The best road cycling routes around Aghantaraghan
4.1
(22)
1,922
riders
79
rides
Road cycling routes around Aghantaraghan are set within County Armagh, a region known for its diverse landscapes. The area features a mix of rolling drumlin landscapes, particularly towards Lough Neagh, and the more challenging, hilly terrain of the Ring of Gullion. Cyclists can also find routes through extensive apple orchards, earning Armagh its "Orchard County" designation. This varied geography provides a range of road cycling experiences, from flat, traffic-free paths to demanding climbs.
Best road cycling routes around Aghantaraghan
- The…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
4.5
(2)
80
riders
31.6km
01:16
130m
130m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
28
riders
93.8km
04:07
860m
860m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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20
riders
72.8km
03:05
550m
550m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
16
riders
95.6km
04:15
940m
940m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
9
riders
40.7km
01:45
290m
290m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
The Crack Bridge, also known as Fearon’s Bridge, is one of the most characteristic stone arch bridges over the Newry Canal. This historic structure is located on a beautiful, secluded section of the towpath between Poyntzpass and Jerrettspass. This robust, semi-circular arch bridge from the 18th century is built from locally quarried stone and forms an iconic image along the Newry Canal Towpath. The bridge was originally built to give local farmers and their livestock access to the farmlands on both sides of the canal without hindering navigation.
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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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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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Nice little cafe in the village of Scarva right alongside the Newry canal towpath, great for brekkie, lunch or just topping up the hydration.
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Hollie Berrie is a good place for refreshments on the route at Scarva
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Aghantaraghan?
There are over 80 road cycling routes around Aghantaraghan, offering a wide range of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find everything from easy, flat paths to challenging climbs through varied landscapes.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Aghantaraghan?
The best seasons for road cycling in Aghantaraghan are typically spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). During these months, temperatures are mild, and rainfall is generally lower, allowing you to enjoy the vibrant natural scenery.
Are there any easy, family-friendly road cycling routes in the area?
Yes, Aghantaraghan offers several easy, family-friendly options. The Newry Canal Towpath – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Poyntzpass is an excellent choice. This 19.6-mile (31.6 km) route follows the historic Newry Canal, providing flat, traffic-free cycling with waterside views, ideal for beginners and families.
Where can I find challenging road cycling routes with significant elevation gain?
For those seeking a challenge, the region around Aghantaraghan, particularly towards the Ring of Gullion, offers demanding routes. The Trassey Road – Scarva Village loop from Scarva is a difficult 69-mile (111 km) route with over 1,100 meters of elevation gain, providing a strenuous ride through varied terrain.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while road cycling around Aghantaraghan?
Road cycling around Aghantaraghan offers diverse landscapes. You'll encounter rolling drumlin landscapes, especially towards Lough Neagh, extensive apple orchards (earning Armagh its 'Orchard County' designation), and the more challenging, volcanic terrain of the Ring of Gullion. Routes also feature historic canals and quiet rural lanes.
Are there any circular road cycling routes available?
Yes, many routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Scarva Village – Lackan Road loop from Scarva is a moderate 58.3-mile (93.8 km) circular path that immerses you in the countryside.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions along the cycling routes?
You can explore several interesting landmarks. The Newry Canal Towpath itself is a historic feature. You might also pass through Scarva Village, known for its charm. Further afield, the region boasts the ancient Navan Fort and the historic Armagh City with its Georgian architecture and cathedrals.
Can I find cafes or pubs along the road cycling routes for a break?
Yes, many routes pass through or near villages and towns where you can find cafes and pubs. For instance, the Lottie's Café – Scarva Village loop from Poyntzpass specifically highlights a cafe, indicating opportunities for refreshment stops.
What do other road cyclists say about the routes in Aghantaraghan?
The road cycling routes around Aghantaraghan are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from quiet rural lanes to challenging climbs, and the scenic beauty of the 'Orchard County' and the Ring of Gullion.
Are there routes that offer views of Lough Neagh?
While Aghantaraghan itself is not directly on Lough Neagh, the region's geography includes drumlin landscapes that roll northward towards the lake. The southern shores of Lough Neagh, accessible from places like Oxford Island Nature Reserve, feature gentle, mostly traffic-free routes perfect for lake views and birdwatching, connecting to quieter rural lanes.
Are there any routes that go through forest areas?
Yes, some routes incorporate forest sections. The Climb by Rostrevor Forest – Warrenpoint Shore Road loop from Scarva is a difficult 59.3-mile (95.5 km) trail that leads through forest and along a shore road, offering a diverse riding experience.
What is the general difficulty level of road cycling around Aghantaraghan?
Road cycling around Aghantaraghan caters to all levels. You'll find 13 easy routes, 52 moderate routes, and 23 difficult routes. This variety ensures that both beginners and experienced cyclists can find suitable challenges, from flat towpaths to routes with over 1,000 meters of elevation gain.
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