The best road cycling routes around Belhavel Lough

There are 6 road cycling routes around Belhavel Lough, all rated as moderate difficulty. These routes offer a variety of distances and elevations through the tranquil North County Leitrim landscape.

The terrain around Belhavel Lough is characterized by rolling hills and quiet country roads. While the immediate area offers gentle ascents and descents, the broader region, including the dramatic Sliabh an Iarainn mountain, provides more significant elevations for those seeking a challenge. You'll find a mix of scenic lakeside views and unspoiled rural countryside.

Yes, for those looking for longer rides, routes like The River Shannon – Tams Pier loop from Dromahair cover nearly 96.3 km, and Lough Allen – The River Shannon loop from Dromahair is approximately 96.9 km. These routes offer extensive exploration of the Leitrim countryside.

Many of the routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the popular Doon Lough loop from Sheskin is a 34.3 km circular route offering views of Doon Lough.

The routes offer picturesque views of freshwater loughs and the surrounding rural landscape. While cycling, you might catch glimpses of Belhavel Lough itself, and the broader region is home to natural features like Sliabh an Iarainn. The famous Glencar Waterfall, an inspiration to William Butler Yeats, is also within reach and could be a refreshing stop on a longer ride.

The region's tranquil nature makes it enjoyable throughout the warmer months. Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant weather conditions for road cycling, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures, allowing you to fully appreciate the scenic views and quiet roads.

While all routes listed are moderate, the quiet country roads and low traffic levels make the area generally suitable for families with some cycling experience. For traffic-free options, nearby Lough Key Forest and Activity Park offers dedicated cycling trails, which could be a good alternative for younger or less experienced riders.

The routes often start from villages like Sheskin, Drumkeeran, or Dromahair. These villages typically offer local amenities and potential parking spots, serving as convenient starting points for your cycling adventures.

Road cyclists frequently praise the tranquil, unspoiled countryside and the quiet rural roads that define the Belhavel Lough area. The opportunity to immerse oneself in nature, with views of freshwater loughs and rolling hills, is a key highlight for many visitors.

While the routes themselves traverse quiet rural areas, the nearby villages of Killarga and Drumkeeran, as well as larger starting points like Dromahair, may offer local amenities such as cafes or shops where you can refuel and rest during your ride.

The Dowra – Ultach Memorial loop from Drumkeeran is a popular moderate route, spanning 71.3 km. It takes you through quiet country roads, providing expansive views of the beautiful Leitrim countryside and its natural features.

Yes, the Creevelea Abbey – Lough Gill loop from Dromahair is a 49.0 km route that leads through varied landscapes, including historical sites like Creevelea Abbey and scenic lakeside views of Lough Gill, offering a rich cultural and natural experience.