The best traffic-free bike rides around Thurles
4.7
(3)
536
riders
9
rides
No traffic road cycling routes around Thurles are set within County Tipperary, Ireland, offering a diverse landscape for cyclists. The region is characterized by the River Suir, which flows through the town, and the fertile Golden Vale. Surrounding mountain ranges such as the Silvermine Mountains to the northwest and the Slieveardagh Hills to the southeast provide varied terrain, from gentle riverside paths to more challenging inclines.
Best no traffic road cycling routes around Thurles
- The most popular no traffic road…
Last updated: April 28, 2026
5
riders
59.0km
02:28
290m
290m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3
riders
30.5km
01:33
380m
380m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Sign up for free
3
riders
33.4km
01:32
150m
150m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3
riders
14.2km
00:47
220m
220m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
2
riders
54.6km
02:20
250m
250m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Thurles
Tips from the Community
Nenagh Castle (Irish Castle of the Fair or Castle of the Fair of Ormond) ist ein Tower House in der Stadt Nenagh im Nordteil des Irish Countys Tipperary. https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nenagh_Castle
3
0
Nenagh Castle (Irish Castle of the Fair or Castle of the Fair of Ormond) ist ein Tower House in der Stadt Nenagh im Nordteil des Irish Countys Tipperary. https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nenagh_Castle
2
0
Nenagh Castle (Irish: Caisleán an Aonaigh or Caisleán Aonach Urmhumhan) is a tower house in the town of Nenagh in the northern part of County Tipperary, Ireland. The round tower is over 30 metres high and its diameter at the base is 16 metres. It is one of the finest round towers in Ireland. Its crenellated crown and the arched windows below were added in the mid-19th century. Although these additions do not reflect the true historical character of the castle, they established Nenagh Castle's iconic status. It appears in many local club and institution logos, including that of Nenagh Town Council. The Norman keep was built by Theobald Walter, 1st Baron Butler, around 1200; His son, Theobald de Botiller, had it completed around 1220. In 1861, Bishop Michael Flannery had the row of clerical windows and the crenellated crown built because the keep was to be the bell tower of a cathedral designed by Edward Pugin. This cathedral, however, was never built. From 2009 to 2013, the castle and its grounds were extensively restored. The aim was to establish Nenagh Castle as the main tourist attraction in the area. Today, the round tower is open to the public. https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nenagh_Castle
2
0
Farney Castle in County Tipperary is the only round tower in Ireland occupied as a family home. The first castle was built at Farney in 1185 and this would have been a timbered structure. The present round tower was built in 1495 by Thomas Butler, 7th Earl of Ormond and it was part of a defensive system created by the Butlers to protect their land in Tipperary. The Butlers were in Farney Castle for 500 years, but in 1536 the castle was confiscated by King Henry VIII of England. He returned the lands again to the Butlers in 1538 when he married Anne Boleyn who was the daughter of James, 3rd Earl of Ormond. Subsequently the castle was occupied for short periods by two other English monarchs namely King James 1st from 1617 - 1625 and King George 1st from 1716 -1721. https://www.discoverireland.ie/tipperary/farney-castle
2
0
Squeezed in amongst modern buildings in Liberty Square, Black Castle. Black Castle and nearby Bridge Castle are all that remain of the old town which included defensive walls.
0
0
Built in the late 15th century, the present Farney Castle replaced a much earlier 12th century building. Unlike so many castles in Ireland, It is still inhabitable. In fact it is the home of Irish designer Cyril Cullen who opens it to the public. For more details see the website https://cyrilcullen.wordpress.com/farney-castle/
0
0
Holycross Abbey is in splendid condition and is still in use as a parish church. So named due to the presence of a relic of the Cross of Christ's Crucifixion. Pilgrims have visited here for over 800 years. Guided tours are available but must be booked in advance. See the website for more details.
0
0
The second largest town in County Tipperary, Nenagh is pronounced 'Nee-Na. It sits on the banks of the Nenagh River and boasts a 12th century castle and plenty of places to stop to eat, drink or stay. There are three waymarked cycle touring routes that start in Nenagh.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many no traffic road cycling routes are available around Thurles?
There are 9 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes around Thurles featured in this guide. These routes offer a mix of easy and moderate options, ensuring a suitable ride for various fitness levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on no traffic road cycling routes near Thurles?
The no traffic road cycling routes around Thurles predominantly feature paved surfaces, including quiet roads and streets. You'll experience a diverse landscape, from gentle riverside paths along the River Suir to more challenging inclines as you approach the foothills of the Silvermine Mountains and Slieveardagh Hills.
Are there any easy, traffic-free road cycling routes suitable for beginners around Thurles?
Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for beginners. For instance, the Bouladuff Hill loop from Borrisoleigh offers a pleasant 33 km ride with minimal elevation gain. Another great option is the Tullaroan Climb loop from Tullaroan, which is shorter at 14 km.
What historical landmarks can I see along the no traffic road cycling routes?
Many routes offer glimpses of historical sites. You can cycle past impressive structures like Farney Castle and Holycross Abbey, which are featured on routes such as the Holycross Abbey – Farney Castle loop from Thurles. Other notable castles in the wider area include Brittas Castle and Loughmoe Castle.
Are there any routes that pass by natural viewpoints or scenic areas?
Absolutely. The routes are designed to showcase the natural beauty of Tipperary. You'll enjoy views of the River Suir and the surrounding Golden Vale. For a more dramatic backdrop, some routes offer distant views of the prominent Summit of Devil's Bit Mountain, adding to the scenic grandeur of your ride.
What is the longest no traffic road cycling route available?
The longest route in this selection is the Nenagh Courthouse – Nenagh Castle loop from Nenagh, covering nearly 59 km. This moderate route provides a substantial ride through the Tipperary countryside.
Can I find routes that are circular or loop back to the starting point?
Yes, all the no traffic road cycling routes listed in this guide are circular loops, meaning they will bring you back to your starting point. This makes planning your ride and parking much more convenient.
What do other cyclists say about the no traffic road cycling routes in Thurles?
The routes in this guide are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the peacefulness of the quiet roads and the beautiful, varied scenery of the Tipperary countryside.
Are there any moderate difficulty no traffic road cycling routes for more experienced riders?
Yes, for those looking for a bit more challenge, there are several moderate routes. The Grange Castle loop from Rathealy is a good option at just over 30 km with some elevation, and the Holycross Abbey – Farney Castle loop from Thurles offers a longer, scenic ride of 54.5 km.
What is the best time of year to enjoy no traffic road cycling around Thurles?
Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Thurles, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. However, the region's natural beauty can be enjoyed year-round, with autumn providing vibrant foliage and quieter roads.
Are there any other interesting sites like round towers or historical ruins to see?
Beyond the castles and abbeys, you can also encounter other historical sites. The Roscrea Round Tower, an 11th-century sandstone structure, is a significant landmark in the wider region that can be incorporated into longer cycling explorations.
Most popular routes around Thurles
Most popular attractions around Thurles
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Check out more Road cycling routes throughout Thurles below and find the perfect route in your destination.
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
