The best road cycling routes around Leitrim

Komoot offers a selection of 16 road cycling routes in Leitrim, catering to various skill levels. You'll find options ranging from easy lakeside loops to more challenging mountain circuits.

Yes, Leitrim offers several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. These often feature tranquil, quiet country roads and relatively flat terrain, such as sections along the Shannon Blueway or the Lough Allen Loop, which has moderate sections but also easier stretches. The region has 2 easy routes listed on komoot, with many more moderate options that can be adapted.

Leitrim's road cycling routes traverse a diverse landscape. You'll encounter rolling green hills, tranquil lakeside roads around Lough Allen, and peaceful stretches along waterways like the Shannon-Erne Waterway. While many roads are quiet and gentle, areas like the Corry Mountains and Sliabh an Iarainn offer more challenging climbs with rewarding panoramic views.

Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Leitrim provides routes with significant elevation gain. The Corry Mountain Circuit, for example, is known for its steep climbs and panoramic views. Additionally, some of the Leitrim Glens Sportive routes offer challenging distances of 100km, 150km, or even 200km, covering extensive parts of the county with varied terrain.

Leitrim is rich in natural beauty. Many routes offer breathtaking views of Lough Allen and its surrounding mountains. You might also pass by the captivating Glencar Waterfall, which plunges 50 feet into a tranquil pool, or cycle alongside the peaceful Shannon-Erne Waterway. The Shannon Blueway features a unique floating boardwalk across Acres Lake, providing a distinctive scenic experience.

Yes, some routes in Leitrim offer glimpses of historical and cultural sites. For instance, the Parke's Castle Cycle Route passes by the beautifully restored 17th-century Parke's Castle on the shores of Lough Gill. While primarily a walking trail, many parallel roads suitable for cycling wind through areas with historical significance, such as parts of the Miners' Way and Historical Trail.

Many of Leitrim's road cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Popular examples include the Lough Allen Loop, which circles the lake, and the Drumsna and Sheemore Loop, offering panoramic views. These circular routes make planning your ride and return journey straightforward.

The best time for road cycling in Leitrim is generally during the warmer, drier months, typically from late spring through early autumn (May to September). During this period, you can expect more favorable weather conditions, lush green landscapes, and longer daylight hours to fully enjoy the scenic routes.

Yes, if you don't bring your own bike, several shops in towns like Drumshanbo and Leitrim Village offer bike rentals. This includes electric bikes, which can be particularly helpful for exploring the hiller sections of the county's diverse terrain.

Road cyclists often praise Leitrim for its quiet country roads, stunning natural scenery, and the variety of routes available. The tranquil lakes, rolling hills, and peaceful waterways like the Shannon-Erne provide picturesque backdrops, making it a truly enjoyable destination for exploring by bike.

For those looking for longer rides, Leitrim offers routes that can extend for significant distances. The Shannon-Erne Waterway route, for example, is a moderate 60km option, ideal for a full-day adventure. Additionally, the Leitrim Glens Sportive routes include challenging options of 100km, 150km, and even 200km, covering extensive parts of the county.

Leitrim features a substantial number of moderate difficulty road cycling routes, with 13 such routes listed on komoot. These routes offer a good balance of distance and elevation, suitable for cyclists with some experience looking for a rewarding ride without extreme challenges.