The best cycling routes around Leitrim

Leitrim offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 40 available to explore. These routes cater to different skill levels, from easy rides to more challenging long-distance tours.

Leitrim's touring cycling routes feature diverse landscapes. You can expect picturesque rolling hills, tranquil lakes like Lough Allen, and scenic glens. Some routes, particularly in areas like the Corry Mountain Circuit or around Sliabh an Iarainn, will include more challenging climbs and mountainous terrain, while others follow quiet country roads and waterways.

Yes, Leitrim offers traffic-free cycling experiences ideal for families. The Shannon Blueway and Shannon Erne Blueway provide serene journeys along canals and rivers, including the iconic Acres Lake floating boardwalk, which are perfect for leisurely family rides.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Leitrim has several demanding routes. The Crocknafeola Wood – Kilbroney Park loop from Rostrevor is a difficult 56.9 km path with significant elevation changes, including 959 meters of ascent. Another option is the Route 7 - The Rostrevor Route, a 28.1 km trail with an elevation gain of 460 meters.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Leitrim are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Kilbroney Park – Rostrevor Forest loop from Killowen and the Yellow Water Lower Bridge – Yellow Water Descent loop from Rostrevor. The Lough Allen Loop is also a popular circular route offering stunning lake and mountain views.

Leitrim's routes often pass by captivating natural features. You might encounter tranquil lakes like Lough Allen, or dramatic glens such as Glenade. While cycling, you could visit the famous Glencar Waterfall, or explore areas with stunning viewpoints like Slieve Bearnagh and Hare's Gap. The Cloughmore Stone is another notable natural monument.

The touring cycling routes in Leitrim are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Cyclists often praise the unspoiled countryside, the sense of solitude on quiet country roads, and the breathtaking natural scenery that allows them to immerse themselves in nature away from urban pressures.

The best time to go touring cycling in Leitrim is generally during the warmer, drier months, typically from late spring through early autumn. This period offers more pleasant weather conditions for enjoying the diverse landscapes and longer daylight hours. However, the mild climate means cycling is possible year-round, with each season offering its own unique beauty.

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, making cycling accessible to a wider audience and allowing you to explore the region's routes with ease.

Parking availability varies by route and starting point. Many villages and towns that serve as trailheads for popular routes will have designated parking areas. For specific routes, it's advisable to check local information or the route details on komoot, which often include parking suggestions near the starting points.

Yes, some touring cycling routes in Leitrim offer opportunities to visit historical sites. For instance, routes around Lough Gill might pass near Parke's Castle, a well-preserved 17th-century plantation castle. Exploring the local villages and towns can also reveal historical churches or other points of interest.

For those looking for longer distances, Leitrim offers routes such as The Old Oak Tree – The Calvary of Omeath loop from Rostrevor, which is 68.6 km long. Additionally, the Leitrim Glens Sportive Routes provide challenging options ranging from 100 km to 200 km, taking cyclists through the heartland of County Leitrim and the Glenade valley.