Tour of Ireland (Dublin, Ireland)

Ireland Goes Cycling Mad this Summer

If you’re planning a trip to Ireland this summer be sure to keep an eye out for an exciting sporting event. A new International Tour of Ireland Professional Cycle Stage Race was officially announced recently which will take place from 22nd-26th August. This event will provide a unique way of seeing as much of the country in a short time frame. Whether you’re a sports fanatic or just enjoy sight seeing the Tour of Ireland is set to create a buzz around many key locations in Ireland this summer when approx 126 riders will compete in this five-day nationwide event.
Lyrath House and Estate in County Kilkenny is the Race HQ and on 22nd August, historic Kilkenny Castle will bid good luck to all competitors as they begin their 864 km race around Ireland’s picturesque landscape. For those visiting the capital on the 26th August, don’t miss the race finale where the victorious winner will arrive at Dublin’s Merrion Square.
The route will take in much of the South, West and Midlands of Ireland so what ever part of the country you are visiting there will be much opportunity to catch a glimpse of this world class event yourself. Kilkenny City is an approx 2 hour drive from Dublin city and is also easily accessed by train. Other key areas along the tour such as Cork, Kerry and Galway are all easily accessed by plane train or car making it even easier to enjoy as much of the tour route as you wish. The tour is set to be celebrated in local areas as it progresses which will create a unique sense of festive energy for visitors and locals alike.

Stage 1 - Wednesday 22nd August - 160km Kilkenny Castle to Cork- via Clonmel, Carrick On Suir, Lismore and Midleton.

Stage 2 – Thursday 23rd August - 167km Clonakilty to Killarney – a fantastic scenic route via Skibereen, Bantry, Glengarriff and Kenmare.

Stage 3 – Friday 24th August – 190km Tralee to Ennis via Ballybunion, Foynes, Limerick City Centre, Killaloe and Tuamgraney

Stage 4 – Saturday 25th August – 212km – Galway to Galway, a circuit taking in Cong, Westport, Luisburgh, Leenáun before returning to Galway city.

Stage 5 – Sunday 26th August – 135km – Athlone to Dublin via Moate, Kinnegad and Enfield before finishing in Dublin for 10 laps of a circuit based on Merrion Square.


Fáilte Ireland, the National Tourism Development Authority, are title sponsors of the Tour of Ireland, through the International Sports Tourism Initiative. For more information on the event, visit www.tourofireland.ie