Dublin
8 of the Best Cycle Routes Dublin Has to Offer - A Guide!
8 of the Best Cycle Routes Dublin Has to Offer - A Guide!
Bank Holiday Monday visit to Clontarf Promenade by William Murphy under license CC BY-SA 4.0
When it comes to making the most of your travel experiences, a city like Dublin offers endless opportunities. Whether you are looking for vibrant nightlife or peaceful surroundings and breathtaking views, the Emerald Isle's capital has something to offer everyone. But perhaps one of its best hidden gems is the incredible cycling routes found throughout Dublin City - with everything from quiet meandering lanes along tranquil river shores, to steep climbs scaling ancient hills, there really is something for cyclists of all skill levels. So come explore these stunning cycle routes in Dublin and find out why taking a bike ride through this special city should be top on your bucket list!
You can cycle around the famous Phoenix Park, take in the views of the Irish Sea at Clontarf Promenade or challenge yourself on the mountain bike trails at The Gap!
Once you've read up on the cycle routes to try on your visit to Dublin, why not have a look at our blog posts for the activities that are available to do here. You can find them on the following buttons below:
The table above lists all the best cycle routes near Dublin. Click on each name to be taken straight to the part of the blog post for that route.
From the Phoenix Park to the Coast: 8 Must-Try Cycle Routes in Dublin
Dublin has with many places to go out and explore on your bike. Have a look below at the cycle routes listed on the interactive map and click on the buttons below the map for each route, for further information before you travel. The purple icons on the map indicate some local bike hire places. Check them out for prices on their website before you rent.
Phoenix Park
Phoenix Park is a true oasis for cycling lovers. Offering over 1,700 acres of terrain and scenic route exploration opportunities, the park has it all - from novice-friendly flat paved paths to challenging climbs that traverse through Dublin Zoo, Magazine Fort and the Victorian People's Flower Gardens! With its diverse natural beauty boasting historic monuments alongside lush gardens and forests galore – Phoenix Park rewards cyclists with something fresh every time they hit their pedals!
Grand Canal Greenway
For an unforgettable cycling experience, look no further than the Grand Canal Greenway. This stunning trail offers riders a chance to glimpse into Ireland's industrial past with its historic landmarks while also providing lush parks and gardens for moments of relaxation amidst nature. Smooth pavement allows cyclists of all skill levels to take in the breathtaking views along both sides of the canal - there truly is something here for everyone!
Clontarf Promenade and St. Anne's Park
Experience the picturesque Irish Sea and its stunning views while cycling along Clontarf Promenade. It's ideal for leisurely rides as it boasts a cycleway with ample room to explore! Along the way you'll reach St Anne's Park, a spacious area of 112 hectares located in Raheny, featuring lakes and woodlands with various paths perfect for all cyclists.
Tolka Valley Greenway
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life with a peaceful cycle ride along the Tolka Valley Greenway - just 6 miles from Dublin's centre! This 4.4km green oasis gifts stunning views while also offering an ideal terrain for cyclists; its well-maintained, mostly flat landscape allows riders of all abilities to enjoy it in safety without any disturbance thanks to separate lanes for both pedestrians and cyclists alike.
Royal Canal at Castleknock by JP under license CC BY-SA 4.0
Royal Canal Greenway
For over two centuries, the Royal Canal Greenway has beckoned thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. From bustling Dublin to rural Longford County, this 130km journey offers a unique opportunity for exploration - leisurely cycling or walking its flat terrain in style! Enjoy awe-inspiring views of quaint villages, picturesque bridges, and breathtaking landscapes as you succumb to the alluring call of adventure along this timeless trail.
MTB: Ticknock
Make sure you experience the thrilling adventure of cycling the mountain bike trails at Ticknock! Located just a half hour drive from the city centre and with over 30km of tracks to explore of varying difficulty levels for all skill levels from beginner to expert, flying through this breathtaking terrain is an unforgettable opportunity. Enjoy a well-maintained area with numerous routes that cater to your own unique style. With views over Dublin Bay, the trails are one of the more popular in the area!
MTB: The Gap
Grab your bike and head to the dramatic landscape of The Gap, located on Dublin and Wicklow's mountain border. This destination is a haven for cyclists looking for an adventure! These unique terrain features like inclines and winding pathways that will challenge even the most experienced riders – perfect conditions will have you feeling ready to take it up a notch with trails in green, red, blue or black options available. Enjoy thrilling rides matched by stunning views as you descend the tracks!
MTB: Ballinastoe
Head to Ballinastoe where you'll find 16 km of trails suitable for riders of a range of abilities. Towering hills and lush forestry make the perfect backdrop as you cruise past spectacular vistas. Located just a short drive from the city, the trails here are classed as difficult and will take around 2.5 hrs to complete the one-way loop trail.
Conclusion
In this blog post, we have shared some of the best Dublin bike routes. To find out more about things to do in this area, click on the buttons below:
Please note...
All outdoor activities including cycling involve a degree of risk. The routes are recommended due to the well known features of each route but this may change over time and further research is required before undertaking any activity. The weather can also impact the surface and general conditions of each route so please keep yourself updated with the weather forecast before setting off to enjoy your cycle!