4.3
(31)
1,458
riders
126
rides
Road cycling around Maytown offers a diverse landscape for riders. The region features a mix of parkland, canal paths, and forest roads, with routes that include both gentle gradients and more significant climbs. Terrain varies from waterside routes to elevated sections providing broader views. The area provides a range of road cycling experiences across its varied topography.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4
riders
72.2km
03:07
470m
470m
This moderate 44.9 miles (72.2 km) road cycling loop from Newry offers scenic views around Gosford Forest Park, including Gosford Castle.
4.3
(12)
132
riders
58.4km
02:19
190m
190m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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64
riders
80.4km
03:22
480m
480m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
57
riders
56.9km
02:30
480m
480m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
41
riders
43.6km
01:53
300m
300m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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chance to see statue of Newry born , first manager of Celtic F.C.
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Between the rustling trees along the Newry Canal Towpath, you'll encounter the tranquil ruin of a lock keeper's cottage. Once, this was the proud and bustling heart of the waterway, where the lock keeper stood ready day and night to operate the heavy wooden canal gates for passing barges. Today, only the robust stone walls remain, slowly being reclaimed by nature.
6
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This largely flat and completely traffic-free path winds through the heart of counties Armagh and Down, along the tranquil waterway that once formed the lifeline for transporting coal to the Irish Sea. As you pedal over the well-maintained asphalt or fine gravel, you'll be surrounded by lush green embankments, historic stone bridges, and the monumental remains of eighteen locks that bridge the elevation difference in the landscape. A mix of smooth asphalt and easily rideable fine gravel, suitable for almost all types of bicycles.
7
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Quiet canal section south of Poyntzpass, where the towpath runs tightly along the narrow water. The bank is lightly overgrown with low trees and hedges, giving the stretch an intimate, green impression. The water is mostly still, forming a straight line through the open agricultural landscape. An even, traffic-free segment ideal for quiet miles on the towpath.
5
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The Newry Canal Towpath is a 32-kilometer-long, almost entirely traffic-free green corridor connecting the towns of Portadown and Newry. It follows the towpath of the oldest canal in the British Isles, opened in 1742 to transport coal from County Tyrone to the sea. The Newry Canal Towpath offers an unparalleled cycling experience through the tranquil heart of County Armagh and County Down. This historic route, part of the National Cycle Network Route 9, takes you along a flat and largely asphalted path past fourteen monumental locks and characteristic lock-keeper's cottages. As you follow the waterway, you'll traverse a varied landscape of dense forests and open meadows, passing through welcoming villages like Scarva and Poyntzpass along the way. The path is a haven for wildlife; keep an eye out for kingfishers, swans, and otters that inhabit the reed beds. Whether you cycle the full 32 kilometers or explore just a section, the combination of industrial history and natural beauty makes this one of the absolute gems of Irish cycling routes.
5
0
Nice little cafe in the village of Scarva right alongside the Newry canal towpath, great for brekkie, lunch or just topping up the hydration.
1
0
Hollie Berrie is a good place for refreshments on the route at Scarva
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1
There are over 130 road cycling routes around Maytown, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists of all levels. The komoot community has explored these routes over 1600 times.
Yes, Maytown offers several easy road cycling routes, with 7 specifically categorized as easy. These routes often feature gentle gradients and follow flat canal paths, such as sections of the Newry Canal Path – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Bessbrook, which provides waterside views.
Maytown is well-suited for longer rides, with many routes exceeding 40 miles. For example, the Climb by Rostrevor Forest – Warrenpoint Shore Road loop from Newry is a challenging 62.7-mile (100.9 km) route that takes you through forest roads and coastal stretches. Another option is the Gosford Park loop from Newry, which covers 44.9 miles (72.2 km) through varied parkland scenery.
Yes, Maytown offers 15 difficult road cycling routes for experienced riders. These routes often include more significant climbs and varied terrain, such as the forest roads and coastal sections found in the Climb by Rostrevor Forest – Warrenpoint Shore Road loop from Newry.
Many of the road cycling routes in Maytown are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Gosford Park loop from Newry and the Newry Canal Path – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Bessbrook, both popular circular options.
Road cycling routes around Maytown offer diverse scenery, ranging from tranquil canal paths with waterside views to parkland, forest roads, and coastal stretches. Elevated sections provide broader vistas of the surrounding landscape.
Maytown's routes can take you past several natural attractions. You might encounter beautiful lakes like Camlough Lake or Bessbrook Pond. The region also features natural monuments such as the Slieve Gullion Summit and ancient sites like Ballykeel Dolmen.
While specific cafes along every route aren't detailed, many routes pass through or near towns and villages where you can find refreshment stops. The Basecamp Coffee – Strandfield Coffee Shop loop from Newry explicitly mentions coffee shops in its name, suggesting it's designed with refreshment stops in mind.
The road cycling experience in Maytown is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from flat canal paths to challenging climbs, and the diverse scenery that includes parkland, forests, and coastal views.
While Maytown offers cycling opportunities year-round, the spring and summer months (April to September) generally provide the most favorable weather conditions for road cycling, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
For road cycling in Maytown, it's advisable to pack layers of clothing suitable for varying weather, a waterproof jacket, a helmet, repair kit, water, and snacks. Given the varied terrain, consider appropriate gearing for both flat sections and climbs. Don't forget your phone for navigation and emergencies.
While many routes are popular, exploring some of the less-trafficked paths can reveal hidden gems. The Fairy Glen – Warrenpoint Shore Road loop from Newry offers a moderate ride with scenic coastal views that might feel like a discovery.


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