Sheep’s Head Cycle Route

The Sheep’s Head Cycle Route starts in Bantry town, then travels the ridge and north side of the peninsula to Sheep’s Head lighthouse, before returning to Bantry from the south side. It is approximately 75 km long and offers many interesting detours. The cycle route passes many of the Sheep’s Head Way trailheads, where loop walks can be incorporated into your trip. In the map below you add various layers, including parking areas, walks and heritage sites.

Sheep’s Head Cycle Route starts in Bantry and heads west along the Goat’s Path to Kilcrohane. From there it heads out to Tooreen, where there is a café and a 3 km walk to the Lighthouse begins. The cycle route returns through Ahakista and Durrus. There is limited accommodation available on the Sheep’s Head peninsula and consult our accommodation section for more information.

Note that the North side of the peninsula has some areas of poor road surface which may slow your progress. Road bikes can be used but take care on the roads in general, as the road surface can be uneven.

You can download a .gpx file for this route by clicking here, or the yellow button below.

Cycle Route Details

Distance	75 km
Grade	Moderate
Estimated Cycling Time	4 hrs (20 km / hr)
Ascent	1012 m
Descent	1012 m
Min. Height	2 m
Max. Height	185 m

Cycle Route Description

There are some steep climbs on the route and it has been graded as challenging. This means it is suitable for participants with:
- moderate-high level of fitness and competency in bike control,
- confidence in cycling on roads shared with a high traffic volume,
- he desire for a physical challenge of at least two hours – often as part of a cycling club or informal group,
- ability to navigate via map or through navigation technology.

The route is a mixture of public roads, primarily local or regional roads including some National Roads with high traffic volume. Asphalt surface but may have imperfections and potholes than can be avoided. A mixture of steep climbs and descents – with total ascent no greater than 1000m.

You can see details of the steeps gradients at the bottom of this page