1. 1. This is a 60km workout that should take about two and a half hours. It follows mostly quiet back roads, taking in the scenic Lee Valley, the small towns of Dripsey and Coachford, some lovely Cork farmlands and brings you into the historic village of Blarney before returning to Cork city. It features many small but heart pumping climbs. From the Shandon Bridge climb up the Sunday's Well Road and down again. Continue on to the R618 and follow this along the scenic river Lee all the way to Coachford. At the R619 turn right and follow this road for about 10 km to Ballycunningham. There is a huge stop warning as it is a major crossroads. Hang a right at th crossroad onto the R579 and enjoy the long run mostly downhill until the left turn in Coolflugh onto the R617. Follow this road and make your way up the hill and down again into Blarney. Continue through Blarney onto the N20 with its wide shoulders, and head back into the city through Blackpool.
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