Challenge yourself: Ireland’s toughest hill climbs

To celebrate the launch of ŠKODA's new cycling website - welovecycling.ie - Off The Ball present Ireland's toughest hill climbs, for those cyclists going solo or a makeshift peloton!

It is important to shake yourself out of your comfort zone, and nowhere can you feel the exhilaration of having completed a steep, sweat-inducing hill climb. With Ireland's mountainous terrain, there are plenty of opportunities for cyclists and their cohorts to try their hand at the toughest trails that Ireland has to offer.

Wicklow Gap

Wicklow Gap cycling climb

Wicklow Gap's approach begins in Laragh, and what lies ahead is 7 kilometres of lactic acid-pumping terrain, where you can finish 340 metres above the start line. This cycle will ensure that you are sweating come the finish, but the scenery that surrounds you will be all the sweeter for the climb.

Sally Gap

FBD Insurance Ras Day 7 Rathdrum-Wicklow Town 28/5/2005
The leaders head up the Sally Gap
Mandatory Credit©INPHO/Lorraine O'Sullivan

While we are on the subject of gaps in Wicklow, Sally Gap is among one of the best-known cycles in the county and among the toughest climbs in the country. Starting off in Roundwood, the ride will have the blood pumping in no time. Thankfully, the view of the nearby loughs will be more than enough reward, and the descent is one of the most satisfying in the country. With the nearby towns well-stocked by bars and restaurants, the food will be well-met as you head into Roundwood.

Mamore Gap

Mamore Gap is one of the most challenging cycling climbs in the country

While this Donegal passage has been described as 'brutal' by some - bear with us - the hospitality and scenery of the county makes it one of the most enticing prospects for those looking for a challenge in the north. It is short in distance - around 2 km - but you'll feel every pump of the legs. Cycling aficionados have also warned of errant sheep on the tracks - so either make friends or make your peace with swerving!

Healy Pass

Healy Pass cycling

Healy Pass has some incredible views of Kerry. Starting in Kenmare, the entire trail is around 86km for the more adventurous cyclist, but if hill climbs are your thing, the Pass is a snaking mountain road that has wild scenery in the form of Banty Bay and the Kenmare river. At around 7km, the ascent will take you up 280m of cragged scenery.

For those cyclists, serious and casual, there are tips and hints for all at welovecycling.ie. You can like welovecycling.ie on their Facebook page, or follow them on Instagram.

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