The great cycling routes of Munster: The Adrigole Circuit

In the first of an occasional series journalist and cycling enthusiast, Dan MacCarthy, highlights some of the great cycling routes of Munster. This week, The Adrigole Circuit.

This is a magnificent cycle on the Beara peninsula with admittedly tough climbs but the payback is some thrilling downhill surges.

Start at the townland of Lauragh (or Adrigole if you prefer) - on the road west from Kenmare. Park near the Sibín bar and follow the signs for the Healy Pass. A lovely section through a wood soon gives way to some open fields with some stunning views over your shoulder of Kenmare Bay.

The climb is not too tough for regular cyclists apart from the final 200m to the top which is challenging. Once at the top, soak in the mindboggling views ahead of you at Bantry Bay and behind at Kenmare Bay. After a short rest, charge downhill on the seemingly countless bends before arriving at the main Glengarriff road. Head west past Peig's shop and out the open road towards Castletownbere.

The busy fishing town soon materialises and is a great spot for a break. Back on board, take the R671 in the direction of Eyeries. Again, you are presented with a hardish climb before another thundering descent to the multicoloured village of Eyeries.

Now swing right on to the R571 and an easy cycle back to the starting point at Lauragh.

There are worse ways to spend three hours. Verdict: Brilliant.

Video: Dan Linehan 

Cycling Munster – Great Road Routes by Dan MacCarthy is published by The Collins Press, price €14.99. It is available in all good bookshops and online from www.collinspress.ie