Group pictured at the Westport cycle routes launch. Photo: Oliver Whyte.

New website features 18 Westport cycle routes

A WEBSITE featuring 18 cycle routes in Westport was launched on Monday by former Taoiseach Enda Kenny, writes Claire McNamara.

With cycling booming in popularity, the 18 looped cycles that begin in Westport take in panoramic scenic and coastal views.

The routes, which are a collaboration between Westport Tourism Organisation and Westport Silver Wheelers, vary from 10km to 96km and are aimed at growing cycle tourism and showcasing incredible cycling terrain in the county.

All of the 18 routes are available to view online or download, with each outlined in great detail with distances, directions and places to stop en route to unwind.

Deputy Kenny commended all who had put the routes together and said to make them work in the interest of the community was the challenge.

He said: “This operation here today coincides with the government's announcement last year of a 10-year programme to make the island of Ireland very suitable for mountain biking, road biking and the use of electric bikes, which makes it entirely compatible with that scheme. Cycling is the new golf, with people participating for as long as they want to or as much as they need to.”

He stressed the importance of being seen when out cycling and encouraged those taking to the routes to ensure they take necessary measures before setting off.

The routes are not about the Tour de France around Westport; it's about leisure cycling and savouring all our county has to offer.

Mr. Donal O'Shea, chairman of Westport Tourism Organisation, said the routes have been tried and tested by Westport Silver Wheelers and he hoped they will be utilised by all cycling enthusiasts.

So, if you are a beginner looking for a breathtaking view, or an experienced cyclist looking for a challenge, these newly launched routes aim to cater for all levels and ages.

These routes are not a race but a journey, so savour the moment,” he said.

See http://www.westporttourism.com/cycling-routes

 

* Pictured is Deputy Enda Kenny launching the Westport Tourism Organisation cycle routes website, flanked by Donal O’Shea, chairman, Westport Tourism, and Owen Carr, Covey Cycles, with (at back) Mick Hogan and Sean Hyland, and guests. Photo: Oliver Whyte