The best cycling routes around Tralee
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Touring cycling around Tralee offers diverse landscapes, from coastal paths along Tralee Bay to the rolling countryside and the backdrop of the Slieve Mish Mountains. The region features a developing network of greenways, providing traffic-free routes. These paths often follow disused railway corridors, offering gentle gradients and smooth surfaces. The area's geography includes both flat stretches and more challenging terrain as it approaches the Dingle Peninsula.
Best touring cycling routes around Tralee
- The most popular touring cycling route is Ardboe…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
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riders
28.1km
01:43
140m
140m
Cycle the easy 17.4-mile Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop, enjoying Lough Neagh views and the ancient Ardboe High Cross.
53.9km
04:03
560m
560m
This difficult 33.5-mile touring cycling loop from Cookstown offers challenging climbs and stunning Sperrins scenery, including ancient ston
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20.8km
01:15
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
72.0km
04:22
540m
530m
This difficult 44.7-mile touring bicycle loop from Cookstown offers 1756 feet of elevation gain around Lough Neagh, taking about 4 hours 22
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riders
45.2km
02:43
330m
330m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Tralee
Tips from the Community
For cyclists following the 'Lough Neagh Cycle Way' (National Cycle Route 94), the Maghery footbridge is an iconic resting point and an essential link. This elegant, modern bridge spans the mouth of the Upper Bann as it enters the lough.
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As you cycle through the rolling landscape of County Tyrone, the Wellbrook Beetling Mill is an absolute must for a stopover. Situated in an idyllic, wooded stream valley along the Ballinderry River, this 19th-century water mill provides a stark contrast to the tranquility of its surroundings. This is the last working 'beetling mill' in the United Kingdom. "Beetling" was the final step in traditional Irish linen production: using enormous wooden hammers (beetles), powered by a water wheel nearly five metres high, the linen was processed for hours until it acquired its characteristic sheen. When the mill is running, you can hear the rhythmic thudding from afar – an impressive sound that takes you straight back to the industrial heyday of Northern Ireland.
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High above Cookstown, at the foot of the impressive Sperrin Mountains, you will find the Beaghmore Stone Circles. This is one of Ireland's most fascinating archaeological sites. Only rediscovered in the 1940s during peat cutting, the bog revealed a complex of seven stone circles, ten stone rows, and numerous Bronze Age burial mounds. For a cyclist, the road to Beaghmore is an experience in itself. The route takes you away from the inhabited world into a vast, quiet landscape where the wind has free rein. The complex itself exudes an enormous sense of peace and is the perfect place to get off your bike and soak up the prehistoric atmosphere.
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The Maghery Footbridge on the edge of Lough Neagh offers a small moment of peace in the midst of the expansive landscape. As you cross the bridge, your gaze glides over the gentle waters of the largest lake in the British Isles. In good weather, the clouds are impressively reflected on the surface of the water, making the scene look almost like a painting. Even when the sky is cloudy, the lake has a special atmosphere that invites you to linger rather than to quickly pass by. The paths around the bridge are mostly flat, but you should be prepared for occasional sections with unpaved surfaces. This could be a bit slippery, especially in wet weather, but this is not a problem. The connection to the National Cycle Network, Route 94, also offers you many other opportunities to explore the area. A little tip: Maghery itself does not have much to offer apart from the bridge, but a short detour to the nearby Oxford Island nature reserve is definitely worth it. This means you can easily combine a visit to the bridge with a larger circular tour.
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Beaghmore (Bheitheach Mhór), meaning ‘big place of birch trees’. The stones speak of ancient rituals and to a people who understood astronomy. When you visit this ancient site look up in wonder at the sky and reflect, that the people that built these monuments observed the same sky, sun, moon and stars.
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The church ruins date from the early 16th century but include stones from a much earlier pre 11th century church. After a new church was built, this one fell into disrepair, but the graveyard remains in use.
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An important historic site, Tullyhogue Fort is where the O'Neills were crowned the Chiefs of Ulster. It is now planted with trees and you can enjoy views across the countryside of County Tyrone.
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Built in 1802, Killymoon Castle was built to replace a 17th century castle which was destroyed by fire in 1801. James Nash was the designer, who also designed Buckingham Palace in London. Tours are available but must be pre-booked, as is afternoon tea in the castle tea rooms. See the website for more details https://killymooncastle.com/
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of touring cycling routes can I find around Tralee?
Tralee offers a diverse range of touring cycling routes, from coastal paths along Tralee Bay and the Wild Atlantic Way to serene rides through rolling countryside. You'll find routes that utilize the expanding network of Kingdom of Kerry Greenways, providing traffic-free and gentle gradients, as well as more challenging paths with greater elevation towards the Slieve Mish Mountains and the Dingle Peninsula.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Tralee?
Yes, Tralee has several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. These routes often follow the greenways, which are known for their smooth surfaces and gentle gradients. An example is the Ardboe & Lough Neagh loop from Coagh, an easy 28.1 km trail with minimal elevation gain, ideal for a relaxed ride. Another great option is the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort, an easy 20.8 km path that passes historical sites.
What are some of the more challenging touring cycling routes near Tralee?
For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the Tralee area offers routes with significant elevation. The Maghery loop from Cookstown is a difficult 72.0 km trail leading through varied terrain. Another demanding option is The Sperrins loop from Cookstown, a difficult 53.9 km route with considerable climbs. These routes provide rewarding views and a good workout.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Tralee?
Yes, many touring cycling routes around Tralee are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For instance, the Bike loop from Cookstown is a moderate 45.2 km circular route. The region's greenways also often offer out-and-back sections or connect to form larger loops, providing flexibility for your ride.
What scenic viewpoints or natural features can I expect to see on a touring bike ride in Tralee?
Touring cycling around Tralee offers stunning natural beauty. You can enjoy panoramic sea views along Tralee Bay and the Wild Atlantic Way, especially on routes like the Tralee-Fenit Greenway. The Slieve Mish Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop, and the Dingle Peninsula offers views of the Maharee Islands, Brandon Bay, and the majestic Brandon Mountain. For woodland scenery, Ballyseedy Woods provides enchanting paths and tranquil streams.
What attractions or landmarks can I explore along the touring cycling routes in Tralee?
While cycling around Tralee, you can discover several interesting attractions. Along some routes, you might encounter historical sites like Tullyhogue Fort or the Ardboe High Cross. The Lough Neagh area also features the Battery Marina. The Tralee Bay Wetlands Centre is another notable attraction for nature lovers, often accessible via local cycling paths.
How many touring cycling routes are available in the Tralee area?
There are currently 7 touring cycling routes documented in the Tralee area on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 2 easy, 1 moderate, and 4 difficult options, ensuring there's something for every touring cyclist.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Tralee?
The best time for touring cycling in Tralee is generally during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. This period offers the most pleasant conditions for enjoying the coastal views and countryside. However, with appropriate gear, some greenway routes can be enjoyed year-round.
Are there any specific greenways in Tralee suitable for touring cyclists?
Yes, Tralee is a hub for the expanding Kingdom of Kerry Greenways. The Tralee-Fenit Greenway is a prominent 13.6 km coastal route linking Tralee town with Fenit, offering stunning views of Tralee Bay and the Dingle Peninsula. These greenways provide safe, accessible, and traffic-free routes ideal for touring cyclists of all ages.
What do other touring cyclists say about cycling in Tralee?
The Tralee area is appreciated by the komoot community for its diverse landscapes and cycling opportunities. While specific ratings are not available for this guide, 4 touring cyclists have already used komoot to explore Tralee's varied terrain, indicating a growing interest in the region's routes.
Can I cycle along the Wild Atlantic Way from Tralee?
Yes, Tralee Bay forms part of the stunning Wild Atlantic Way, offering cyclists panoramic sea views and peaceful coastal stretches. Routes like the Tralee-Fenit Greenway provide direct access to this iconic coastline, allowing you to experience a segment of Ireland's famous scenic drive on two wheels.
Are there options for more challenging mountain cycling near Tralee?
While the primary focus is touring cycling, the proximity of the Slieve Mish Mountains and the Dingle Peninsula offers opportunities for more challenging terrain. The Dingle Peninsula, accessible from Tralee, features the rewarding Conor Pass mountain road, one of Ireland's highest, which provides breathtaking views and exhilarating descents for those seeking a more strenuous ride.
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