Late August and early September mark a sweet spot in the Irish cycling calendar. The peak crowds have drifted home, the roads are a little quieter, and the lingering warmth of summer means you can still enjoy long days in the saddle.
For riders looking to make the most of this golden window, Donegal offers a perfect blend of challenge, scenery, and unspoilt charm, a county that truly deserves a place on every cyclist’s bucket list!
The wild north west
Tucked into Ireland’s north-west corner, Donegal is often described as rugged and remote — in the best possible way. With the Atlantic crashing on one side and mountains rolling into the horizon on the other, its landscapes are dramatic yet peaceful. This is a county where you can ride for hours without hitting traffic, and where every bend seems to open onto a picture perfect view.
For cyclists, that means more freedom, less stress, and a genuine sense of escape
The Inishowen 100 — A coastal classic
The jewel in Donegal’s cycling crown is the legendary Inishowen 100, a roughly 160 km loop around the Inishowen Peninsula. Often hailed as one of Ireland’s most scenic routes, it takes you along quiet roads hugging the coast, through quaint villages, and over challenging climbs.
Highlights include:
- Malin Head
Ireland’s most northerly point, with sweeping sea views and a dramatic rocky coastline.
- Five Fingers Strand
A stunning beach backed by some of the highest sand dunes in Europe.
- Mamore Gap
A short but strenuous climb with gradients pushing 18%, rewarded by panoramic views of Lough Swilly and the Atlantic.
Top tip: If you’re tackling the Inishowen 100 in one day, start early and bring plenty of snacks — there are stretches where amenities are sparse. For a more leisurely pace, split it into two days and overnight in Buncrana or Carndonagh.
Slieve League — Cliffs without the crowds
Donegal’s Slieve League cliffs are among the highest sea cliffs in Europe, soaring over 600 metres above the Atlantic — nearly three times higher than the Cliffs of Moher. They’re a breathtaking sight from the saddle, especially when approached via the winding coastal roads that skirt Teelin and Carrick.
For an unforgettable ride:
- Start in Killybegs, Ireland’s largest fishing port.
- Follow the coast to Slieve League Viewing Point, a steady climb that will get your legs working.
- Continue west for rolling hills, open moorland, and endless Atlantic views.
The beauty here is in the quiet, as even in summer, Slieve League sees a fraction of the visitors that flock to Ireland’s more famous attractions.
Other routes worth your gears
- Fanad Peninsula Loop
About 75 km of coastal bliss, taking in Fanad Head Lighthouse and some of Donegal’s most beautiful beaches.
- Glenveagh National Park
Gentle gradients through remote valleys, with the dramatic backdrop of Errigal Mountain. Great for a recovery spin or a shorter day out.
- The Donegal Atlantic Way
For endurance riders, sections of the Wild Atlantic Way in Donegal deliver challenging climbs, empty roads, and staggering views.
Bike-friendly bases
To make the most of your Donegal adventure, choose accommodation that caters to cyclists’ needs, with secure bike storage, hearty breakfasts, and proximity to great routes!
Some great options include Harvey’s Point, a luxurious hotel with easy access to the Bluestack Mountains, The Waterfront Hotel in Dungloe which is ideal for exploring the west coast routes, and Portsalon Luxury Camping, providing you with a perfect glamping staycation just a stone’s throw away from Ballymastocker Bay, one of the island’s most beautiful beaches.
Fuel stops and local flavours
Cycling in Donegal is a calorie-burning endeavour, which means guilt-free indulgence in local food is encouraged!
- Nancy’s Bar, Ardara — Famous for its delicious seafood chowder.
- The Rusty Nail, Clonmany — Ideal halfway stop on the Inishowen 100.
- Coffee Time, Buncrana — Great coffee and cakes for pre- or post-ride.
And if you finish your day in a seaside village, fresh fish and chips eaten while overlooking the Atlantic is a reward in itself!
This late summer, skip the well-worn paths and point your wheels north-west. The Inishowen headlands, the towering cliffs of Slieve League, and the winding roads through Glenveagh are waiting — and trust us, your cycling bucket list will be better for it!
