The best cycling routes around Tullintanvally
5.0
(3)
83
riders
25
rides
Touring cycling routes around Tullintanvally traverse a region characterized by varied terrain, including rolling green countryside and areas with notable elevation changes. The landscape features a mix of agricultural lands, historical waterways, and proximity to more challenging hilly areas. Routes often follow established paths and roads, providing diverse cycling experiences.
Best touring cycling routes around Tullintanvally
- The most popular touring cycling route is Banbridge to Windy Gap loop — Mourne, a 30.6 miles (49.2 km) trail that takes 3…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
49.2km
03:08
610m
610m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
53.6km
03:16
450m
450m
Cycle the difficult 33.3-mile Banbridge to Craigavon Lakes loop, featuring scenic lakes, parks, and historical sites.
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5.0
(2)
42
riders
39.9km
02:21
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
50.4km
03:00
360m
360m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
riders
24.1km
01:28
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
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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This largely flat and completely traffic-free path winds through the heart of counties Armagh and Down, along the tranquil waterway that once formed the lifeline for transporting coal to the Irish Sea. As you pedal over the well-maintained asphalt or fine gravel, you'll be surrounded by lush green embankments, historic stone bridges, and the monumental remains of eighteen locks that bridge the elevation difference in the landscape. A mix of smooth asphalt and easily rideable fine gravel, suitable for almost all types of bicycles.
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Small coffeeshop right by the river Bann, directly next to Sustrans Route 9 / Newry Canal Towpath. The cafe is practically on the roadside, making it a logical stop for cyclists following the canal path. The old brick building has a relaxed atmosphere; inside and out it's a place where cyclists and walkers cross paths. Ideal for a coffee, a small snack and a short break before you cycle back into the canal landscape towards Craigavon Lakes. Enjoyed the stop, but forgot the photo.
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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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The entrance to Lisnamintry Rath (located on Ballygargan Road, near Portadown) is the gateway to one of the few officially protected archaeological monuments in this part of County Armagh. A rath is an early medieval fortified farmstead (c. 500–1000 AD) that formerly offered protection to families and their livestock against raiders. Not visible from the road.
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Hollie Berrie is a good place for refreshments on the route at Scarva
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Tullintanvally?
There are nearly 30 touring cycling routes documented around Tullintanvally on komoot, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists.
What is the general difficulty level of touring cycling routes in this area?
The touring cycling routes around Tullintanvally are primarily categorized as moderate to difficult. You'll find 20 moderate routes and 7 difficult routes, often featuring rolling countryside and significant elevation changes, particularly in areas like the Mourne Mountains.
Are there any beginner-friendly or easy touring cycling routes near Tullintanvally?
While there are no routes specifically classified as 'easy' in our current selection for Tullintanvally, many of the moderate routes, such as the Newry Canal Path – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Loughbrickland, offer less strenuous options. These routes often follow historical canal paths with gentler gradients, suitable for those with some cycling experience.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while touring cycling around Tullintanvally?
The region offers a mix of picturesque landscapes, including rolling green countryside, historical waterways like the Newry Canal, and sections with notable elevation changes, especially as you approach the Mourne area. Routes often pass through agricultural lands and offer views of lakes and distant mountains.
What are some of the longer touring cycling routes available?
For those looking for longer rides, the Banbridge to Craigavon Lakes loop covers 53.6 km, and the Craigavon Lakes – Scarva Village loop from Banbridge is 50.3 km. These routes provide extensive cycling through varied terrain.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Tullintanvally area?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the challenging Banbridge to Windy Gap loop — Mourne and the moderate Scarva Village – Scarva Village loop from Banbridge.
What are some notable attractions or viewpoints along the touring cycling routes?
Along the routes, you can discover several points of interest. Keep an eye out for the historic Loughbrickland Crannóg. For scenic vistas, the View of Cratlieve Mountain from Lighthouse Road and the impressive View of the Mourne Mountains from Windy Gap offer breathtaking sights.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes around Tullintanvally?
The routes in Tullintanvally are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from historical canal paths to more challenging climbs, and the scenic beauty of the region.
Is the area suitable for family touring cycling?
Given that most routes are moderate to difficult, the area is best suited for families with older children or those who are experienced cyclists. Routes along canal paths, such as sections of the Newry Canal Path, might be more manageable for families seeking a less challenging ride.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Tullintanvally?
The best time for touring cycling in this region of Northern Ireland is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September), when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. However, the varied terrain can be enjoyed year-round, with appropriate gear for cooler or wetter conditions.
Are there any routes that pass by lakes or reservoirs?
Yes, routes like the Banbridge to Craigavon Lakes loop offer waterside sections around the Craigavon Lakes. The broader region also features the Seagahan Reservoir, providing scenic views and cycling opportunities along its dam wall.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the more difficult routes?
Difficult routes, such as the Banbridge to Windy Gap loop — Mourne, feature significant elevation gain and traverse the more challenging hilly areas, including parts of the Mourne Mountains. These routes are best for experienced cyclists seeking a demanding ride.
Most popular routes around Tullintanvally
Most popular attractions around Tullintanvally
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