The best traffic-free bike rides around Lough Tay

There are 12 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Lough Tay featured in this guide. These routes offer a range of difficulties, from moderate to difficult, ensuring a suitable option for various skill levels.

While many routes in the Lough Tay area involve significant elevation, some sections or shorter loops can be more suitable for families with older children or those comfortable with moderate distances. For a less strenuous option, consider routes that stick to flatter sections or dedicated paths away from main roads. The Ballinastoe MTB Trails loop from Ballinastoe Wood, though moderate, is shorter at 6.6 km and offers a contained experience.

Many of the no-traffic cycling routes around Lough Tay, particularly those starting near Ballinastoe Wood or Vartry Reservoir Upper, offer designated parking areas. For example, routes like the Ballinastoe MTB Trails – View From the Bridge loop often begin from trailheads with parking facilities, making access convenient for cyclists.

The Lough Tay area, nestled within the Wicklow Mountains National Park, is renowned for its dramatic landscapes. You can expect breathtaking views of the iconic 'Guinness Lake' (Lough Tay) itself, especially from vantage points along the R759 or Sally Gap. Routes often traverse rugged mountainous terrain, offering sweeping vistas of gorse, heather, and dense forests, providing a true sense of wilderness.

Yes, the region is home to impressive natural attractions. While not directly on every no-traffic route, some longer tours in the wider area, such as the View of Powerscourt Waterfall – Powerscourt Waterfall loop, will bring you close to or offer views of significant waterfalls like Powerscourt Waterfall. The Glenmacnass Waterfall is also a notable feature in the broader Wicklow Mountains, often incorporated into scenic drives and rides.

The Wicklow Mountains, including the Lough Tay area, are beautiful year-round, but the best time for touring cycling is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, you'll experience milder weather, longer daylight hours, and less chance of rain, making for more enjoyable rides. However, be prepared for changeable weather conditions at any time of year.

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes around Lough Tay are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. This is convenient for those driving to the starting point. An example is the Roundwood – Roundwood Stores Café loop from Ballinastoe Wood, which offers a moderate circular ride.

The duration varies significantly depending on the route's length and difficulty. For instance, a moderate route like the Victor's Way Meditation Garden – Ballinastoe MTB Trails loop, covering 17.7 km, might take around 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours. More difficult and longer routes, such as the View of Powerscourt Waterfall – Powerscourt Waterfall loop (44.9 km), can take over 4 hours to complete, not including stops.

Yes, while the routes themselves focus on natural beauty, you'll find options for refreshments in nearby villages and towns. Roundwood, for example, is a common starting or passing point for many routes and offers cafes and pubs. The Roundwood – Roundwood Stores Café loop specifically highlights a café along its path, perfect for a break.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning, dramatic landscapes, the sense of wilderness within the Wicklow Mountains National Park, and the challenge offered by the varied terrain. The iconic views of Lough Tay and the opportunity to escape traffic are frequently highlighted as major draws.

The routes around Lough Tay are generally considered moderate to difficult. The region is characterized by significant elevation gains and descents, even on quieter roads. While there are no 'easy' routes listed in this guide, the moderate options provide a good challenge without being overly strenuous for experienced cyclists. Routes like the Ballinastoe MTB Trails – View From the Bridge loop are classified as difficult due to their length and elevation.