The best road cycling routes around Leitrim

Leitrim offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 60 options available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy rides to more challenging ascents.

Road cycling in Leitrim features a diverse landscape, from quiet roads and rolling hills to tranquil lakesides and more challenging mountainous sections. You'll find well-maintained surfaces throughout, offering varied experiences for all cyclists.

Yes, Leitrim is well-suited for less experienced cyclists and families. There are 10 easy road cycling routes available on komoot, and the region is known for its leisurely, traffic-free options, including dedicated cycle routes like sections of the SLNCR Greenway.

For those seeking a challenge, Leitrim offers routes with significant elevation gain and mountainous terrain. An example is the Spelga Reservoir Hill Climb – Trassey Road loop from Rathfriland, which includes substantial climbs and panoramic views. The region also features routes like 'The Dough Challenge' and the '100km Glens Cycle Route' for dedicated enthusiasts.

Leitrim's routes often pass by stunning natural features. You might encounter picturesque lakes like Lough Allen, Lough Gill, and Lough Melvin, or even waterfalls such as Glencar Waterfall and Fowley's Falls. Some routes offer views of the Slieve an Iarainn mountains or the dramatic Gleniff Horseshoe.

Yes, 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, Ballyshannon and Lough Melvin loop, and the Gleniff Horseshoe Loop. On komoot, you can find routes like The Yard Café – Loughbrickland Crannóg loop from Rathfriland or Yellow Water Picnic Area – Climb by Rostrevor Forest loop from Hilltown.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Leitrim, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the region's quiet roads, diverse landscapes, and the stunning views of rolling hills and tranquil lakes. The absence of urban pressures and the cinematic scenery are often highlighted as key aspects of the experience.

Leitrim offers numerous scenic spots. You can cycle past areas with views of the Dartry Mountains, or explore the tranquil beauty around Lough Allen. While cycling, you might also pass by landmarks such as Slieve Bearnagh or the historic Mourne Wall, offering rewarding vistas.

Leitrim caters to long-distance cyclists with options up to 200km. Routes like the '150km Glens Cycle Route' and the '200km Leitrim Cycle Route' provide significant distances and varied terrain for dedicated enthusiasts. The Kingfisher Trail also offers an extensive network for exploring the region by bike.

Leitrim is generally suitable for road cycling throughout much of the year, with its well-maintained surfaces. The spring and summer months typically offer the most pleasant weather for enjoying the scenic routes and natural beauty. However, the region's diverse landscape can be enjoyed in all seasons, with waterfalls being particularly spectacular after rainfall.

Yes, many routes pass through or near towns and villages where you can find cafes and pubs. For example, the The Yard Café – Loughbrickland Crannóg loop from Rathfriland starts near a cafe. Carrick-on-Shannon, known as Ireland's boating capital, also offers various amenities and is a good base for exploring the region.

Absolutely. Leitrim is rich in natural beauty. You can find dedicated cycle routes like the Glencar Waterfall Cycle Route and the Fowley's Falls Cycle Route, allowing you to experience these natural wonders directly. The Lough Melvin Loop Cycle Route is another option for lakeside cycling.