The Great Western Greenway and Connemara

DAY 2 - Westport - The Great Western Greenway

Up to 92km (57mls) Gradient +344m/-344m

Ride the Great Western Greenway heading along the northern shores of Clew Bay towards Achill Island (Ireland’s biggest island but it is connected by a bridge). This is a rail to trail route away from the traffic and as an out and back allows for adjustable length.

DAY 3 - Westport – Leenane

52km (32mls) Gradient +365m/-388m

Today’s cycle will bring you along Clew Bay to the small town of Louisburgh and then through the scenic Delphi Valley to the shores of Killary Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord, and the village of Leenane. The village was the setting for the film “The Field” with Richard Harris.

DAY 4 - Leenane – Clifden

49km (30mls) Gradient +498m/-484m – 3 additional optional loops

This coastal cycle is one of the most breathtaking routes in Ireland, offering stunning views of the Atlantic coastline, rugged mountains, and serene countryside.  The route is known for its wild beauty and vast open landscapes dotted with sheep. As you approach the village of Letterfrack, you will see Connemara National Park, home to the majestic Diamond Hill, a great place for a short hike if you want to stretch your legs. The cycle then continues toward the Sky Road, one of Ireland’s most scenic routes, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and offshore islands. Finally, you’ll arrive in Clifden, known as the capital of Connemara, with cozy pubs, great seafood, and a lively atmosphere. Here you will stay for two nights.

DAY 5 - Clifden – Rest Day or loop rides

Loop 1: 22km (14mls) Gradient +187m/-189m;
Loop 2: 41km (25mls) Gradient +288m/-288m;
Loop 3: Up to 30km (19mls) Gradient +368m/-368m;

Today you can explore the beautiful coastal area along quiet country roads from Clifden or alternatively you can enjoy a rest day. The first short loop goes south and leads to Derrygimlagh, which was the site of two major historical events: in 1907, Guglielmo Marconi built a pioneering radio station here, making it the first place in the world to send a transatlantic wireless message to Canada; and in 1919, aviators John Alcock and Arthur Brown crash-landed here after completing the first-ever non-stop transatlantic flight. The longer cycle loop south continues to Roundstone, a charming fishing village, which is a great spot for a seafood lunch. You can also visit Dogs Bay and Gurteen Bay, two of Ireland’s most beautiful white-sand beaches. If you did not have a chance to do it yesterday you can cycle the Sky Road loop.

DAY 6 - Clifden – Carna

41km (25mls) Gradient +280m/-301m – can be extended

A breathtaking ride through the heart of Connemara’s wild and rugged landscape, offering a mix of coastal views, mountains, and traditional Irish culture. Your destination today is the Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) village of Carna, a quiet seaside village known for its rich Irish culture, traditional music, and beautiful coastline. You will cycle through blanket boglands, sparkling lakes, and the distant peaks of the Twelve Bens as you make your way to Carna. If you did not have time to do the Roundstone loop yesterday you will have the option to visit it today.

DAY 7 - Carna – Oughterard/Galway

69km (43mls) Gradient +615m/-611m

Cycle along the coast to Kilkerrin, continuing along the coast to Costelloe and then head over a very quiet backroad to Oughterard via the newly expanding windfarms. Stay the final night in the small town of Oughterard famed for its fishing on Lough (lake) Corrib

DAY 8 - Oughterard – Departure

Breakfast and departure for your onward journey. Leave bikes at your accommodation and we will collect them later. There are buses back to Galway City from where there are buses and trains to Galway.