West Mayo Cycle Network and the National Coastal Trail
The West Mayo Cycle Network, with the town of Westport as its hub, offers three routes varying in distance from 8km to 24km with numerous shorter alternatives. Each route offers breathtaking views of the west coast. Numerous picnic stops are dotted along the route as well as a number of local pubs and restaurants.
Loops 1 and 2 start and finish at Clew Bay Bike Hire, while loop three, the shortest, is almost entirely outside the town, although it also can start at the same point.
The National Coastal Trail is a large project aiming to have a complete trail around the country. This small 9km section takes you from Westport to Westport Quay and onwards to Murrisk and Croagh Patrick.
Bicycle hire
Want to cycle the in Mayo but can’t bring your bikes? Clew Bay Bike Hire supply various types of bikes including some with with trailers to keep younger children close.
West Mayo Cycle Network
Loop 1
This loop hugs the shore line to the north of the town before cutting inland through Kilmeena and back to Westport. The longest route, it gives incredible views of Croagh Patrick to the south and the Nephin Beg range to the north. Quiet country backroads are what you experience on this loop with the ruined castle at Castleaffy and a round tower ruin on your course. The views of the islands scattered throughout Clew Bay, Croagh Patrick across the bay and the Nephin Beg Range to the north make this a cycle to remember.
Distance: 24 km
Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
Start: Westport
Terrain: Country roads
Traffic: Generally light but can get busy during holiday season
Suitable for: People with medium levels of fitness
Minimum Gear: Helmet, bike, mobile phone, fluid, snacks, waterproofs
Loop 2
Perfect for those with not a lot of time on their hands. This route encircles Westport town, going out towards Louisburgh on the main road and back along the coast road to Westport Quay. It then goes through the beautiful Westport House estate and around the north of the town before returning.
Distance: 14 km
Estimated Time: 1 to 1.5 hours
Start: Westport
Terrain: Country roads, sections along Westport Greenway
Traffic: Generally light but can get busy during holiday Season
Suitable for: People with medium levels of fitness
Minimum Gear: Helmet, bike, mobile phone, fluid, snacks, waterproofs
Loop 3
Although this is a short loop it is an enjoyable one. As usual Croagh Patrick forms the impressive backdrop for this loop which will allow you to experience a small sample of the amazing countryside of the region
Distance: 8 km
Estimated Time: 1 hour
Start: Westport
Terrain: Country roads, sections along Westport Greenway
Traffic: Generally light but can get busy during holiday season
Suitable for: People with medium levels of fitness
Minimum Gear: Helmet, bike, mobile phone, fluid, snacks, waterproofs
National Coastal Trail Description
On terrain consisting of the designated walking/cycling Greenway, roads and cycling lanes, this 9km route will take you from Westport to Westport Quay and onwards to Murrisk and Croagh Patrick.
Upon arriving in Murrisk you may decide to climb to the summit of the Reek, walk on the beach at nearby Bertra or have a bite of lunch before returning to Westport.
Distance: 9.2 km
Estimated Time: 1 to 1.5 hours
Start: Westport
Terrain: Westport Greenway, cycle path alongside the R355. Spectacular scenery of Clew bay.
Traffic: Light to moderate but can get busy during holiday season
Minimum Gear: Helmet, bike, mobile phone, fluid, snacks, waterproofs
