The best cycling routes in Kilkenny

Kilkenny offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 45 routes available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy riverside paths to more challenging country road adventures.

Yes, Kilkenny has several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. There are 7 easy routes available on komoot, often following gentle gradients along riverbanks or dedicated cycle paths. The region's developing greenways, like the South East Greenway, also provide safe, traffic-free options.

Kilkenny's touring cycling routes often feature the scenic River Nore and River Barrow valleys, offering peaceful riverside cycling. You can also explore areas like Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum near Inistioge, or pass through the woodlands of Jenkinstown Park. For a unique geological experience, some routes may bring you close to the ancient Dunmore Caves.

Absolutely. Kilkenny is rich in history. Many routes pass by significant sites such as Kells Priory. Within Kilkenny City, you can explore landmarks like Kilkenny Castle, Rothe House, The Black Abbey, and St. Canice's Cathedral, often accessible via city cycle lanes or guided tours.

Many of Kilkenny's touring cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the popular Kilkenny, Kells Priory & Bennettsbridge loop, the Barrow Way: Graiguenamanagh to St. Mullins Loop, and the Inistioge & New Ross loop via Woodstock Forest.

Kilkenny City offers various parking facilities, and many routes start from or near the city center, making them accessible. For routes outside the city, quiet country roads often have informal parking spots. Public transport options, such as bus services, connect Kilkenny with surrounding towns, which can be useful for accessing different starting points, though specific bike carriage policies should be checked with operators.

The best time for touring cycling in Kilkenny is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is typically milder and drier, making for more pleasant cycling conditions and allowing you to fully enjoy the region's natural beauty and outdoor attractions.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Kilkenny pass through or near charming villages and towns where you can find cafes, pubs, and local shops for refreshments. Kilkenny City itself offers a wide range of accommodation and dining options. The region's focus on tourism means you'll often find welcoming stops along the way, particularly in places like Inistioge, Bennettsbridge, and Graiguenamanagh.

Yes, the South East Greenway is a significant development for cyclists in Kilkenny. A 6km section from Glenmore to New Ross is already open, and once completed, it will be a 24km traffic-free path connecting Waterford, Wexford, and Kilkenny along the River Barrow, offering a fantastic experience for touring cyclists.

The touring cycling routes in Kilkenny are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, the blend of historical sites with natural beauty, and the variety of routes suitable for different abilities.

Yes, you can find natural attractions like Brownsford Waterfall in Kilkenny. While not directly on every touring route, some routes may pass nearby or offer short detours to such scenic spots, allowing you to combine your ride with a visit to these natural wonders.

For those seeking a more challenging ride, Kilkenny offers 16 difficult routes on komoot. These routes often feature more significant elevation changes and cover longer distances on quiet country roads. An example is the Graiguenamanagh Bridge – Graiguenamanagh loop from Duiske Abbey, which includes substantial climbs.