What is Westportif?
The West of Ireland’s most spectacular leisure cycle takes place on the 16th July 2016. Nicknamed “Ring of the Reek” the Westportif routes circumnavigate Croagh Patrick, which is known locally as “The Reek”. Two distances are on offer – 80km to suit novices and 160km for more seasoned cyclists.
Wheelie good weekend of Cycling
The Westportif starts and finishes in the lovely heritage town of Westport, an ideal location for visiting cyclists with ample accommodation and support facilities (beware accommodation is filling fast).
Choice of Spectacular Routes
The shorter 80km route is reasonably flat and is very suitable for novice and family cyclists. It hugs the scenic Clew Bay coastline town of Louisburgh and continues straight to Kileen village with views of Clare and Inishturk islands and the famous beaches of Silver and white strands this is surly panoramic cycling at its best before turning inland through spectacular Doo Lough Valley to Delphi and the lovely Aashleigh Falls. The return to Westport is via the Erriff Valley on the main road.
The 160km cyclists will begin with the others, but turn right at Aashleigh towards Leenane village, along Killary Fjord then inland through the Inagh Valley to Recess and Maam Cross before heading back to Westport via Lough Mask and Tourmakeady, there is a sting in the tale with Lally’s mountain coming with 30k to go. This is a much hillier route with 6 categorised climbs. It is also a magnificently scenic route which is particularly attractive to cyclists from abroad. Both routes are fully supported with water and food stops along the way.
Register before May 1st to get the Westportif branded top.
The Westportif After party promises to be epic with event footage on display at the Clewbay hotel from evening time, music, disco and craic to be had by all.
You do not need to be a seasoned cyclist to complete this event. It is open to everyone.