The best cycling routes around Drumnamoe

There are over 50 touring cycling routes around Drumnamoe, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels. You'll find 22 easy routes, 23 moderate routes, and 6 more challenging options.

Drumnamoe, situated near Lurgan, is an excellent base for touring cycling due to its proximity to Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in the UK and Ireland. The area features extensive flat sections along established routes like the Loughshore Trail and Craigavon Cycle Trail, alongside undulating countryside. Dedicated traffic-free sections and natural habitats like Oxford Island Nature Reserve enhance the cycling experience.

Yes, the region offers many options for beginners and families. The Craigavon Lakes – Craigavon Balancing Lakes loop from Lurgan is an easy 10.4-mile route. Additionally, the Craigavon Cycle Trail includes traffic-free sections through City Park and along the Newry to Portadown Canal, specifically catering to family and novice cyclists. The extensive 'Black Paths' network also provides safe, traffic-free routes.

You can expect a diverse range of terrain. Many routes offer mostly level profiles, especially along the shores of Lough Neagh and on dedicated cycle paths like the Loughshore Trail. However, the wider County Armagh countryside also features undulating sections, providing varied challenges and scenic vistas. Routes combine quiet minor roads with traffic-free sections.

Yes, the renowned Loughshore Trail, a 113-mile cycle route, encircles Lough Neagh. This trail offers a mostly level profile and consists predominantly of quiet, virtually traffic-free minor roads and lanes, with short off-road sections. It's part of the National Cycle Network and is fully signed, making it ideal for longer touring adventures.

Absolutely. Many of the touring cycling routes in the Drumnamoe area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Bartin's Bay – Lough Neagh Shoreline loop from Lurgan and the Bartin's Bay – View of Lough Neagh loop from Lurgan, both offering scenic circular journeys.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can cycle along the shores of Lough Neagh, explore the woodlands and meadows of Oxford Island Nature Reserve, or discover the unique ecosystem of Peatlands Park with its extensive path network. Craigavon Lakes also offer pleasant lakeside cycling.

Bike hire services are available at Oxford Island Nature Reserve, which also houses the Lough Neagh Discovery Centre. Additionally, the South Lake Watersports Centre offers a range of bicycles for all ages and abilities, making it convenient to explore the area on two wheels.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from 15 reviews. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, from the flat lakeside paths of Lough Neagh to the undulating countryside, and the well-maintained traffic-free sections like the 'Black Paths' network.

While cycling, you might encounter points of interest such as the Lurgan Park, which features an artificial lake and an original Coalbrookdale fountain. The area also has historical sites like the Moyallan Pillbox, offering glimpses into the region's past.

Yes, the undulating countryside of County Armagh, particularly on routes that venture slightly further from the immediate lakeside, offers vistas of Slieve Croob and the distant Mourne Mountains, providing stunning backdrops to your touring cycling adventure.

You'll find various parking options conveniently located near popular cycling routes and attractions. Good starting points with parking often include Oxford Island Nature Reserve, Lurgan Park, and other public facilities around Craigavon and along the Lough Neagh shoreline.