The best road cycling routes around Lough Tay

Road cycling around Lough Tay and the wider Wicklow Mountains offers a diverse range of terrain. You'll find routes with challenging ascents and exhilarating descents, characteristic of mountainous regions. While many routes are demanding, there are also easier options. For example, the Vartry Reservoir Crossing loop from Roundwood is an easy 24.8 km (15.4 miles) trail, suitable for those looking for a less strenuous ride. Overall, the area caters to various fitness levels, from easy loops to difficult, long-distance challenges.

Absolutely. The Wicklow Mountains are renowned for their challenging routes. Experienced cyclists can tackle demanding trails like the Sally Gap and Slieve Man loop from Roundwood, a difficult 101.3 km (62.9 miles) route with significant elevation gain through the heart of the mountains. Another popular choice is the Glenmacnass Waterfall – Sally Gap loop from Roundwood, a difficult 60.9 km (37.9 miles) path offering panoramic views and substantial climbs.

Lough Tay itself, often called 'Guinness Lake,' is a striking sight nestled between Djouce and Luggala mountains. While the lake is on private property, numerous viewpoints along the R759 road offer breathtaking panoramas. Popular spots include car parks at Ballinastoe Wood and J.B. Malone. A short hike from the road to the J.B. Malone memorial stone on Djouce mountain also provides exceptional vistas of the lake and the surrounding Wicklow Mountains.

Yes, the region is rich in natural beauty and attractions. Many routes incorporate views of the iconic Lough Tay. You can also cycle past the stunning Glenmacnass Waterfall, which is featured on the Glenmacnass Waterfall – Sally Gap loop from Roundwood. Other nearby attractions include Powerscourt Waterfall and the historic monastic site of Glendalough, which can be incorporated into longer rides such as the Glendalough Grocery – Wicklow Way loop from Vartry Reservoir Upper.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in the Lough Tay area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Sally Gap and Slieve Man loop from Roundwood and the Vartry Reservoir Crossing loop from Roundwood. These circular routes provide a convenient way to explore the diverse landscapes of the Wicklow Mountains.

For cyclists looking to explore the Lough Tay area, parking is available at several popular viewing spots along the R759 road. You can find car parks at Ballinastoe Wood and near the J.B. Malone memorial. Many routes also start from towns like Roundwood, where you can often find parking facilities.

The Wicklow Mountains offer beautiful scenery year-round, but the best time for road cycling is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is typically milder, and daylight hours are longer, providing more comfortable conditions for longer rides. However, the ever-changing light and weather in Wicklow mean that every cycling trip offers a unique experience, so be prepared for varied conditions regardless of the season.

There are over 15 road cycling routes available around Lough Tay and the surrounding Wicklow Mountains. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easier loops to challenging long-distance rides, ensuring there's something for every road cyclist.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the dramatic scenery, challenging climbs, and the sense of wild natural beauty found along routes like the Sally Gap Drive. The well-maintained paved surfaces and the variety of terrain, from scenic lake views to winding mountain roads, are frequently highlighted as key attractions.

While many routes in the Wicklow Mountains are challenging, there are options suitable for families or those seeking a more relaxed ride. The Vartry Reservoir Crossing loop from Roundwood is an easy 24.8 km (15.4 miles) trail with less elevation gain, making it a good choice for families or beginner road cyclists. It offers varied terrain around the Vartry Reservoir in about 1 hour 10 minutes.

While the immediate vicinity of Lough Tay itself is quite wild and remote, you can find cafes and pubs in nearby towns and villages that serve as common starting or finishing points for rides. Roundwood, for instance, is a popular base for many routes and offers amenities where cyclists can refuel and relax before or after their ride.