Ireland's County Cork & Kerry Bike Tour
Charming Villages, Cozy Pubs & Celtic Coastline
Cruise cobbled streets and feel the depth of history. Pause at a sea of woolly sheep. Gather at a neighborhood pub where humor and heritage abound. There’s magic here. Come explore.
We rate our trips based on a range of activity levels from 1-5.
See this trip's Activity Options & Terrain for more details.
From $4,499 - $4,599/person
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Snapshots from the Trip
Trip at a Glance
Highlights
- Behold classic Irish scenery of centuries-old stone cottages and emerald green hills
- Partake in a whiskey tasting with a local aficionado who shares insights into the Irish love affair with the “water of life”
- Bike in the land of ancient Celts on the rugged Beara Peninsula, where colorful seaside villages mingle with fascinating geology
- Explore riverside Kinsale in County Cork, a historic port often called the “Gourmet Capital of Ireland”
- Enjoy warm Irish hospitality and rejuvenate at contemporary boutique hotels
Sample itinerary. Trip details may vary by departure.
Start Cork Airport & Travel Details
- Pedal through classic Irish landscapes of emerald hills, small farms, quaint cottages and woolly sheep
- A gorgeous cycling route winds through Moll’s Gap and along Blackwater Valley’s tranquil roads
- Bike by pristine lakes, stately cliffs and glacier-carved mountains on the untamed Beara Peninsula
- Browse Kenmare’s craft shops, meander by the River Finnihy, check out the nearby prehistoric stone circle or kick back with a pint at a lively pub.
Nights 1-2
Casual Hotel
It’s just a short stroll to the center of Kenmare from this contemporary boutique hotel.
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
- Savor deliciously fresh seafood, like mussels and hearty chowder
- A gradual climb leads to magnificent Caha Pass, complete with tunnels and panoramic views of Bantry Bay
- Ride through Glengarriff on your way to picturesque Bantry
- Bike along quiet roads on the dramatic Sheep’s Head peninsula with sweeping vistas of Bantry Bay and the impressive cliffs of Mizen Head
- Partake in a whiskey tasting in vibrant Clonakilty.
Nights 3-4
Casual Hotel
Owner Ronan O’Sullivan pampers us at his country house on the shore of Bantry Bay. (spa)
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
- Soak up fascinating history and lively village culture
- Stunning coastal scenery lines the bike route to Courtmacsherry Bay and the remains of 13th-century Timoleague Abbey
- Wander Kinsale’s medieval alleys, shop or walk along the shoreline of this colorful port town
- Cycle amid ancient battlefields and seaside vistas
- A favorite local restaurant serves up classic Irish dishes with a modern twist.
Night 5
Casual Hotel
A harborside haven with style and soul, this stylish boutique hotel is the oldest hotel in Kinsale and has helped shape the town’s reputation as a world-class destination.
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
End Cork Airport & Travel Details
This trip has an activity level range of 2-4
All breakfasts, 4 dinners, 4 lunches
All accommodations on your Backroads trip
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Expertise and services of Backroads Trip Leaders
Fully equipped Backroads titanium bike, Wahoo GPS device, helmet and accessories
Bike fitting and equipment support throughout your trip
Backroads On Trip App with route maps, elevation profiles, daily snapshots and more
Additional local guides and experts, plus equipment for included activities as detailed in your itinerary
Exclusive activities, tours and cultural experiences, as detailed in your itinerary
All luggage transfers and porterage during your trip
Snacks and beverages between meals
Private cocktail and wine receptions on the first and last nights of your trip
Choice of Backroads cycling jersey, t-shirt or hat, plus water bottle and luggage tag
Detailed Travel Planner with destination tips and pre-trip information
