Prepare for your Cycling trip in the West of Ireland with Trailblazers

Cycling through the West of Ireland is one of the best ways to explore our country’s hidden beauty. With winding roads, coastal cliffs, peaceful riversides, and friendly local towns and villages, the west offers routes for all kinds of cyclists, from experienced road riders to weekend explorers. Whether you’re planning your first trip out west or coming back for another go, this guide will help you get prepared with route tips, gear advice, and a few product recommendations from us here at Trailblazers.

Why Cycle in the West of Ireland?

The West of Ireland has some of the best paths and trails in the country. From coastal roads along the Wild Atlantic Way to inland gems, the scenery is unbeatable. You’ll pass everything from rolling green hills to ancient ruins and traditional stone cottages.

Galway and Mayo are popular for a reason, the Sky Road outside Clifden and the Great Western Greenway are classics, but the quieter counties, such as Leitrim and Sligo, are just as scenic.

Leitrim is perfect for a relaxed and peaceful cycle along lakes and through forests. You’ll even find the Shannon Blueway, where the trail runs alongside the river. This trail is flat, scenic, and ideal for those wanting to take their time. Sligo, just north of Leitrim, has some great loops too around Lough Gill, Benbulben, and forested trails near Dromahair.

How to Prepare for a Cycling Trip

It is important to be honest with yourself about how far you want to go each day. Steep ascents and strong winds can make short distances feel a lot longer. And the beauty of the west is that you don’t have to rush, some of the best moments happen when you slow down.

Choosing the Right Bike

Different bikes suit different routes. Here’s what we usually recommend:

• For smooth roads and speed: the Cube Attain Road Bike or Cube Axial Road Bike.
• For a mix of tarmac and gravel: the Cube Nature Touring Bike or Merida Crossway 20.
• For a bit of help on hills: Cube Electric Bikes, especially the Touring Hybrid.

Women’s Cube Nature	Merida Crossway 20

Safety

We’re sure you don’t need to be told but just to be safe always wear a helmet, use lights, and stay visible, especially on narrow country roads. Irish drivers are generally good, but you still want to be seen. Visit the RSA website for more advise on how to stay safe on the road.

Essential Cycling Gear to bring

The weather out west doesn’t follow the forecast. It can be sunny, then rain and hail, then back to sunshine in the space of half an hour. So, it’s all about layers and waterproofs.

Some cycling clothing we’d recommend:

• A solid cycling jacket or gilet, such as the Altura Nevis Nightvision Jacket
• BBB cycling gloves for warmth and to keep your hands dry
• Altura Progel Plus Cycling Tights for comfort and warmth on your cycles

Women’s Altura Nevis Jacket	Men’s Altura Progel Plus Bib Tight

And don’t forget to fuel up. Long spins need energy:

• Maurten gels and sports fuel
• High5 gels
• Electrolytes to keep you hydrated

Maurten Gel 100	High5 ZERO Electrolyte Tablets Energy Drink

To prepare we recommend a turbo trainer if you want to build up fitness at home before the trip and for the trip, we recommend a cycle computer to track your distance.

If you’re driving to your starting point, check out our Thule bike racks or Buzzrack carriers to keep everything secure.

Local Resources & Route Inspiration

There’s no shortage of places to explore. Here are some of our favourites:

• Sky Road Loop, Galway – Stunning views, challenging ascent, worth it.
• Great Western Greenway, Mayo – Family-friendly, flat, and traffic-free.
• Lough Allen area, Leitrim – Peaceful lakeside roads and forest trails.
• Lough Gill to Dromahair, Sligo – A hidden gem with a mix of lake views and countryside lanes.

These are just a few of the many stunning trails around the West of Ireland. You can also use Cycling Ireland’s route planning tools or check Sport Ireland Outdoors for trail maps.

Before You Head Off

Quick checklist:

• Check the weather (and pack for rain anyway)
• Book your accommodation early
• Bring enough snacks and liquids
• Give your bike a once-over or bring it to us for a quick check-up
• Let someone know your route, especially if you’re going solo

Your West Ireland Cycling Adventure Starts Here

Whether you’re following the Atlantic coast or cycling by quiet lakes in Leitrim or Sligo, West Ireland cycling is the best wat to experience the country’s beauty and culture. Trailblazers is here to support your journey with trusted bikes, reliable gear, and knowledge on the local trails.

Browse our full range of cycling products online or visit in store for route advice, fittings, and friendly service.