4.4
(28)
477
riders
53
rides
Touring cycling routes around Creeve offer a diverse landscape, characterized by the volcanic Ring of Gullion and the historic Newry Canal. The region features a mix of rolling hills, open countryside, and flat canal towpaths, providing varied terrain for cyclists. These Creeve touring bike trails navigate through areas of natural beauty and historical significance, with routes suitable for different skill levels.
Last updated: October 15, 2026
2
riders
52.6km
03:06
350m
350m
Cycle the moderate 32.7-mile Newry Canal Way Loop, enjoying canal views, rolling hills, and charming villages like Scarva.
1
riders
70.2km
04:50
1,080m
1,080m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

1
riders
39.6km
02:26
380m
380m
Cycle the moderate 24.6-mile Newry to 'The Old Oak' Kilbroney Park loop, a touring bicycle route offering scenic views and challenging terra
107km
06:54
1,290m
1,290m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
19.6km
01:15
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Between the rustling trees along the Newry Canal Towpath, you'll encounter the tranquil ruin of a lock keeper's cottage. Once, this was the proud and bustling heart of the waterway, where the lock keeper stood ready day and night to operate the heavy wooden canal gates for passing barges. Today, only the robust stone walls remain, slowly being reclaimed by nature.
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Quiet canal section south of Poyntzpass, where the towpath runs tightly along the narrow water. The bank is lightly overgrown with low trees and hedges, giving the stretch an intimate, green impression. The water is mostly still, forming a straight line through the open agricultural landscape. An even, traffic-free segment ideal for quiet miles on the towpath.
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The Newry Canal Towpath is a 32-kilometer-long, almost entirely traffic-free green corridor connecting the towns of Portadown and Newry. It follows the towpath of the oldest canal in the British Isles, opened in 1742 to transport coal from County Tyrone to the sea. The Newry Canal Towpath offers an unparalleled cycling experience through the tranquil heart of County Armagh and County Down. This historic route, part of the National Cycle Network Route 9, takes you along a flat and largely asphalted path past fourteen monumental locks and characteristic lock-keeper's cottages. As you follow the waterway, you'll traverse a varied landscape of dense forests and open meadows, passing through welcoming villages like Scarva and Poyntzpass along the way. The path is a haven for wildlife; keep an eye out for kingfishers, swans, and otters that inhabit the reed beds. Whether you cycle the full 32 kilometers or explore just a section, the combination of industrial history and natural beauty makes this one of the absolute gems of Irish cycling routes.
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Added to the collection: komoot.com/de-de/collection/3600632/-naturdenkmaeler-besondere-baeume-und-weitere-schaetze-der-natur
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Silent Valley Reservoir, nestled in the Mourne Mountains, is a peaceful retreat surrounded by sweeping granite peaks and heathered slopes. Built in the early 20th century to supply water to Belfast and much of County Down, the reservoir combines striking engineering with natural beauty. Visitors can stroll along well-kept paths, admire the Victorian-style dam and impressive Mourne Wall, or simply enjoy the quiet atmosphere by the lakeshore.
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Hollie Berrie is a good place for refreshments on the route at Scarva
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The well-maintained trails take you through impressive scenery, surrounded by the striking peaks of the Mournes. The view of the Mourne Wall, which stretches for 35 kilometers and connects 15 peaks, is particularly impressive. However, some sections can become slippery in wet weather, so caution is advised. A highlight is a visit to Ben Crom Reservoir, which can be reached via an extension of the route. Note that there is a fee to enter the park.
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There are over 50 touring cycling routes around Creeve, offering a diverse range of experiences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.37 stars.
Yes, Creeve offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. A great option is the Lock Keeper's Cottage Ruins – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Newry, which is an easy 10.5-mile (16.9 km) path along the historic Newry Canal, offering a relatively flat and accessible ride.
For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Creeve features several difficult routes. The Ring of Gullion loop from Newry is a demanding 43.6-mile (70.2 km) trail with significant elevation gain, exploring the scenic volcanic landscape of the Ring of Gullion. Another challenging option is the Lily Finnegan's – Lookout Post 1, Ballagan Point loop from Newry, covering 53.5 miles (86.1 km).
Many of Creeve's touring cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Newry Canal Way Loop and the Newry to Jerrettspass loop on the Newry Canal Path, both offering scenic circular rides.
Creeve's touring cycling routes showcase a diverse landscape, from the distinctive hills of the volcanic Ring of Gullion to the flat, historic Newry Canal towpaths. You can expect open countryside, charming canal-side scenery, and areas of natural beauty. Notable attractions nearby include the mythical Giant's Lair, the serene Camlough Lake, and the historic Killevy Churches Ruins.
The best season for touring cycling in Creeve generally depends on your preference for weather and scenery. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful landscapes, with autumn providing vibrant foliage around areas like the Ring of Gullion. Summer is also popular, though routes can be busier. Winter cycling is possible, especially on the flatter canal paths, but requires appropriate gear for colder, potentially wetter conditions.
Yes, the routes, particularly those traversing the Ring of Gullion, offer numerous scenic viewpoints. The volcanic landscape provides elevated positions with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The Newry Canal paths offer picturesque waterside views and glimpses of historic structures like the Narrow Water Castle.
Many touring cycling routes in Creeve, especially those starting from Newry, offer convenient parking access. Specific parking information is usually detailed on individual route pages on komoot. Look for designated car parks near trailheads or town centers like Newry, which serve as common starting points for many tours.
Yes, many routes in Creeve pass through or near towns and villages where you can find pubs, cafes, and restaurants. Newry, a common starting point, offers a variety of options. Along the Newry Canal Way, you'll find establishments in nearby settlements, perfect for a refreshment stop during your ride.
The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Creeve, with an average score of 4.37 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse terrain, from the challenging climbs of the Ring of Gullion to the tranquil, flat paths of the Newry Canal. The blend of natural beauty and historical significance, along with well-maintained routes, are frequently highlighted as key attractions.
The duration of touring cycling routes in Creeve varies significantly based on length and difficulty. Shorter, easier routes like the Newry to Jerrettspass loop can be completed in about 1 hour 15 minutes. Longer, more difficult routes, such as the Ring of Gullion loop, can take around 4 hours 49 minutes or more, depending on your pace and stops.


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