This September, cycling enthusiasts from around the world converged on Carrick-on-Suir for L'Étape Ireland 2025, an extraordinary cycling event that brought Tour de France excitement to the Emerald Isle. If you missed out on the Étape du Tour in France this summer, the Irish version on the 28th of September offered another chance to ride.

A Homecoming to the Heart of Irish Cycling

Carrick-on-Suir in County Tipperary isn't just another picturesque Irish town — it's the beating heart of Irish cycling heritage. This charming riverside town has earned its stripes as the "Home of Irish Cycling," making it the perfect stage for L'Étape Ireland's second edition on Sunday, September 28th, 2025.

The town's cycling credentials are impressive. It's where you'll find O'K Cycles, Ireland's oldest bike shop, and where cycling legends have their roots. The surrounding landscapes of Waterford and Tipperary offer some of the most spectacular cycling terrain in the country, with roads that rival the best European cycling destinations.

Two Routes, One Unforgettable Experience

L'Étape Ireland 2025 offered two meticulously crafted routes, both designed and vetted by the team behind the Tour de France itself.

The Championship 150km Route

For the ambitious and experienced cyclist, the 150km route presented the ultimate Irish Tour de France challenge. This flagship route featured 1,932 meters of elevation gain and delivered an authentic taste of professional cycling with its demanding climbs and varied terrain. Riders tackled two timed King and Queen of the Mountains sections at Ticincor and Seskin, plus a sprint section that mirrored the excitement of Tour de France stage racing.

The Explorer 100km Route

The more accessible 100km option (actually 94km) still delivered serious Tour de France authenticity with 1,314 meters of climbing. Perfect for intermediate cyclists and those seeking their first taste of competitive cycling, this route included the same thrilling elements: two timed mountain climbs, a sprint section, and stunning scenery throughout Waterford and Tipperary's rolling landscapes.

Both routes shared remarkable features that set them apart from typical cycling events. With 80% of the roads closed or partially closed to traffic, riders could fully immerse themselves in the Tour de France experience without the usual concerns of sharing roads with vehicles. Professional safety officials monitored the entire event, ensuring participants could focus purely on the joy of cycling.

Beyond the Ride: A Festival of Cycling Culture

L'Étape Ireland transformed Carrick-on-Suir into a cycling festival that extended far beyond the routes themselves. The event village buzzed with exhibitors showcasing the latest cycling gear and technology. A pop-up Tour de France Museum offered visitors a chance to dive deep into the storied history of cycling's most prestigious race.

Athlete meet-and-greets provided opportunities to connect with cycling personalities, while various shows and demonstrations kept the excitement building throughout the day. Whether a participant or a spectator, the atmosphere captured the essence of what makes Tour de France events so special worldwide.

The Thrill of Competition

What truly set L'Étape apart from other cycling events was its authentic competitive elements. Riders didn't just complete a scenic route — they competed for genuine Tour de France honours. The two timed mountain stages offered the chance to earn the coveted polka dot jersey as King or Queen of the Mountain. Meanwhile, the sprint sections let participants battle for the famous green jersey, bringing the tactical excitement of professional cycling to amateur riders.

These competitive elements were carefully integrated into routes that showcased Ireland's natural beauty. Winding hills revealed themselves gradually, hidden climbs tested resolve, and breathtaking panoramic views made every pedal stroke worthwhile.

Planning Your Irish Cycling Adventure

With space for up to 3,000 cyclists, L'Étape Ireland attracted participants from across Ireland and internationally. Both routes started at 9:00 AM from the heart of Carrick-on-Suir, with the event village serving as both the departure point and the celebration destination.

Entry fees were €110 for the 150km route and €95 for the 100km option.

This event has now ended — but keep an eye out for the 2026 edition.

The event's timing in late September took advantage of Ireland's beautiful autumn cycling weather, when the summer crowds have thinned but the countryside remains lush and inviting. It's an ideal time to explore the wider region, with Waterford's famous Greenway — a 46km off-road cycling and walking trail — offering additional cycling adventures for those extending their stay.

A Legacy in the Making

L'Étape Ireland represents more than just a cycling event; it's a celebration of Ireland's rich cycling heritage and its bright future. The involvement of Tour de France organizers ASO ensures authentic Tour de France atmosphere, while local cycling expertise guarantees routes that showcase the very best of Irish landscapes and cycling culture.

For cyclists seeking an authentic European cycling experience without leaving the island of Ireland, L'Étape Ireland offers an unparalleled opportunity. Whether chasing personal records, seeking new cycling challenges, or simply wanting to experience the magic of Tour de France-style racing, this September event promises memories that will last a lifetime.

The routes wind through some of Ireland's most photogenic countryside, the competition provides genuine Tour de France thrills, and the celebration afterward captures the warmth of Irish hospitality. In Carrick-on-Suir, the home of Irish cycling, L'Étape Ireland is set to become an essential pilgrimage for serious cycling enthusiasts and adventure-seeking travellers alike.