Tralee

By Georgina Downes
I'm not interested in cycling that borders on penance, all psychedelic lycra and helmets that look like 99s caught in a head-wind. I’m in awe of serious cyclists, sure, but my idea of biking is peddling around at my leisure, taking in the sights, preferably sitting upright, a la Marianne in Ordinary People. That’s more my speed. Is it possible to take up casual cycling, dipping in and out when the mood strikes? Can I do that in Tralee?&nbsp;
Maurice Whelan from Tralee Bike Rental assures me I can.
<h2>No Hassle Bike Hire</h2>
“If you don’t own a bike, hiring one is a great option. There's no heavy investment, you don’t need space to store it and if you're on holidays, you don't have the hassle of transporting it. Plus, you'll get the opportunity to ride a top-of-the-range model," Maurice says.
Tralee Bike Hire currently operates from The Rose Hotel where hiring bikes is a growing business. Makes perfect sense, when you consider the many intriguing places you can reach on a bike from Tralee. Plus, these biking experts will download a fully mapped out route to your phone, so no getting lost - all part of the service.&nbsp;
From 25 euro a day for an adult bicycle, you can take a spin out to Fenit, over Spa Road, parallel to the new Tralee to Fenit Greenway, due to open later this year. It's a very doable 10km ride each way and the sweeping views of the bright blue sea on your left as you glide along the coast road are stunning. You might even see a school of dolphins if you're lucky.&nbsp;

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Cycling around Tralee Town Park is another option, and what a lovely ride that would be; roses in full bloom, picnic under the shade of a 300 year-old sycamore, listening to the distant chatter of fellow nature lovers. Or a peddle out to Blennerville to have a gander at the wading birds, and a massive look at the imposing Blennerville Windmill with its visitor centre, stopping off for a bag of chips on the way home. A great day out, right there. And speaking of wading birds, Tralee Wetlands Centre does bike hire too; also well worth a visit.
<h2>Be intrepid and go further</h2>

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Conor Pass, a stunning bike ride
For more adventurous bike enthusiasts, there are inspiring, 8-day self-guided routes to take on. For instance, the Beara Way, cycling in Gleninchaquinn Nature Park, or The Ring of Kerry, going through the Black Valley, stopping off at Valentia Island, or the Dingle Peninsula, journeying through the astounding Conor Pass. What better way to appreciate these jaw-dropping spots than on a bike, with your luggage sent on ahead, and a hearty dinner waiting for you when you arrive, starving and exhausted. Sign. Me. Up. With an outdoor summer being mooted as the new going abroad, I intend to park the car and hire a bike.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Call Maurice Whelan on 085 2605817 or Check <a href="https://traleebikerental.ie/tralee-day-tours/" target="_self">traleebikerental.ie</a> for more details.&nbsp;




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Bike hire is the hippest way to see Tralee

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