Highlights of the Highlands: Donegal by E-bike
7 nights from €1031
4.46
Cycling Ireland's Beaches, Valleys, and Heritage Sites from Donegal Town to Letterkenny
Smell the wonderfully refreshing salty breezes as you cycle along one of the world’s most beautiful coastlines. Feel that wonderful sense of total freedom as your bike tour takes you across a wide-open expanse of Irish bogland. Stop at a sandy beach and dip your feet in the crystal-clear water. Climb to the top of a heather-covered hill, and be awe-struck by the panoramic views, then feel the exhilaration as you cycle down the other side. Listen to vibrant traditional music – as unique and undiscovered as the area that inspired it. Be sure to stop for a chat with the locals – and don’t hurry – you might be there for a while!
County Donegal is truly one of Ireland’s gems – the perfect place to experience one of Ireland’s best bike tours. Quiet roads await you as you explore one of the country’s least-known regions. This self-guided cycling holiday allows you to cycle at your leisure. Use our legendary tour notes to really get to know the region. Feel secure in the knowledge that we are only a phone call away.
We recommend our clients consider renting an electrically assisted bike for this tour to more easily accomplish the consistently hilly terrain. Of course, standard bikes are also available to rent.
Escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life with one of the best bike tours you will ever experience.
This tour is able to be extended by adding extra nights before the tour in Donegal Town or at the end of the tour in Letterkenny. See rates listed under Pricing Tab or inquire within for further details.
Daily Program
Day 1: Arrival to Donegal Town
Arrive at your accommodations after 3 pm after which you might like to explore the town. Donegal Town is steeped in history, with its imposing castle and ruined abbey. It also has a great selection of lively pubs and cafés.
Overnight in Donegal.
Day 2: Donegal – Carrick
36 - 46 miles/58 - 75 km
In the morning, you will be met by a representative for a tour briefing and bike delivery. You will start your tour cycling west along Donegal Bay. The smell of the sea will soon be all around you as you pass quiet bays, headlands, and inlets. Cycle to the fishing port of Killybegs and on along the dramatic coastline to Carrick. If you arrive early enough, a visit to the cliffs at Sliabh Liag is an unforgettable experience. If you don't have time to fit in a visit to the cliffs this evening, it is possible to do so the following morning.
Overnight in Carrick.
Day 3: Carrick – Glencolmcille – Carrick
16 - 30 miles/26 - 48 km
The morning route takes you along one of the most stunning places along the entire Wild Atlantic Way, the Sliabh Liag Cliffs. You have time to revel in the beauty and tranquility of the area. After departing the cliffs, you will traverse along more coastline, sandy beaches, and witness 5000 years of history. Today you have the option to extend your cycling distance with a side trip to Silver Strand, one of Ireland's most beautiful beaches before continuing to the Glencolmcille valley. The valley boasts a history dating back to the stone age. Return to Carrick where you will spend your second night.
Overnight in Carrick.
Day 4: Carrick – Glenties
25 - 38 miles/41 - 61 km
Today takes you from Carrick over boglands to the top of Granny Valley. Your day starts with the option to cycle to the now deserted harbour at Port, one of the most remote and ethereal locations on the western coast of Ireland. Experience the adrenalin rush of a cycle down this amazing Valley to Maghera where a pristine beach, a series of caves, and Assarancagh Waterfall await. Cycle along Loughros Beag Bay to the heritage town of Ardara - a center for traditional weaving. Continue to your overnight stop in the pretty village of Glenties.
Overnight in Glenties.
Day 5: Glenties – Portnoo – Glenties
0 - 25 miles/0 - 40 km
The stunning area west of Glenties around the villages of Portnoo and Rossbeg is just waiting to be explored. A newly opened cycle path will bring you from Glenties to Portnoo. Here you can stroll along the magnificent golden strand. At low tide, it is possible to walk out to tiny Inishkeel Island. Cycle along the coast at Rossbeg where you can take in the views over the bay and mountains beyond. On the way back towards Glenties the stone age dolmen at Kilclooney is not to be missed.
Overnight in Glenties.
Day 6: Glenties – Annagry
29 - 43 miles/46 - 70 km
Follow the coast north from Glenties which overlooks the many inlets, sand dunes, and islands of Gweebarra Bay. If you simply can't get enough of the dramatic coasts, a cycle around Crohy Head should do nicely. From the harbour at Burtonport, you have the option to visit one of the many inhabited islands off the Donegal Coast. Arranmore is a 20-minute ferry trip from Burtonport (ferry tickets not included). The boat trip itself makes the journey worthwhile! Make your way back to the mainland where you cycle past yet more beautiful golden beaches to the village of Annagry.
Overnight in Annagry.
Day 7: Annagry – Letterkenny
35 - 40 miles/57 - 65 km
The unique beauty of the Donegal Highlands is all around during today’s cycle. Pass beneath the peak of majestic Mount Errigal. Further along is the hauntingly beautiful Poisoned Glen. Your cycling tour then takes you to Glenveagh National Park. Red deer and golden eagles live here, among the pristine lakes and mountains. Follow the paths through the park to the shore of Lough Gartan. Continue through lush farmland to the bustling town of Letterkenny.
Overnight in Letterkenny.
Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, it is time to leave your cycling holiday behind. Bring with you your memories of a tour around one of the most beautiful and friendly regions in the world.
Day 1: Arrival to Donegal Town
Arrive at your accommodations after 3 pm after which you might like to explore the town. Donegal Town is steeped in history, with its imposing castle and ruined abbey. It also has a great selection of lively pubs and cafés.
Overnight in Donegal.
Day 2: Donegal – Carrick
36 - 46 miles/58 - 75 km
In the morning, you will be met by a representative for a tour briefing and bike delivery. You will start your tour cycling west along Donegal Bay. The smell of the sea will soon be all around you as you pass quiet bays, headlands, and inlets. Cycle to the fishing port of Killybegs and on along the dramatic coastline to Carrick. If you arrive early enough, a visit to the cliffs at Sliabh Liag is an unforgettable experience. If you don't have time to fit in a visit to the cliffs this evening, it is possible to do so the following morning.
Overnight in Carrick.
Day 3: Carrick – Glencolmcille – Carrick
16 - 30 miles/26 - 48 km
The morning route takes you along one of the most stunning places along the entire Wild Atlantic Way, the Sliabh Liag Cliffs. You have time to revel in the beauty and tranquility of the area. After departing the cliffs, you will traverse along more coastline, sandy beaches, and witness 5000 years of history. Today you have the option to extend your cycling distance with a side trip to Silver Strand, one of Ireland's most beautiful beaches before continuing to the Glencolmcille valley. The valley boasts a history dating back to the stone age. Return to Carrick where you will spend your second night.
Overnight in Carrick.
Day 4: Carrick – Glenties
25 - 38 miles/41 - 61 km
Today takes you from Carrick over boglands to the top of Granny Valley. Your day starts with the option to cycle to the now deserted harbour at Port, one of the most remote and ethereal locations on the western coast of Ireland. Experience the adrenalin rush of a cycle down this amazing Valley to Maghera where a pristine beach, a series of caves, and Assarancagh Waterfall await. Cycle along Loughros Beag Bay to the heritage town of Ardara - a center for traditional weaving. Continue to your overnight stop in the pretty village of Glenties.
Overnight in Glenties.
Day 5: Glenties – Portnoo – Glenties
0 - 25 miles/0 - 40 km
The stunning area west of Glenties around the villages of Portnoo and Rossbeg is just waiting to be explored. A newly opened cycle path will bring you from Glenties to Portnoo. Here you can stroll along the magnificent golden strand. At low tide, it is possible to walk out to tiny Inishkeel Island. Cycle along the coast at Rossbeg where you can take in the views over the bay and mountains beyond. On the way back towards Glenties the stone age dolmen at Kilclooney is not to be missed.
Overnight in Glenties.
Day 6: Glenties – Annagry
29 - 43 miles/46 - 70 km
Follow the coast north from Glenties which overlooks the many inlets, sand dunes, and islands of Gweebarra Bay. If you simply can't get enough of the dramatic coasts, a cycle around Crohy Head should do nicely. From the harbour at Burtonport, you have the option to visit one of the many inhabited islands off the Donegal Coast. Arranmore is a 20-minute ferry trip from Burtonport (ferry tickets not included). The boat trip itself makes the journey worthwhile! Make your way back to the mainland where you cycle past yet more beautiful golden beaches to the village of Annagry.
Overnight in Annagry.
Day 7: Annagry – Letterkenny
35 - 40 miles/57 - 65 km
The unique beauty of the Donegal Highlands is all around during today’s cycle. Pass beneath the peak of majestic Mount Errigal. Further along is the hauntingly beautiful Poisoned Glen. Your cycling tour then takes you to Glenveagh National Park. Red deer and golden eagles live here, among the pristine lakes and mountains. Follow the paths through the park to the shore of Lough Gartan. Continue through lush farmland to the bustling town of Letterkenny.
Overnight in Letterkenny.
Day 8: Letterkenny – Glenties
31 miles/50 km
Today you start the day cycling out of Letterkenny, where you won't want to miss a stop at the Newmills Corn and Flax mill. After a climb, you will have the opportunity to cycle along the southern portion of the Glenveagh National Park. In the park awaits beautiful views of the lake and valley before following a quite road through the Derryveagh Mountains and back to Glenties.
Day 9: Glenties – Donegal Town
18 miles/29 km
Cycle the hills and Irish boglands that overlook the Donegal Bay and the coastline. Make your way back along quiet roads before descending back to your starting location in Donegal Town. Once you arrive, there will be plenty of time to walk around town and shop for gifts and momentos. However, if you prefer a longer cycling route, you can explore the tranquil Lough Eske at the foot of the Bluestack Mountains.
Overnight in Donegal.
Day 10: Departure
After breakfast, it is time to leave your cycling holiday behind. Bring with you your memories of a tour around one of the most beautiful and friendly regions in the world.
Hotels
These are sample hotels and may vary based on availability.
The accommodations for this bike tour are carefully selected with the needs of the cyclist as a top priority. They are family-run bed and breakfasts and small hotels, all of which are of a very high standard, and approved by Fáilte Ireland (Irish Tourist Board). They are a real treat and a highlight of the tour.
Donegal: Waters Edge B&B
Carrick: Brennans Bed and Breakfast
Killybegs: The Tara Hotel
Glenties: The Station House Hotel
Annagry: Caisleáin Óir Hotel
Interested in visiting other areas before or after your tour? Visit our hotels page to learn more about lodging options.
Bikes
Bikes available to be rented on this tour (reserved in advance at time of booking):
- Standard touring bike, 27-speed
- Electrically assisted bikes
All the above bike rentals will be equipped with:
- Helmet
- Front carrier bag with map holder
- Mudguards
- Rear luggage carrier
- Lock
- Puncture repair kit
- Pump
- Spare inner tube
- Rear saddle bag
One rear saddle bag provided, second saddle bag available free of charge upon request. Please note this on your booking form.
Additional specifications about the standard touring bikes:
The standard touring bikes available are 27 speed with all Shimano components including Shimano Hydraulic Disc Brakes. These standard models, combine the best features of road and mountain bikes, making them the perfect choice for touring the type of terrain in North West Ireland.
Additional specifications about the electrically assisted bikes:
The e-bikes available are Thompson Enigma or equivalent. This bike features the Bosch Active + motor with 500 wh battery. Perfect for providing extra assistance on the hilly terrain of North West Ireland.
Pedals and Saddles:
If you would like to bring your own pedals (and shoes) and saddles, please feel free to do so. The tour company can assist you with fitting to the bikes. However, it is important to bring the necessary tools to remove these at the end of the tour as you may not always meet the tour company rep at the end.
Helmets:
Helmets are included in the tour package price.
Bike Protection:
Bike protection can be purchased at the time of booking. You can read more about that HERE.
Dates & Prices
Questions about pricing or options? Call +1-215-613-0874 to talk to a Tour Advisor now.
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Surface and terrain
On most days you cycle around 37-43 miles (60-70 km), on paved small secondary roads with little traffic.
We suggest being comfortable with cycling hills consistenly for a few hours. If cycling on hilly terrain is a problem, then opt for one of the electrically-assisted bikes, where even the toughest hill becomes flat! Also, alternative route on paved road available if needed.
How to get there
Tour start - Donegal Town
Nearest Airport: Dublin.
Flying into Dublin- There are direct buses from Dublin airport and city. The journey takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes.
Tour end - Letterkenny
Flying out of Dublin: There are direct buses to Dublin airport and city. The journey takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes.
Tips on getting to and from your tour
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