As the weather is finally improving, families have been enjoying fun filled adventures and hopping on their bikes to get out and enjoy the outdoors. Kilkenny is the ideal county to explore on foot or by bike for all the family.
Top Cycling Trails and Tours in Kilkenny
Kilkenny offers a variety of cycling routes throughout the city and county to suit all levels of cyclists. So, whether it’s a relaxing self- guided ride along the River Nore, a guided bike tour through the medieval city or a challenging trail to test your ability there is something for everyone on Kilkenny’s cycling trails.
Walking and Cycling Routes
Trail Kilkenny, an award winning, non-profit company, has developed a range of walking and cycling routes around County Kilkenny. The routes bring you from the city and towns deep into the countryside and allow you to explore the county. They provide detailed instructions of distances, safety notices, what you need to bring as well as information on all the twists and turns along the way.
Kilkenny City Guided Cycling Tour
Explore Kilkenny City on a morning or afternoon cycling tour with Kilkenny Cycling Tours and visits all of the main tourist attractions, as well as some hidden treasures. This is a perfect way to see the city and discover the wonders of this medieval city.
The tour is given in a fun, casual and educational way so it is suitable for all types of visitors and interests. For cautious cyclists there is no need to worry about traffic as the river banks and cycle paths are used as well as the medieval laneways and back streets. Covering about 10km in total this is a great orientation tour of the city of Kilkenny.
Guided Cycling Sunset Tour – Explore Kilkenny at Night by Bike
Summer evenings in Kilkenny can be simply magical as the sun goes down over this medieval city. It is filled with wonderful attractions and, of course, many hidden gems. It is the best and most environmentally-friendly way to see the city, especially if you are in Kilkenny for a short visit. Travel along the river bank cycle paths of the River Nore and back streets so there’s no need to worry about traffic. You will cover about 10km in total on this sunset bike tour.
Self-Guided Bike ‘n’ Hike Trails
Enjoy a peaceful bike ride in the tranquillity of the countryside on a cycle from the city via the “Sion road” to the picturesque village of Bennettsbridge. This village is located along the River Nore just ten minutes drive from Kilkenny city. It is a feast for craft lovers and you can visit local craft producers such as Moth To A Flame candlemakers and Nicholas Mosse Pottery.
The bikes can be locked up and left at the Village Pump outside Tynan’s Butcher Shop and Kilkenny Cycling Tours will retrieve them. Make sure to allow plenty of time for your return cycle, as it should take approximately 45 – 50 minutes. See Kilkenny Cycling Tours here.
A Medieval Treasure Hunt in Kilkenny
Challenge your family with a fun medieval treasure hunt around Kilkenny city. You can hire bikes from Kilkenny Cycling Tours and you will receive a treasure map that includes questions and clues. Ireland’s Medieval Treasure Hunt map takes you around the city’s winding streets, visiting up to 19 of Kilkenny’s historical buildings.
The map will include a brief history of each building. When you reach each location, you must find the answers to the questions and fill in the blank spaces. The person or team with the most correct answers is the winner. On completion, each participant receives an Ireland’s Medieval Mile Treasure Hunt Certificate. This Cycling Treasure Hunt is super fun, eco-friendly and educational and is suitable for families and small groups. See Trail Kilkenny.
Barrow Towpath Trail – Graiguenamanagh
The Barrow river towpath makes an excellent traffic free cycling greenway that gives visitors miles of safe travel. Rent a bike from Graiguenamanagh Bike Hire and explore the towpath or cycle the back roads to Inistioge. There you can wander the fantastic arboretum at Woodstock Gardens.
Graiguenamanagh Bike Hire also offers ecology bike tours and visitors can learn about the Barrow flora and fauna. Enjoy a great day out from the comfort of a well maintained mountain bike. Adult bike rental starts from €20 per day and €15 for a half day.
Email: bike&[email protected] or Call to Book: 086-4084008
For all things to do, see, eat and stay, see Visit Kilkenny