Gravel Bike Ride Dublin

Exploring Dublin doesn’t always mean sticking to the busy city streets. This gravel bike tour offers a refreshing escape into County Wicklow’s quiet back roads, forest trails, and sweeping single tracks just outside the city. While I haven’t personally taken the ride, the detailed reviews and itinerary suggest it’s a fantastic way to combine cycling with breathtaking views that will make your social media followers jealous.

What truly draws us to this experience are the spectacular vistas of Dublin Bay, the chance to ride high-spec Trek bikes, and the feeling of adventure that comes with exploring lesser-known trails. Plus, the opportunity to end your ride with a well-deserved pint at Johnny Fox’s Pub adds a genuine Irish touch. The main consideration? It’s best suited for those with a decent cycling background, thanks to the gravel-specific focus and some technical trails.

This tour is perfect for adventurous cyclists who want to see Dublin’s outskirts from a fresh perspective, enjoy scenic challenges, and get off the typical tourist trail. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a keen, confident beginner, you’ll find this experience rewarding — just be sure to have good cycling technique and an interest in exploring.

Good To Know

• Stunning views of Dublin Bay and cityscape from mountain trails and single tracks.
• Expertly maintained Trek gravel bikes designed for comfort and performance.
• Flexible trail options tailored to your ability, with a minimum age of 11.
• Private guided experience with a professional, friendly guide.
• Includes safety gear, mechanical support, and a welcome coffee to start your adventure smoothly.
• Two-hour duration makes it an accessible, half-day escape into nature.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Authentic Irish Adventure Just Outside Dublin

The Gravel Bike Ride Dublin offers a chance to explore County Wicklow’s scenic landscapes on two wheels, away from the crowds and noise of the city. Starting at the Ticknock MTB Trail Centre, one of Ireland’s top mountain bike hubs, you’ll find yourself in a trail paradise. With over 30 kilometers of trails, forest roads, and quiet country lanes, this area is a playground for riders of all levels.

The guide and bike team from Biking.ie are highly experienced, with full-time mechanics ensuring your Trek Checkpoint bike is in perfect shape. Speaking with past guests, many mention how the bikes feel new and are fitted precisely to each rider — crucial for comfort and safety during the ride. A reviewer noted, “The bikes are immaculately maintained, and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable,” which reassures those concerned about gear quality.

The Route and Trail Experience

The tour kicks off with a warm welcome over coffee, giving everyone a chance to get acquainted and discuss their riding experience. After a quick safety briefing and bike fitting, the group heads out onto trails selected specifically for their ability level and interest.

The journey takes you into the Dublin hills, which are a maze of forest trails, country lanes, and single tracks. One highlight is the spectacular views over Dublin Bay and the city skyline, which make for perfect photo stops. Past riders mention how “the trail choices were spot-on,” with a mix of technical sections and more relaxed terrain, ensuring a fun and challenging ride.

The trails at Ticknock are described as “amazing,” with over 30 km to choose from, so your guide customizes the route based on weather, group ability, and preferences. Expect to navigate forested paths, gentle climbs, and some exhilarating descents, all with safety gear and mechanical assistance on hand.

The Bikes: Top Quality and Well Maintained

The Trek Checkpoint gravel bikes are the stars of this experience. These bikes are recent models, only a few months old, and are designed for durability and comfort on uneven terrain. Reviews highlight how “the bikes felt like new,” and the team’s full-time mechanics ensures they’re always in tip-top shape, minimizing the risk of mechanical issues mid-ride.

The bikes are fitted with the correct size helmets, and the full safety gear helps keep everyone confident on the trails. The overall emphasis on bike quality makes this tour accessible to those with a good standard of cycling technique.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for cyclists aged 11 and above who want a scenic adventure outside Dublin. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a mix of technical riding and stunning natural vistas. Given the 2-hour length, it’s a manageable half-day trip, making it suitable for travelers with limited time or those looking for a quick outdoor escape.

The private group format means the pace and trail difficulty can be tailored, whether you prefer a more relaxed ride or a challenging route. The tour also suits families, groups of friends, or solo travelers eager for an Irish outdoor experience with professional guidance.

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Practical Details and Value

At $131 for a private group of up to eight people, this tour offers good value, especially considering the high-quality bikes, personalized guiding, and included amenities like coffee and safety gear. The cost reflects the focus on quality and a tailored experience, rather than a generic group ride.

The two-hour duration makes it accessible, but it’s enough time to truly enjoy the scenery and trails without feeling rushed. Plus, the flexibility to choose trails based on your skill level means you won’t be pushed beyond your comfort zone or held back.

Final Thoughts

The Gravel Bike Ride Dublin is a fantastic way to see the Dublin area from a different angle. You’ll experience Ireland’s lush hills and rugged coastlines, all while riding on top-notch bikes guided by friendly, knowledgeable locals. It’s especially appealing to those who love cycling, scenic views, and authentic outdoor adventures.

The tour balances adventure and comfort, offering an enjoyable mix of technical trails, breathtaking vistas, and Irish hospitality. If you’re looking to escape the city and explore Ireland’s natural beauty on two wheels, this experience deserves a place on your itinerary.

For anyone who appreciates well-organized, high-quality guided tours that emphasize both scenery and safety, this gravel ride will deliver memorable moments and new perspectives on Dublin’s surroundings.

FAQ

What is the starting point of the tour?
The tour begins at Biking.ie Dublin, located at Ticknock Forest, a renowned mountain biking hub in County Wicklow.

How long does the ride last?
The ride lasts about 2 hours, making it a perfect half-day outdoor activity.

Are the bikes suitable for beginners?
The bikes are high-performance Trek gravel bikes, suitable for those with a good cycling technique. The tour is tailored to individual ability, but some trail experience is recommended.

Can children participate?
Yes, the minimum age for participation is 11 years old, and they should have a minimum height of 52 inches.

Is the tour private or group?
This is a private tour for groups of 1 to 8 people, allowing for a more personalized experience.

What’s included in the price?
The price includes the guided tour, Trek gravel bike rental, helmet fitting, safety gear, mechanical support, and a welcome coffee or tea.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

In summary, the Gravel Bike Ride Dublin blends scenic beauty, professional guidance, and top-quality bikes into an adventure perfect for those eager to explore Ireland’s natural surroundings on two wheels. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a curious beginner, you’ll walk away with unforgettable views and a true sense of Irish outdoor life.

You can check if your dates are available here: