The best cycling routes around Lough Key

There are over 10 dedicated touring cycling routes around Lough Key, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels to suit different preferences.

Routes vary in length and challenge. You'll find options ranging from easy trails, such as the Miners Way and Historical Trail: Lough Key Loop at 11.5 miles (18.5 km), to moderate routes like the Acres Lake Boardwalk – Carrick-on-Shannon loop from Rockingham ED, which covers 29.7 miles (47.7 km). There is also one more challenging route for experienced cyclists.

Yes, Lough Key offers several easy routes perfect for families and beginners. For instance, the Miners Way and Historical Trail: Lough Key Loop is an accessible 11.5-mile (18.5 km) option, and the Ballindoon Abbey and Graveyard – Ballinafad Castle loop from Lough Arrow is another easy route at 14.8 miles (23.8 km).

The best time for touring cycling around Lough Key is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is generally milder and drier, with longer daylight hours, making for more pleasant rides through the woodlands and along the lake shores.

Lough Key Forest Park offers various facilities including parking, toilets, and a cafe. Bike hire is also available within the park, making it convenient for visitors who don't bring their own bikes. The park's trails are generally well-maintained.

Yes, many of the routes around Lough Key are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. A popular example is the Lough Key scenic road – Drumman's Island loop from Rockingham ED, which offers picturesque views and a full circuit.

The routes offer a mix of natural beauty and historical interest. You'll encounter tranquil lake views, dense woodlands, and often pass by historical sites. For example, the Miners Way and Historical Trail: Lough Key Loop takes you through historical landscapes. Other routes might feature boardwalks or connect to charming towns like Carrick-on-Shannon.

Yes, Lough Key Forest Park has a cafe, and the nearby town of Boyle offers several cafes and pubs where you can refuel. Routes that connect to larger towns, such as the Acres Lake Boardwalk – Carrick-on-Shannon loop from Rockingham ED, provide access to a wider range of dining options.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscape, including tranquil lake shores and dense woodlands, as well as the well-maintained paths and the variety of routes suitable for different abilities.

It's advisable to bring appropriate cycling gear, including a helmet, comfortable clothing, and rain gear, as Irish weather can be unpredictable. Don't forget water, snacks, a basic repair kit, and a fully charged phone. Sunscreen and insect repellent can also be useful, especially during warmer months.

Beyond the immediate Lough Key Forest Park, consider exploring routes that venture slightly further afield, such as the Lough Arrow, Caves of Keash and Castlebaldwin loop. This route offers a blend of scenic lake views and historical sites, providing a different perspective on the region's beauty.