Best route from Athy to Westport?

n1ey

Good afternoon!

I am planning a trip for June. I want to do a 2-3 day ride from Athy, Co. Kildare to Westport. Does anyone have some recommendations? I would appreciate a route of more airline type. However, I could meander a bit for some great destinations.

I am considering taking the gravel bikes so we do have off-road capability.

I had some ideas but I am really looking for recommendations and places to stay en-route.

I appreciate the help.

thanks,
Bill

n1ey

n1ey wrote: »

Good afternoon!

I am planning a trip for June. I want to do a 2-3 day ride from Athy, Co. Kildare to Westport. Does anyone have some recommendations? I would appreciate a route of more airline type. However, I could meander a bit for some great destinations.

I am considering taking the gravel bikes so we do have off-road capability.

I had some ideas but I am really looking for recommendations and places to stay en-route.

I appreciate the help.

thanks,
Bill

no thoughts from anyone??

benneca1

Athy to Vicarstown by canal towpath. Then head Vicarstown - Ballybrittas - Portarlington- Tullamore - Clara - Moate. pick up new greenway in Moate and follow to Athlone.
Cross the river and head out by Monksland and pick up the Tuam road. Follow R roads via Ballyfoan and Mountbellew to Tuam. Head across to Ballinrobe then head up towards Castlebar as far as Partry. Hang a left and follow the road to Westport. This is mainly R roads with some Greenway and canal towpath thrown in. I have cycled most of it and its should fit the bill.

ford2600

If you want a quite route this site works well and avoids the highest roads.

http://cycle.travel/

It will be an "interesting route" and you will need a Garmin device of some description.