Beara North Cycle Route
Set along the North Side of the Beara Peninsula, the Beara North route is part of the Beara Way Cycle Route, a designated and sign posted circular route circumnavigating the Beara Peninsula, a distance of 138 km ( 86 miles ) that most cyclists break into 2 or 3 days. Starting in Kenmare and terminating in Eyeries, the Beara North route is moderate though challenging, covers some 32 miles of the designated route. Along the way cyclists are treated to incredible panoramic vistas of Kenmare Bay, the Ring of Kerry, woodlands, bays, fishing villages, and several prominent archeological sites, including several stone circles. For the intrepid cyclists, the route a couple add-on legs that extends the journey a few miles and further enhances it's scenic appeal.
The Beara North tour commences in the picturesque town of Kenmare. Heading across the bridge, follow the signs for the Beara Peninsula (R571). At first the countryside is green and surrounded by woodland but the terrain soon becomes more open. About 13kms from Kenmare, along the R571 it�s well worth turning off towards Gleninchaquin, up a very narrow road for your first glimpse of an Ancient Stone Circle called Uragh, 3kms away. With a lake in front and a waterfall in the background it�s an ideal place to get off the bike and relax for a while.
Back on the main road and inspired by the old pagan ways, cycle along the main road until you reach a junction, where a spur road (R573) to the small village of Tuosist extends the journey, but provides abundant scenic beauty along the shores of Kilmakilloge Harbour. This section of the journey is magical, passing through forests with the sound of the rustling leaves, birds chirping and fresh water flowing. At the harbour you can stop in O� Connor�s bar for homemade soup and sandwiches while taking in the magical mountain scenery. In Laragh, about 2kms on from the harbour, you can visit Derreen gardens, full of lush subtropical vegetation with plenty of walks for the enthusiast.
Leaving Laragh and the �Kingdom of Kerry� behind, you will soon pass over a bridge and find yourself in the �Rebel county� of Cork. Continuing on the R571 there is amble opportunity to explore the numerous side roads, which hold many historical sites. It�s about 3kms from the bridge to the quiet village of Ardgroom. If you are feeling fatigued at this stage of your journey along The Beara Peninsula, stop by the roadside and gather some yummy blackberries. These grow abundantly in the hedgerows from late August to early October and are the ultimate �pick me up� food.
Ardgroom provides welcome relief, as well as a nice place for a tea break before the last leg of the journey to Eyeries. Contemplate your options while enjoying tea and scones at one of the towns' pubs. Option one entails taking the most direct route to to Eyeries, along an 8 km section of the main road (R571) that requires ascending a small but formidable hill, before descending into Eyeries. Alternatively, turning right after the Ardgroom post office, and follow signs for the Beara Way Cycle Route that takes leads along the Coast Road to Gortgarriff. This area of the Beara Peninsula is truly remote and wild and offers a real opportunity to experience an old Ireland where time stands still. The road hugs the coast and is quite narrow and windy so cars are few and far between. There are lots of historical landmarks along the way, enticing you to climb off your bike and explore by foot.
Whichever route you choose, the picturesque village of Eyeries, with its cute, brightly coloured houses and warm atmosphere. will provide ample reward . The effort is made all the more worthwhile as a pint of the �Black� stuff awaits you in one of the most picturesque pubs in Ireland! And if you are lucky enough to arrive on Wednesday or Sunday night you will be treated to live traditional Irish music performed by the local musicians.
