Cycling day trip from Killumney to Cork

Roll out from the village of Killumney, just west of Ballincollig, and ease into a mostly quiet-road spin toward the city. The route is about 22 km with gentle ups and downs (roughly 200 m of climbing) and a net downhill as you approach Cork. You’ll thread through Ballincollig—home to the atmospheric Regional Park and old Gunpowder Mills—before joining signed cycleway sections toward Carrigrohane and the Lee Fields.

Expect predominantly smooth asphalt with some short stretches of mixed or unknown surface; most of it feels calm, though there’s a brief busier section as you enter the urban edge. As the River Lee comes into view, it’s an easy run-in to the city centre.

Finish in Cork, Ireland’s lively “Rebel City,” set on the Lee’s islands and channels—perfect for a post-ride coffee or a wander through the English Market. Overall: a friendly, mostly paved ride with a few mild rollers, ideal for a relaxed spin into town.