The best cycling routes around Ballymote
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Touring cycling around Ballymote, a market town in County Sligo, Ireland, offers varied terrain for cyclists. The region features tranquil lakes such as Lough Arrow and Lough Talt, alongside rivers like the Moy. Rolling hills and the more challenging ascents of the Ox Mountains provide diverse cycling experiences. Cyclists can find a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, including forest trails.
Best touring cycling routes around Ballymote
- The most popular touring cycling route is The Gate Inn – Fair Acres…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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25.2km
01:30
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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6
riders
58.4km
03:25
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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47.1km
03:02
560m
560m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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68.8km
04:14
610m
610m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Ballymote
Tips from the Community
Need water proof gear heavy rain Crumlin, I just cycled on as I’ve stated skin is water proof
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Perhaps the most significant development of the strike occurred when Sands entered the election campaign for a seat in the Parliament for Northern Ireland's County of Fermanagh and South Tyrone. On 10 April, after 41 days of hunger strike and to the great shock of the IRA leadership, Sands won the seat by more than 30,000 votes. His election sent shockwaves throughout Ireland and within the British government. After all, Britain's criminalisation policy was based on its claims that the IRA had little public support and was a gang of renegade criminals. Despite Sands' new political status as an MP and mounting public pressure, the British government under Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher refused to take even a step towards reconciliation. Sands' condition continued to deteriorate and he remained confined to the prison infirmary. Eventually, on 3 May, Sands fell into a coma. His family was called to visit and on Tuesday, May 5, 1981, Sands died after 66 days on hunger strike. Sands' death sparked enormous reactions around the world. Hundreds of thousands demonstrated in support of the prisoners' demands, the US government issued a statement of "deep regret", Irish unions went on strike, newspapers around the world condemned Thatcher's "glory" in allowing a parliamentary colleague to die, and riots broke out in the streets of Northern Ireland. His funeral procession was attended by more than 100,000 people. After Sands, nine more prisoners died before the hunger strike was finally ended on October 3, 1981. Shortly afterwards, all prisoners were granted reforms that largely met their demands.(Source: https://www.britannica.com/biography/Bobby-Sands)
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Robert Gerard Sands (Irish: Roibeárd Gearóid Ó Seachnasaigh; [2] 9 March 1954 – 5 May 1981) was a member of the Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA) who died on hunger strike while imprisoned in HM Prison Maze in Northern Ireland. Sands was involved in planning the 1976 bombing of the Balmoral Furniture Company in Dunmurry, which was followed by a gun battle with the Royal Ulster Constabulary. Sands was arrested during an escape attempt and sentenced to 14 years' imprisonment for possession of weapons. He was the leader of the 1981 hunger strike in which Irish republican prisoners protested against the abolition of Special Category Status. During Sands' strike he was elected to the British Parliament as a candidate of the Anti-H-Block movement. [3] [4] His death and that of nine other hunger strikers was followed by a wave of IRA recruitment and activity. International media coverage drew attention to the hunger strikers and the republican movement in general, drawing both praise and criticism. (Source: Wikipedia)
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The Garden of Remembrance (Irish: An Gairdín Cuimhneacháin) is a memorial garden in Belfast, Northern Ireland, dedicated to members of the Irish Republican Army killed during the Northern Ireland conflict, as well as civilians and deceased former prisoners. It is located on the Falls Road, which was historically a predominantly Irish Republican area during the conflict (source: Wikipedia).
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Bobby Sands is pretty omnipresent. A very well-known and popular personality.
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The Castle has over 100 acres of ornamental lawns, peaceful woodlands and picturesque glens to discover. Dogs are not permitted within the gardens and café unless they are trained assistance dogs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Ballymote?
There are 6 touring cycling routes available around Ballymote. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 1 easy, 3 moderate, and 2 difficult trails, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists.
What types of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Ballymote?
Ballymote's touring cycling routes offer a varied terrain. You can expect a mix of tranquil lakesides, rolling hills, and the more challenging ascents of the Ox Mountains. Routes may include both paved and unpaved surfaces, such as forest trails and bog lands, providing a dynamic cycling experience.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Ballymote?
Yes, Ballymote offers easy touring cycling routes. For instance, the Broad Water Riverside Path – Broad Water Cycle Path loop from Aghalee is an easy 14.7 km (9.1 miles) trail, perfect for those looking for a less strenuous ride. The region generally provides options for different ability levels, including family-friendly loops.
What historical sites or natural landmarks can I explore while cycling near Ballymote?
While cycling near Ballymote, you can encounter several historical and natural landmarks. The region is home to the well-preserved 14th-century Ballymote Castle. You might also pass by the ancient Carrowkeel Neolithic Cemetery, offering impressive stone tombs and panoramic views, or the historic Caves of Keash. Tranquil lakes like Lough Arrow and Lough Talt also feature prominently in many routes.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes in the Ballymote area?
Yes, for experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Ballymote offers more difficult routes. An example is the Bobby Sands mural loop from Crumlin, a 47.1 km (29.3 miles) trail that includes significant elevation changes, making it a demanding ride through varied terrain.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Ballymote?
The touring cycling routes in Ballymote are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.0 stars. Over 27 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the varied terrain and the scenic beauty of the lakes and rolling hills.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available around Ballymote?
Many of the touring cycling routes around Ballymote are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. For example, the The Gate Inn – Fair Acres Campsite loop from Hillsborough Castle is a popular moderate 62.5 km (38.8 miles) circular route that allows you to start and finish at the same point.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Ballymote?
The best time to go touring cycling in Ballymote generally aligns with milder weather conditions. Spring and summer (May to September) typically offer more pleasant temperatures and longer daylight hours, making them ideal for exploring the region's diverse landscapes. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Is public transport available to access cycling routes in Ballymote, and can I bring my bike?
Public transport options to Ballymote and surrounding areas are available, though carrying bikes can vary. It's advisable to check with specific bus or train operators in County Sligo regarding their policies on transporting bicycles, especially during peak times, as space may be limited.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes near Ballymote?
Parking for touring cycling routes around Ballymote is typically available in or near the town center, as well as at popular starting points for specific trails. Look for designated car parks in Ballymote town or at key attractions like Ballymote Castle or the Caves of Keash, which often serve as convenient access points for cyclists.
Are there any routes that offer views of the lakes in the Ballymote region?
Absolutely. The Ballymote region is dotted with tranquil lakes, and many routes are designed to showcase them. The View of Lough Shore – Antrim Castle Gardens loop from Ballinderry Upper, for instance, offers extensive views of the lough shore. Other routes pass by Lough Arrow, Lough Talt, and Lough Easkey, providing picturesque lakeside cycling experiences.
Are there any routes that pass through the Ox Mountains?
Yes, the scenic Ox Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop and more challenging climbs for touring cyclists in the Ballymote area. While specific routes listed here might not explicitly name the Ox Mountains, the region research indicates that trails like the Coolaney and Knockalongy loop from Easky Tower lead through these mountains, offering stunning views and a more rigorous ride.
Most popular routes around Ballymote
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