Wicklow is Ireland’s premier cycling destination, attracting thousands of cyclists annually with its steep climbs and stunning scenery.
Wicklow has served as the training ground for legendary Irish cyclists like Triple Crown winner Stephen Roche and Tour de France stage winner Shay Elliott. In 1998, the first leg of the Tour de France was held in Ireland.
The Garden County also hosts the Wicklow 200, Ireland’s largest cycling challenge.
Over the next few months, we will feature routes for cyclists of all skill levels, beginning with North-East Wicklow.
Cycling Loop 1: Greystones, Kilcoole, Newcastle, & NTMK – 23.8km
Loop 1 offers a challenging 23.8km route. Starting in Greystones, the route takes cyclists through a mixture of climbs and descents while travelling through Kilcoole, Newcastle and Newtownmountkennedy.
- Grade: Challenging
- Distance: 23.8 km
- Ascent: 205 m
- Estimated Time: 1 hr 25 mins
Cycling Loop 2: Bray & Enniskerry – 43.2km
Loop 2 presents a challenging route, ideal for those interested in diverse terrain. Cyclists can enjoy steady climbs and descents through Glencullen and Kilternan and pass picturesque areas, such as Glencree Valley and Enniskerry village.
- Grade: Challenging
- Distance: 43.2 km
- Ascent: 625 m
- Estimated Time: 2 hrs 45 mins
Cycling Loop 3: Bray, Laragh, Roundwood, & Enniskerry – 98.5km
Loop 3 is designed for seasoned cyclists seeking a challenge. Riders begin in Bray and journey along the Old Military Road to the iconic Sally Gap. From there, cyclists can enjoy descents by Glenmacnass Waterfall, and into Laragh, Roundwood, and Enniskerry.
- Grade: Very Challenging
- Distance: 98.5 km
- Ascent: 1,230 m
- Estimated Time: 6 hrs 5 mins
Cycling Loop 4: Greystones & Delgany – 14km
Loop 4 is a moderate 14km ride, perfect for a shorter outing. Cyclists pass through Delgany village, enjoying scenic views as they cycle by the Grove Bar before returning to Greystones’ South Beach.
- Grade: Moderate
- Distance: 14 km
- Ascent: 150 m
- Estimated Time: 1 hr
