The best cycling routes around Dublin

Dublin offers a diverse range of touring cycling routes. You can explore expansive urban parks like Phoenix Park, enjoy scenic coastal paths such as those leading towards Howth or along Dublin Bay, or opt for peaceful, traffic-free experiences on canal greenways like the Royal Canal Greenway. For more adventurous cyclists, the Dublin Mountains provide challenging ascents with rewarding views.

This guide features a selection of 5 touring cycling routes around Dublin, catering to various preferences and skill levels. These include easy loops around parks and moderate paths with varied terrain.

Yes, Dublin offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. For example, the Peace Valley Park – Lake Galena loop from National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa is an easy 9.9-mile route with minimal elevation gain. Another accessible option is the Doylestown Bike and Hike Trail loop from New Britain, which is 17.1 km long.

Dublin's touring cycling routes offer a variety of scenic highlights. You can cycle through the vast Phoenix Park, spot deer, and pass by historic sites like Farmleigh House. Coastal routes provide breathtaking views of Dublin Bay and landmarks like the Poolbeg Lighthouse. Canal greenways offer tranquil escapes along waterways, while river greenways like the Dodder provide parkland scenery and historical points of interest. For panoramic views, the Dublin Mountains offer rewarding vistas across the city.

Many of the touring cycling routes around Dublin are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. Examples include the Peace Valley Park – Lake Galena loop from National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa and the Lake Galena – Peace Valley Park loop from Chalfont, allowing you to start and end your ride at the same point.

The best time for touring cycling in Dublin is generally during the spring (April-May) and summer (June-August) months when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. Autumn (September-October) can also be pleasant with vibrant foliage. While cycling is possible year-round, winter months can be colder and wetter, requiring appropriate gear.

Yes, for cyclists seeking a moderate challenge, routes like the Lake Galena – Peace Valley Park loop from Chalfont offer varied terrain with some rolling hills over its 46.4 km distance. Another moderate option is the Peace Valley Park – Lake Galena loop from New Britain, which includes some elevation gain.

Absolutely. Dublin's cycling routes, especially those within or near urban areas and along canal greenways, often pass through towns and villages with numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants. The Grand Canal Way, for instance, connects historic Portobello with the modern Docklands, offering plenty of refreshment stops. Coastal routes also feature many seaside towns with dining options.

Many of Dublin's cycling routes are accessible via public transport. The city has a comprehensive bus network, and DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) services run along the coast, providing access to coastal routes. For routes further inland, local bus services can often get you close to trailheads. Always check the specific public transport options for your chosen route's starting point.

The touring cycling routes around Dublin are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 18 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from peaceful parklands to scenic coastal views, and appreciate the variety of routes suitable for different abilities.

For broader information on cycling in Dublin, including general guides to scenic routes and bike tours, you can visit external resources such as Visit Dublin's guide to scenic routes or their page on bike tours.