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Ireland Biking
Cork, Kerry & the Southwest Emerald Isle
"Ireland, especially the rural West, is a cyclist's dream," writes Bicycling magazine. "A network of intertwined little roads...wind above seaside cliffs and past evenly spaced white cottages with gray slate roofs, each one trailing its signature plume of smoke from a turf fire." Join Backroads to weave your way through this spectacular landscape, along the quiet nooks of western Cork and Kerry, and past ancient fortresses, crumbling churches and peaceful glens dressed in emerald. You'll be charmed by a local historian, a spinner of folk tales and an expert in fine whiskey. After a day of riding, enjoy warm Irish hospitality in country manors and inns.
Request an itinerary here or reserve this trip now.
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• Spin through the classic Irish landscape: green hills, small farms, quaint cottages and woolly sheep
• Soak up fascinating history and lively village culture
• Private whiskey tasting
• The hospitality of the renowned Park Hotel Kenmare
• Catch ferries to some of Ireland's treasures and enjoy sweeping coastal views
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Day 1 Kinsale
Meet in Cork. Pedal into the countryside, following a hilly route to the cliffs at the Old Head of Kinsale, where castle ruins and a watchtower from the Napoleonic War invite exploration. Join a local historian for a walking tour of Kinsale.
• One night at Old Bank House. Just steps from Kinsale's picturesque harbor, this modest inn - the nicest place to stay in town! - is adorned with exquisite period pieces and original art.
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Day 2 Baltimore
Take in sweeping vistas of the south coast's emerald bluffs en route to the market town of Clonakilty. Continue on to Baltimore, winding through a classic Irish tableau of verdant hills, small farms, quaint cottages and woolly sheep. Enjoy an evening of local entertainment.
• One night at Casey's of Baltimore. Exuding classic Irish charm, Ann and Michael Casey's cheery casual inn with an inviting pub is tucked in a traditional fishing village.
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Day 3 Ballylickey
Ferry to Schull, a vibrant resort town. An afternoon ride to Ballylickey follows quiet country roads lined with small villages painted in cheery colors. Visit Mannings' Emporium for a cheese tasting.
• One night at the Seaview House. Owner Kathleen O'Sullivan pampers us at this four-star country house on the shore of Bantry Bay.
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Days 4-6 Kenmare
Bike to Glengarriff and catch a ferry to Garinish Island, an unlikely garden paradise filled with fountains, statues and plants from around the world. Discover the town of Kenmare or treat yourself to an afternoon at the Park Hotel's world-renowned spa. Explore the wild and rugged Beara Peninsula and subtropical gardens of Derreen House. Enjoy a private whiskey tasting with expert John Moriarty . Ride alongside the Roughty River and past rolling green pastures dotted with cows.
• Two nights at Park Hotel Kenmare. A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, with luxurious guest rooms and a world-renowned spa.
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"Crossing from County Galway to County Mayo was the best bicycle ride I've ever taken...the trip routes were wonderful: off-the beaten track roads through lovely landscapes and little to no traffic."
Departures Magazine
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Dates: Jun 13-18, Jul 4-9, Aug 1-6
Length: 6 days/5 nights
Level: 2 to 5
Cost: $3898
Single Supplement: $700
Meals: All meals included except 3 lunches and 1 dinner.
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