The best cycling routes around Ballymoyle
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Touring cycling around Ballymoyle features a blend of natural landscapes, including Ballymoyle Hill, which rises to 240 meters, and its surrounding forest roads. The region offers varied terrain, from moderately challenging forest paths to coastal views and serene river valleys. Its proximity to Arklow provides access to a wider network of routes, including segments of the Wicklow Mountains. This area is characterized by a mix of paved roads and some unpaved sections suitable for touring cyclists.
Best touring cycling routes…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
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.
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 Ballymoyle
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
How many touring cycling routes are available around Ballymoyle?
This guide features 5 touring cycling routes around Ballymoyle. However, the broader region, including Arklow and the Wicklow Mountains, offers a much wider network of routes for all abilities.
Are there touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Ballymoyle and the surrounding area offer several easy routes perfect for beginners and families. For example, the Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop is an easy 28.1 km path with scenic lake shore views. Another family-friendly option is the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort, which is 20.8 km and features historical landmarks.
What kind of scenery can I expect on touring cycling routes near Ballymoyle?
Touring cycling around Ballymoyle offers a diverse range of landscapes. You can expect coastal paths, serene river valleys, and the challenging ascents of the Wicklow Mountains. Ballymoyle Hill itself provides magnificent views of the coastline, and on clear days, you might even see the Welsh mountains. The area also features forest roads and open countryside.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Ballymoyle area?
Yes, many routes in the region are designed as loops. This guide includes circular routes like the Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop and the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort. The broader Arklow area and Wicklow Mountains also feature numerous loop trails, such as the Rednagh Bridge loop and the Tinahely loop.
What are the options for experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge?
Experienced touring cyclists will find challenging ascents and spectacular scenery in the region. The The Sperrins loop from Cookstown is a difficult 53.9 km trail with significant elevation gain. The wider Wicklow Mountains National Park, accessible from Ballymoyle, offers demanding routes like the Shay Elliot and Slieve Maan climbs, and loops incorporating Wicklow Gap and Sally Gap.
When is the best time of year for touring cycling in Ballymoyle?
The best time to visit Ballymoyle for touring cycling is generally during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is milder and days are longer. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage. While some routes are accessible in winter, conditions can be more challenging due to colder temperatures and potentially wet or icy roads, especially in higher elevations.
Are there places to eat or stay near the touring cycling routes?
Ballymoyle's proximity to Arklow means there are various amenities available. Arklow offers cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. Along some of the longer routes, you may find smaller villages with local establishments to refuel and rest.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the touring cycling routes?
The terrain around Ballymoyle is varied. You'll encounter a mix of paved roads, especially on routes connecting to Arklow and within the Wicklow Mountains. There are also unpaved segments, particularly on the forest roads around Ballymoyle Hill, which are suitable for touring bikes. Expect gentle stretches, coastal paths, river valleys, and challenging mountain climbs.
Are the touring cycling routes around Ballymoyle dog-friendly?
While many outdoor areas in Ireland are generally dog-friendly, it's important to keep dogs under control, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife. The forest around Ballymoyle Hill is home to foxes, rabbits, badgers, and squirrels. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, particularly in nature reserves or private lands. On public roads, dogs should be on a lead for their safety and that of others.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions to see while cycling?
While cycling, you can enjoy views of Ballymoyle Hill itself, which offers panoramic coastal vistas. The Cookstown loop takes you past historical landmarks like Killymoon Castle and Tullyhogue Fort. The broader region, including the Wicklow Mountains, is known as the 'Garden of Ireland' and features stunning natural beauty, including various glens and lakes.
How long do the touring cycling routes typically take to complete?
The duration of routes varies significantly based on distance and difficulty. For instance, the easy Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop (28.1 km) takes about 1 hour 43 minutes. More challenging routes like The Sperrins loop from Cookstown (53.9 km) can take around 4 hours 3 minutes, while longer difficult routes can extend to over 4 hours.
Is there parking available for touring cyclists near Ballymoyle?
Parking is generally available in and around Arklow, which serves as a gateway to many cycling routes in the area. For Ballymoyle Hill itself, there may be designated parking areas for forest access. It's advisable to check local information or maps for specific parking locations before your trip.
Most popular routes around Ballymoyle
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