The best road cycling routes around Lurgan

Road cycling routes around Lurgan generally feature flat or gently rolling terrain with mostly smooth, well-maintained surfaces. You'll find dedicated bicycle paths, especially in newer areas of Craigavon, and scenic routes along the shores of Lough Neagh and around Craigavon Lakes. Some paths, particularly around Lough Neagh and Craigavon Lakes, may include sections of gravel.

Yes, Lurgan offers road cycling routes suitable for various fitness levels. There are 19 easy routes, 43 moderate routes, and 2 difficult routes. For an easy, scenic ride, consider the Lough Barry – Old Church loop from Lisbellaw, which is 26.5 miles with gentle gradients. More challenging options like the Enniskillen, Kinawley and Derrynawilt loop from Lisnaskea offer a longer, more demanding experience.

Road cycling around Lurgan offers diverse scenic views. You can enjoy the expansive views of Lough Neagh, the largest lake in Ireland, or the picturesque green spaces surrounding Craigavon Lakes. Lurgan Park, Northern Ireland's largest urban park, provides a tranquil setting with woodlands and a lake. Along the River Bann, you might encounter the historic Moyallan Pillbox, a WWII relic. The Brownlow House and Estate also offers beautiful grounds nearby.

Absolutely. The area around Craigavon Lakes is particularly well-suited for families, featuring traffic-free cycling paths. Lurgan Park also offers an extensive network of well-maintained trails perfect for leisurely family rides. The Newry Canal Path provides a relaxed, green, and traffic-free experience for almost 25 km, ideal for families.

Many of the road cycling routes in Lurgan are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the easy Derrytrasna Loop with Lough Neagh views, and the moderate Maguiresbridge Road loop from Lisbellaw, which takes you through varied rural landscapes.

Yes, parking is generally available in and around Lurgan, especially near popular cycling spots like Lurgan Park and the Craigavon Lakes. The development of Craigavon has incorporated dedicated infrastructure, which often includes parking facilities for those accessing outdoor recreational areas.

While road cycling is possible year-round, the most pleasant times are typically spring (April-May) and summer (June-August) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. Autumn (September-October) can also be beautiful with changing foliage, though cooler temperatures and increased rainfall are possible. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

The road cycling experience in Lurgan is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from the tranquil shores of Lough Neagh to the green spaces of Lurgan Park, and the well-maintained, accessible paths that cater to various skill levels.

For experienced cyclists looking for a longer challenge, the region offers routes like the Ennisskillen Kinawley loop from Lisnaskea, which covers nearly 60 km with significant elevation gain. These routes provide an opportunity to explore more of the diverse Northern Irish countryside.

While specific cafes and pubs are not directly integrated into every route description, many routes pass through or near towns and villages where you can find establishments for refreshments. Lurgan itself, along with nearby villages like Scarva, offer options for a break during your ride.

Road cycling in the Lurgan area is largely defined by its proximity to Lough Neagh, the largest lake in Ireland, offering scenic shoreline rides. The network of paths around Craigavon Lakes provides urban green space cycling, and the tranquil River Bann offers peaceful routes through lush landscapes. Lurgan Park, a significant urban park, also contributes to the natural cycling environment.