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Fitness & Health

25th May 2015

JOE’s 5 favourite biking routes in Ireland

Vroom Vroom

JOE

Killarney is going to be rocking for Bikefest.

Our love of motorbikes stems from a combination of Arnold Schwarzenegger in Terminator and Limp Bizkit’s monster hit Rollin’ in 2000. Don’t tell anyone about the latter.

We’re hoping to see (and hear) both at Ireland Bikefest Killarney on the June Bank Holiday weekend as motorbike fanatics from all over the world arrive in the town for Ireland’s only free open biker festival.

As well as bikes; there will be live open-air gigs, ride-outs, test rides, parades and amazing food.

Ahead of Ireland Bikefest, we’ve compiled our five favourite biking routes in Ireland, there’s something in here for beginner and experienced riders.

The Phoenix Park Loop

We know it might be obvious to most people but other mightn’t realise there’s a decent loop to be done in the Phoenix Park.

You might need a few laps to get a good value but it’s an option if you’re looking to go for a chilled-out spin on a Sunday.

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Mourne Mountains Loop

A 17km route but there are some serious climbs along the way.

It’s unbelievably scenic with Carlingford Lough, the Cooley Peninsula, and the ruins of Greencastle all potential places to take photos that you can later add to Instagram with a nice filter if you’re into that.

Ballina to Ballysadare

A savage 60km route along the northern Connacht that takes in lots of the world-renowned Sligo coast.

The roads up there are in great shape so it should be a smooth trip.

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Dublin to Glendalough via Sally’s Gap Loop

One of the most popular routes for bikers in Dublin as they set off from the south of the capital to Glendalough, stop off for breakfast in Laragh, before returning home via Sally’s Gap.

The Ring of Kerry

It’s the most famous route in the country and also one of the most enjoyable as you see some of the best parts of Kerry along the 179km route.

It’s not for the faint-hearted but it will all be worth it when you’re passing through Killarney, Kenmare Waterville etc.

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Head along to Ireland’s only free open biker festival, Ireland Bikefest Killarney, on the June Bank Holiday weekend for bikes, music, food and great craic. Find more information at irelandbikefest.com.