The best road cycling routes around Lisdrumgullion
4.3
(33)
1,485
riders
130
rides
Road cycling around Lisdrumgullion features a landscape characterized by a mix of parkland, dense forests, and shoreline roads. The region offers varied terrain, including moderate climbs and rolling hills, suitable for different road cycling abilities. Routes often traverse areas like Gosford Park and follow coastal stretches near Warrenpoint, providing diverse environments for cyclists. The elevation gains on many routes indicate a landscape with undulating features rather than flat plains.
Best road cycling routes around Lisdrumgullion
- The most popular road cycling…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4
riders
72.2km
03:07
470m
470m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
64
riders
80.4km
03:22
480m
480m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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5.0
(1)
57
riders
56.9km
02:30
480m
480m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
41
riders
43.6km
01:53
300m
300m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
35
riders
56.1km
02:22
410m
410m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
chance to see statue of Newry born , first manager of Celtic F.C.
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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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Between the rustling trees along the Newry Canal Towpath, you'll encounter the tranquil ruin of a lock keeper's cottage. Once, this was the proud and bustling heart of the waterway, where the lock keeper stood ready day and night to operate the heavy wooden canal gates for passing barges. Today, only the robust stone walls remain, slowly being reclaimed by nature.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical difficulty level of road cycling routes in Lisdrumgullion?
Lisdrumgullion offers a range of road cycling routes suitable for various abilities. The majority of routes, 114 out of 137, are classified as moderate, featuring rolling hills and moderate climbs. There are also 7 easy routes for beginners and 16 more challenging options for experienced cyclists.
Are there any easy road cycling routes for beginners in Lisdrumgullion?
Yes, Lisdrumgullion has several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners. One such route is The Fairy Glen – Warrenpoint Shore Road loop from Newry, which covers 43.4 km with an elevation gain of 296 meters, typically taking around 1 hour 51 minutes to complete.
What is the typical length of road cycling routes around Lisdrumgullion?
Road cycling routes in Lisdrumgullion vary in length. Many popular routes range from approximately 40 km to over 100 km. For instance, the Gosford Park loop from Newry is 72.2 km, while the Climb by Rostrevor Forest – Warrenpoint Shore Road loop from Newry extends to 100.9 km.
When is the best time of year for road cycling in Lisdrumgullion?
The best time for road cycling in Lisdrumgullion is generally from spring through autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and more predictable. During these months, you can best enjoy the region's parkland, forest, and shoreline roads. Winter cycling is possible, but routes may be affected by colder temperatures and potentially wetter conditions.
What kind of scenery can I expect on road cycling routes in Lisdrumgullion?
Road cycling routes in Lisdrumgullion offer diverse scenery, characterized by a mix of lush parkland, dense forests, and scenic shoreline roads. You'll encounter undulating terrain with rolling hills and moderate climbs, providing varied vistas throughout your ride. Routes often traverse areas like Gosford Park and follow coastal stretches near Warrenpoint.
Are there any notable landmarks or natural attractions along the road cycling routes?
Yes, the region around Lisdrumgullion features several natural attractions. While cycling, you might be near areas like Slieve Gullion. Highlights such as Slieve Gullion Summit, North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, and Calliagh Beara Lough are within the broader area, offering points of interest to explore.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Lisdrumgullion?
The road cycling experience in Lisdrumgullion is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, which includes a mix of parkland, forests, and coastal roads, providing engaging rides for different skill levels. The region's natural beauty and well-curated routes are frequently highlighted.
Are there any circular road cycling routes in Lisdrumgullion?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Lisdrumgullion are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Gosford Park loop from Newry and the Basecamp Coffee – Strandfield Coffee Shop loop from Newry, both offering circular journeys through varied landscapes.
Are there any road cycling routes that pass by lakes or water features?
Yes, some routes in the Lisdrumgullion area offer views of lakes and water features. For instance, the region is home to Camlough Lake and Bessbrook Pond, which are part of the broader natural landscape. Routes along the Warrenpoint Shore Road also provide coastal views.
How many road cycling routes are available in Lisdrumgullion?
There are over 130 road cycling routes available for exploration in Lisdrumgullion, catering to a wide range of preferences and skill levels. This extensive network ensures plenty of options for both short, easy rides and longer, more challenging excursions.
Can I find challenging road cycling routes with significant elevation gains in Lisdrumgullion?
Absolutely. Lisdrumgullion offers challenging road cycling routes with notable elevation gains for those seeking a more strenuous ride. The Climb by Rostrevor Forest – Warrenpoint Shore Road loop from Newry, for example, features an elevation gain of 748 meters over its 100.9 km length, providing a significant test for cyclists.
Are there any road cycling routes that offer coastal views?
Yes, several road cycling routes in Lisdrumgullion incorporate scenic coastal stretches. Routes that include the Warrenpoint Shore Road, such as the Fairy Glen – Warrenpoint Shore Road loop from Newry, provide beautiful views of the coastline and water.
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