5.0
(5)
349
riders
44
rides
Road cycling routes around Tirkelly traverse a landscape characterized by rolling terrain and rural roads, offering varied gradients for cyclists. The area features a network of routes that connect small communities and pass by local landmarks. While specific dramatic geological features are not prominent, the region provides a mix of open countryside and some elevated sections. Road cyclists can expect a blend of moderate climbs and flatter stretches across the area.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
28
riders
35.0km
01:35
390m
390m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
28
riders
38.1km
01:41
330m
330m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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20
riders
53.1km
02:30
680m
690m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
20
riders
54.4km
02:27
520m
520m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
18
riders
28.8km
01:15
280m
280m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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A great little cafe set in the bike shop, with great coffee and a nice variety of sweet goodies.
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When you cycle and explore Tollymore Forest Park, you'll find a diverse mix of nature and history. The trails are well maintained and lead through dense forests, along the Shimna River and past historic structures such as the Hermitage and the iconic bridges. However, some sections are quite steep and can be slippery when wet, so caution is advised. Signage could be clearer in places, making orientation difficult. Nevertheless, the park offers a rewarding experience for cyclists who appreciate both scenic beauty and cultural highlights.
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The crannóg is a man made island dating from around the Late Bronze Age period (from approx. 2000 to 500 BC). The Island was inhabited by the Magennis family in the 17th century, who had vacated a castle that is thought to have stood on the lake shore. It was also used as a hiding place for the Irish Rebellion around 1642.
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Forest paths along the Shimna river marked by many curiosities, both natural and artificial. Rocky outcrops, bridges, grottos and caves. Elsewhere in the park the tree lover can find exotic trees such as monkey puzzle and eucalyptus, or admire the tall giant redwoods and Monterey pines. Oak wood from Tollymore was the preferred material for the interiors of the White Star liners including the 'Titanic' which was built in Belfast.
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Great view of the Mourne Mountains and close to Tollymore Forest Park.
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Nice road - usually quiet and leading to opportunities to branch off on other quiet roads
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Fantastic views of the Mourne Mountains
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There are over 45 road cycling routes around Tirkelly. This includes a mix of difficulty levels, with 11 easy routes, 34 moderate routes, and 2 more challenging options, catering to various cycling abilities.
Road cycling routes around Tirkelly feature rolling terrain and rural roads, offering varied gradients. You'll encounter a blend of moderate climbs and flatter stretches, with some elevated sections providing a consistent cycling experience across the countryside.
Yes, Tirkelly offers 11 easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed ride. These routes typically have less elevation gain and cover shorter distances, allowing for an enjoyable introduction to the area's cycling. An example is The Yard Café loop from Rathfriland, which is 28.8 km long.
For experienced road cyclists seeking a challenge, Tirkelly has 2 difficult routes with significant elevation gain. One notable route is the Spelga Reservoir Hill Climb – Trassey Road loop from Rathfriland, a 53.1 km trail that includes substantial climbs and offers views towards Spelga Reservoir.
The road cycling routes in Tirkelly are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an impressive average rating of 5.0 stars from over 6 reviews. More than 360 road cyclists have explored the varied terrain, often praising the mix of ascents and descents through the local countryside.
Yes, Tirkelly offers several longer road cycling routes. For instance, the Lackan Road – The Yard Café loop from Ballyroney Road spans 54.4 km, providing a substantial ride through the area's rural landscapes with over 500 meters of elevation gain.
Many of the road cycling routes around Tirkelly are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include The Yard Café – Loughbrickland Crannóg loop from Rathfriland and The Yard Café loop from Moneyslane, both offering consistent cycling experiences on rural roads.
Absolutely. The region features routes with notable climbs and opportunities for scenic views. The Spelga Reservoir Hill Climb – Trassey Road loop from Rathfriland is known for its ascents and views towards Spelga Reservoir. Additionally, highlights like Slievenaman Climb and Spaltha offer elevated perspectives along some routes.
While cycling around Tirkelly, you can encounter several interesting landmarks and natural features. These include the prominent Hen Mountain and the scenic Slievenaman Climb. You might also pass by Leitrim Lodge, which is known as a Game of Thrones filming location, adding a unique point of interest to your ride.
The road cycling experience in Tirkelly is characterized by its network of rural roads connecting small communities. Areas around Rathfriland and Moneyslane are popular starting points for various loops, such as those incorporating 'The Yard Café'. The routes often traverse open countryside and include sections like the Lackan Road, providing a mix of gradients and local scenery.
Tirkelly offers a local network of road cycling routes characterized by rolling hills and rural roads, providing a pleasant experience for cyclists. While it may not be as widely recognized as some of Ireland's more famous cycling destinations, it provides a solid selection of routes for those looking to explore the local countryside.


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