The best road cycling routes around Knocknanarny
4.3
(31)
1,635
riders
128
rides
Road cycling routes around Knocknanarny are characterized by varied terrain, including paved surfaces and segments with elevation gain. The region features prominent limestone cliffs and offers expansive views of the surrounding landscape, including the Ox Mountains and Lough Gill. Knocknanarny itself is a significant hill, rising to 1,073 feet (327 meters), and is surrounded by water on three sides. The area provides a diverse setting for road cyclists, from relatively flat circuits to more challenging climbs.
Best road cycling routes…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
4
riders
72.2km
03:07
470m
470m
This moderate 44.9 miles (72.2 km) road cycling loop from Newry offers scenic views around Gosford Forest Park, including Gosford Castle.
4.3
(12)
132
riders
58.4km
02:19
190m
190m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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4.5
(2)
80
riders
31.6km
01:16
130m
130m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. 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.
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.
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Tips from the Community
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.
6
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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.
7
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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.
5
0
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.
5
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Nice little cafe in the village of Scarva right alongside the Newry canal towpath, great for brekkie, lunch or just topping up the hydration.
1
0
Hollie Berrie is a good place for refreshments on the route at Scarva
0
1
A great little cafe set in the bike shop, with great coffee and a nice variety of sweet goodies.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Knocknanarny?
There are over 140 road cycling routes around Knocknanarny, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include easy circuits, moderate paths with varied terrain, and challenging climbs for experienced cyclists.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Knocknanarny?
Road cycling routes in Knocknanarny feature varied terrain, including mostly paved surfaces. Some segments may include elevation gain, while others are relatively flat circuits, such as the one encircling Knocknarea mountain. The region is characterized by visually striking limestone cliffs and offers expansive views of the Atlantic coast, Ox Mountains, and Lough Gill.
Are there easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Knocknanarny?
Yes, Knocknanarny offers several easy road cycling routes. There are 10 routes specifically graded as easy, providing a gentle introduction to the area's scenic beauty. An example of an easy route is the Newry Canal Towpath – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Poyntzpass, which covers about 19.6 miles (31.6 km).
Are there challenging road cycling routes with significant climbs in Knocknanarny?
Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, Knocknanarny has 18 routes graded as difficult, featuring significant elevation gain. A notable challenging route is the Climb by Rostrevor Forest – Warrenpoint Shore Road loop from Newry, which is 62.7 miles (100.9 km) long and includes substantial ascents.
What are some scenic viewpoints or attractions along the road cycling routes?
Road cycling routes around Knocknanarny offer stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic coast, the Ox Mountains, Lough Gill, and even Slieve League in County Donegal. You can also explore historical sites like the Scarva Village or enjoy the natural beauty of Camlough Lake. The Newry Canal Towpath also provides a picturesque cycling experience.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Knocknanarny?
The road cycling experience in Knocknanarny is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the stunning coastal paths, and the views of the surrounding mountains and loughs. The network offers options for different ability levels, making it enjoyable for many.
Are there circular road bike loops around Knocknanarny?
Yes, the region is known for its circular routes. The 'Knocknarea cycle route' is a well-known, mainly flat circuit that encircles the mountain, passing by the ancient Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery. Many other routes, such as the Gosford Park loop from Newry, are designed as loops, providing convenient starting and ending points.
Are there places to stop for food or drinks near the cycling routes?
Yes, the nearby Strandhill village offers additional appeal with its sandy beach and options for food, drinks, or ice cream. Some routes, like the Basecamp Coffee – Strandfield Coffee Shop loop from Newry, are even named after popular coffee shops, indicating convenient stops along the way.
What is the best season for road biking in Knocknanarny?
While specific seasonal data isn't provided, the varied terrain and coastal paths suggest that spring, summer, and early autumn would offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling, with milder weather and longer daylight hours to enjoy the panoramic views.
Can I find routes that combine natural beauty with historical sites?
Absolutely. The area around Knocknanarny is rich in both natural beauty and historical significance. The region features the prominent Knocknarea hill with Queen Maeve's Cairn, a Neolithic passage tomb, and the Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery. Many routes will allow you to cycle through landscapes offering views of these ancient sites and other natural features like Lough Gill.
How long do road cycling routes typically take in Knocknanarny?
Route durations vary significantly based on distance and difficulty. Shorter, easier rides can take a couple of hours, while longer, more challenging routes, such as the Climb by Rostrevor Forest – Warrenpoint Shore Road loop from Newry (62.7 miles), can take over 4 hours to complete.
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