Clew Bay Bike Trail

The Clew Bay Bike Trail is a new bike and ferry route looping magical Clew Bay, curving around the coastline, incorporating both Clare Island and Achill Island. The trail primarily utilizes the existing Great Western Greenway path, along with a section of segregated cycle path and some sections of the local road network. This Westport cycle provides an amazing experience and adventure and is known as one of the best outdoor activities in Mayo. The trail offers a new and different way to see Clew Bay from every angle. New ferry sailings connect Clare Island and Achill Island (Cloughmore) on Wednesdays and at weekends for July and August.

Cyclists can start the Clew Bay Bike Trail at any point and cycle it in either direction. It’s a glorious route through some of Mayo’s most attractive seaside towns including Westport, Louisburgh, and Mulranny. The cycling distance is 81km with an optional 10km loop on Clare Island.

The total trail distance, including ferries, is 105km. Keen cyclists can do it in a day, but the best experience is staying overnight on one of the islands and exploring their beauty. Cyclists can bring their own bikes or hire from one of the local rental companies: Westport Bike Hire, Clew Bay Bike Hire, Westport Bike Shop.

One ferry ticket covers both journeys and should be pre-booked from either of the two ferry companies, O’Malley Ferries or Clare Island Ferries O’Grady’s.

Visitors to Mulranny, Achill Island, and indeed the wider Clew Bay area will find the Clew Bay Bike Trail an ideal way to explore their surrounding area. For example, a day trip with bikes from Achill Island to Clare Island has plenty to keep a family entertained. It adds a new option and a fabulous way to enjoy the great outdoors in a healthy manner. This Greenway cycle to Clare and Achill Island is said to be one of the most enjoyable things for families to do in Mayo and an absolutely amazing tourist attraction.

The Clew Bay Bike Trail is a joint venture between Mayo County Council and Fáilte Ireland. Full information is on the newly launched website www.clewbaybiketrail.ie