The best traffic-free bike rides around South Dublin
4.5
(589)
7,527
riders
40
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around South Dublin traverse a diverse landscape featuring mountainous terrain, river valleys, and urban green spaces. The region is characterized by the Dublin Mountains, offering extensive forest trails and varied elevation, alongside the linear parklands of the Dodder River Valley. Tranquil reservoirs and sections of greenways provide picturesque routes, blending natural beauty with accessible cycling infrastructure.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes around South Dublin
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Three Rock Mountain – Three Rock Mountain – Ticknock loop from Rathfarnham Castle, a 17.1 miles (27.5 km) trail that takes 2 hours 27 minutes to complete. This difficult route features significant elevation gain through varied mountain terrain.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Killakee Viewpoint – Three Rock Mountain – Ticknock loop from Montpelier Hill, a difficult 22.2 miles (35.8 km) path. This route offers challenging climbs and panoramic views across the Dublin Mountains.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Glen Water – Phoenix Monument, Phoenix Park loop from Castleknock, a 5.5 miles (8.9 km) trail leading through urban green spaces, often completed in about 32 minutes.
- Touring cycling around South Dublin is defined by mountainous forest trails, serene river valleys, and accessible greenways. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy urban loops to challenging mountain ascents.
- The routes in South Dublin are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 1000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore South Dublin's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 10, 2026
4.7
(6)
59
riders
94.0km
05:41
220m
220m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
13
riders
11.7km
00:43
30m
30m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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40
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
3.0
(1)
24
riders
28.4km
01:46
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
24
riders
36.2km
03:23
960m
960m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Damherten die al sinds de 17e eeuw vrij leven in Phoenix Park, erfgoed van het voormalige koninklijke jachtgebied. Ze bewegen zich tussen de open grasvlakten van Fifteen Acres, de bosranden en het gebied rond het Pauskruis, waar de kudde vaak zichtbaar is tijdens het grazen. Een vaste aanwezigheid in het parkland die het historische karakter van dit uitgestrekte stadspark mee bepaalt.
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Large white steel cross structure from 1979, erected for the historic visit of Pope John Paul II, which brought over 1.25 million people to Phoenix Park. The cross stands on a slight hill in the open grassland of Fifteen Acres and is visible from afar within the park. The site has a quiet, open atmosphere and forms a striking landmark in the middle of the vast park landscape. In 2018, a papal mass was held here again, this time by Pope Francis.
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Classic 18th-century lock on the edge of Pelletstown, with heavy natural stone walls, wooden lock gates, and a calm, straight canal profile. The surroundings are a mix of greenery, water, and new residential developments, making this spot feel both historic and modern. The towpath is flat and well-ridable, and Lock 9 forms a clear landmark between Ashtown and the more urban zone towards Broombridge.
6
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Classic 18th-century lock just north of Castleknock, with heavy natural stone walls, wooden lock gates and a narrow but flat towpath along the south side. The surrounding area is green but already slightly urban, with residential streets and trees lying close to the canal.
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Commemorative plaque under the railing of Broom Bridge in Cabra, placed at the spot where mathematician William Rowan Hamilton carved his famous quaternion formula into the bridge on October 16, 1843. The plaque quotes that exact inscription and marks one of the rare locations where the precise moment of a major scientific breakthrough is known. It is a small but iconic spot along the Royal Canal, beloved by mathematicians and visitors of the annual Hamilton Walk.
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Historic stone arch bridge over the Royal Canal in Cabra, world-famous as the place where mathematician William Rowan Hamilton carved his quaternion formula into the bridge in 1843. A commemorative plaque marks this exact spot today.
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Royal Canal Way (Clonsilla‑sectie) — Broad, quiet canal stretch with flat towpath, reed beds and low trees, just outside the edge of Dublin. Ideal traffic-free stretch towards the city.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in South Dublin?
South Dublin offers a wide selection of no-traffic touring cycling routes. There are over 40 routes available, catering to various skill levels, from easy to difficult.
Are there easy, no-traffic touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in South Dublin?
Yes, South Dublin has several easy no-traffic touring cycling routes perfect for beginners. For example, the Glen Water – Phoenix Monument, Phoenix Park loop from Castleknock is an easy 8.8 km route with minimal elevation gain. Another accessible option is the River Weir at Lucan – Tallaght Weir loop from Templeogue, which is 10.1 km and also rated easy.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the no-traffic touring cycling routes in South Dublin?
The terrain in South Dublin is diverse. You'll find routes through urban green spaces and along serene waterways like the Dodder River Valley and the Bohernabreena Reservoirs. However, many routes also venture into the Dublin Mountains, offering more challenging sections with significant elevation gains and forest trails, such as those around Three Rock Mountain and Two Rock Mountain.
What natural features and landmarks can I see along the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Many routes offer scenic views and pass by notable landmarks. You can explore the tranquil Bohernabreena Upper Reservoir and Bohernabreena Lower Reservoir in the Glenasmole Valley. The historic Hellfire Club (Montpelier Hill) offers panoramic views, and areas like Massey Wood and Glendoo Brook provide beautiful forest scenery.
Are there routes with panoramic views of Dublin?
Absolutely. The Dublin Mountains are a defining feature of South Dublin, and many routes there offer stunning panoramic views of the city. Challenging routes like the Killakee Viewpoint – Three Rock Mountain – Ticknock loop from Montpelier Hill provide extensive vistas from higher elevations.
Are there family-friendly no-traffic cycling routes in South Dublin?
Yes, the developing greenways, such as sections of the Dodder Greenway, offer excellent family-friendly options with minimal traffic. These routes provide a safe and enjoyable environment for cyclists of all ages, often passing through pleasant parklands.
Can I bring my dog on the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Many of the green spaces and forest trails in South Dublin are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control, often on a leash, especially in nature conservation areas. Always check local signage or specific route descriptions for any restrictions regarding dogs.
Are there circular no-traffic touring cycling routes available in South Dublin?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in South Dublin are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Three Rock Mountain – Three Rock Mountain – Ticknock loop from Rathfarnham Castle is a challenging circular route through the mountains.
How accessible are the no-traffic touring cycling routes by public transport?
South Dublin's cycling routes benefit from good public transport links, particularly to the more urban-adjacent greenways and starting points. Many areas are served by Dublin Bus, and some routes are accessible from DART or Luas stops, making it convenient to reach your starting point without a car.
Is parking available near the starting points of these routes?
Parking is generally available near popular trailheads and greenway access points, especially in areas like the Dublin Mountains and near larger parks. However, during peak times, these spots can fill up quickly, so it's advisable to arrive early or consider public transport.
When is the best time of year to go touring cycling in South Dublin?
The best time for touring cycling in South Dublin is typically from spring through autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. Summer offers the warmest temperatures, while spring and autumn provide beautiful scenery with fewer crowds. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for colder, wetter conditions, especially in the mountains.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about touring cycling in South Dublin?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.46 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from serene reservoir paths to challenging mountain trails, and the opportunity to discover hidden gems and panoramic views away from traffic.
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