The best cycling routes around Corkhill
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riders
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Touring cycling routes around Corkhill traverse varied terrain, from serene countryside to challenging hilly ascents. The region features picturesque river valleys, such as the Lee Valley, and scenic coastal paths, particularly in West Cork. Cyclists can also explore forest parks and routes passing between loughs, offering diverse landscapes of hills, forests, and heathland. This geographical diversity provides a range of experiences for touring cyclists.
Best touring cycling routes around Corkhill
- The most popular touring cycling route is Cookstown loop to…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
53.9km
04:03
560m
560m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
20.8km
01:15
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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72.0km
04:22
540m
530m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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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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On this stretch of the Solar Walk in Davagh Forest near the OM Observatory a pretty stone bridge spans over the Davagh water creating a picturesque scene. It's also fascinating to note that this area is a Dark Sky Park, meaning it boasts exceptional dark night skies.
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It’s disappointing that the dirt trails through the forest are for mountain bikers only. As a walker, you have to stick to the tarmac roads - also used by the mountain bikes. It felt like there is an assumption that walking is more about an afternoon stroll with the kids and the dog. The forest is for the mountain bikers.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Corkhill?
Komoot features 8 touring cycling routes in Corkhill, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists. These routes vary in difficulty and length, catering to different preferences.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Corkhill offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. For example, the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort is an easy 12.9-mile (20.8 km) trail featuring gentle gradients and historical landmarks. Another easy option is the OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory – Red Trail – No Running loop from Davagh Lower, which is 6.4 km long.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while cycling in Corkhill?
Corkhill's touring cycling routes traverse a wide array of landscapes. You can expect serene countryside views, challenging hilly routes, and stunning coastal paths, particularly in West Cork and the Beara Peninsula. The region also features picturesque river valleys like the Lee Valley, routes passing between loughs such as Oak Lough and New Lough, and forest parks like Gortin Glen.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Corkhill?
Yes, many of Corkhill's touring cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the popular Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort, The Sperrins loop from Cookstown, and Maghery loop from Cookstown.
What historical sites or landmarks can I visit along the cycling routes?
Cycling in Corkhill offers numerous opportunities to explore historical sites. You might encounter ancient structures like Drum Manor House Ruins, the Beaghmore Stone Circles, or the ruins of a 19th-century workhouse near Clogher. The Lee Valley also features roadside memorials from the War of Independence. The Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort specifically highlights historical landmarks.
Are there any routes that offer stunning coastal views?
Absolutely. West Cork, including the Mizen Peninsula, is renowned for its breathtaking scenic cycles along Ireland's most southwesterly point, featuring dramatic rocky landscapes and expansive ocean views. The Beara Peninsula also offers beautiful coastal stretches, often with options to follow quieter local roads.
Can I find routes that pass through forest parks or offer views of loughs?
Yes, Corkhill's diverse terrain includes both forest parks and loughs. Gortin Glen Forest Park is noted for its trails and a scenic forest drive. Additionally, routes passing between loughs like Lough Fea, Oak Lough, and New Lough provide enjoyable cycling experiences surrounded by hills, forests, and heathland.
What are some challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Corkhill offers routes with significant ascents and descents. The Sperrins loop from Cookstown is a difficult 33.5-mile (53.9 km) path with varied topography and demanding climbs. Another challenging option is the Maghery loop from Cookstown, a 44.7-mile (72.0 km) trail through rural landscapes.
Are there options for parking near the cycling routes?
While specific parking details vary by route, many trailheads and popular starting points in Corkhill, especially near towns and forest parks, offer designated parking areas. For routes like those around Cookstown, parking is generally available in or near the town center.
What are the best times of year to go touring cycling in Corkhill?
The best time for touring cycling in Corkhill is typically from spring through early autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. While cycling is possible year-round, winter months can bring colder temperatures and more challenging conditions.
Are there any unique spots or amenities along the routes for a break?
Yes, cyclists can find charming spots for breaks. "Lover's Retreat" is a beautiful spot known for nesting herons and often has a coffee van. Many routes also pass through quaint villages and towns like Schull, Gortin, and Castletownbere, which provide opportunities for refreshments and rest stops.
How can I reach the cycling routes using public transport?
Cork City has developed cycleways that can be accessed via public transport links within the city. For routes further afield, public transport options may be more limited, but local bus services often connect towns and villages near popular cycling areas. It's advisable to check specific routes and timetables for public transport accessibility to your chosen starting point.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Corkhill?
The komoot community frequently praises Corkhill's diverse landscapes, which offer everything from serene countryside to challenging hilly ascents and stunning coastal views. Cyclists also appreciate the region's rich historical context and the charming towns and villages encountered along the way, providing excellent opportunities for exploration and refreshment.
Are there any routes that feature waterfalls or wildlife?
Yes, Gortin Glen Forest Park is particularly noted for its scenic forest drive that showcases waterfalls and offers opportunities to spot resident Sika deer. The varied natural landscapes throughout Corkhill also provide chances to observe local wildlife, especially in quieter rural and forested areas.
Where can I find refreshments or places to stay along the routes?
Many touring cycling routes in Corkhill pass through charming towns and villages such as Schull, Gortin, and Castletownbere, where you can find cafes, pubs, and various accommodation options. Some routes also feature unique spots like "Lover's Retreat" with its occasional coffee van, and there are mentions of camping spots along routes, such as those by the lake on the south side of the River Lee, for overnight stays.
Most popular routes around Corkhill
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