Cycling in Ireland

Naturally the first thing that comes to peoples’ minds when they consider the necessity of touring Ireland by road is the option of renting a car in Ireland. Certainly every airport in Ireland offers visitors the chance to hire a car in Ireland, often at very reasonable costs with many benefits for their stay. However, if you want to get a bit more fresh air than is to be found by simply rolling down your window, you may want to park the rental car at the hotel, and try something a bit lighter and more open in the way of transport.

This refers, of course, to the sport of cycling. Ireland is renowned as a fantastic place for both amateur and experienced cyclists to enjoy a cycling holiday. You don’t need to be in top physical condition to enjoy a leisurely pedaling tour through some of the flatter regions of Ireland, although naturally a minimum physical requirement is recommended before undertaking any prolonged exercise, no matter how mild. Tours are available guided, and people who want to pedal through a quiet country village and really appreciate the more minute aspects of culture that are lost when travelling in a car might do well to hire a guide to conduct their tour.

If you are more fit and ready for a bit of a challenge, why not try some of the steeper inclines offered in Ireland’s more hilly terrain? You may even want to make an overnight trip out of it. Guesthouses in Ireland are well accustomed to putting up cycling tours for the night, or you may prefer to prolong the fresh air experience and spend a night camping out.

If you do plan to be more than a few minutes’ walk away from civilization, it is important to put a lot of extra planning into your cycling trip. Be sure to pack foul-weather gear, and a first-aid kit. Take a mobile phone if at all possible, in case you need to call for assistance. A cyclist who plans for safety will get home safely!