National Bike Week is May 11-19! There’s no better time to embrace active travel and take in the sights and sounds of the natural world around you.
Take the opportunity to view the rugged Causeway Coast on two wheels, pedal through the awe-inspiring Mourne and Sperrin Mountain ranges or gear up for some enchanting forest trails, during unforgettable cycling experiences in Northern Ireland.
Whether you’re exploring one of Northern Ireland’s historic cities or venturing off the beaten path, you’re only a short cycle away from a giant adventure bursting with fantastic vistas, challenging climbs and peaceful traffic-free paths.
And, with many of these sustainable pedal-powered activities less than two hours from Dublin, Discover Northern Ireland has compiled the following guide showcasing unique and fun cycling experiences that offer something new in every mile.
Bike in Belfast
Belfast City Bike tours, Botanic Gardens, Belfast. Credit: www.durstonphoto.com
Belfast City Bike Tours offers a selection of six fun, friendly bike tours as well as an extensive range of bikes for hire. The most popular tour - the City Bike Tour - explores the historic Cathedral, Titanic and University Quarters. It stops at St. George's Market and takes in over 40 places of interest. Also on offer is a tour along the Lagan Towpath to the Hilden Brewery where you will receive a tutored craft beer sampling and lunch. The city offers miles of continuous cycle routes and greenways through the beating heart of Belfast’s industrial past in the east. Stay in the heart of the action along the Maritime Mile at the AC Hotel Belfast.
Discover Derry
Foodie City cycle tour, The Peace Bridge, Derry.
The Far & Wild Foodie City Cycle tour of Derry takes in culinary experiences focusing on quality local produce. Eateries like Pykes N’ Pommes and The Bron offer samples of their freshest, locally sourced fare, while the tour also takes in an historic view of St Columb’s Park, Ebrington, the Peace Bridge and the best of Derry. Or, if you’re eager to explore more of ancient Mid-Ulster, Far & Wild’s Cycle Sperrins tour invites you to saddle up and go off the beaten track to trace the ancient route of Bronze Age settlers. Stay at The James Suite in the centre of Derry for that little bit of luxury at the end of your day.
Embrace an Electric Escape in County Fermanagh
Electric Escape Bike Experience with Corralea Activity Centre in Fermanagh.
Cruise along old bog roads and forest tracks and enjoy sweeping views over Fermanagh’s stunning Lakelands as you make your electric escape thanks to Corralea Activity Centre’s bespoke E-Bike Tours. The power assisted bikes will make hills a breeze as you effortlessly explore the untapped wilderness and discover megalithic tombs hidden in the forest. Afterwards, why not relax in the centre’s Forest Eco Spa which includes a Nordic sauna, wood-fired hot tub and relaxation pod. Stay in Enniskillen Watersedge Apartments and enjoy the sweeping views of Lough Erne from the outskirts of the island town.
Cruise through County Down’s Mourne Mountains
Mournes Trails & Ales Tour with Life Adventure Centre in Castlewellan, Co Down.
If you like your ales and enjoy tackling the trails then Mournes Trails & Ales Tour is the experience for you. This half day, fully guided cycle tour on an electric bike explores the very best of the Mourne Mountain region and introduces you to some delicious local tipples. Bike Mourne has an extensive fleet available to hire for your own experience or through a guided tour with passionate guides. For something a little bit more exhilarating, take on some of the best mountain bike trails in the region at Rostrevor’s Kilbroney Park, and make sure to take a selfie at #KodakCorner on the 27km red trail. Stay at the bike-friendly Burrendale Hotel Country Club and Spa for some truly breath-taking views of the Mourne Mountains.
Explore County Tyrone’s trails
Davagh Fores Mountain Bike Trail in Co.Tyrone.
There are over 150km of purpose-built mountain-biking trails on offer across Northern Ireland but some of the best can be found in County Tyrone. The Davagh Forest trails offer high-octane singletrack thrills, while those in search of a cracking mix of wide-flowing blue trails, and more technical red trails, need look no further than Blessingbourne Country Estate. The trails here have lots of features including jumps, table-tops, berms, rock-gardens and drops - as well as chicken-runs for your kids. Pick from a range of bike friendly, self-catering options in this 550-acre country estate in Clogher Valley.
Giro d’Causeway Coast
Giant's Causeway, County Antrim. Credit: Getty Images
Those looking to experience a physical challenge and embrace a few heartbreak hills with the reward of truly awe-inspiring vistas along the way should head for the Causeway Coast. If you’ve ever fancied yourself as the next Marcel Kittel, Mark Cavendish or Mario Cipollini then challenge yourself to complete the 23-mile Causeway Coast Cycle Route which runs from the seaside village of Castlerock to the iconic Giant's Causeway. The route was taken by riders of the 2014 Giro d’Italia when Northern Ireland hosted three stages of the prestigious race. Make it a journey to remember by enjoying a unique stay in the quirky and modern Me and Mrs Jones boutique hotel in Portstewart.
For more information or to plan your perfect two-wheeled adventure visit discovernorthernireland.com
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