Cycling at night is something totally unique. Your senses are heightened and there is a feeling of just you and the silent world.
The Gaelforce Night Sportif was born out of this ideal. Peaceful, tranquil cycling. 2020 will be the 5th year of this stunning cycle. There are 3 distances to choose from so this event is suitable for all cyclists.
Taking on the Connemara sections of the Wild Atlantic Way this landscape is stark and magical in its beauty. You will cycle out into the sunset with a moonlit return. You will take in the Inagh Valley, The Sky Road out of Clifden, the Renvyle peninsula, Kylemore Abbey and much more.
There are food stops along the way to keep you fuelled as you go.
The route is fully signed with Marshals are all difficult junctions.
ROUTE DETAILS
34KM ROUTE
The cycle starts at Killary Adventure Centre. Remain on the N59 to Letterfrack passing Kylemore lakes and Abbey. There will be a refreshment stop here should you wish to avail of it. You will be 14km into your cycle at this stage.
From Letterfrack you will return to Killary Adventure Centre passing through Tullycross and along the coast road via Lettergesh and Glassilaun. This route is through another spectacular valley running alongside Lough Muc and Lough Fee. When you get to the end of this loop turn left on to the N59 and back to Killary Adventure Centre for further refreshments at the finish.
34km route details – https://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/1890411599
68KM ROUTE
Starting from Killary Adventure Centre, cycle towards Letterfrack on the N59, turning left on to the R344 and continuing through the Inagh Valley.
At the junction at the end of the R344 in Recess turn right on to the N59 Galway to Clifden road. At Clifden there will be refreshments and a chance to chat with fellow cyclists. This marks 40km into your cycle.
Follow the N59 from Clifden to Letterfrack. Refreshments will also be available in Letterfrack if you so wish to stop here. You will be 53km into your cycle at this stage.
The route back to Killary Adventure Centre and the finish is via a winding road past Kylemore Abbey and Kylemore lake and then on to the shores of Killary Fjord. Further refreshments will be provided at the finish.
68km route details – https://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/1056344441
100KM ROUTE
Starting from Killary Adventure Centre, cycle towards Letterfrack on the N59, turning left on to the R344 and continuing through the Inagh Valley.
At the junction at the end of the R344 in Recess turn right on to the N59 Galway to Clifden road. At Clifden there will be refreshments and a chance to chat with fellow cyclists. This marks 40km into your cycle.
On through Clifden town and take the famous Sky Road. The climb to the highest point will be worth it for the views of the Atlantic coastline.
The quiet fishing village of Cleggan is your next marker then continuing to Letterfrack and a second refreshment stop.
From Letterfrack you will cycle to Tullycross and along the coast road via Lettergesh and Glassilaun. Next is a spectacular valley running alongside Lough Muc and Lough Fee. When you get to the end of this loop turn left on to the N59 and back to Killary Adventure Centre. Further refreshments will be provided at the finish.
100km route details – https://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/933937835
As the cycle is at night on open roads your lighting is very important.
Mandatory kit includes bike lights with a minimum 600 lumen output plus rear light. You must also have spare batteries for your lights or a spare set of lights. Reflective clothing is also mandatory.
There are some great accommodation offerings locally. The Leenane Hotel are doing a 2-night deal for anyone planning to make a weekend of it.
All details can be found here https://www.gaelforceevents.com/en/gaelforce-night-rider
This is a cycling must!
