The adrenaline rush is part thrill part excitement as you arrive at the beginning of the Wild Atlantic Way. Although better renowned for fine dining, shopping, coastal walks and a plethora of maritime activities, cycling is becoming bigger than ever in this little coastal gem with something to offer the novice rider right through to experienced cyclists.

The stunning scenery coupled with the physical and mental benefits of cycling attracts cyclists on mountain, hybrid, road or E bikes seeking a few hours of freedom. Kinsale has a very active and growing cycling community. Families can safely navigate their way from Charles Fort along the Scilly Walk through town to the Dock Beach or Sandycove for a dip. In tandem with this, triathletes and competitive cyclists are taking on elevation and distance challenges that test the best and the temptation for locals to escape the home office during these times is ever present.

There is no better way to explore an area than by bike and we are truly spoiled! Cycling out the Old Head route with the Atlantic Ocean by your side and its powerful waves crashing against the rugged cliffs. Ancient ruins jut out on the horizon and the coastline exposes the sheer raw beauty of West Cork. Historical shipwrecks sleep beneath white horses on the climb to the Lusitania visitor centre and the world famous Old Head Golf Club and Lighthouse offering a magical sight. Cruising along Garrettstown, nature rewards those who take the time to admire her. The views keep giving with vast expanses of beaches, double rainbows, dolphins leaping, glorious sunsets, the list never ends.

The pinnacle of most cyclists’ week is the Sunday morning group cycle (when not in lockdown), with long distances covered and challenging routes. Rolling into Kinsale after these (rather exhausted), we descend upon our chosen coffee stop, unclipped, coffee in one hand, cake in the other, laughter and banter as we share stories is what cycling is all about. All age groups, from all walks of life yet all equal on the road. As we trudge through this pandemic, there is one certainty, that we all need a little headspace, “me time” and the bike gives that in bucket loads.

When you finally get home, weary legs and a dirty bike everything seems brighter. Even the mud splatters on your face make you smile. Being part of a community that looks out for one another, which is all inclusive and encourages you to unleash the ability you had but didn’t believe in. 

So dust down your bike, find your tribe and get rolling. Clipped in and free, we roll and laugh and leave our worries on the road. When did you say you are joining us?