E-Bike Cycle – Western Greenway – Westport To Achill Island

If you’re considering a bike adventure along Ireland’s scenic west coast, the E-Bike Cycle from Westport to Achill Island with Paddy & Nelly Bike Hire is worth a look. This tour offers a relaxed way to see some of the best landscapes around Clew Bay, all while enjoying a comfortable, Dutch-style e-bike.

What we really love about this experience is how accessible it is for most travelers—whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a fun day out. Plus, the views are genuinely stunning, with mountain backdrops, sea vistas, and grazing sheep adding to the charm. On the flip side, some folks might find the bikes a bit challenging if they’re not used to gear changes or hilly terrains, so a moderate level of fitness helps.

This tour is ideal if you’re after a well-organized, scenic cycle with plenty of photo opportunities, especially if you want to combine a bit of leisure with some adventure. It’s great for those who want to experience Ireland’s rugged beauty without the hassle of complicated logistics or intense riding.

Key Points

• Scenic off-road trail: The Greenway is a 43 km (27 miles) route that takes you from Westport to Achill Island, offering gorgeous views and a peaceful ride.
• Comfortable e-bikes: Paddy & Nelly’s German and Dutch e-bikes are praised for their quality and ease of use, helping all abilities enjoy the journey.
• Well-organized logistics: Includes bike hire, transportation to and from Achill, and flexible return options, making it a smooth experience.
• Authentic Irish scenery: Expect to see grazing sheep and goats, mountains, and the Atlantic coastline—impressive landscapes with very few crowds.
• Moderate physical challenge: Suitable for most fitness levels, but some reviews mention gear-shifting difficulty or weather challenges.
• Great value: At around $75 per person, considering bike rental, transport, and the experience, many reviews say the trip is worth the price.

The Ride: What to Expect and Why It Matters

The heart of this tour is the off-road Greenway trail, a dedicated cycling route that covers about 43 km (27 miles). It starts in Westport, an award-winning Irish town, and winds toward Achill Island, Ireland’s largest island. The route is praised for its safety and scenic beauty, being mostly off-road, which means fewer cars and a more relaxed pace.

Starting from the meeting point on Church Street, you’ll be fitted with your Dutch-style e-bike, which many reviewers describe as “great quality” and “perfect for the Greenway.” These bikes make riding comfortable, especially over longer stretches, and allow you to enjoy the views without tiring out too quickly. For those unsure about their cycling skills, the bikes are easy to operate, but some reviews mention gear-shifting can be tricky for experienced cyclists, so a moderate fitness level helps.

As you pedal along, you’ll pass grazing sheep and goats, which is a quintessential Irish sight. Mullranny is highlighted as a charming spot where the local animals graze freely, adding to the countryside charm. The route is predominantly flat and scenic, with occasional gentle inclines, making it suitable for most people.

Scenic Highlights and Stops

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the views of Clew Bay, with its dozens of tiny islands. Many reviewers mention stopping for photos at various scenic points, such as mountain views and coastal vistas. The last leg of the Greenway is especially beautiful, dominated by rugged landscapes and hardly any people, which amplifies the sense of tranquility.

A notable feature is the sight of sheep walking the roads and wandering freely as you approach Achill, which many find charming and authentic. Once you arrive at Achill Island, you park your bikes at the Achill Island Hotel, which offers a convenient and safe spot for your gear.

The Return Journey

After enjoying your time on Achill Island, you’ll catch a bus back to Westport, typically around 3 pm or later, depending on your chosen schedule. The bus stop is only about 500 meters from the hotel, so it’s an easy walk. Many reviewers express appreciation for the seamless shuttle service, which alleviates any concerns about cycling back against the wind or tired legs.

Bikes and Equipment: Comfort and Reliability

From the reviews, it’s clear that Paddy & Nelly pride themselves on offering high-quality German and Dutch e-bikes. This isn’t just a small detail; it significantly impacts your experience. Comfortable, well-maintained bikes mean you can focus on enjoying the scenery rather than battling with gear shifts or uncomfortable saddles.

Some travelers have noted that the bikes are suitable for a range of fitness levels and cycling experience, making it accessible for most. However, a few reviews mention that gear-shifting can be a bit challenging at times, especially in windy conditions, so a moderate level of physical fitness and familiarity with bikes helps.

The shop provides test rides before setting off, ensuring everyone is comfortable and the bikes are in good condition. The rental includes safety features and easy-to-understand instructions, making it straightforward to hop on and start your ride.

The Route: A Detailed Look

The Greenway route is the main highlight of this tour, and for good reason. It’s celebrated for its diverse scenery—from tranquil lakes and lush fields to the Atlantic coastline. The off-road trail is well-maintained, offering a smooth ride that’s ideal for taking in the surroundings.

The route begins in Westport, a vibrant town with a rich cultural scene and some lovely spots like Westport House & Gardens nearby. As you cycle westward, you’ll cross into Mullranny, where the local goats grazing and sheep wandering the roads make for quintessential Irish countryside scenes. Many reviews mention stopping here for photos or just soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

Reaching Achill Island, you’ll find a dramatic landscape featuring mountains and sea, with fewer people around, giving you a genuine sense of getting away from it all. Some travelers appreciated the less crowded atmosphere, with many reviewers noting that the last part of the ride felt like a private journey.

Highlights of Achill Island

While the main focus is the journey along the Greenway, reaching Achill Island itself is rewarding. You can park your bikes at the Achill Island Hotel, leaving plenty of time to explore or simply enjoy the views. The island’s rugged coastlines and mountain backdrops are perfect for a picnic or just some relaxing photos before heading back.

Logistics and Practicalities

The tour lasts roughly 4 hours, which includes cycling, some stops, and the bus ride back. The price of $75.47 per person covers bike rental, the shuttle bus, and a well-organized experience. Many reviews comment that this is good value considering the quality of bikes and the beautiful scenery.

Meeting points are easy to find, starting at Church Street in Westport, close to the Westport House & Gardens, a popular local landmark. The shop is open Monday through Saturday, from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm, giving flexibility for different schedules.

The bus transfer from Achill Island back to Westport is included, with scheduled pick-ups at 3 pm or 5 pm (4 pm on Sundays). The bus stop is just 500 meters from the hotel, so it’s a quick walk.

Physical Fitness and Suitability

While the Greenway is mostly flat and suitable for most cyclists, some reviews mention that gear-shifting can be challenging in windy or hilly sections. The tour states that participants should have a moderate fitness level, which makes sense given the 27-mile distance.

People with limited cycling experience or concerns about hills might want to consider their comfort level but overall, most travelers find it manageable. If you’re unsure, renting an e-bike is a smart choice since it assists with pedaling, especially on windier stretches or when fatigue sets in.

Customer Experience: What Do Travelers Say?

The general consensus from reviewers is very positive, with a 4.7-star rating out of 5 based on 68 reviews. The friendly, knowledgeable staff are often highlighted as a key strength. Multiple reviewers mention how helpful Paul and the team are, providing clear instructions and making the process smooth.

Many travelers appreciate the quality of the bikes, calling them “great” and “comfortable,” which underscores the value of the rental service. A number of reviews describe the ride as “gorgeous,” “stress-free,” and highlight the spectacular scenery as the main draw.

However, there are some less favorable reviews that point out issues like shoddy customer service (cancellation with little notice) or poor bike quality. For example, one reviewer felt the bikes were difficult to change gears and uncomfortable, which they said made the 40 km ride challenging. The provider responded strongly, emphasizing that bikes are tested for mechanical soundness and that the experience caters to most skill levels.

There are also mentions of bike breakdowns and unsatisfactory customer service in a few reviews, but these appear to be isolated incidents. Overall, most travelers seem pleased with the experience, especially praising the scenic views and the well-organized logistics.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This ride is well-suited for most ability levels, especially those comfortable with moderate physical activity. If you’re looking for an easygoing, scenic day with plenty of photo stops and comfortable bikes, this trip will hit the mark.

It’s a particularly good choice for travelers who want to combine a bit of cycling with sightseeing without the stress of navigating busy roads or complex routes. Families or groups with a moderate fitness level will enjoy the experience, especially with the electric bikes reducing effort.

However, if you’re very particular about gear shifts or saddle comfort or if you don’t enjoy riding in uncertain weather, it’s worth considering your personal preferences. The overall value, stunning scenery, and friendly service make this a memorable way to see Westport and Achill Island.

FAQs

• Is the bike rental included in the price?
  Yes, the €65 (approx. $75) per person covers the bike rental, shuttle bus, and all necessary equipment.

• Are the bikes suitable for beginners?
  The bikes are German and Dutch quality, designed to be comfortable and easy to operate, making them suitable for most riders, including those new to cycling.

• What is the route like?
  The Greenway is an off-road trail mostly flat, with scenic views of mountains, sea, and islands. It’s ideal for a leisurely ride with plenty of photo opportunities.

• Can I do the ride both ways?
  Many travelers choose to cycle to Achill and take the bus back, but the tour can be tailored to your preferences, including options to start from different points.

• What should I bring?
  Bring comfortable clothing, rain gear just in case, and your camera. The bikes come with safety features, but wearing a helmet is advisable.

• What if the weather is bad?
  The shop offers flexible options, but some reviews mention cancellations due to weather. It’s best to check the forecast and confirm your booking.

• How long is the entire experience?
  It lasts about 4 hours, including cycling, stops, and the bus return.

• Is there a maximum group size?
  The group is limited to 15 travelers for a more personalized experience.

• Can I rent the bikes online?
  Yes, you can book online, but note that shop opening hours are Monday to Saturday, 9:30 am to 5:30 pm.

• What about customer service issues?
  Most reviews mention helpful staff, but a few negative comments exist. If you have concerns, clarify details beforehand and keep communication clear.

Final Thoughts

An e-bike ride along the Western Greenway from Westport to Achill Island offers an excellent way to see Ireland’s stunning west coast scenery without overexerting. The quality bikes, well-organized logistics, and picturesque route make this trip a solid choice for most travelers craving a relaxed, scenic day out.

While some might find gear shifting or weather conditions a bit challenging, the overall experience delivers beautiful landscapes, friendly service, and good value. It’s especially suited for those who want a manageable yet memorable adventure, combining easy cycling with incredible views and authentic Irish countryside.

If you’re after a day that balances comfort with adventure—without the hassle of planning every detail yourself—this tour is likely to leave you with great memories and plenty of photos to show for it.