The best gravel rides around Ballyrussell
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riders
5
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Gravel biking around Ballyrussell offers routes through varied terrain, characterized by hilly, tree-covered landscapes and forest paths. The region features areas like Rostrevor and Kilbroney Park, providing a mix of ascents and descents suitable for gravel cycling. These trails often wind through woodlands and glens, with some routes featuring significant elevation gain.
Best gravel bike trails around Ballyrussell
- The most popular gravel bike trail is The Old Oak Tree – Fairy Glen loop from Rostrevor, a 15.8 miles (25.4…
Last updated: July 3, 2026
13
riders
25.4km
02:04
630m
630m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
18.9km
01:48
480m
480m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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12
riders
27.3km
01:40
360m
360m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
17.6km
01:35
520m
520m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
17.2km
01:18
380m
380m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The route winds gently uphill, offering small clearings through which you can catch a glimpse of the valley and the sparkling water in the distance. The air here is wonderfully fresh and filled with the surrounding forests. During the climb you can feel the peace of the forest, accompanied only by the hum of the tires on the asphalt and the chirping of the birds. Once you reach the top, you are rewarded with a magnificent panorama.
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The well-signposted paths lead you through dense forests and offer impressive views of Carlingford Lough and the Mourne Mountains. The mountain bike routes in particular are varied and require both fitness and technique. However, some sections can be slippery in wet weather, so caution is advised. A highlight is the Cloughmore Stone, a huge boulder that was transported here during the last ice age. The approach there is steep, but the view makes up for the effort.
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This impressive tree, which has stood here for centuries, is a testament to the region's rich natural history. The paths leading there lead through dense forest and offer a pleasant ride away from traffic. However, some sections are slippery in wet weather, so care should be taken. A particular highlight is the proximity to the Cloughmore Stone, a huge boulder that was transported here during the last Ice Age.
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The well-signposted mountain bike trails take you through dense forests and offer breathtaking views of Carlingford Lough and the Mourne Mountains. The descent from the Cloughmore Stone, a huge boulder that was transported here during the last ice age, is a particular highlight. However, some sections are technical and require a certain level of riding technique. The trails can become slippery in wet weather, so caution is advised. Another plus point is the proximity to the charming village of Rostrevor, where you can relax in one of the cafes after the tour.
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There’s heaps to do when you visit Kilbroney park so bring a picnic, kids, dogs, bikes, walking boots and enjoy the day. Start at the Visitor Centre and learn about the forest and extraordinary Cloughmore Stone. There are tennis courts, play area, sports fields, an arboretum, walking and bike trails in the forest. Fiddler’s Green was once used for local entertainment and festivals.
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This steady easy going climb offers stunning panoramic views of the forest and the surrounding Mountains of Mourne. Catch your breath and take it all in.
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This character is believed to be over 250 years old. It is a remnant of the old oak woodlands that clothed the lower slopes of the Mournes several centuries ago. Most of these oak woods were cleared during the 18th and 19th centuries for use in boat building, including the Titanic.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails around Ballyrussell?
The gravel bike trails around Ballyrussell are characterized by hilly, tree-covered landscapes and forest paths. You'll find routes winding through woodlands and glens, with a mix of ascents and descents, particularly in areas like Rostrevor and Kilbroney Park.
What is the general difficulty level of gravel biking routes in Ballyrussell?
Gravel biking routes in Ballyrussell range from moderate to difficult. Many trails feature significant elevation gain, making them suitable for riders looking for a challenge. For example, The Old Oak Tree – Fairy Glen loop from Rostrevor is rated difficult with over 600 meters of elevation gain.
Are there any shorter or less challenging gravel routes for beginners?
While many routes are moderate to difficult, some offer a slightly less intense experience. For instance, the Red Trail Section, Mourne AONB loop from Rostrevor is rated moderate and covers about 17.2 km, providing a good option for those building up their gravel biking endurance.
What are some notable landmarks or points of interest I can see along the gravel trails?
You can explore several interesting landmarks and natural features. Consider visiting the ancient Cloughmore Stone, or the scenic Kilbroney Park. For those interested in history, the Druids' Circle, Ravensdale Forest is also nearby.
How long do the gravel bike routes typically take to complete?
The duration of routes varies depending on their length and difficulty. For example, the difficult The Fairy Glen – Kilbroney Park loop from Rostrevor, which is 18.7 km, typically takes around 2 hours 13 minutes. Shorter, moderate routes might take less time.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes available?
Yes, many of the gravel bike routes around Ballyrussell are designed as loops. Examples include Fairy Glen – Climb by Rostrevor Forest loop from Rostrevor and Kilbroney Park – Kilbroney Caravan Park loop from Rostrevor, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Ballyrussell?
The gravel biking routes in Ballyrussell are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the beauty of the woodlands and glens, and the challenging ascents that make for a rewarding experience.
What is the longest gravel bike trail in the area?
One of the longer gravel bike trails is Fairy Glen – Climb by Rostrevor Forest loop from Rostrevor, which spans 26.8 km. This route takes you through Rostrevor Forest and is generally completed in about 1 hour 39 minutes.
Are there any routes that combine the Fairy Glen with other parks?
Yes, the The Fairy Glen – Kilbroney Park loop from Rostrevor is a popular option that combines the natural beauty of Fairy Glen with the landscapes of Kilbroney Park, offering a diverse riding experience.
How many gravel bike routes are available around Ballyrussell?
There are several gravel bike routes available around Ballyrussell, with komoot featuring 6 distinct tours. These routes offer a variety of experiences across the region's woodlands and glens.
What is the elevation gain like on these trails?
The trails around Ballyrussell often feature significant elevation changes. For instance, the Kilbroney Park – Kilbroney Caravan Park loop from Rostrevor includes over 520 meters of ascent, providing a good workout for gravel bikers.
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