The rough equivalent of cycling the Wicklow Way is to cycle along the Military Road (R115). Like the Wicklow Way, this challenging route also starts in Rathfarnham and finishes at Aughavannagh and is nearly 60km in length. It passes four Military Barracks at Glencree, Laragh, Glenmalure and Aughavannagh and crosses the famous Sally Gap en-route. Those wishing to make the journey and spend the night in Wicklow will find the Glenmalure Lodge to be the ideal overnight stop.
Those cycling along the Military Road between Laragh and Glenmalure will pass a memorial of one of Ireland’s finest cyclists. Shay Elliot (1934-1971) was the first ever Irish cyclist to wear a yellow jersey in a Tour de France, which he held it for three days in 1963.
A one day race is held every year in his honour. The ‘Shay Elliott Memorial Race’ is organised by the Bray Wheelers and held in the Spring. The route starts from Bray and passes the Glenmalure Lodge just before the climb for the coveted ‘King of the Hill’ at the Shay Elliott Memorial.
Spectators are invited to enjoy an outdoor lunch at the Glenmalure Lodge and show their support for the cyclists that pass the front of the building.
More Info… www.braywheelers.com
Another big day on the cycling calendar is the Wicklow 100 & Wicklow 200. Both of these non-competitive cycles are held together each year in June. The event is organised by the Irish Veterans Cycling Association. Riders are allowed up to 14 hours to complete the circuit.
The Glenmalure Lodge provides a welcome break for many entrants. Sitting outside at the picnic tables and having tea and scones served up is always a popular request.
More Info… www.wicklow200.ie
