunch including some of the freshest seafood you've ever tasted. Shuttle back from there, or tackle Healy Pass where the high country will lead you to rocky peaks and gorgeous lakes, offering spectacular views of the Bantry Bay. This evening, you will be educated on the Irish heritage of whiskey at a private tasting, followed by a delicious meal at our hotel.

Today's Ride and Activity:

Kenmare to Castletownbere | Whiskey Tasting
Approximately 32 miles with 2,400 feet of climbing

Short Option:

Kenmare to Ring of Beara Loop with Shuttle
Approximately 22 miles with 1,500 feet of climbing

Avid Option:

Kenmare to Castletownbere Loop via Healy Pass
Approximately 65 miles with 3,100 feet of climbing

Hotel:

Sheen Falls Lodge

Included Meals:

Breakfast | Social Hour | Dinner

Your morning begins with a short ride to perhaps our most anticipated destination of the trip, Lorge Chocolatier, where you'll indulge in a chocolate tasting and learn the fine art of ganache and truffles under the tutelege of our host, Master Chocolatier Benoit Lorge. Resist the temptation to overindulge, though, as the jaw-dropping views of the Bonane Valley call you to pedal up the twisting, turning roads to Caha Pass. Watch out for sheep blocking the road as you make your well-earned descent. Then enjoy lunch at a quaint seaside bistro in Glengarriff, famous for its mussels and seaside vistas and climate. If you choose to continue your ride, you will be rewarded during a picturesque climb on a nearly-deserted road offering vistas for miles on end. This evening, the group will dine in one of Kenmare’s best restaurants, and raise a glass to toast an incredible week of riding before enjoying a last sumptous supper together.

Today's Ride:

Kenmare to Glengarriff with Shuttle
Approximately 19 miles with 1,400 feet of climbing

Short Option:

Kenmare to Bonane Return
Approximately 15 miles with 600 feet of climbing

Avid Option:

Kenmare to Glengarriff to Kilgarvan Loop
Approximately 48 miles with 3,200 feet of climbing

Hotel:

Sheen Falls Lodge

Included Meals:

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

It's time to say goodbye to our magical vacation in the hills of Ireland. This morning is yours to explore as you wish. Go for one last early morning ride to a highland lake, stroll into town for a last-minute purchase, or perhaps linger over a relaxing Irish breakfast. You'll say farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at Sheen Falls Lodge. You'll then board a 1-hour private shuttle to the Killarney Train Station, arriving in time for afternoon departures to other cities. Please do not book train tickets for departure prior to 12:00 PM. If you’re flying out of Kerry Airport on this day, please do not schedule a flight prior to 3:00 PM.

Today's Ride:

Kenmare to Loughbarfinnihy with Molls Gap Climb Return
Approximately 14 miles with 1,100 feet of climbing

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Hotels

hotel image

Ard Na Sidhe Country House

Ring of Kerry, Ireland

Ard na Sidhe Country House is a charming 18 Bedroom lake hotel in County Kerry, in the southwest of Ireland, built by Lady Gordon in 1913. This luxury country manor house is beautifully situated on the shores of Caragh Lake, Killorglin on the scenic Ring of Kerry.Graceful elegance is combined with the luxury of modern comforts while retaining an old world enchantment with its collection of antique furnishings and paintings.
www.ardnasidhe.com
hotel image

Sheen Falls Lodge

Kenmare, Ireland

Overlooking the picturesque Sheen Falls, this five-star Relais & Chateaux hotel is renowned for its award-winning restaurant and luxurious rooms. It is located on the iconic Wild Atlantic Way, just outside the town of Kenmare.
www.sheenfallslodge.ie
hotel image

Hotel Variation | The Dunloe

Killarney, Ireland

The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens is one of the finest 5-star hotels in Ireland. Set on its own 64-acre estate, it overlooks the Gap of Dunloe and features manicured paths that lead to the ruins of a 12-century castle. The hotel restaurant offers the pinnacle of fine dining in Killarney. The Dunloe will replace the Ard Na Sidhe Country House on select dates in 2019.
www.thedunloe.com

What's Included

For us, the details matter most

Every moment of a Trek Travel bike trip has more than you could have ever dreamed. More romance. More scenery. More choice. It's the little additions to every Trek Travel cycling vacation that make it truly special. And that's how we help you create more memories.

bike

Trek Domane SL 7 Disc

It isn’t the cycling vacation of a lifetime unless you have the industry’s best bike to match. In 2019 we upgraded our fleet to feature the award-winning Domane SL 7 with Shimano Ultegra Disc brakes. Because when you combine the lightweight stability and comfort of the Domane with the superior safety and stopping power of disc brakes, you get a match made in cycling heaven. And the best part? It’s included in the trip price. Ride confidently, comfortably and longer in the most beautiful destinations around the world with the new Domane SL 7. Learn More

bike

Trek Electric-Assist XM700+

It’s lightweight and equipped with an adjustable pedal-assist motor that helps riders of all skill levels stay together, play together and make some great memories together. Included at no additional cost, these bikes will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, so reserve yours when you book today. Learn More

View all our bikes & gear

WHAT'S INCLUDED

  • 5 nights of accommodation at handpicked hotels
  • Two experienced guides to provide local knowledge, support, and camaraderie
  • Daily route support with both guides and our support van
  • Daily breakfast, 3 lunches and 4 dinners
  • 3 social hours of drinks and hors d'oeuvres
  • Ride a Trek Domane SL 7 disc, Trek's newest Electric-Assist, or a Trek 7.6 FX Hybrid
  • Up to three daily route options on riding days
  • Snacks and drinks for each day's ride
  • Trek Travel Bontrager cycling jersey to keep
  • Trek Travel water bottles to keep
  • Cinch sack day bag to keep
  • Each bike is equipped with a Garmin Edge 1030 GPS computer, flat pack, front and rear Bontrager Flare R lights, a Bontrager saddle and pedals (Shimano clipless road pedals, Shimano clipless mountain pedals, caged or flat pedals)
  • Bontrager WaveCel helmets
  • All gratuities for drivers, local experts and hospitality staff
  • All luggage transfers and transportation during your trip
  • A personalized photobook of your trip
  • Entrance fees for all activities, private tours and events

GEAR

  • Trek Domane SL 7 disc carbon road bike with Shimano Di2 electronic shifting or Trek 7.6 FX Hybrid bike
  • Trek Electric Assist XM700+ also available in a limited quantity
  • Trek Travel Bontrager cycling jersey to keep
  • Trek Travel water bottles to keep
  • Shimano clipless road pedals, Shimano clipless mountain pedals, caged or flat pedals
  • Bontrager WaveCel helmet
  • Bontrager men's and women's specific saddles
  • Bontrager front and rear Flare R lights and a flat pack
  • Garmin Edge 1030 GPS computer
  • Cinch sack day bag to keep
  • Upgrade your bike to include carbon wheels (+$200)
  • Coupon valued up to $500 off a new Trek Bicycle. Your coupon will be delivered via email prior to your trip.
  • For the most comfortable ride, you may choose to bring your own pedals, saddle, and helmet on the trip. Your guides will install your gear on the first day during your bike fit.

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

Gratuities for your Trek Travel guides are not included in your trip price. We recommend tipping 7.5-10% of your trip price for the guide team. Local currency is preferred and unless you want to tip separately, guides will divide tips amongst themselves. Please tip your guides at your discretion, based on their level of professionalism, guest care and service.
  • Airfare and transportation to and from the trip pick-up/drop-off locations
  • Lodging before and after the trip
  • Personal items purchased during the trip
  • Optional activities not scheduled by Trek Travel
  • On select trips some meals are not included. On these trips, Trek Travel invites you to explore the local cuisine at your leisure.

More Information

Rider Level: 3 - Active?

AVERAGE DAILY MILEAGE:
28 miles
TOTAL MILES:
168 miles
AVERAGE DAILY ELEVATION:
2,088 feet
TOTAL ELEVATION:
12,530 feet
TERRAIN: HILLY
The terrain is varied with sustained ascents and somewhat challenging climbs, if you opt for the more difficult routes. Ireland is best suited for our Type 3 Riders. Our Trek Travel guides can also easily accommodate Type 2 Riders, who seek less mileage or fewer uphills, with a boost in the van. Those who wish to ride every mile but are concerned about their physical ability may want to try our electric bike option–you still get a workout but can climb alongside even the strongest rider. Type 4 Riders will enjoy the extra mileage the avid route options offer.
NON-RIDING ACTIVITIES:
On most Trek Travel trips, we offer non-riding options for riders who want to take the afternoon off, or travel companions who want to spend little or no time in the saddle. Some of these options may need to be scheduled before your trip–please contact one of our Trip Consultants for more information. Expenses and/or related transportation to these activities may not be included in the trip price. Some non-riding options on this trip are:
  • Walk the ’Kerry Way’ - a trail that closely follows the Ring of Kerry
  • Enjoy a private whiskey tasting
  • Golfing options in Kenmare
  • Private hands-on chocolate making class

See itinerary for specific daily ride distances and elevation options. On all of our vacations, Trek Travel strives to find quiet, paved secondary roads or bike paths to experience a region; busy roads are avoided as much as possible. Our itineraries are an approximation of our trips. Trek Travel strives to offer every guest a vacation of a lifetime on every trip. At times routes, hotels, activities, etc. listed here may change at the discretion of the trip designer or guides to improve the trip experience.

Averages and totals are calculated from our "Today’s Ride" options.

Travel Details

How to Get There

FLY INTO:
Cork Airport (ORK) or Dublin Airport (DUB)
MEETING TIME:
11:00 AM
MEETING LOCATION:
Killarney Station, Co. Kerry, Ireland

Say Farewell

FLY OUT OF:
Cork Airport (ORK) or Dublin Airport (DUB)
DEPARTING TIME:
12:00 PM
DEPARTING LOCATION:
Killarney Station, Co. Kerry, Ireland

All Details

Arriving

We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the trip start, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays. We recommend that you fly into Cork Airport (ORK) or Dublin Airport (DUB), and then take a train to Killarney. The train from Cork takes approximately 1.5 hours, and from Dublin it takes approximately 3.5 hours. Train schedules can be found at www.irishrail.ie. A taxi from Cork Airport to the first night’s hotel, Ard Na Sidhe Country House or the Dunloe, would cost approximately 150 euros.

Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Killarney Station (East Ave, Killarney, Co. Kerry, Ireland) at 11:00 AM on the first day of the trip. Your guides will arrive wearing Trek Travel gear so you can easily identify them. You’ll then shuttle approximately one hour to the trip start. Please have your bike gear packed in a separate bag, as you probably will not be able to check into your rooms prior to your bike ride and will not have easy access to your luggage as your guides ensure it is delivered to the hotel.

If you will be late for the pick-up or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your guides. You will receive an email a week before the trip start with their names and contact details. If you cannot reach them, please call our first hotel, Ard Na Sidhe Country House +353 (0)66 976 9105, and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details. A taxi to the first night’s hotel, the Ard Na Sidhe Country House, will cost approximately 150 euros.

View our pre hotel recommendations

Leaving

You will say farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at Sheen Falls Lodge. You'll then board a 1-hour private shuttle to the Killarney Train Station, arriving in time for afternoon departures to other cities. Please do not book train tickets for departure prior to 12:00 PM. If you’re flying out of Cork Airport on this day, please do not schedule a flight prior to 4:00 PM. If you're planning to fly out of Dublin, we recommend booking a flight for the following day.

View our post hotel recommendations

Planning For Your Trip

Packing and Weather

Summer temperatures range from the 50s to 70s. Always remember that rain is possible at any time of the year–daily Irish weather is very unpredictable! It’s a good idea to bring a light rain jacket, as well as layers. Packing List

Before and After Your Trip

before

Before: Killarney, Ireland

We recommend spending some time in Ireland either before or after your trip. While there is an endless amount of things to see in this country as a whole, here is a brief list of suggestions that you may enjoy in the city of Killarney. One of the town’s most popular attractions is in fact the town itself. Killarney meaning “church of the sloes”. Killarney is located at the Gateway to Killarney National Parklands. It is the largest town in county Kerry with a population of over 14,000 inhabitants. Although in saying this, the town centre is compact and easily manageable on foot for the best experience with a choice of Art Galleries, Traditional Craft shops, Elegant Boutiques, Award Winning Restaurants and Lively Pubs there is plenty to experience. Visit www.discoverireland.com/us/ to search upcoming events. We recommend the following accommodations for your pre-trip hotel:

after

After: Dublin, Ireland

If you are able to spend some time in Dublin either before or after your trip, there are countless things to see, but here is a brief list of suggestions that you may enjoy: spend a few extra days in downtown Dublin listening to live music in the thriving Temple Bar district; visit Trinity College’s Old Library, which houses the famous Book of Kells; view Ireland’s visual history at the National Photographic Archives; enjoy distillery tours, such as the Guinness Storehouse and the Old Jameson Distillery. Tours to the Burren region and the Cliffs of Moher make for a superb day trip out of Galway City. Include a visit to the seaside village of Doolin, a musical hotspot in the west. We recommend the following accommodations for your post-trip hotel:

Customer Reviews

Why Trek Travel

Our Bikes

Our unrivaled selection of Trek Bikes sets the bar for quality and comfort. From the all-new, ultra smooth Trek Domane SL 7, to the new Trek Electric-Assist XM700+ and the comfortable Trek 7.6 FX Hybrid, to our numerous upgrade options, you deserve the best ride on your vacation.

Our Guides

Our guides are trained to make your trip magical. They aren't just experts in riding; they're trained in delivering uncompromising service in ways you won't believe. We know that it's the unexpected surprises that make a trip magical. That's why our guides pride themselves on anticipating your needs before you ask.

Your Day. You Decide.

Our vacations are built to deliver the ultimate in flexibility, from extreme relaxers to hard-core roadies. You pick your mileage, itinerary and experiences. We take care of the rest.

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