The Ring of Beara Cycle: Ireland’s Best Kept Secret on Two Wheels
There are cycles you tick off a list… and then there are cycles that stay with you.
The Ring of Beara is firmly in the second category.
While the Ring of Kerry gets the crowds and the tour buses, Beara quietly gets on with being one of the most scenic, raw, and rewarding cycles in Ireland—without the chaos.
And the best part? You’re right beside it when you stay at The Lake House Kerry.
The Ring of Beara is a looped cycling route of roughly 140km that winds its way through Kerry and West Cork, taking in mountain passes, coastal roads, and villages that feel like they’ve been left alone in the best possible way.
You’ll pass through places like:
Kenmare
Castletownbere
Allihies
Eyeries
But it’s not about ticking towns off—it’s about what’s in between.
Why Cyclists Love Beara (And Keep Coming Back)
There’s a reason those in the know rate Beara over the more famous routes.
1. Quiet Roads
You won’t be battling buses every few minutes. You’ll have stretches where it’s just you, the bike, and the Atlantic.
2. Unreal Variety
One minute you’re hugging the coastline, the next you’re climbing into the clouds.
3. The Healy Pass
This is the showstopper.
The climb up Healy Pass is tough—but manageable—and the views at the top feel like something out of another country entirely.
It’s the kind of moment that makes the whole trip worth it.
How to Cycle It (Without Ruining Yourself)
You’ve a few options depending on how ambitious you’re feeling:
1 Day (The Challenge)
~140km
Early start essential
Proper endurance required
2 Days (The Sweet Spot)
Day 1: Lake House → Allihies direction
Day 2: Loop back via Healy Pass
3 Days (The Experience)
Take your time
Stop for swims, pints, photos
Actually enjoy it instead of surviving it
Where to Stay: Why The Lake House Kerry Works Perfectly
After a long day on the bike, what you want is simple:
A hot shower
A proper bed
A place to sit back with a pint
That’s exactly what you get at The Lake House Kerry.
What Cyclists Love About Staying Here
Space for groups (ideal for cycling clubs or mates’ trips)
A self-service bar waiting for you at the finish line
Quiet roads right from the front door
Easy access onto the Beara loop
It’s not a hotel—it’s your basecamp.
Make a Trip Out of It
The beauty of Beara is that it’s not just about the cycle.
You can:
Head for a swim in the Atlantic after a spin
Stop off in a local pub where you’ll actually hear yourself think
Take a boat trip through the nearby lakes or coastline
Turn it into a full weekend with your group
It’s the kind of place that encourages you to slow down a bit—even if your legs are saying otherwise.
Final Word
If you’re thinking about cycling in Ireland and want something that feels authentic, a bit wild, and properly memorable—the Ring of Beara is hard to beat.
And if you want to do it right, base yourself somewhere that adds to the experience, not just somewhere to sleep.
The Lake House Kerry does exactly that.
Call to Action
Planning a cycling trip with friends or a club?
Check availability at The Lake House Kerry and turn the Ring of Beara into a proper getaway.
