The best MTB trails around Owl Island
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Mountain biking around Owl Island offers a diverse landscape for riders. The region features varied terrain, including areas with significant elevation changes and more gentle, rolling paths. Riders can expect routes that traverse through forested areas and past historical landmarks. The trails provide opportunities to explore both challenging ascents and more accessible, scenic loops.
Best mountain bike trails around Owl Island
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Tully Castle to Cliffs of Magho viewpoint and Ballintempo Forest loop,…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
66.4km
05:16
1,030m
1,030m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
27.0km
01:44
180m
180m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
11
riders
18.7km
01:21
160m
160m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A hive of activity, the marina at Castle Archdale is full of things to do. Why not park your bike and pedal on water on one of the hydrobikes? Kayaks, paddleboards and boats are also available to hire. Or if you're looking for a break, this is a great place to stop and take it all in.
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During WW2 Castle Archdale was a major base for flying boats and housed up to 2,500 people. Buildings such as these would have been a central location for the RAF fighters who lived here. Sometimes exhibitions are held in these courtyards to display some of the key historical notes of the use of this area during the war.
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A white beacon marks the location of Rossmore Point. There is a bench to sit on here where you can enjoy serene views over Lough Erne.
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Beautiful views over Lough Erne toward Tom's Island. Tom's Island is actually no longer an island, but once was before the lough was lowered.
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Old Castle Archdale is situated on Castle Hill within a 520 hectare coniferous and mixed broadleaved forest. The castle was built in the 1600s and was the main castle on this former estate before its successor took it's place in the 1800s, Castle Archdale.
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Take in the fabulous views of Lower Lough Erne from this point. Directly ahead you will see Crevinisaughy and Inishmakill island. These are one of the many islands found in this large lake system that is in fact widened sections of the River Erne as it flows towards the Alantic.
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Old Castle Archdale sits on a forest clifftop. It is named 'old' to distinguish it from its successor, the 18th century Castle Archdale. The castle was built by an Englishman from Suffolk who had been granted the estate in 1612 after paying 5 pounds, 6 shillings and 8 pence for the 1000 acres of land. During the Irish Rebellion of 1641 the castle was captured by Rory Maguire as part of the uprising to retake his lands that had been lost in 1607. The heir to the castle was saved by his nurse however the other children were killed. After the castle was returned to the family it was repaired and lived in until 1689. The castle saw its end during the Williamite Wars when the castle was burnt out and abandoned.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available around Owl Island?
There are currently 3 mountain bike trails listed around Owl Island on komoot. These include a challenging route and two easier options, offering variety for different skill levels.
Are there any easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners or families around Owl Island?
Yes, there are two easy mountain bike trails. The Horse Hill, Castle Hill and Necarne Castle loop is an easy 27.0 km path that includes two hills under 200 meters and passes by a castle. Another easy option is the Old Castle Archdale – Rossmore Point Beacon loop from Lisnarrick, which is 18.7 km long and features varied terrain including a hill under 200 meters.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails around Owl Island?
The mountain bike trails around Owl Island feature diverse terrain, including forest paths, historical sites, and hills. You can expect routes that traverse through forested areas and past historical landmarks, with options ranging from challenging ascents to more gentle, rolling paths.
Are there any challenging mountain bike routes for experienced riders?
Yes, experienced riders can tackle the Tully Castle to Cliffs of Magho viewpoint and Ballintempo Forest loop. This difficult 66.4 km route features over 1000 meters of elevation gain, passing by a viewpoint and through forest, making it a demanding ride.
What historical sites or landmarks can I see while mountain biking around Owl Island?
The trails around Owl Island offer access to several historical sites. You can explore places like Old Castle Archdale, the Tully Castle Ruins, and Necarne Castle. The Horse Hill, Castle Hill and Necarne Castle loop specifically passes by a castle, offering a mix of natural and historical scenery.
Are there any scenic viewpoints or natural attractions along the mountain bike routes?
Yes, the region offers several scenic spots. The difficult Tully Castle to Cliffs of Magho viewpoint and Ballintempo Forest loop passes by a significant viewpoint. Additionally, you can find natural attractions like Rossmore Point Beacon, Carrick Lough, and Carrickreagh Jetty, Lower Lough Erne.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Owl Island?
The routes in Owl Island are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 2 reviews. More than 10 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore Owl Island's varied terrain, often praising the mix of forest paths, historical sites, and diverse landscapes.
Are there any loop trails available for mountain biking around Owl Island?
Yes, all the listed mountain bike routes around Owl Island are loop trails. This includes the challenging Tully Castle to Cliffs of Magho viewpoint and Ballintempo Forest loop, the easy Horse Hill, Castle Hill and Necarne Castle loop, and the Old Castle Archdale – Rossmore Point Beacon loop from Lisnarrick.
What is the longest mountain bike trail in the Owl Island area?
The longest mountain bike trail is the Tully Castle to Cliffs of Magho viewpoint and Ballintempo Forest loop, which spans 66.4 km (41.3 miles) and is classified as difficult.
What is the shortest mountain bike trail in the Owl Island area?
The shortest mountain bike trail is the Old Castle Archdale – Rossmore Point Beacon loop from Lisnarrick, covering 18.7 km (11.6 miles). This route is rated as easy.
Are there any facilities or amenities near the mountain bike trails, such as marinas?
Yes, near some of the trails, you can find facilities like the Castle Archdale Marina, which could be a convenient stop or starting point for your adventure.
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