The best cycling routes around Ballymakeonan

There are over 45 touring cycling routes around Ballymakeonan, offering a wide range of options for exploring the diverse landscapes of County Down. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars.

Touring cycling around Ballymakeonan features varied terrain, from tranquil lough shores and river paths to rolling countryside. You'll find routes traversing open farmland, wooded areas, and coastal sections, with some leading towards the foothills of the Mourne Mountains.

Yes, Ballymakeonan offers several easy touring cycling routes. An excellent option is the Loughshore trail route 2 — Moira loop, an easy 17.7-mile (28.4 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 50 minutes to complete, offering pleasant views of the lough.

Many of the touring cycling routes in the Ballymakeonan area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Moira to Lisnamintry loop is a moderate 31.3-mile (50.3 km) path that takes you through rural landscapes and small villages.

Along the touring cycling routes, you can explore various attractions. Consider visiting the Craigavon Lakes, or the Wave Sculptures Overlooking Lough Neagh. The Lisnamintry Rath Entrance also offers a glimpse into local history.

Absolutely. The region is known for its scenic water-side routes. The Shaw's Bridge – Lagan Towpath loop from Moira is a popular choice, leading through river valleys and along the Lagan Towpath for 45.8 miles (73.7 km).

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience around Ballymakeonan, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 15 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil lough shores to rolling countryside, and the well-maintained paths that offer options for both easy rides and more challenging moderate routes.

Yes, you can find routes that provide views of Lough Neagh. The Lough Neagh Shoreline – Bartin's Bay loop from Moira is a moderate 33.4-mile (53.7 km) route that takes you along the lough's edge, offering scenic vistas.

While Ballymakeonan itself is a townland, the wider County Down area is home to several forest parks like Tollymore Forest Park and Castlewellan Forest Park. These parks feature lush woodlands and well-marked trails, providing scenic and shaded routes for cyclists. You can also find the Oxford Island National Nature Reserve near Lough Neagh, which includes forested areas.

The best time for touring cycling around Ballymakeonan, like much of Northern Ireland, is typically during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. This allows for more comfortable rides and better enjoyment of the scenic landscapes.

Yes, for those seeking a longer and more challenging ride, the area offers moderate routes that cover greater distances and elevation. The Loughshore Trail Route 2 - Moira Loop, for instance, is a moderate 18.9-mile (30.5 km) route with some elevation, providing a good workout while still being accessible.