Treasures of the Donegal Coast
7 nights from €966
5Cycle through green, rolling hills and visit stunning sea cliffs in northwestern Ireland
This cycling tour takes you along one of the most stunning stretches of coastline in the world. Make your way along the coast, where every turn will leave you awe-struck with ever-changing panoramas.
You'll visit unique ancient sites on this cycling holiday. Ireland has a history that stretches back more than 5,000 years. Here, you can visit sites from virtually every era right up to the present. Marvel at stone age court tombs, bronze age dolmens, Celtic ring forts impossibly situated in lakes and on mountains, and early-Christian standing stones and monasteries.
Take a break to visit rural pubs, where the hospitality of the locals will soon have you feeling like you are in a second home. Hear vibrant traditional music, unique to this part of Ireland, handed down unchanged for generations.
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 Glenties. See rates listed under Pricing Tab or inquire within.
2nd Ireland west coast tour - love this country
“Really enjoyed this tour and Ireland by Bike does a great job of providing clear maps and detail on each leg of the journey to explore. The county is beautiful with an amazing variety of landscapes…” More
“Really enjoyed this tour and Ireland by Bike does a great job of providing clear maps and detail on each leg of the journey to explore. The county is beautiful with an amazing variety of landscapes from cliffs to valleys to amazing remote beaches. Hotels and their proprietors were all terrific, made if especially nice to stay extra nights in some.” Less
—Carol
Time to enjoy Ireland!
“We opted for a customer 12 day option, with an extra day (well, a 13 day option?). The extra day was special for 2022 - with stories of airlines canceling flights. We wanted to be sure we arrived in…” More
“We opted for a customer 12 day option, with an extra day (well, a 13 day option?). The extra day was special for 2022 - with stories of airlines canceling flights. We wanted to be sure we arrived in time for our tour!
Ireland by Bike (the tour operator) delivered our bikes a day earlier, effectively extending our tour, and provided an extra route! I thought that was a very thoughtful surprise. We found that Ireland has lots or wonderful, thoughtful, friendly people, which made our tour enjoyable and low stress.
I rode a hybrid bike and certainly noticed the tour routes were not flat; my wife had an ebike and climbed hills faster than I did. We both loved the varied terrain. Doing the tour self-guided let us set our own pace with no pressure.” Less
—Stu Davidson
Gorgeous views most of the time!
“We had a wonderful trip. Seamus was a super introduction to Donegal -such a friendly person who gave us a clear and detailed introduction to the bikes and the trip. The map and instructions were…” More
“We had a wonderful trip. Seamus was a super introduction to Donegal -such a friendly person who gave us a clear and detailed introduction to the bikes and the trip. The map and instructions were clear. Our bikes were comfortable and worked well - although the hills were intense and constant. I have done six previous bike trips with a standard bike but I would have opted for an E bike on this one had I known how difficult the hills were going to be! One of our group of four did opt for an E bike and she was very happy she did so! The routes were quiet and mostly on back country and farm roads. There always seemed to be beautiful or serene views. There were several very interesting side trips. The accommodations were very comfortable. The breakfasts were great. The pubs and music were such fun. And everyone we met was friendly and sunny (the Irish people are "always sunny on the inside despite the weather," so someone said and it seems to be true!). It did rain a lot - but it was always a gentle and warm rain. With rain gear it was quite manageable. I would highly recommend this trip.” Less
—Anne Stanek
Daily Program
Day 1: Arrival to Donegal
You may check into your accommodations after 3pm. If you arrive early you can explore the town - the ancient seat of the O'Donnell Clan. Spend the evening relaxing in this historic town with its many pubs and restaurants.
Overnight in Donegal.
Day 2: Around Lough Eske
16 miles/26 km
In the morning, you will be met by a representative for a tour briefing and bike delivery. Your first day of cycling takes you around tranquil Lough Eske, nestled at the foot of the Bluestack Mountains. Back in Donegal you can visit the 15th Century Donegal Castle, or you can take a trip on the Donegal Bay Waterbus. Alternatively, you can spend the evening relaxing (or shopping if you like!).
Overnight in Donegal.
Day 3: Donegal – Killybegs
24-33 miles/38-53 km
Today you cycle along the ever-changing coastline between Donegal and Killybegs. You’ll pass quiet bays, beaches and inlets. Cycle along narrow peninsulas and headlands. Bike along St. John’s Point, where the Atlantic Ocean will lie on both your left and right. The views in all directions here are magnificent. Continue west to your overnight destination in the bustling fishing village of Killybegs, where much of Ireland’s Atlantic catch is landed.
Overnight in Killybegs.
Day 4: Killybegs – Carrick
13-22 miles/21-35 km
West from Killybegs the landscape becomes ever more dramatic. Golden sandy beaches, towering cliffs and sheltered bays await round every turn. Through Kilcar Village, a centre of traditional tweed production, before reaching your overnight destination of Carrick. A short bike trip from Carrick brings you to the stunning Slieve League Cliffs – one of Ireland's greatest treasures. Here you also have the opportunity to view the cliffs from below, with a boat trip from nearby Teelin Pier.
Overnight in Carrick.
Day 5: Carrick – Glencolmcille – Carrick
16-21 miles/25-33 km
Take a bike tour through 5,000 years of Irish History. “5,000 Years In Stone”, the book title about the Glencolmcille Valley, says it all. Stone age court tombs, dolmens from the bronze age, and early Christian inscribed standing stones are all overlooked by a watchtower from the Napoleonic era. Today's cycle brings you to this mystical land. Spend the day immersed in history, before cycling back to Carrick for the night.
Overnight in Carrick.
Day 6: Carrick – Glenties
18-23 miles/29-38 km
From Carrick cycle north through wild boglands. You climb gradually before emerging at the head of the beautiful Granny Valley. The bike ride down the valley will be one to remember. Choose between stopping to admire the amazing views or enjoying the thrill of the descent. At the bottom of the valley you will find pristine Maghera beach with its caves that can be explored at low tide. Nearby is the dramatic Assarancagh waterfall. Before continuing to your overnight stay in the pleasant town of Glenties stop in the heritage town of Ardara. This lively town has a great selection of pubs, many of which feature regular traditional music sessions
Overnight in Glenties.
Day 7: Loop Tour around Glenties
12-25 miles/18-40 km
Leaving Glenties along a newly constructed cycle path, follow a beautiful loop around by Portnoo
and Rossbeg. The possibilities today are endless. You can take the leisurely 8 km bike ride along stunningly beautiful Loughros Point. Alternatively, cycle to the golden sandy beach, caves and waterfall at Maghera. A third option is to head out around Dawros Head. Here you can view the Kilclooney Dolmen. Nearby is the mystical Doon Lough Crannog (fort built in a lake). The choice is up to you. Return to Glenties – for a traditional music session to celebrate the last night of your tour.
Overnight in Glenties.
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
You may check into your accommodations after 3pm. If you arrive early you can explore the town - the ancient seat of the O'Donnell Clan. Spend the evening relaxing in this historic town with its many pubs and restaurants.
Overnight in Donegal.
Day 2: Around Lough Eske
16 miles/26 km
In the morning, you will be met by a representative for a tour briefing and bike delivery. Your first day of cycling takes you around tranquil Lough Eske, nestled at the foot of the Bluestack Mountains. Back in Donegal you can visit the 15th Century Donegal Castle, or you can take a trip on the Donegal Bay Waterbus. Alternatively, you can spend the evening relaxing (or shopping if you like!).
Overnight in Donegal.
Day 3: Donegal – Killybegs
24-33 miles/38-53 km
Today you cycle along the ever-changing coastline between Donegal and Killybegs. You’ll pass quiet bays, beaches and inlets. Cycle along narrow peninsulas and headlands. Bike along St. John’s Point, where the Atlantic Ocean will lie on both your left and right. The views in all directions here are magnificent. Continue west to your overnight destination in the bustling fishing village of Killybegs, where much of Ireland’s Atlantic catch is landed.
Overnight in Killybegs.
Day 4: Killybegs – Carrick
13-22 miles/21-35 km
West from Killybegs the landscape becomes ever more dramatic. Golden sandy beaches, towering cliffs and sheltered bays await round every turn. Through Kilcar Village, a centre of traditional tweed production, before reaching your overnight destination of Carrick. A short bike trip from Carrick brings you to the stunning Slieve League Cliffs – one of Ireland's greatest treasures. Here you also have the opportunity to view the cliffs from below, with a boat trip from nearby Teelin Pier.
Overnight in Carrick.
Day 5: Carrick – Glencolmcille – Carrick
16-21 miles/25-33 km
Take a bike tour through 5,000 years of Irish History. “5,000 Years In Stone”, the book title about the Glencolmcille Valley, says it all. Stone age court tombs, dolmens from the bronze age, and early Christian inscribed standing stones are all overlooked by a watchtower from the Napoleonic era. Today's cycle brings you to this mystical land. Spend the day immersed in history, before cycling back to Carrick for the night.
Overnight in Carrick.
Day 6: Carrick – Ardara/Glenties
18-23 miles/29-38 km
From Carrick cycle north through wild boglands. You climb gradually before emerging at the head of the beautiful Granny Valley. The bike ride down the valley will be one to remember. Choose between stopping to admire the amazing views or enjoying the thrill of the descent. At the bottom of the valley you will find pristine Maghera beach with its caves that can be explored at low tide. Nearby is the dramatic Assarancagh waterfall. Before continuing to your overnight stay in the pleasant town of Glenties stop in the heritage town of Ardara. This lively town has a great selection of pubs, many of which feature regular traditional music sessions
Overnight in Glenties.
Day 7: Loop Tour around Glenties
12-25 miles/18-40 km
Leaving Glenties along a newly constructed cycle path, follow a beautiful loop around by Portnoo
and Rossbeg. The possibilities today are endless. You can take the leisurely 8 km bike ride along stunningly beautiful Loughros Point. Alternatively, cycle to the golden sandy beach, caves and waterfall at Maghera. A third option is to head out around Dawros Head. Here you can view the Kilclooney Dolmen. Nearby is the mystical Doon Lough Crannog (fort built in a lake). The choice is up to you. Return to Glenties – for a traditional music session to celebrate the last night of your tour.
Overnight in Glenties.
Day 8: Ardara/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 to your starting locations in Donegal Town. Once you arrive, there will be plenty of time to walk around town and shop for gifts and momentosOvernight in Donegal.
Day 9: 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 accommodation 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 Town: Brennans Bed and Breakfast
Killybegs: The Tara Hotel
Carrick: Teelin Bay House B&B
Ardara/Glenties: Bay View Country House B&B
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*
*More about 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
This tour goes through very hilly terrain. The gradient varies from gentle to very steep. The roads are paved small secondary roads with little traffic. The daily distances will be from 18 to 30 miles (30-50 km) per day.
While it is relaxed cycling through beautiful terrain, we do recommend being comfortable with cycling hilly terrain for a few hours each day. In addition, there is a short section in this tour on gravel with some steep climbs and descents, however an alternative route on a paved road is available.
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 - Glenties
Flying out of Dublin: Taxi or local bus (30 minutes) to Donegal Town. 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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