22
riders
5
rides
Mountain biking around Moneymore offers diverse landscapes for outdoor exploration. The region is characterized by rolling hills and glens, with the Ballymully River flowing through its southern part. Slieve Gallion, a prominent hill, provides a scenic backdrop and challenging terrain for mountain bike trails. This area features a mix of natural features suitable for various cycling experiences.
Last updated: October 17, 2026
8
riders
45.2km
03:00
190m
190m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
63.4km
04:46
920m
920m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

3
riders
59.7km
03:29
540m
540m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
63.4km
03:36
480m
480m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
38.1km
02:43
760m
760m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
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Taaffes Castle (2026-08-07): https://taaffescastle.com/ TRIPADVISOR (Taaffes Castle Bar, 2026-08-07): https://www.tripadvisor.ie/Restaurant_Review-g315880-d2223151-Reviews-Taaffes_Castle_Bar-Carlingford_Cooley_Peninsula_County_Louth.html
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Remains of the medieval Dominican priory on the west side of Carlingford, recognisable by its high, narrow windows and the elongated ruin wing in grey stone. The site lies quietly just outside the centre, with views of the hills and the open grass around the old priory walls.
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This charming seaside town overlooks the Mourne Mountains, whose silhouette rises along the coast of Northern Ireland. Carlingford is very lively at weekends thanks to its many pubs and restaurants, which attract visitors from the north, and is famous for its oysters. The village has several historical sights, such as the small King John's Castle, with its romantic silhouette overlooking the sea, and Taaffe's Castle, a former 16th-century merchant's house located a little further from the quay.
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The Tholsel is undoubtedly one of the most unique structures in the heart of Carlingford. This medieval city gate, originally built in the 15th century, is the only remaining gate from the original town wall and served for centuries as the ceremonial and administrative entrance to the town.
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Once you leave the city of Newry behind, you cycle towards tranquility on An Bealach Glas, also known as the Carlingford Lough Greenway. This flat, smoothly asphalted path follows the banks of the canal and offers spectacular views of the river's mudflats along the way, where you can spot numerous wading birds and sometimes even a stray seal. The route is a true sensory experience: the salty sea air blows towards you while the mountains seem to get closer and closer. The absolute endpoint of this section is the historic Victoria Lock, an impressive lock complex from 1850 that marks the transition from the canal to the open waters of Carlingford Lough. It is the perfect place to get some fresh air and enjoy the maritime dynamics before continuing your journey to the coast.
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Here you will be treated to a magnificent view of the cathedral. The imposing tower of Saint Patrick and Saint Colman rises majestically above the city, dominating the skyline with its neo-Gothic architecture. This cathedral, completed in 1829, is unique as it was the first Catholic cathedral built in Ireland after the relaxation of the penal laws. From this point, you can see the beautiful texture of the local granite from the Mourne Mountains, from which the church is built.
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This is a spectacular viewpoint just to the north of Clermont Carn's true summit, which is somewhat less attractive due to its transmission site. The summit is also home to an ancient burial site. Looking north, you can see into Northern Ireland and across towards the Mourne Mountains.
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The mountain biking trails around Moneymore offer a mix of difficulties. You'll find several moderate trails, such as the Carlingford – The Tholsel, Carlingford loop from Newry, which is 27.9 miles long. For more experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are also difficult routes like the Kilbroney Caravan Park – Warrenpoint Shore Road loop from Newry, spanning 39.4 miles with significant elevation changes.
While the guide highlights moderate and difficult trails, the region's diverse landscape suggests there are options for various skill levels. The area is characterized by rolling hills and glens, which can offer less strenuous paths. For specific beginner-friendly routes, it's best to check individual tour details on komoot, as some sections of longer routes might be suitable for those new to mountain biking.
There are at least 5 mountain bike trails featured in this guide for the Moneymore area, offering a range of experiences from moderate to difficult. These routes showcase the region's varied terrain, including rolling hills and scenic countryside.
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Moneymore are designed as loops. For example, the Fairy Glen, Rostrevor – Warrenpoint Shore Road loop from Newry is a 37.1-mile circular trail that takes you through varied landscapes. Another option is the The Tholsel, Carlingford – Carlingford loop from Newry, a 63.1-mile moderate route.
The trails around Moneymore offer diverse and picturesque scenery. You'll encounter rolling hills, glens, and the Ballymully River. A prominent feature is Slieve Gallion, a large hill that provides a scenic backdrop and challenging terrain. The region is known for its beautiful countryside, offering panoramic views, especially on routes that circumnavigate Slieve Gallion.
Yes, the Moneymore area is rich in natural and historical attractions. While cycling, you might encounter the impressive Craigmore Viaduct with its 18 arches. The region also features the Newry Canal Towpath, which offers a flat, scenic cycling experience where you can observe old canal lock gates and gatekeepers' cottages. Historically, nearby Springhill House, a 17th-century Plantation house, and the Moneymore Model Village offer cultural insights into the region's past.
Moneymore's landscape, with its rolling hills and glens, is generally enjoyable for mountain biking across multiple seasons. Spring and autumn often provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. While winter conditions can vary, it's always advisable to check local weather forecasts for rain or snow, which could impact trail conditions, especially on more challenging routes.
Absolutely. The region around Moneymore, particularly routes that ascend or circumnavigate Slieve Gallion, is known for spectacular views. The varied terrain and rolling hills naturally lend themselves to scenic overlooks, allowing riders to take in the picturesque countryside. The Newry Train Station – Flagstaff Viewpoint loop from Newry, for instance, suggests a route with a specific viewpoint.
Mountain bikers who have explored Moneymore with komoot often praise the diverse landscapes and the mix of challenging and moderate terrain. The region's rolling hills, glens, and scenic countryside provide a rewarding experience for various skill levels, making it a popular choice for outdoor exploration.
While some routes are quite challenging, the presence of varied terrain and the general character of rolling hills suggest that there are likely sections or shorter paths suitable for families. For a very flat and scenic option, the Newry Canal Towpath, though not a mountain bike trail, offers an accessible cycling experience for families to enjoy the outdoors.
While specific routes listed in this guide don't detail passing pubs or cafes, Moneymore village itself and surrounding towns like Draperstown offer amenities for cyclists. It's common for routes in populated areas to have access to refreshments. Planning your route with komoot allows you to see points of interest, including cafes and pubs, along your chosen path.


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