Cycling is an activity very well developed in Ireland, where you will find cyclists of all ages. The bicycle is a very interesting way to discover the countryside, for several reasons, not least being that there are many quiet country roads in Ireland, which gives the cyclist great freedom to explore and exercise at the same time.

If you have a taste for adventure, want to improve your fitness, or want to discover the countryside from a different angle, a cycling holiday in the west of Ireland - or more specifically County Mayo - will meet all your expectations.

The bicycle is an ideal means of discovering the superb landscapes of our green island and whether you travel as a couple, or a small group the choice of routes are numerous. The west of Ireland has an impressive road network and there are many secondary roads that are a joy to cyclists of all abilities.

The landscapes offered are varied and enriching and the historical and archaeological places that can be visited are very interesting. Discovering County Mayo on a bike is a great way to enjoy its beautiful landscapes and many breathtaking views. Travel along in comfort at your own pace, taking time to enjoy the valleys, plains, mountains and steep cliffs dotted along the Mayo skyline.

Please remember to adhere to the seven principles designed to help you to protect the natural environment and the unique Mayo's habitats. Our countryside is a precious natural resource, VISIT WITH CARE!

Some of the more popular places favoured by cyclotourists are Westport - Pontoon - Ballycastle - Belmullet - Achill Island, and the Nephin mountains.

The Westport - Newport - Mulranny - Achill Greenway

The Westport - Newport - Mulranny - Achill Great Western Greenway (opened April 2010) is a 42km cycling and walking route along the line of the old Westport to Achill railway line, which closed in 1937. This traffic free route, part of the National Cycle Network, is the longest off road cycling experience in Ireland with some of the most idyllic scenery any cyclist could hope for.

Funded primarily by the Department of Transport, the route was developed through partnership by Mayo County Council with local landowners and community groups. In July 2011, little more than a year after opening, the Newport to Mulranny section of this route was awarded the coveted European Destination of Excellence (EDEN).

Walkers and cyclists can enjoy spectacular views of Clew Bay, Croagh Patrick, Nephin Beg mountain and admire some of the most breathtaking scenery along the western Atlantic.

The Humbert Road

There also exists a road called "the Humbert Road" which is named after the French General who landed with his troops in 1798, this starts at Kilcummin close to Ballina and crosses an area rich in lakes and hills to Charlestown, at the border of County Sligo. The road carries on through the counties of Sligo and Leitrim to finish in Ballinamuck, in County Longford.

The Great Western Greenway- Castlebar Network

The Great Western Greenway- Castlebar Network is a cycling and walking trail which is part of the Greenways around County Mayo. It starts at The Museum of Country Life in Turlough, passing through Lough Lannagh and Castlebar and finishes at Rehins Wood near Islandeady.

The Trailheads are located at Turlough Village, Lough Lannagh car park and Holiday Village and Rehins Wood car park.

It follows the beautiful riverside of the Castlebar River, crosses the quiet urban setting of Castlebar and connects to Lough Lannagh. From the lake, the trail winds through beautiful woodland to Rehins Wood near Islandeady.

The route is mainly traffic-free, and the terrain is tarred or compacted and caters for walkers, joggers and cyclists. Its difficulty is easy to moderate with a minimal gradient.

From Islandeady, it is possible to continue on the Greenway and reach Westport town.