Day 1 Mizen Head to Glengarriff (39 miles, 852m)

Another 'end to end' bike ride! This time a shorter 9 day trip (580 miles) from the most South Westerly point to the most North Westerly point of Ireland, same tour organiser, Peak Tours and 30 of us! See link to Mizen Head to Malin Head for details.


After a 2½ hour coach journey from Cork, the cycling started at Mizen Head in Ireland’s Wild West.  A short riding day today to Glengarriff.


After weeks of no rain and glorious sunshine, our arrival heralded a significant opening of the heavens in praise of the rain god. Too long had Zeus been held at bay. No group photo or Can-Can. 

Instead we withdrew to Mizen Head cafe for coffee and cake. Pete moves on from blueberry cheesecake to my warmed apple pie.













Stunning, dramatic, very wet and windy but today's appearance was quite different from the 'dry-as-a-bone' video footage.

 Time to brave the elements.
 Briefing before departure. 


Last minute adjustments

 Bright clothes and lights. 

 We headed off on narrow country roads through some great scenery heading for lunch in the village of Durrus.
We make our way around  Bantry Bay towards Glengarrif.
Camera abandoned to the van at time of departure as the rain penetrated everywhere!



Thus, next photo 39 miles later at our destination in Glengarrif at a fab B&B (Bay View). 

 Did our soggy laundry! Highly recommended.


Stunning views from our room out to Garinish Island. We need to come back and explore. The unusual microclimate and Gulf Stream has allowed the development of fantastic Italian Peto garden.
A fine evening waterside walk to town

 Big skies ruled by Zeus


Montbretia (Crocosmia x Crocosmiiflora) grew in abundance, lining the roadside.

The Eccles Hotel, the oldest purpose-built hotel in Ireland

Even the police stations are more welcoming than your average English "nick".

Village centre - time for an aperitif


A friendly face at every turn.

Local fishing for shrimp and prawn

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