The best cycling routes around Mullanahoe
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riders
3
rides
Touring cycling around Mullanahoe offers access to County Tyrone's diverse landscapes, characterized by rolling hills, lush countryside, and significant natural features like the Sperrin Mountains. The region provides varied terrain suitable for touring cyclists, from quiet rural roads to more challenging mountain backdrops. Gortin Glen Forest Park and Davagh Forest offer serene trails amidst woodlands and along babbling brooks. Routes in the eastern part of the county can also provide glimpses of Lough Neagh, adding a scenic dimension to rides.
…Last updated: June 25, 2026
9
riders
139km
08:08
560m
560m
Embark on the difficult Lap the Lough loop from Portadown, a touring bicycle route that spans 86.4 miles (139.0 km) with 1828 feet (557 metres) of elevation gain. This journey…
2
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.
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10
riders
127km
07:30
640m
640m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Mullanahoe
Tips from the Community
Small coffeeshop right by the river Bann, directly next to Sustrans Route 9 / Newry Canal Towpath. The cafe is practically on the roadside, making it a logical stop for cyclists following the canal path. The old brick building has a relaxed atmosphere; inside and out it's a place where cyclists and walkers cross paths. Ideal for a coffee, a small snack and a short break before you cycle back into the canal landscape towards Craigavon Lakes. Enjoyed the stop, but forgot the photo.
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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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The Round Tower is an impressive reminder of Antrim's ancient monastic settlement. Built around the 10th century as the monastery's bell tower, it is known locally as The Steeple. It stands 28 meters tall. The monastic site was burned down in 1147.
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A row of terraced houses just outside the town of Randalstown. An important military location, these houses could've been used as barracks or staff housing. The symmetry of these houses is very pleasing as you ride past.
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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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The paths are wide and perfect for families, as there are no cars to disturb you. As you glide along the car-free cycling and hiking trails, you can enjoy the view of the water - especially when the sky is cloudy, the lake has a very special atmosphere, almost mystical. The route is mostly asphalt, but there are also some gravel sections that provide some variety. These single-track paths add a certain challenge to the route without being really demanding. Ideal if you prefer to take it easy, but still don't want to just walk on smooth asphalt. If you want to take a break, the lake offers many corners to catch your breath and have a picnic. There is enough space on the banks to rest a bit and enjoy the surroundings to the fullest.
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Ground Espresso Bars Café is located right on the road, making it an ideal stop for cyclists travelling along the Newry Canal Towpath. Just a stone's throw from the River Bann, the small café offers a welcome place to take a quick breather. Here you can recharge your batteries with a cup of coffee or a small snack before continuing on. The atmosphere around the old, charming brick building is relaxed and inviting. Its proximity to the cycle path makes it a meeting point for cyclists and walkers alike. You can have a good conversation here or just watch the cyclists go by while sitting outside. Those who continue along the river soon find themselves in a rural landscape, accompanied by the Craigavon Lakes in the distance.
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A 430 acre mixed conifer forest that contains an owl conservation centre, deer park and several walking routes. Within the deer enclosure, there is the opportunity to quietly observe up to 25 resident fallow deer. There are also two small adjacent nature reserves at the forest edge on the shores of Lough Neagh.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Mullanahoe?
While Mullanahoe itself is a small townland, the komoot guide features 3 highly-rated touring cycling routes that explore the wider County Tyrone region. These routes offer a diverse range of experiences, from easy lakeside loops to more challenging long-distance rides.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, for those seeking a more relaxed ride, the region offers accessible options. The Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop is an easy 17.4-mile (28.1 km) path that follows the scenic Lough Neagh shoreline, providing tranquil views and flat terrain, ideal for a leisurely outing. Additionally, the Strule Valley Cycle Route in Omagh offers flat, family-friendly riverside paths.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Mullanahoe and County Tyrone?
Touring cycling around Mullanahoe and County Tyrone offers varied terrain. You'll find rolling hills and lush countryside, quiet rural roads, and significant natural features like the Sperrin Mountains. Routes can range from flat, dedicated paths along lough shores and rivers to more demanding gradients in mountainous areas, ensuring options for different preferences and fitness levels.
Are there challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists?
Absolutely. Experienced touring cyclists will find demanding routes that test their endurance. The Lap the Lough loop from Portadown is a difficult 86.4-mile (139.0 km) trail offering extensive views and significant elevation changes. Another challenging option is the Craigavon Lakes – Antrim Castle Gardens loop from Antrim, a difficult 78.7-mile (126.6 km) route through varied terrain. The Sperrin Mountains also provide challenging circuits with steep gradients and panoramic views.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes in the area?
Yes, many routes in the region are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Lap the Lough loop from Portadown and the Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop. The Sperrin Mountains also feature challenging circular routes, such as those starting from Gortin.
What are some scenic viewpoints or natural features I might encounter?
County Tyrone is rich in natural beauty. You can expect sweeping moorland vistas and dramatic backdrops in the Sperrin Mountains, serene woodlands and babbling brooks in Gortin Glen Forest Park, and glimpses of Lough Neagh, the largest lake in the British Isles, along eastern routes. Davagh Forest also offers a blend of forest trails and astronomical exploration at the OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory.
Are there options for off-road or gravel touring cycling?
While the komoot guide focuses on touring cycling, County Tyrone does offer options for those preferring gravel or off-road experiences. Lough Bradan provides peaceful forest trails suitable for hybrid or mountain bikes, with moderate loops through coniferous woodland. Davagh Forest is also well-known for its mountain biking trails, ranging from challenging red routes to family-friendly options.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Mullanahoe?
The best time for touring cycling in County Tyrone is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is typically milder, with longer daylight hours, making for more pleasant riding conditions and better visibility of the scenic landscapes.
Are there any routes that offer views of Lough Neagh?
Yes, several routes provide stunning views of Lough Neagh. The Lap the Lough loop from Portadown offers extensive views of the lough and its surrounding landscapes. The Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop specifically follows the scenic Lough Neagh shoreline, providing tranquil waterside vistas. Rural lanes in eastern Tyrone, such as those linking Cookstown to Pomeroy, can also offer glimpses of the lough.
What should I consider bringing for touring cycling in this region?
Given the varied terrain and sometimes unpredictable weather in County Tyrone, it's advisable to bring appropriate gear. This includes layers of clothing, waterproofs, a helmet, repair kit, sufficient water and snacks, and a fully charged phone. For routes in the Sperrin Mountains, be prepared for challenging gradients and potentially exposed sections.
Are there places to stop for refreshments along the routes?
While specific cafes and pubs are not detailed for every route, many of the cycling paths in County Tyrone connect villages and towns where you can find refreshment stops. Larger areas like Omagh, Cookstown, and towns along Lough Neagh will offer various options for food and drink. Planning your route with potential stops in mind is recommended.
What makes touring cycling in County Tyrone unique?
Touring cycling in County Tyrone is unique due to its blend of dramatic mountain scenery in the Sperrins, tranquil lough shorelines, lush rolling countryside, and quiet rural roads. The region offers a genuine sense of escape, with routes that cater to a wide range of abilities, from challenging climbs to peaceful riverside paths, all set within an area rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage.
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