Land of the Celts: Ireland and Scotland Motorcycle Tour – 18 Days

Welcome to Ireland! Your adventure begins with a private transfer from Dublin Airport to the luxurious Grand Hotel Malahide, your seaside haven for the first night. Use this time to acclimate to the local time and recover from your flight, ensuring you are refreshed for the road. Explore the charming Malahide village, visit the historic castle and gardens, or simply relax at the hotel’s premium facilities. It is the perfect, stress-free introduction to your upcoming Irish motorcycle journey.

Start with a hearty breakfast before transferring to Lemonrock HQ to gear up and pilot your bike. Ride through the heartlands to medieval Kilkenny, stopping for coffee by the castle. Power westward through Limerick, passing King John’s Castle, then command the coastal roads toward the iconic Cliffs of Moher. Marvel at the Atlantic’s raw power before finishing your day in the coastal town of Lahinch. Settle in for fresh seafood and reflect on a day of history and natural beauty.

Start with a short ride to the dramatic Cliffs of Moher to view towering heights over the Atlantic. Continue north along the Wild Atlantic Way, journeying through the wild, unspoiled beauty of Connemara. Pass through vibrant Galway City before the landscape transforms into rugged mountains and boglands. Consider a stop at the enchanting Kylemore Abbey to admire its neo-Gothic architecture and Victorian walled gardens. The day concludes in Westport, a town renowned for its picturesque streets and warm hospitality.

Enjoy a rest day in picturesque Westport. Explore the historic Westport House, hike Croagh Patrick for views over Clew Bay, or browse the town’s boutique shops. For those who can’t stay off the bike, the optional Lough Mask Loop offers 110 km of peaceful, winding lakeside roads through the village of Cong. Whether you choose to relax or ride, Westport provides the quintessential Irish cultural experience to recharge before heading further north.

Depart Sligo for a ride through Ireland’s most dramatic landscapes. The star attraction is Slieve League; navigate narrow coastal roads to reach these cliffs, some of Europe’s highest at nearly 600 meters. After soaking in the Atlantic vistas, wind your way through remote Glencolmcille and the scenic Bluestack Mountains. Finish your day in historic Derry, the walled city and gateway to the North. It’s a masterclass in coastal wonders, mountain curves, and unforgettable Irish scenery.

Leave Derry early for an epic journey to Belfast via the Causeway Coastal Route. Experience breathtaking sea-swept bends, stopping at Downhill Beach for views of Mussenden Temple. Explore the haunting ruins of Dunluce Castle and the surreal Giant’s Causeway. Optional highlights include the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and the iconic Dark Hedges. Add the rugged Torr Head detour for remote coastal beauty before the landscape shifts and you roll into the vibrant, historic, and welcoming city of Belfast for the night.

Catch the morning ferry from Belfast for a smooth 2-hour hop to Cairnryan. Once on Scottish soil, the riding turns legendary. Navigate rolling hills and mirror-like lochs on quiet, winding roads as you push toward the Highlands. Your destination is the iconic Loch Lomond, where rugged peaks meet sparkling waters. After a day in the saddle, park up for a hearty Scottish meal and a stroll along the shore. It’s a perfect transition into Scotland’s dramatic scenery. Pure motorcycle magic.

Leave Loch Lomond behind and lean your bike toward Oban, the “Gateway to the Isles,” for world-class seafood and harbor views. Pivot north through the haunting Glencoe Valley, a masterclass in dramatic glacial landscapes and sweeping curves. Trace the peaceful shores of Loch Lochy, passing the massive shadow of Ben Nevis. Your Highland day ends in Fort Augustus on the edge of Loch Ness. Watch the canal locks in action before settling into a cozy Highland pub. Pure Scottish motorcycle magic.

Pilot your bike from the canal locks of Fort Augustus and choose your adventure toward Inverness. For a classic ride, hug the A82 curves with Loch Ness on your right, pausing at the haunting ruins of Urquhart Castle. Alternatively, cross to the south side for the legendary B862. This Old Military Road offers technical twisties, the breathtaking Suidhe Viewpoint, and the hidden Falls of Foyers. Finish your Highland blast in vibrant Inverness, ready for a local malt and hearty meal.

Give the bike a breather and explore Inverness, the vibrant “Capital of the Highlands.” Start with a peaceful stroll through the wooded Ness Islands or visit the historic Culloden Battlefield nearby. For a bit of mystery, take a short boat trip on Loch Ness. Back in town, browse the Victorian Market and unwind with a local Highland malt at a riverside pub. It’s the perfect day to recharge your internal battery before tackling more legendary Scottish curves tomorrow. Pure bliss.

Point your front wheel south from Inverness, carving through the majestic heart of the Cairngorms National Park. This high-altitude stretch is a motorcyclist’s dream, offering a perfect mix of sweeping curves and dramatic alpine vistas. Ride past the outdoor hub of Aviemore and descend into the lush, dense forests of Perthshire, famously known as the “Gateway to the Highlands.” Finally, roll into the Victorian charm of Pitlochry for a well-earned break and some local hospitality. Pure Scottish riding magic.

Leave the Victorian charm of Pitlochry behind and point your bike south through the lush heart of Perthshire. Carve through the “Big Tree Country” along the River Tay, perhaps stopping in historic Dunkeld for a quick coffee. The landscape opens up as you approach the iconic Forth Road Bridge. Crossing this legendary structure on two wheels provides a spectacular view of the red rail bridge. Finally, roll into Edinburgh, where medieval spires and the majestic castle await your grand final arrival.

Give your bike a well-earned rest and trade your helmet for a pair of walking shoes. Explore the majestic Royal Mile, stretching from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to the iconic Edinburgh Castle. For a panoramic view of the city you’ve just conquered, a hike up Arthur’s Seat is a must. Wander the winding closes of the Old Town or enjoy the New Town’s elegance. Finally, toast your journey with a fine Scotch in a legendary local pub. Pure magic.

Kick off from Edinburgh, leaving the city spires behind for the rolling green of Dumfries and Galloway. Head toward Dumfries to see where Robert Burns lived before diving into the absolute playground of Galloway Forest Park. These winding, quiet roads are a rider’s dream, carving through thick forests and dramatic hills. Finally, hit the coast at Portpatrick. Park by the colorful harbor, grab a pint at a local pub, and reflect on your epic journey. 

Catch the morning ferry from Cairnryan, crossing the Irish Sea back to Northern Ireland. From Belfast, command the road along the Ards Peninsula, leaning into coastal curves toward majestic Mourne Mountains. Pause in Newcastle for coffee before navigating the medieval charm of Carlingford. Follow the coast south for your final homeward run to Lemonrock HQ. After returning your gear, a private transfer whisks you to your Dublin hotel. Reflect on your epic motorcycle journey through the wild heart of Ireland.

Spend the day discovering the vibrant charm of Ireland’s capital with an included Hop-on/Hop-off bus tour. Your tour features admission to two iconic landmarks: the Guinness Storehouse, where you will learn the history of Ireland’s famous stout, and EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, an interactive experience showcasing Ireland’s global impact. Dublin offers historic whiskey distilleries and cultural sites to explore at your leisure. Whether visiting Trinity College or enjoying a pint, immerse yourself in the city’s lively atmosphere.

Your Irish adventure concludes with a private transfer from your Dublin hotel to Dublin Airport for your return flight home. Take this time to reflect on the incredible memories made during your journey, from breathtaking landscapes and thrilling rides to the warm hospitality and rich culture of Ireland.

We hope your adventure has been unforgettable and look forward to welcoming you back for another ride in the future. Safe travels!