Anybody here done the self-guided Dingle Bicycle tour? My wife and I are doing the 14 day Best of Ireland tour in June. I ride about 2800 miles/year, my wife less than 200 miles/year. I'm not worried about doing it, but how hard would it be for her?
Posted by
Arlington, Virginia
552 posts
That's a question only your wife can answer. Depends on her age, condition, stamnia, willingness to exert herself, her bike's gearing. Is she riding regularly before the trip to get in shape, increasing the miles each time out? For your purposes, from Dingle town to Dunquin is nine miles. From there back to Dingle via Waymont and Ballyferriter is about another thirteen miles. It's scenic, peaceful and lightly traveled.
I've biked all over Ireland multiple times, including a few around the Slea Head Peninsula out of Dingle. Ireland's roads are rough and bumpy and the country generally hilly, realities that may make cycling more difficult and uncomfortable as one ages. Given all that, just about anywhere along the coasts - especially in the West - is well worth experiencing by bike.
Posted by
42 posts
Rick Steves Ireland tour guide book describes the Slea Head Loop drive with “Tips for Cyclists” on page 341. It says the road can be challenging for lesser experienced riders with its morning traffic and tour buses. Sections of the narrow two lane road is crowded with hedges, walls and cliffs. The book suggests getting out early in the morning to avoid the traffic. I reserved e-bikes for my wife and me for our RS tour in August. However, after reading this description of the road I will be cancelling my reservation.