The best cycling routes around Lurgana
4.6
(31)
460
riders
8
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Touring cycling routes around Lurgana are characterized by generally flat to gently rolling terrain, making for accessible rides. The region is situated near the southern shore of Lough Neagh, the largest lake in the UK and Ireland, offering expansive waterside routes. Artificial Craigavon Lakes also provide extensive networks of cycling paths, including both tarmac and gravel sections. This landscape, combined with the National Cycle Network Route 9, creates a varied environment for exploring on two wheels.
Best touring cycling routes…
Last updated: June 27, 2026
38
riders
19.0km
01:11
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
55.6km
03:19
410m
410m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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6
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
41.6km
02:54
600m
600m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
24.7km
01:45
460m
460m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Along the route through Dundalk, the Sìocháin monument in Louth Peace Park forms a serene resting point. This impressive memorial, whose name bears the Irish word for 'Peace', was erected in memory of the residents of County Louth who lost their lives in global conflicts and to promote reconciliation on the island. The park itself is an oasis of tranquility with clean lines, symbolic sculptures, and carefully planted memorial trees.
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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.
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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.
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The highest bar in County Louth along the Táin Way. A traditional Irish pub that offers a cozy interior with a warming fire and excellent food. A favourite amongst locals and hikers!
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Here, too, passersby encounter a "war memorial" in the center of town. Everywhere in the villages and towns, victims were mourned during the terrible wars (especially, but not only, in the first half of the last century) – often young people who had to endure suffering and pain and ultimately paid with their own lives for their service to their fatherland far from home. Their names are always inscribed on the respective memorial to at least keep the memory alive.
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The Táin Way is a 40 kilometre (25 mi) circular hiking trail that starts and ends in Carlingford. Named after the ancient Irish epic "Táin Bó Cúailnge", the route winds through the Cooley Peninsula, offering a mix of coastal views, forest paths, and mountain tracks. Typically completed over two days, the trail includes a total ascent of about 1,025 meters and is marked with yellow arrows on a black background. Along the way, hikers encounter historical sites like Bronze Age cairns and enjoy panoramic vistas of Carlingford Lough and the Mourne Mountains. Alternative trailheads are available at Omeath and Ravensdale, providing flexibility for different starting points. Please note that dogs are not permitted on farmland sections of the trail.
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Here, too, hikers and walkers will encounter a "war memorial" in the center of town, as throughout the villages and towns, victims of the terrible wars (especially in the first half of the last century) were mourned – often young people who had to endure suffering and pain and ultimately paid with their own lives for their service to their country far from home. Their names are always inscribed on the respective memorial to at least keep the memory alive.
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gravel paths and a tarmac road up the middle, also has public toilets
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Lurgana?
There are over 8 touring cycling routes around Lurgana, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Lurgana?
Yes, Lurgana offers several easy touring cycling routes, benefiting from the region's generally flat to gently rolling terrain. An excellent option for beginners is the Lock Keeper's Cottage Ruins – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Bessbrook, which is 10.7 miles (17.2 km) long and follows the Newry Canal area.
What are some challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists in the Lurgana area?
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Lurgana has routes with more significant elevation changes. Consider the Seagahan Reservoir loop from Newtownhamilton, a difficult 41.6-mile (67 km) route with over 600 meters of elevation gain, or the Derrymore House – Killevy Churches Ruins loop from Bessbrook, which is 24.7 miles (39.8 km) with over 460 meters of ascent.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while touring cycling around Lurgana?
Touring cyclists around Lurgana can enjoy diverse landscapes. The region is close to Lough Neagh, the largest lake in the UK and Ireland, offering expansive waterside routes. You'll also find artificial Craigavon Lakes with extensive cycling paths, and the terrain generally ranges from flat to gently rolling, with some basalt formations inland. The Loughshore Trail, part of the National Cycle Network Route 9, provides continuous views of the water and connects picturesque villages.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Lurgana?
Yes, many touring cycling routes around Lurgana are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Camlough Lake loop from Camlough and the longer Lumpers Bar – Camlough Lake loop from Camlough, both offering scenic rides around Camlough Lake.
What are some scenic viewpoints or natural attractions along the touring cycling routes?
Along the touring cycling routes, you can discover several scenic viewpoints and natural attractions. The routes often feature views of Camlough Lake. Additionally, the region's proximity to Lough Neagh means many routes offer expansive waterside vistas. Oxford Island Nature Reserve, on the shores of Lough Neagh, is a haven for wildlife with woodlands and reedbeds.
Are there historical landmarks or points of interest to explore near Lurgana's cycling routes?
Yes, there are several historical landmarks and points of interest. You might encounter sites like Gosford Castle, the impressive Craigmore Viaduct, or the ancient Ballykeel Dolmen. The Newry Canal area also offers historical context with sites like the Lock Keeper's Cottage Ruins.
What is the best season for touring cycling in Lurgana?
The generally flat terrain around Lurgana makes it suitable for touring cycling for much of the year. However, spring through autumn typically offers the most pleasant weather conditions for enjoying the waterside paths and varied landscapes. The region's relatively gentle geography means winter cycling is also an option, though conditions may be colder and wetter.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Lurgana?
The komoot community rates touring cycling in Lurgana highly, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, which includes both tarmac and gravel sections, and the extensive network of paths, particularly around Lough Neagh and the Craigavon Lakes. The accessibility of routes for different ability levels is also frequently highlighted.
Is there public transport access to the cycling trails around Lurgana?
The National Cycle Network (NCN) Route 9 runs through the Craigavon area, connecting Lurgan to Belfast and Newry. Sections of this network are traffic-free and integrate well with local attractions. While specific public transport connections to every trailhead may vary, the NCN 9 provides a backbone for accessing many cycling areas within the region.
Are there any parks or gardens that can be incorporated into a cycling tour?
Yes, Lurgan Park, the largest urban park in Northern Ireland, offers beautiful green spaces that can be integrated into leisurely cycling tours. Additionally, Tannaghmore Gardens and Animal Farm are connected to the Craigavon Lakes via walking and cycling trails, providing a pleasant stop with landscaped gardens and an animal farm.
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