The best road cycling routes around Drumgar
5.0
(3)
452
riders
93
rides
Road cycling routes around Drumgar offer a diverse landscape for cyclists of varying abilities. The region features mostly well-paved surfaces, with some routes including unpaved segments. Cyclists can expect a mix of gentle gradients and more challenging climbs, with elevation gains ranging from under 1,000 feet to over 3,000 feet. The area is characterized by scenic landmarks and historical attractions integrated into the green landscape.
Best road cycling routes around Drumgar
- The most popular road cycling route is Roadbike loop…
Last updated: May 15, 2026
13
riders
35.0km
01:29
250m
250m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
9
riders
76.4km
03:22
680m
680m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Sign up for free
8
riders
40.2km
01:42
310m
310m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4
riders
68.0km
02:59
480m
480m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4
riders
74.5km
03:08
540m
540m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Drumgar
Tips from the Community
Nice little cafe in the village of Scarva right alongside the Newry canal towpath, great for brekkie, lunch or just topping up the hydration.
0
0
Hollie Berrie is a good place for refreshments on the route at Scarva
0
1
The small town of Scarva, nestled between green meadows and the quiet canal, offers a welcome break on my bike tour through Northern Ireland. Here you cycle on well-maintained paths past historic bridges and small villages that give you the feeling that time has stood still. The British flags fluttering along the side of the road remind you that you are in a culturally special area - a detail that reflects the identity of the region. The route is easy to cycle, the surrounding landscape is gently rolling, which makes for pleasant cycling. The view of wide fields and rolling hills invites you to slow down now and then and take in the peace and quiet. A special feature of Scarva is the annual Orange Order March, which transforms the village into a kind of open-air stage once a year and keeps the traditions of this region alive.
1
0
Navan Fort, also known as Emain Macha, is one of those places that literally breathes history. As a cyclist, you can feel a breath of the past here as you roll gently over the grassy hills. The site, rich in Neolithic, Bronze Age and Iron Age finds, is not only archaeologically fascinating, but also firmly embedded in Irish mythology. The kings of Ulster are said to have ruled here, and the legends of Macha, the namesake, are omnipresent. The gentle climbs around the fort are not too demanding, but give you space to let your gaze wander over the green hills - particularly dramatic when dark clouds pile up in the sky and cast a mystical atmosphere over the landscape. A detour to the visitor center is worthwhile: Here you can find out more about the exciting stories and the excavations that provide insight into Ireland's deepest past.
2
0
The Caledon Beam Engine is an exciting relic from another era that will accompany you on your tour through the Northern Ireland countryside. Nestled in the remains of an old wool mill, the beam engine tells of an era when the pounding and banging of machines shaped everyday life. Today it stands almost forgotten by the roadside and is a reminder of the region's industrial past. The ruin has its own charm - rusty gears, weathered walls and a feeling of time standing still. If you want to pause for a moment to take in the surroundings, this is an ideal place to dismount for a moment. This is not about perfectly restored monuments, but about the raw charm and stories that such places carry. Look out for the old inscriptions and the signs of decay that give the Beam Engine an almost sculptural appearance. This place is a silent witness to a time long gone and offers you a welcome change from the wide fields and winding roads of the region.
1
0
The dam is easy to cross and from there you have a great view over the lake and the rolling hills that surround it. The peaceful atmosphere is only occasionally interrupted by the gentle rippling of the water. The reservoir provides fresh drinking water to the surrounding area and the trout fishery here is controlled by the Armagh Angling Club - so it's an interesting spot for anglers. Even if you're not here to fish, the scenery is simply relaxing and it's worth stopping for a few minutes and looking around. The roads around the lake are easy to drive on but there might be a few potholes in places - nothing that would stop a real cyclist. Overall a nice stop to enjoy nature and take a quick breather before moving on.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Drumgar?
There are nearly 100 road cycling routes around Drumgar, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars.
What is the typical terrain and elevation like for road cycling in Drumgar?
The terrain around Drumgar primarily features well-paved surfaces, though some routes may include unpaved segments. You can expect a mix of gentle gradients and more challenging climbs. Elevation gains vary significantly, from under 1,000 feet for easier rides to over 3,000 feet for more demanding routes.
Are there easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners or casual riders?
Yes, Drumgar offers 21 easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. These routes typically have less elevation gain and are shorter in duration, such as the Roadbike loop from Armagh, which is 21.6 miles long with moderate elevation.
What historical landmarks and natural features can I explore while road cycling in Drumgar?
Road cycling routes in Drumgar often pass by significant landmarks and natural features. You can see the impressive Tassagh Viaduct, an old railway structure, or the historic Navan Fort (Emain Macha). The region also features green parklands like Gosford Forest Park and natural spots such as Seagahan Reservoir.
Are there any challenging road cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Yes, for experienced road cyclists seeking a challenge, Drumgar has 2 difficult routes. These routes often exceed five hours or feature over 3,000 feet of elevation gain, and may include unpaved segments requiring very good fitness.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling options in Drumgar?
While specific 'family-friendly' routes are not explicitly categorized, the 21 easy routes available in Drumgar, such as the Roadbike loop from Armagh, are generally suitable for families looking for a less strenuous ride on mostly well-paved surfaces.
What is the best time of year to go road cycling in Drumgar?
The region around Drumgar is enjoyable for road cycling during most of the year. However, for the most pleasant conditions, spring and summer offer milder weather and longer daylight hours. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, as some routes may have unpaved segments that can be affected by rain.
Are there any cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the road cycling routes?
Yes, some routes are known to pass through villages or near establishments where you can stop for refreshments. For instance, the Lottie's Café – Scarva Village loop from Armagh specifically mentions a café stop, and the Benburb Priory also has a cafe.
Are there road cycling routes that form a loop in Drumgar?
Many of the road cycling routes in Drumgar are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Glaslough Village – Glaslough Coffee Stop loop from Killyfaddy and the Ballysaggart Lough – The Mall, Armagh Memorials loop from Armagh.
What do other cyclists say about road cycling in Drumgar?
The road cycling routes in Drumgar are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 5.0 stars from 4 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, the integration of historical landmarks like the Tassagh Viaduct, and the variety of routes catering to different ability levels.
How long do the road cycling routes in Drumgar typically take to complete?
The duration of road cycling routes in Drumgar varies widely depending on the distance and difficulty. Easy routes, like the Roadbike loop from Armagh, can take around 1 hour 26 minutes. Moderate routes, such as the Lottie's Café – Scarva Village loop from Armagh, can extend to about 3 hours 20 minutes, while more challenging routes can take five hours or more.
Is public transport available to access road cycling routes in Drumgar?
While the guide focuses on the routes themselves, accessing trailheads via public transport in rural areas like Drumgar can be limited. It's advisable to research local bus services or train connections to nearby towns like Armagh and then plan your cycling route from there, or consider driving to a starting point with parking.
Most popular routes around Drumgar
Most popular attractions around Drumgar
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
