The best road cycling routes around Mayo

Mayo offers a diverse range of terrain for road cyclists. You'll find everything from rugged Atlantic coastlines and islands to inland mountains, valleys, and serene lake districts. The county features quiet country lanes and dedicated traffic-free greenways. Terrain varies from challenging hill-climbs in areas like the Ox Mountains and Doolough Valley to gentler flatlands, catering to all cycling abilities.

Yes, Mayo is very welcoming to beginners and families. The county offers 17 easy road cycling routes. A standout option is the Great Western Greenway, a multi-award-winning, almost entirely traffic-free route stretching 42-45km along an old railway line, perfect for leisurely rides and family outings.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Mayo has 22 difficult road cycling routes. These often feature significant climbs and more demanding terrain. Routes like the Climb by Rostrevor Forest – Spelga Reservoir Hill Climb loop from Rostrevor, for example, include substantial elevation gains through forested areas.

Mayo's routes are rich with natural beauty. You can cycle along dramatic coastlines with breathtaking sea cliffs, explore islands like Achill Island with its stunning Keem Bay, or pass by picturesque lakes such as Lough Conn and Lough Mask. Notable viewpoints and natural features include the ancient Cloughmore Stone, Hen Mountain, and the View of Carlingford Lough from Viewpoint Trail.

Many road cycling routes in Mayo weave through areas of historical significance. You can visit the ancient Céide Fields, a Neolithic site nearly 6,000 years old, or Downpatrick Head with its impressive sea cliffs and Dún Briste sea-stack. Other attractions include Westport House & Gardens and Ballintubber Abbey, offering a blend of natural and cultural heritage.

The road cycling routes in Mayo are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 2,200 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the dramatic coastlines, varied mountain terrain, and picturesque lake districts.

Mayo offers several routes suitable for longer rides. Beyond the Great Western Greenway, you can find routes like the 105km Mulranny to Céide Fields to Ballina route. The West Mayo Cycle Network also provides various looped routes, some up to 44km, which can be combined for extended cycling adventures across the west coast and Achill Island.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Mayo are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the popular View of the Mourne Mountains loop from Burren, which covers 68 km, and the Newry Canal Towpath – Warrenpoint Shore Road loop from Newry, a 58.3 km scenic ride.

Mayo's climate is typical of Ireland's west coast, meaning weather can be variable. The spring and summer months (May to September) generally offer the most favorable conditions with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, making them ideal for road cycling. However, the dramatic landscapes can be enjoyed year-round, with proper gear for changing weather.

Yes, bike hire services are readily available throughout Mayo, especially in popular cycling hubs like Westport and Achill. Many services offer the convenience of hiring a bike in one town and dropping it off in another, often including shuttle services for cyclists, making multi-day touring more flexible.

There are nearly 200 road cycling routes available in Mayo, offering a wide variety of distances, elevations, and difficulty levels. This extensive network ensures there's a route suitable for every type of road cyclist, from leisurely rides to challenging climbs.

Beyond the routes themselves, Mayo offers various facilities and attractions. You might find parks like Kilbroney Park, forests such as Fiddlers Green, and numerous charming towns and villages with cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. The region's rich heritage means historical sites are often nearby.