The best cycling routes around Lissummon
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(35)
593
riders
55
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Touring cycling around Lissummon, located within Northern Ireland's Mourne Gullion Strangford region, offers varied landscapes characterized by gentle rolling hills, wide fields, and lush green meadows. The area provides a network of well-maintained routes, including the Newry Canal Path, which offers a relaxed, traffic-free experience. Cyclists can expect a mix of tranquil, expansive scenery and routes with moderate elevation changes.
Best touring cycling routes around Lissummon
- The most popular touring cycling route is Newry Canal Path – Newry Canal Towpath…
Last updated: June 27, 2026
1
riders
39.6km
02:26
380m
380m
Cycle the moderate 24.6-mile Newry to 'The Old Oak' Kilbroney Park loop, a touring bicycle route offering scenic views and challenging terra
107km
06:54
1,290m
1,290m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(12)
97
riders
51.7km
02:56
130m
130m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
73
riders
44.1km
02:32
150m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
59
riders
44.9km
02:41
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This charming seaside town overlooks the Mourne Mountains, whose silhouette rises along the coast of Northern Ireland. Carlingford is very lively at weekends thanks to its many pubs and restaurants, which attract visitors from the north, and is famous for its oysters. The village has several historical sights, such as the small King John's Castle, with its romantic silhouette overlooking the sea, and Taaffe's Castle, a former 16th-century merchant's house located a little further from the quay.
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The Tholsel is undoubtedly one of the most unique structures in the heart of Carlingford. This medieval city gate, originally built in the 15th century, is the only remaining gate from the original town wall and served for centuries as the ceremonial and administrative entrance to the town.
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Above the medieval street pattern, which dominates the silhouette of Carlingford, stands the imposing ruin of Carlingford Castle, also known as King John’s Castle. This castle was built around 1190 by the Norman knight Hugh de Lacy and was for centuries the strategic key to the entrance of Carlingford Lough.
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Small, elevated Calvary hill on the edge of Omeath, with a short path leading up to a series of white crosses on an open grassy plateau. The spot offers a quiet moment above the village, with clear views towards Carlingford Lough and the surrounding hills.
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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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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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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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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Lissummon?
There are over 50 touring cycling routes around Lissummon, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find options ranging from easy, flat rides to more challenging loops with significant elevation.
What kind of landscapes can I expect while touring cycling near Lissummon?
Lissummon offers a serene and picturesque landscape for touring cyclists. You can expect to ride through lush green meadows, past peaceful grazing cows, and across wide fields with gently rolling hills. The area is known for its tranquil atmosphere and expansive skies, particularly along the Newry Canal Path.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Lissummon?
Yes, Lissummon has several easy touring cycling routes, with 8 routes specifically rated as easy. A great option for beginners and families is the Scarva Village – Newry Canal Path loop from Poyntzpass, which is just 5.7 miles (9.2 km) and leads through the historic Scarva village and along the Newry Canal. Another easy choice is the Lock Keeper's Cottage Ruins – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Bessbrook, offering a relaxed ride along the canal.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes around Lissummon?
For those seeking a challenge, Lissummon and the surrounding Mourne Gullion Strangford region offer 24 routes rated as difficult. A notable challenging route is the Newry to Castlewellan loop, which covers over 100 km and features significant elevation gains, providing a demanding yet rewarding experience.
What do other cyclists say about touring cycling in Lissummon?
The touring cycling routes around Lissummon are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the peaceful, green landscapes, the well-maintained paths, and the tranquil experience offered by routes like the Newry Canal Path.
Which touring cycling routes offer a traffic-free experience?
The Newry Canal Path is a significant highlight for touring cyclists seeking a traffic-free experience. It offers a relaxed, green, and smooth route, perfect for covering miles while enjoying nature. The Newry Canal Path – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Lurganare is a popular 31.9-mile (51.4 km) route that follows this tranquil path.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available in Lissummon?
Yes, many touring cycling routes around Lissummon are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular Newry Canal Path – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Lurganare and the Newry to 'The Old Oak' Kilbroney Park loop.
What attractions or points of interest can I see along the touring cycling routes?
Along the touring cycling routes, you can explore various points of interest. The Newry Canal Towpath itself is a highlight, offering glimpses of historic bridges and small villages. You might also encounter Scarva Village with its historic charm, or natural features like the Cusher River and Camlough Lake. Gosford Forest Park, near Newry, also offers scenic views and includes Gosford Castle.
Are there options for food and drink along the cycling routes?
While specific cafes and pubs directly on every route are not detailed, the region offers various options in nearby towns and villages. Scarva, for instance, is a small town along the Newry Canal that provides a welcome break. For a broader culinary experience, the Mourne Foods Cycle Trail in the wider Mourne Gullion Strangford area showcases local artisan food producers.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Lissummon?
The region's lush green meadows and tranquil atmosphere are enjoyable throughout the warmer months. Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant weather for touring cycling in Northern Ireland, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures, allowing you to fully appreciate the scenery.
Are there any themed cycling tours or unique experiences in the wider region?
Yes, the broader Mourne Gullion Strangford area, which Lissummon is part of, offers unique experiences. For example, you can find self-guided 'Game of Thrones' cycle tours at Castle Ward, exploring filming locations. Additionally, the Mourne Foods Cycle Trail allows riders to sample local artisan food products.
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