Heart of Connemara Cycle Route

The Heart of Connemara Cycle Route, from Roundstone to Leenane, is set in the heart of the Connemara countryside. It passes through the spectacular Inagh Valley and Connemara National Park before making a final descent along the incredible Killary Harbour into the quiet village of Leenane. This 52km moderate cycle is a gem of a ride and highlights include magnificent mountain scenery, wonderful waterfalls and lakes and ancient Abbeys.

After leaving the village of Roundstone follow the R341 Northwards. Turn right at the T-junction and travel onwards passing by Toombeola and its Abbey. About 11km up the road cyclists will soon come across an old chapel and graveyard on the right hand side. Its well worth dismounting from your bike to explore this spiritual and tranquil sanctuary set against the rugged backdrop of the mountains.

Energised from this break cyclists should continue northwards turning right at the next junction onto the busy N59 before taking a left into the stunning Inagh Valley. It is here where one can get a sense of scale of the massive Maem Turks and Twelve Bens mountain ranges. Sheep will be the main traffic on the road as you continue out of the valley taking a left turn at the next T-junction. Located 4km down this main road is the famous Kylemore Abbey. Lunch can be enjoyed at the near-by caf� and its well worth taking time to explore the beautiful gardens on these wonderful grounds.

After experiencing the serenity of Kylemore proceed back northwards along the N59. About 5km passed Kylemore Lake cyclists will get their first glimpse of the dramatic Killary Harbour, Ireland�s only Fjord before freewheeling down to the snug and scenic village of Leenane.