Ireland’s Northern Coastline E-Bike Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Derry/Londonderry
Day 2: Derry/Londonderry - Moville, 24 mi. (38 km) 
Day 3: Moville to Portstewart, 27 mi. (43 km) 
Day 4: Portstewart - Ballycastle, 27 mi. (43 km) 
Day 5: Ballycastle, 7 or 27 mi. (12 or 44 km)
Day 6: Ballycastle - Cushendall, 19 mi. (30 km) 
Day 7: The Glens of Antrim, 16 or 29 mi. (25 or 47 km) 
Day 8: Departure

The distances provided are approximate. temporary deviations or detours along the route might be required due to roadwork or other unforeseen factors not reflected on your maps or route descriptions. In such instances, kindly adhere to the locally posted directions.

Day 1: Arrival in Derry/Londonderry
Welcome to the historic city of Derry/Londonderry, the only city in Ireland with fully intact medieval walls testifying to its rich culture and history.  A one-hour stroll along the walls offers a fascinating exploration of both ancient and recent history, complemented by panoramic views of the city. Derry boasts numerous lively bars and restaurants, creating the ideal setting for the inaugural night of your self-guided Irish bike tour.

Sample accommodation: DaVincis Hotel, Derry

Day 2: Derry/Londonderry - Moville, 24 mi. (38 km) | Elevation gain: 372m
You cycle a scenic path along the River Foyle which guides you northward and away from the city center. As you pedal along tranquil country roads, you cross the border into County Donegal, Republic of Ireland. Through charming green pastures, with Lough Foyle on one side and the Inishowen hills on the other. Push northward to the delightful seaside town of Moville, your overnight stop for the day. 

Sample accommodations: The Cosy Cottage / Riverbank House, B&B

Day 3: Moville - Portstewart, 27 mi. (43 km) | Elevation gain: 458m
A brief cycle leads to the ferry terminal in the picturesque fishing village of Greencastle. A quick 15-minute ferry crossing (€5 not included) transports to Magilligan Point in Northern Ireland. You pedal to Downhill Beach and Demesne, featuring the iconic Mussenden Tower, a familiar sight for Game of Thrones enthusiasts. Continue your journey to the university town of Coleraine at the mouth of the River Bann. After a short distance along the coast, you arrive at your overnight haven in the charming seaside town of Portstewart.

Sample accommodations: Cul Erg / Cromore Halt

Day 4: Portstewart - Ballycastle, 27 mi. (43 km) | Elevation gain: 385m
Prepare for a day of cycling through some of Northern Ireland's most iconic landscapes. Your route leads by the mesmerizing Dunluce Castle, perched dramatically on a cliff top. It continues to Bushmills, offering a chance to savor whiskey from the world's oldest distillery then to the legendary Giant's Causeway. Optional extra cycling allows you to visit the exhilarating Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge along the coast. The day's destination is the charming seaside town of Ballycastle, where the scenic views from the harbor may entice you to linger and unwind.

Sample accommodations: Corratavey Guest House / Ardaghmore B&B

Day 5: Ballycastle, 7/27 mi. (12/44 km) | Elevation gain: 215 or 245m
Today offers a choice between leisurely rest, exploring Rathlin Island, or embarking on a loop cycle to the renowned Dark Hedges. Rathlin Island, a magical retreat (ferry tickets not included), invites you to experience life at a different pace, with its captivating lighthouses, including the cliff-edge West Lighthouse serving as a seabird observation point. For Game of Thrones enthusiasts, the Dark Hedges requires no introduction, being one of Northern Ireland's most photographed sites. A picturesque 35 km cycle through the rolling Ulster countryside will lead you to this iconic location.

Sample accommodations: Corratavey Guest House / Ardaghmore B&B

Day 6: Ballycastle - Cushendall, 19 mi. (30 km) | Elevation gain: 600m
You enjoy breathtaking sea views at every twist and turn as you pedal along the northeast corner of Ireland. The scenic route unfolds past the captivating Fair Head and Torr Head, leading you into the charming town of Cushendun. Now nestled in the heart of the Glens of Antrim, the route follows the southern coastline to reach your final destination in Cushendall. This picturesque coastal village sits at the point where Glenballyeamon meets the sea.

Sample accommodations: Glendale B&B / Riverside B&B / The Meadows B&B

Day 7: The Glens of Antrim, 16 or 29 mi. (25 or 47 km) | Elevation gain: 395 or 77m
Dedicate a day to exploring the enchanting Glens. Opt for a leisurely 25 km cycle to discover Glenballyeamonn and the renowned "Queen of the Glens," Glenariff. Alternatively, a longer route leads through the equally stunning Glendun and Glenann. Regardless of your choice, relish a delightful downhill cycle back to the sea, culminating in a final night in the charming village of Cushendall.

Sample accommodations: Glendale B&B / Riverside B&B / The Meadows B&B

Day 8: Departure
Following breakfast, easy bus connections will bring you to Belfast or back to Derry. There you may continue your travels, or make your way home.

Take a look at all of our active adventures & experiences; biking, biking & boating, hiking, & multiadventure!

On this self-guided bike tour, you are accommodated in primarily small family-run bed and breakfasts and guest houses. In Derry, you’ll stay in a cozy small hotel. Our careful selection ensures that the chosen lodgings cater to the specific needs of cyclists. Positioned in charming towns and villages, these accommodations offer proximity to village centers, allowing easy walks to local restaurants and pubs.

Bicycles

Electric Bike

Top of the range Thompson Enigma or equivalent

• Powerful Bosch Active + drive system
• Shimano hydraulic brakes & gears
• Bike sizes suit cyclists from 1.50 m (4′ 11″) upwards.

Trekking/Touring Bike

Custom built for Ireland by Bike by Thompson bike factory in Belgium

• 27 speed
• Shimano hydraulic disc brakes & gears
• Comfortable frame geometry