The best cycling routes around Furnace Lough
4.7
(8)
133
riders
6
rides
Touring cycling around Furnace Lough offers routes through a landscape characterized by a unique oligotrophic lagoon, diverse forests, and views of Clew Bay. The area features varied terrain, from coastal paths to routes winding towards inland hills and national parks. Underlying red sandstone is visible in some areas, adding to the geological interest.
Best touring cycling routes around Furnace Lough
- The most popular touring cycling route is Newport Stone Bridge – Furnace Lakes Loop Greenway loop from Newport, a…
Last updated: July 11, 2026
2
riders
53.5km
04:00
570m
570m
This difficult 33.2-mile gravel touring cycling route from Newport to Wild Nephin National Park offers remote wilderness and stunning views.
4.8
(5)
96
riders
21.3km
01:20
130m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(3)
20
riders
42.5km
02:34
260m
260m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
riders
50.7km
03:27
570m
570m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
2
riders
30.4km
01:57
320m
320m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This characteristic stone bridge forms a crucial junction on the 18 km stage between Newport and Mulranny. The bridge spans the Burrishoole River at the point where the fresh water from Lough Feeagh mixes with the salty tidal waters of Clew Bay. From the Greenway, you have an unobstructed panoramic view here of the nearby 15th-century abbey ruins and the fish traps that have been used for centuries to catch wild salmon and eel, against the backdrop of the rugged Nephin Beg Mountains.
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(Heritage Town & Greenway Hub) This picturesque town, also known as Ballyveaghan, is the geographical heart of the Great Western Greenway and the ancestral home of Princess Grace of Monaco. Newport (pop. approx. 600) sits at the northeastern corner of Clew Bay, where the Black Oak River meets the sea, and is renowned for its rich maritime history and fishing. For cyclists on the Wild Atlantic Way, it is a crucial stop with essential amenities such as supermarkets (incl. Centra), cosy pubs, and a unique atmosphere where the rugged Nephin Beg Mountains and the bay's 365 islands converge.
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This robust 18th-century stone arch bridge forms the heart of Newport, spanning the Black Oak River. Unlike the higher railway viaduct, this bridge connects the village's main streets, offering a beautiful low perspective on the tidal flow and the colourful facades of the quay. The bridge is named after Princess Grace of Monaco, whose ancestors hailed from the nearby Drumilra valley, and it marks the transition from the sheltered river estuary to the open waters of Clew Bay.
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(Heritage Town & Greenway Hub) This picturesque town, also known as Ballyveaghan, forms the geographical heart of the Great Western Greenway and is the ancestral home of Princess Grace of Monaco. Newport (approx. 600 inhabitants) is located on the northeastern corner of Clew Bay, where the Black Oak River meets the sea, and is known for its rich maritime history and fishing. For cyclists on the Wild Atlantic Way, it is a crucial stop with essential amenities such as supermarkets (e.g. Centra), cozy pubs, and a unique atmosphere where the rugged Nephin Beg Mountains and the 365 islands of the bay converge.
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Located at the foot of the Seven Arches Viaduct in Newport, this award-winning pub is named after the 16th-century pirate queen Grace O'Malley (Granuaile). The lodge serves as an essential cycling hub along the Great Western Greenway (mile marker 11 from Westport) and is renowned for its authentic Irish cuisine featuring local seafood from Clew Bay. The interior breathes maritime history and offers a strategic resting point with secure bike storage before the route embarks on the 18 km climb and descent towards Mulranny.
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The Great Western Greenway follows the route of the railway from Westport to Achill, which reached Achill in 1895 and closed in 1937. The Greenway opened in 2011.
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From the central bridge over the Carrowbeg River, experience the unique elegance of Westport. Looking along the tree-lined avenues of The Mall, you'll see how the 18th-century architecture and the babbling waterfalls merge into a harmonious whole. With colourful facades reflecting in the water and stately stone walls on either side, this is the perfect spot to park your bike for a moment and capture the "Venice of the West" on film.
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As far as Croagh Patrick does not live in the clouds.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Furnace Lough?
There are several touring cycling routes around Furnace Lough, offering a variety of experiences. Komoot features around half a dozen routes, ranging from easy to difficult, catering to different skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Furnace Lough?
The terrain around Furnace Lough is diverse, featuring coastal paths with views of Clew Bay, routes winding through forests, and paths along the unique lough itself. You'll encounter varied landscapes, including areas where red sandstone is visible, adding to the geological interest.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or a relaxed ride?
Yes, for an easier ride, consider the Newport – Great Western Greenway loop from Newport. This route is approximately 21.3 km long and offers a gentle introduction to the area's scenic beauty.
What are some popular viewpoints or natural features to look out for on the cycling routes?
Many routes offer splendid views of Clew Bay and the surrounding mountains. The View of Croagh Patrick – Great Western Greenway loop from Newport provides scenic views of Croagh Patrick. You'll also encounter the unique Furnace Lough itself, known for its stratified waters and diverse ecosystem, and picturesque forests.
Can I find routes that are suitable for gravel bikes or more challenging rides?
Absolutely. For a more challenging experience, the Gravel ride to Wild Nephin National Park from Newport is a difficult route, approximately 53.5 km long, leading through Wild Nephin National Park. Another difficult option is the Newport Stone Bridge – Furnace Lakes Loop Greenway loop from Newport, which is a substantial 50.8 km loop.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes around Furnace Lough?
The touring cycling routes around Furnace Lough are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from over 7 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse scenery, from coastal views to forest paths, and the well-maintained sections of the Great Western Greenway.
Are there any historical landmarks or attractions I can visit along the cycling routes?
Yes, the region is rich in history. You might pass by the 18th-century Burrishoole Bridge, a significant historical landmark. The Newport Historical Mural – Great Western Greenway loop from Newport specifically highlights a historical mural in Newport. The area also includes sites like the Marine Institute and the Salmon Leap Bridge, which are part of the local heritage.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Furnace Lough area?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Furnace Lough are designed as loops. For example, the Newport Stone Bridge – Furnace Lakes Loop Greenway loop from Newport and the View of Croagh Patrick – Great Western Greenway loop from Newport are both popular circular options, allowing you to start and finish in the same location.
What is the Great Western Greenway, and how does it feature in the Furnace Lough cycling experience?
The Great Western Greenway is a prominent feature in the region's cycling landscape, offering scenic stretches through forests and meadows with stunning views of the mountains and Clew Bay. Several touring routes around Furnace Lough incorporate sections of this greenway, such as the Newport – Great Western Greenway loop from Newport, providing a smooth and picturesque cycling experience.
What makes Furnace Lough unique from a natural perspective?
Furnace Lough is a unique natural 'rock/peat' lagoon, distinguished by its hydrography. Salty ocean water from Clew Bay enters its deeper layers, while lighter fresh water floats on top, creating a stratified environment. This unusual mix supports a high diversity of fauna and invertebrate species, making it a significant ecological site.
Are there any routes that lead towards national parks from Furnace Lough?
Yes, for those looking to explore further afield, the Gravel ride to Wild Nephin National Park from Newport is a challenging route that takes you into the Wild Nephin National Park, offering a different kind of natural beauty and a more remote cycling experience.
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