Renowned for its diverse landscapes, the Green Island is a dream destination for nature lovers. With an extensive cycling network, it can be easily explored on two wheels. From a simple bicycle ride to mountain biking trails: discover how to explore Ireland by bike – the two EuroVelo 1 and EuroVelo 2 routes and the Greenways…

Ireland by bike: iconic routes and trails
   

Before you set off on your journey, let's clarify the Irish cycling network! It's important to understand that the country is crossed by different types of trails.

●     Iconic roads: circuits through the Irish countryside or mountains, which don't belong to any specific network.

●     Two EuroVelo circuits: transnational routes – from the European Cyclists' Federation (ECF) project – that allow you to cycle across Europe.

●     Greenways: local and regional cycling trails designed to promote cycling across the country.

There are connections between the EuroVelo routes and the greenways – as some sections may overlap. In that case, the roads are both greenways and portions of EuroVelo routes (1 or 2).

EuroVelo 1 and EuroVelo 2 trails
   

Ireland is crossed by two EuroVelo routes (among the 17 trails in the network). Designed to promote travel within the EU, these routes also encourage cycle tourism in each country.

EuroVelo 1 (and the Wild Atlantic Way route)

EuroVelo 1 (also called the Atlantic Coast Route) hugs the western Atlantic coast, passing through Belfast (the capital of Northern Ireland) and inland, venturing deeper into the hinterland.

One of the most famous sections is the Atlantic route. Better known as the Wild Atlantic Way, this route stretches 2,600 km across nine counties. It's renowned for the beauty of its coastal landscapes, made up of cliffs, small villages, and wild beaches. This route includes several remarkable sites:

●     Cliffs of Moher: known as the "Harry Potter cliffs,