Mountain Bike Trail Discovery Ride Dublin

If you’re looking for a way to see Dublin’s surrounds that’s active, scenic, and quite different from the usual city tours, then the Mountain Bike Trail Discovery Ride in Dublin might be just what you need. Offered by Biking.ie—a company started by two of Ireland’s top mountain bikers—this experience offers a chance to explore the hills of County Wicklow, just outside the city, on a high-quality bike with a knowledgeable guide.

While we haven’t personally pedaled through the trails, this tour garners praise for its spectacular vistas of Dublin Bay and the city skyline, combined with expertly maintained bikes and friendly guides. We love that it’s tailored to your skill level, making it suitable whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a confident beginner. However, this tour is best suited for those with a good bike technique and a minimum age of 11, which might exclude some families or less experienced riders.

One potential consideration is the two-hour duration—it’s a quick but intense ride, so if you’re craving a longer adventure or a more leisurely exploration, you might prefer to look at other options. Still, for those wanting an authentic, active experience close to Dublin, this ride hits the sweet spot. It’s ideal for adventurous travelers who want to combine stunning scenery with a bit of a workout, all while enjoying the Irish countryside.

Key Points

• Authentic Irish scenery: Spectacular views over Dublin City and coastline
• Expert-guided experience: Fully qualified guides lead the way
• High-quality bikes: Well-maintained Trek bikes, including optional upgrades
• Flexible trail options: Trails can be tailored to your skill level and pace
• Private group: Personal experience for 1-8 participants
• Convenient and flexible: 2-hour tours with optional morning or afternoon start times

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Insider’s Look at the Mountain Bike Discovery Ride Dublin

This tour offers more than just a bike ride; it’s a chance to tap into Ireland’s biking roots while enjoying some truly breathtaking panoramic views. The experience begins at Biking.ie’s base in Dublin, with a warm welcome over coffee and a quick safety briefing. The company’s founders, Tarja Owens and Niall Davis, bring decades of professional mountain biking experience, which translates into confident guiding and excellent bike maintenance standards.

Why Pick This Tour?

What makes this ride stand out? First, the location. The trails are set in Ticknock, one of Ireland’s five National mountain bike centers, renowned for its well-designed routes and spectacular vistas. Pedal along the trails, and you’ll find yourself above the city, with views stretching from Dublin Bay to the distant mountains—an extraordinary contrast between urban and wild.

Second, the bike quality and flexibility. The tour features latest Trek mountain bikes, which are kept in pristine condition by full-time mechanics. You can opt for a full suspension bike or an e-bike—great for those who want to go further or tackle more challenging climbs without strain.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The ride begins with a brief introduction and coaching, ensuring everyone is comfortable before heading onto the trails. The guides are skilled at adjusting the route to match your ability, which means you can choose a more relaxed or more challenging pace.

Once on the trails, expect a mix of technical single tracks and flowing fire roads. Over 30 km of routes are available, so the guides will pick the best trails for your group. Along the way, you’ll experience spectacular views over Dublin’s skyline—a unique perspective from the hills—and perhaps even catch sight of Dublin Bay’s shimmering waters.

The trails are carefully designed to be fun and engaging, whether you’re a seasoned mountain biker or a confident beginner. According to reviews, the friendly staff and professional guidance make it easy to enjoy the ride while feeling safe. The ride concludes back at the starting point, where you can reflect on the adventure over a hot drink.

The Experience and What It Means for You

The spectacular scenery is the star here. The views from Ticknock are truly memorable and give a sense of Irish wilderness just minutes from the bustling city. This is a memorable way to combine active fun with sightseeing, especially if you’re tired of traditional city tours.

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, who go out of their way to ensure everyone gets the most from the ride. One traveler noted, “Amazing trails, incredible views over Dublin City and super friendly staff!!” This kind of feedback underlines how well the experience balances adventure and hospitality.

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Pricing and Its Value

At $131 for a private group, the tour offers excellent value given the quality of bikes, the expertise of guides, and the breathtaking setting. The price includes all safety gear, mechanical support, and a guided tour tailored to your skill level. If you’re a biking enthusiast or even just a confident cyclist wanting to see Dublin from a different angle, this experience provides a lot of bang for your buck.

Who Will Love This?

This tour is perfect for active travelers who want to experience Ireland’s natural beauty beyond the typical sightseeing routes. It’s especially suited for adventurous families with older children (minimum age 11) or small groups seeking a private, personalized outing. If you’re a cyclist looking for a scenic challenge close to Dublin, don’t miss this ride.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour lasts around 2 hours, so plan accordingly if you’re on a tight schedule.
• Check availability for specific start times.
• Wear comfortable clothing suitable for biking and possibly layered, as weather can change quickly.
• The minimum height for bike rental is 52 inches, so younger children or shorter riders will need to check suitability.
• Optional upgrades include full suspension bikes or e-bikes—be sure to request these in advance.
• The tour is private, with groups limited to 8 people, ensuring personalized attention.
• Cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• The experience begins at Biking.ie’s base in Dublin at Ticknock Forest and trails, and ends there as well.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely, for those who enjoy active outdoor pursuits and want to combine scenic beauty with a bit of a workout, this tour offers a rewarding experience. The high-quality equipment, professional guides, and stunning views make it a compelling choice for adventure-minded travelers.

While the ride is relatively short, the variety of trails adaptable to different skill levels and the chance to see Dublin from a fresh perspective make this outing well worth considering. It’s a unique way to explore Ireland’s natural landscapes while staying physically active, all in the company of experts who know the trails inside out.

This experience isn’t just about cycling—it’s about creating memorable moments in one of Ireland’s most accessible outdoor settings. For travelers craving an authentic, engaging adventure nearby the Irish capital, the Mountain Bike Trail Discovery Ride in Dublin offers a fresh, exhilarating perspective you won’t forget.

FAQ

What is the minimum age for participants?
Participants should be at least 11 years old, ensuring they have the physical ability and bike technique for mountain biking.

What kind of bikes are included?
The tour features high-performance Trek mountain bikes, and you can upgrade to full suspension or e-bikes if desired.

How long does the tour last?
The guided ride lasts about 2 hours, making it a manageable but action-filled outing.

Are the trails suitable for beginners?
Yes, the trails can be tailored to suit your skill level, making it accessible for confident cyclists, though riders should have a good standard of biking technique.

What should I wear?
Comfortable biking clothes, layered in case of weather changes, and sturdy shoes suitable for mountain biking.

Is the ride guided?
Yes, you’ll be guided by fully qualified professional guides who ensure safety and help tailor the route.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where do the tours start and end?
All activity starts and ends at Biking.ie’s location at Ticknock Forest.

Can I book this tour for a group?
Yes, it’s a private tour for 1 to 8 people.

Is the tour suitable for non-Irish visitors?
Absolutely. The guides speak English and will make sure everyone has a safe, enjoyable experience regardless of nationality.

Whether you’re craving a sporty escape or simply want to see Dublin’s hills from a new angle, this mountain bike adventure offers a memorable taste of Ireland’s landscape, all just a short ride from the city.

You can check availability for your dates here: