From coast to mountains Ireland celebrates a season of cycling festivals

Tourism Ireland says the island is emerging as one of Europe’s most compelling cycling destinations, with major events scheduled from April through August across Kerry, Offaly, Laois, and Down.  The lineup includes Ireland Bikefest’s 20th anniversary in Killarney, the Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Festival, and the Classic Bike Festival Ireland at Bishopscourt Racing Circuit. 

Ireland is rapidly emerging as one of Europe’s most compelling destinations for cycling and motorbike-inspired events. With its stunning mountain-to-sea landscape, it is a natural stage for high-energy and high-octane outdoor experiences.

This year, among its many biking events, there are major festivals that will once again draw cyclists and bikers from around the globe to enjoy world-class, family-friendly competition, touring, and entertainment.

Ireland Bikefest (29–31 May) takes place against the stunning backdrop of Killarney’s lakes and mountains. The three-day motorcycle and rock music extravaganza, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, is one of Europe’s premier free open‑access motorcycle festivals. Embracing bikers and non-bikers alike, it’s known for its inclusivity, friendliness, and brilliant atmosphere.

Ireland Bikefest, Killarney, County Kerry.

The extensive festival program features Ride Outs through the gorgeous Kerry landscape, Harley-Davidson® demo rides, competitions, and a stirring parade of motorbikes through Killarney town. The festival hub is the Bike Village located in the grounds of the Gleneagle Killarney hotel. The hub is a hive of activity, daytime and evening, with hospitality areas, trader stands, and three stages of live music.

Ireland Bikefest is a unique motorcycle festival – a top-class weekend of entertainment for riders and families that is as much about the ambiance and camaraderie as it is about the bikes.

Bikers who enjoy track-based motorcycling should also put the Classic Bike Festival Ireland (7–9 August) into their diaries. Over 230 riders will take part in the high-speed races at Bishopscourt Racing Circuit in County Down, and there will also be lots of fun activities, including kiting and lawnmower racing.

For those who prefer pedal power, the Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Festival (25–26 April) offers thrilling competitions in spectacular mountain scenery. Taking place in counties Offaly and Laois in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, the festival welcomes riders of all abilities, from those seeking epic gravel rides and fast-flowing black-level trails to children and novices who can enjoy competitions across a range of lengths and difficulty.

Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Festival.

This includes the beginner-friendly Coillte Biking Blitz, a mass-start cross-country event that offers a great opportunity for families or friends to bike together in a fun environment. In addition to the biking events, there is entertainment on Saturday evening, including the Big Bike Film Night and traditional music sessions in Kinnitty village.