We circle around the spectacular roads and villages of the Glens of Antrim combining the drama of the coastal road with the beauty of the Glens. We have the chance to visit the Giant's Causeway as well as the village of Bushmills to sample its liquid delights! The route incorporates several sections of cycle path developed by Sustrans as part of the Millenium National cycle route project.
2007 Tour Dates
7 nights/ 8 days
August 4
August 18
PRICE: $795 pp
Includes: 7 nights B&B, bicycle rental, tour guide & luggage van
We meet up in the centre of Belfast , after an introductory meeting we have dinner together.
Sun
A Sustrans Cycle path guides us out of Belfast along the coast to Carrickfergus and its famous 12th Century castle. We then head inland to avoid the Sunday drivers and up into the mountains before descending to the first of the Antrim Glens with beautiful views of the ocean below . That night we stay in the quiet seaside village of Glenarm .
Mon
In the morning we cycle back up into the hills and see Sperrin mountain. It is here where legend has it that St Patrick spent his youth in captivity as a pig farmer before escaping back to England only to return as a Bishop to convert Ireland to Christianity. We then return to the coast for lunch in a seaside Hotel. The days cycle takes in the beauty of Antrim not only in its coastline but also in its famous and stunning Glens. Slowly but surely we make our way along the coast to the village of Cushendall where we base ourselves for two nights.
Tues
Heading inland again, we cycle through two of the most spectacular Glens of Antrim before returning back to Cushendall for another night in this lovely village.
Wed
In the morning we explore the pretty and less visited Glenaan more thoroughly and then return to the coast for lunch in Cushendun. In the afternoon comes one of the highlights of the week, a breathtaking cycle along the coast road to Ballycastle passing along green fields dotted with sheep , while you look out over beautiful views of Scotland and the Mull of Kintyre, just across the sea.
Thurs
One attractive option on the rest day is to take the ferry to explore Rathlin Island , which is some five miles out in the Atlantic .
Fri
We cycle along the coast where we can visit the famous Carrickrede rope bridge and then along to view the hexagonal rock formations at the Giants Causeway. From there we head to the village of Bushmills where we can visit the famous Whiskey distillery. The tour finishes off with a transfer back from Coleraine to Belfast city for a final night together.
Sat
After a hearty breakfast, like all good things the tour ends!
ABOUT OUR CYCLING TOURS
On all of our Cycling Tours we take care of all accommodation and bicycles, we provide a local guide, as well as all the cycling equipment you need - and best of all, we carry your luggage for you - taking away all of the hassles, but none of the adventure of your holiday.
On our group cycling holidays we bring together a group of people from all over the world. Our daily cycle is a leisurely 30 - 40 miles which we find gives plenty of time to stop and explore your surroundings. Longer options are available for those who want to stretch their legs.
Our Antrim, Donegal and Kerry safaris are hillier than the other routes but happily there are no large mountain ranges to cross in any part of Ireland.
We take up to 20 people on each tour and many come on their own. A great group spirit develops as people swap stories over dinner at the end of the day.
Although the guide will not be cycling with you, he or she will be driving the support van and shall make a sweep to ensure that all is well and offer lifts to those who want a break. This provides a sense of freedom in that you can travel at your own pace in the security that our guide is there for you in the event that you might need them.
All our group bike tours start on a Saturday.
HOW TO BOOK A TOUR WITH US
Reserving a tour : Please CONTACT US on our form below or call us toll-free at 1-888-771-8350 and let us know you would like me to reserve this tour. A $200 nonrefundable deposit is required to reserve your tour.
DEPOSIT PAYMENTS: A nonrefundable deposit of $200 per person is required for our cycle tours. Full payment is required to purchase your airline tickets.
FINAL PAYMENTS : Full payment must be made no later than 60 days prior to departure date. We accept payment by check or major credit cards. If payment is not received as scheduled, your reservation will automatically cancel and deposit payment become forfeit.
Please fill out our short form below. We will contact you by email within 24 hours to give you further information on our Glens of Antrim Tour. Or call us toll-free 1-888-771-8350
