The best cycling routes around Lough Owel
3.6
(14)
135
riders
19
rides
Touring cycling around Lough Owel features a landscape characterized by the lake itself, surrounded by rolling countryside and agricultural land. The region offers generally gentle gradients, with some routes incorporating minor hills. The terrain is suitable for road bikes and touring bicycles, often following quiet country roads and paths.
Best touring cycling routes around Lough Owel
- The most popular touring cycling route is Mullingar Cycle Hub - Loop 3, a 22.9 miles (36.9 km) trail that takes 2 hours…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
4.5
(2)
8
riders
36.9km
02:09
140m
140m
Cycle the moderate 22.9-mile Mullingar Cycle Hub - Loop 3 around Lough Ennell, enjoying scenic views and historic sights in 2 hours and 8 mi
1.0
(1)
4
riders
31.7km
01:56
240m
240m
Cycle the moderate 19.7-mile Mullingar Cycle Hub - Loop 1 around scenic Lough Owel in County Westmeath, taking under 2 hours.
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2
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.0
(1)
2
riders
69.9km
04:13
470m
470m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
56.5km
03:25
370m
370m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Lough Owel
Tips from the Community
Another beautiful Irish lough that is just a feast for the eyes. A bit quieter than many of the other Irish loughs but still a popular lake for angling and other watersports. This is a quiet part of the lake however with just a small parking area and boating slipway. Just off to the right you also have lumpy Knockeyon which just adds to the view.
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Beautiful Lough Lene is a very popular lough with ample parking and boasts a swimming pier, toilets and changing facilities. A beautiful tranquil spot with great lakeside views and just a top spot to have a break at.
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Head down the track if you want to see the christian monastery that is Fore Abbey/ It was founded by St Feichin in 630AD. it is believed that there were as many as 300 monks and 2000 students in residence in its heyday. An amazing place and a great rest stop.
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The charming Royal Canal Greenway is a super scenic 130km towpath going right across central Ireland. It is a level towpath so ideal for walkers, runners and cyclists alike. Starting in lovely Maynooth, it follows the 200 year old canal through charming enclaves as Enfield, Mullingar all the way to Longford. On the way there are cafés, picnic spots and more attractions to shake a stick at. There are charming rustic landscapes, lush rolling Irish countryside, quaint canal side villages, working locks and historic landmarks dotted all along your way. To travel all along its length is a stunning stunning way to see Ireland!
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If you want to have a nice scenic vista just head off down the track here on your bike to the shore of Lough Owel. Mullingar is blessed to be surrounded by so many beautiful freshwater lakes and this is one of them. Lough Owel offers several spots around the lake where you can relax in the tranquillity of the peaceful surroundings and enjoy a picnic or stunning sunset.
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If you want to have a nice scenic vista just head off down the track here on your bike to the shore of Lough Ennell. The lough is well known for the large amount of swans that can be found on its treelined shores.
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Head off the main road down the track to reach the beautiful waters of Lough Ennell. Surrounded by trees with swans swimming by, it makes a lovely spot to stop for a picnic.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Lough Owel?
There are over 20 touring cycling routes around Lough Owel listed on komoot, offering a variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.
What are the typical distances and durations for touring cycling routes in the Lough Owel area?
Routes vary significantly, but you can find options like the Mullingar Cycle Hub - Loop 3, which is about 22.9 miles (36.9 km) and takes around 2 hours 9 minutes. Longer routes, such as the Kinnegad & The Royal Canal Greenway loop from Mullingar, can be up to 45.3 miles (72.9 km) and take over 4 hours.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners around Lough Owel?
Yes, the Lough Owel area offers several easy touring cycling routes. Approximately 5 routes are classified as easy, making them ideal for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride.
Are there challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
For more experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, there are a couple of difficult routes available. An example is the Three Loughs & Fore Abbey loop from Mullingar, which features more significant elevation changes over its 69.9 km distance.
Where do the touring cycling routes around Lough Owel typically start?
Many of the touring cycling routes in the area, including popular options like Mullingar Cycle Hub - Loop 1, originate from Mullingar, which serves as a central hub for exploring the region by bike.
Are there family-friendly touring cycling routes around Lough Owel?
Yes, many of the easier routes and those following quiet country roads are suitable for families. The generally gentle gradients and scenic, low-traffic paths make for an enjoyable family outing.
What kind of scenery can I expect on a touring cycling route around Lough Owel?
Touring cycling around Lough Owel offers serene lake views, quiet country roads, and sections along canal greenways. You'll pass through rolling countryside and agricultural land, often with picturesque rural landscapes.
Are there circular touring cycling routes available?
Many of the routes around Lough Owel are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the various 'Mullingar Cycle Hub' loops and other named circular tours.
When is the best time of year for touring cycling around Lough Owel?
The best time for touring cycling around Lough Owel is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September), when the weather is generally milder and drier, and daylight hours are longer. However, routes are accessible year-round.
Is touring cycling around Lough Owel suitable in winter?
While touring cycling is possible in winter, be prepared for colder temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and potentially wet or icy conditions. Always check the weather forecast and ensure your bike is equipped for winter riding.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about touring cycling in Lough Owel?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the serene lake views, the tranquility of the quiet country roads, and the well-maintained sections along the Royal Canal Greenway.
Are there routes that combine lake views with other natural features?
Absolutely. Routes like Lough Owel & Lough Derravaragh from Mullingar allow you to experience multiple loughs and varied countryside, showcasing the region's diverse natural beauty.
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