Motorbikin'!!  The open road, wind in your face, and freedom - with a blissful bed and wonderful place to sleep every night!

The Outline Itinerary	Your Hotels	The Bikes	A Full Itinerary
Prices from €120 per person per day including accommodation, breakfast & bike - Click Here to Book Now  or call Adams & Butler, Luxury Travel Specialists T +353 1 2889355 F +353 1 288 9282 E info@irishluxury.com US Toll Free 1-800-8945712

Ireland is blessed with fabulous scenery and wonderful people. For the motorcycle enthusiast in particular, access to these people and sights is easily achievable. Our exceptional experience and well known customer service combine to put together the perfect package for you. Working with a close knit bikers fraternity, we are keenly aware of what makes the travelling biker tick, and bear that in mind when planning your route. 

Day 1    To Kilkenny by way of Powerscourt and The Wicklow Mountains

	Day 2  To Cork by way of Waterford
Day 3   West Cork - Mizen Head and Bantry Bay
	Day 4  Around the Beara Peninsula
Day 5    Around The Ring of Kerry
	Day 6  The Dingle Peninsula
Day 7 The Burren and The Cliffs of Moher, Galway & Connemara
	Day 8  Back to Dublin
Day 9   Depart

Your Hotels

Ballyduff is set in fine rolling countryside in its own farmland and grounds.  Breda Thomas’s lovely 18th century house with its attached medieval castle  overlooking the River Nore is blessed with an utterly restful location. 
Breda is a relaxed host who enjoys sharing her home with guests, and offers exceptionally spacious and comfortable accommodation in large period bedrooms with generous bathrooms and beautiful views over the river or gardens. Guests also have the use of large well-proportioned day rooms furnished with family antiques - and many return often, finding this rural retreat a warm and welcoming home from home.   It was the film location for 'Circle of Friends' & 'Where the Sun is Rising'. 

Blindgate House

Maeve Coakley’s purpose-built guesthouse is set in its own gardens high up over the town and, with spacious rooms, uncluttered lines and a generally modern, bright and airy atmosphere, Blindgate makes a refreshing contrast to the more traditional styles that prevail locally.  All bedrooms are carefully furnished with elegant modern simplicity, have full en-suite bathrooms and good facilities including fax/modem sockets as well as phones, satellite TV, tea/coffee trays and trouser press.

Seaview House Hotel

Tripadvisor's number one "Hidden Gem" Seaview House, our number one "Hidden Gem" on Bantry Bay, Kathleen O’Sullivan’s restful 25 bed roomed very traditional country house-style hotel is full of Irish charm with a warm welcome and personal supervision. It is set in charming gardens and is surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in Ireland .   Public rooms, which are spacious and well-proportioned, include a graciously decorated drawing room and a cocktail bar, both overlooking lovely gardens at the front of the house, and with outdoor seating for fine weather, also a cosy library and television room. Family furniture and antiques enhance the hotel, and standards of maintenance and housekeeping are consistently outstanding.  Overlooking the garden, with views over Bantry Bay , the restaurant is elegant and well-appointed with antiques, fresh flowers and plenty of privacy.

The Lodge

The Lodge is a newly-built luxury 4 star guesthouse directly opposite Kenmare's 18-hole golf course, surrounded by its own private gardens and within 3 minutes walk of some of the finest restaurants in Ireland. The Lodge has 2 Double rooms and eight Twin rooms. Each Twin room contains 1 single and 1 King size bed. All rooms are en-suite and elegantly furnished, some with en-suite marble bathrooms. All have safes and central heating.   This is a non-smoking house with TV and Telephone in all the rooms.

Berry Lodge

Near the coast of west Clare, between Kilkee and Lahinch, this Victorian country house overlooking the sea has been run by Rita Meade as a restaurant with accommodation since 1994.  It is a charming residence with old world style and modern comfort with excellent accommodation and superb food.

Lisloughrey Lodge

This new hotel enjoys one of the most beautiful locations in Ireland, with views down Lough Corrib and Lisloughrey Quay adding interest in the foreground, with small boats in the harbour and its old stone buildings set against wooded hills.   The heart of the hotel is a fine period house on a ten acre site adjacent to Ashford Castle, and with access to its grounds; behind it, new accommodation has been added discreetly in two-bedroom units, built around an attractive landscaped courtyard.  A modern approach has been taken throughout the interior and, while it has its admirers, it is not to everyone’s taste – notably the treatment of the beautiful old house which now sports a fashionable red and matt black colour scheme throughout the main public areas, bare wooden floors, lots of leather in the bars and some strange lighting.  Rooms have big, very comfortable beds and tip-top quality pillows and bedding; wall-mounted flat screen TV is well placed for watching a film in bed, and a large wardrobe with trendy padded finish also conceals a good few bells and whistles.   Fashion-led bathrooms are a good size but, with a frosted glass door, power showers with rain shower heads and free-flow washbasins.

The Burlington

A large modern hotel set in the Dublin 4 area of the town,  a 20 minute walk or 5 minute bus or taxi ride from Temple Bar and Trinity, but is quieter and more elegant than the city center.  Your neighbours are embassies and billionaires, but there is still a lovely neighbourhood feel, with bars galore (and great music), restaurants, street cafes and shops.  

Included in the tour cost  is fully comprehensive insurance and unlimited mileage. All bikes come with luggage cases, full tank of petrol plus a cable lock. We can provide fuel tank bags in most cases free of charge. Garmin GPS can also be provided for €10 per day. We also provide the GoPro digital video camera for €40 per rental.

Damage excess applies to all rental bike ranging from €750 to €1500 depending on the model of bike.

Prices depend on the bike chosen - the 8 night 9 day itinerary, including transfers to and from Dublin Airport, 8 nights accommodation, with breakfast, service and tax, and 8 days with a BMW F650GS or Honda 650 Transalp is €1090 per person sharing based on 2 people, or €2100 for a single rider.  

With a Moto Guzzi Norge,  a Yamaha Midnight Star 1300 or a Harley Davidson the 8 night 9 day itinerary, including transfers to and from Dublin Airport, 8 nights accommodation, with breakfast, service and tax, and 8 days bike hire the cost is €1350 per person sharing or €2600 for a single rider.

Our Best Bit of  Advice! Our roads are small and twisty and therefore it takes much longer than expected to travel around and with all of the beautiful sights to see there will be many photography stops along the way.

Some of The Bikes Available

Honda CBF500	Honda CBF600
Honda Shadow VT 750	Honda Transalp 650
BMW 650 GS	BMW R850 R Comfort
BMW R1150 R	BMW R1150GS
Harley Davidson Road King	Yamaha Midnight Star 1300

Day 1
Arrive Dublin airport where a driver will be awaiting you to take you to meet your bikes, well away from the hurly burly of airport and city traffic. From the 'bike depot at Naas take the R410 signposted ‘Blessington’. In the village of Blessington take the Dublin road and at the end of the town swing right for the R759 Sallygap road. At the Sallygap turn left and follow the signs to Enniskerry, to the right. Visit Powerscourt House and Gardens, located in a stunning natural setting. A magnificent period home dating from mid 18th century, overlooking wonderful terraced gardens and an ornamental lake, Powerscourt House was partially destroyed by fire in 1974. A long restoration project ensued during which the ballroom and the garden rooms were rebuilt. On site at Powerscourt is also Ireland's premier shopping emporium "Avoca Hand Weavers". Head South on the R755 through Roundwood, where the actor Daniel Day Lewis and the director John Borman live (check out The Roundwood Inn in case they are having a pint there) and head on to Laragh. Explore Glendalough, follow in the footsteps of Saint Kevin, who established this spectacular 6th century monastic settlement, deep within the Wicklow Mountains, surrounded on all sides by steep mountain passes. Glendalough the valley of two lakes is one of the most spectacular locations to visit in Ireland. This is a mystical location, where you can explore the round towers, cathedrals, high crosses, and enjoy a truly memorable stroll through the valley of two lakes. Take the road signed ‘Hollywood’. The valley you pass through is known as the Wicklow Gap. Wicklow is known as ‘The garden of Ireland’. When you arrive with the N81at the T- Junction at Blessington Road, turn right and follow the sign for Ballymore Eustace. From Ballymore Eustace follow the sign for Naas. When in Naas Town follow the sign for the M7/ M9 to Carlow, Kilkenny.  Take a guided tour of Kilkenny Castle - highly recommended.  There are six medieval churches in this small city and many pubs and restaurants. You stay stay in a manor house overlooking the River Nore.

Day 2
Head down to Waterford City on the N9/ N10. It is recommended to pass through Waterford City and head to Tramore on the R682. Follow the coast road to Dungarvan. This area is known as the Copper coast. All along this road are views of the Irish Sea. A stop for lunch in Dungarvan is recommended. From Dungarvan take the N25 to Youghal then to Middleton and on into Cork City. Cork City has the river Lee running through it. During Ireland’s famine, 1846- 1848, many of those who emigrated passed through the Port of Cobh going to America. Follow the road out of Cork City and on to the beautiful, old, coastal town of Kinsale. Kinsale has some fine restaurants and has a reputation as a centre of gastronomic excellence. Stop at a charming B&B in the centre of the town.

Day 3

From Kinsale take the R600 signposted for Clonakilty. On this road watch out for the Grotto outside the village of Ballinspittle. Hundreds of people claimed to have seen the statue of our lady move. Continue on this very twisty, scenic road to Clonakilty, a market town since 1614. Clonakilty Bay has fine sandy beaches which are excellent for swimming and fishing. From Clonakilty head to Skibbereen staying on the N71. On this road you will come to a lovely village called Glandore. This tree shaded little village and its twin, Unionhall, face each other from opposite sides of the Glandore Harbour. Local scenery includes the ancient Drumbeg Stone Circle dating more than 2,000 years...it is worth a look! From Glandore continue travelling to Skibbereen and then take the road to Baltimore on the R595 for lunch. There are lovely views of Clare Island and Sherkin Island from this harbour side village. Continue back onto the N71 heading to Bantry. You will come to the village of Ballydehob. Take the R592 to Mizenhead. Mizenhead is Ireland’s land end. Its cliffs are over 215 metres high and are a marvellous vantage point for looking at the spectacular coastal scenery. On wild days, tremendous Atlantic waves assault the cliffs. On calm days, seals bathe on the rocks while gannets fly and dive into the sea. When leaving Mizenhead continue towards Bantry Town. Bantry Town is at the head of Bantry Bay and it lies in one of the world’s largest and most beautiful natural harbours. The Caha Mountains form the spine of the rugged Beara Peninsula to the north. Overnight in a manor house hotel overlooking the bay.

Day 4
The scenery ranges from rock strewn desolation to wooded glens and luxuriant gardens warmed by the Gulf Stream. This Gulf Stream allows palm trees and sub-tropical flowers to flourish in sheltered parts of the valley. Leaving Ballylickey you will pass through Ballylickey Glengarriff. You must stop in this area and take a boat to Garinish Island. It is easily reached and well worth a visit. Garinish Island is only 37 acres of landscaped gardens with beautiful exotic species of flowers and trees and a temple leading the eye to the water and mountains beyond. This is a truly worthwhile stop. From Glengarriff take the R572 heading towards Castletown Bearhaven. This area is known as the Beara Peninsula and it borders County Cork and County Kerry. Nearby is the dilapidated shell of Puxley Castle, the old home of the Puxley family who made their fortune in copper mining at nearly Allihies. The Caha mountains nearby has a 220 metre high waterfall and the highest point of the Caha mountains is called Hungry Hill with a height of 750 metres and stupendous views. Follow the road to Garinish point and travel up the R571 to Kenmare. Stop over in Kenmare and relax after a long days travelling. Kenmare’s name is derived from the native Irish ‘Ceann Mara’ which means ‘Head of the Sea’. Kenmare is a good base for touring the scenic route- The Ring of Kerry. The town was founded in 1670. It is in an area of outstanding natural beauty. A stay of two days in Kenmare is recommended. Kenmare is regarded as ‘The Jewel on the Ring of Kerry’. It has charming streets, gourmet restaurants, friendly Irish pubs and craft shops. 

Day 5

The Ring of Kerry. Four to eight hours at least is recommended to drive around this part of Ireland. Starting from Kenmare head to Killarney on the N71. Leaving Killarney on the N72 will take you into Killorglin, where every August on the 10th, 11th and 12th an extraordinary festival takes place honouring the wild goat that saved the town from invasion by Cromwell. The next town is Glenbeigh and just before Glenbeigh is a little thatched cottage on your right hand side. This is called Kerry Bog village and museum which gives a visual insight into the work and livelihood of people in Ireland during the 18th century. Rossleigh Beach is nearby if you want to breathe in the invigorating sea air from the Atlantic Ocean. Next town is the pretty fishing village of Kells with stunning views of Dingle Peninsula and the Atlantic. Next is the main market town of Cahirciveen, the birthplace of Daniel O’Donnell, a famous political leader in the early 19th century. If you exit Cahirciveen on the Velentia Road (R565) and head west along the Peninsula you will come to the remote town of Portmagee and Ballingskellig. The view here of the Skellig Islands is beautiful. Back on the N70 heading for Waterville to Caherdaniel you will cross over Coonakesta Pass. Admire views of the Kenmare River, the Scariff and Deenish Island. If the weather is kind, stop off at Derrynane Beach which is considered one of the finest beaches in Ireland. Also, a visit to Stague Fort, about 4 kilometres off the N70 is worth a visit. It is over 2,000 years old and was built as a stronghold to protect a local King or Lord. Back on the N70 heading for Sneem which is a relaxed pretty town. Next stop is Kenmare where you can relax again and enjoy the hospitality of the town.

Day 6

Upon leaving Kenmare we now head in the direction of Killarney on the N71. Take the N72 out of Killarney and head for Dingle on the Dingle Peninsula. You are travelling on the R561. A stop to view Inch Beach will be very worthwhile. The National Geographic has described the Dingle Peninsula as ‘The Most Beautiful Place on Earth’. The Dingle Peninsula is bounded on 3 sides by the sea. From Inch follow the road west through Anascaul and into Dingle. The road to Dingle via Anascaul provides magnificent views of the coast of Tralee and Brandon Bay, the landscape of the southern side and the Iveragh Peninsula across Dingle Bay. To the west of Dingle take the most scenic route to Ventry and then onto Slea Head. The view of the Blaskets Island from Slea Head is simply beautiful. A trip to these islands is highly recommended and is easily accessed by local boat operators. Dramatic views are what the experience is all about. You will travel on roads over mountains and along the coast between ancient stone walls that surround small fields. On returning from Slea Head, take the Connor Pass. The Connor Pass is without doubt the most dramatic route to take but be careful of high winds. From the top of Connor Pass there are fabulous views of lowlands, mountains and sea. At the bottom of the Connor Pass, keep to the right at the fork and head east through Stradbally and on into Camp. From Camp take the N86 to Tralee. Take the N69 north out of Tralee towards Listowel. Look out for the sign ‘Day in the Bog Experience’ at the foot of the Stack’s mountains...it’s worth a visit! Continue through Listowel and on up to Tarbert for the short ferry trip to Killimer in County Clare. On arriving in Killimer in County Clare take the N67 through Kilrush and on into Kilkee. Overnight either at an Inn in Kilkee, or at a delightful B&B in Miltown Malbay

Day 7

Continue north through Doonbeg and on to Liscannor. You will be on the coast road and soon you will arrive at the Cliffs of Moher. Stop at the information centre and walk up the hill on the opposite side which will bring you to the viewing area. The cliffs are over 200 metres high and are among the highest in all of Europe. If you like you can take a boat cruise from either Doolin or Liscannor pier and view the cliffs from sea level...a truly awesome vista indeed. A stop in Doolin is a must for refreshments before continuing your journey to Lisdoonvarna. (What a sight awaits you). What you will see next is unique in the world. Take the road from Doolin to Lisdoonvarna and then on to Ballyvaughan. This road brings you through an area called The Burren. The Burren is fascinating countryside indeed. Its western seaboard is the majestic Cliffs of Moher with spectacular views of the Aran Islands and the shores of Galway Bay on the horizon. The limestone in places is over 1,000 metres thick and sits on a bed of granite. Erosion and glaciations are the cause of this unique area. These fascinating limestone layered fields are approximately 400 square kilometres in size. Take your time and if you like you can take a walk onto the Burren and explore some of the 700 plus ancient stone tombs, castles and churches which are scattered around from ancient times, indeed dolmens date back over 4,500 years. There is an information centre in Kilfenora called the Burren Centre. A nearby Cathedral has a beautiful sculptured high cross. From Ballyvaughan head north towards Galway City on the N18. Galway City has become very cosmopolitan in recent years and has a modern university catering for 6,000 students. The city can trace its roots back 2,000 years. It is a good base for touring Galway County which is nearly 2,300 square miles in size. We will start our tour by taking the N59 North- west to Oughterard. We are now entering the Connemara area in Galway. At Maam Cross take the road North into the mountains. The scenery becomes ever more impressive. Even on wet days this area is beautiful, as waterfalls caused by the rain, run down the mountains. Artists from all over the world have come to paint this landscape with it’s ever- changing light. It is a magical area. Head along the North shore of Lough Corrib to Cong. Close to the ruins of Lord Kilmaine's house at The Neale is a fascinating stone monument. Central to it is a stone slab with carvings of a human, an animal and a reptile which are referred to as the The Gods of Welcome, The Neale' being the anglicised form of 'na Ffeale'( of welcome). The slab itself was found in a cave in 1739 close to where it is now enshrined. There are two unusual follies, a scale model of step pyramid of Sakkara  9 metres(30 ft) high, built about1760, and a classical temple. The 3,000 year old Glebe stone circle is on the way to Cong, in a field right off the road. There are many caves in the surrounding area. The caves were formed when the water from the rivers and streams penetrated the ground through swallow holes and dissolved the limestone beneath. There are also a number of souterrains - man made caves - in the area. Fairies leprechauns and banshees are believed to live in these underground chambers. Legend has it; he De Dannann people transformed themselves into fairies, and retreated to this underground world. Overnight on the shores of Lough Corrib in an elegant manor house hotel.

Day 8
To Dublin - a ride down the highway to Naas where you drop off the bikes. A local driver will bring you from here into the city centre for you last night.