The best road cycling routes around Levally Lough

There are over 9 road cycling routes available around Levally Lough, catering to various skill levels. These routes offer a chance to explore the green, rural landscapes of County Mayo.

Routes vary in length and time. For instance, the View of rolling green hills – The Windy Gap loop from Massbrook Lower is about 26.8 miles (43.2 km) and takes around 2 hours. Longer routes like Crossmolina – Crossmolina loop from Levallinree extend to nearly 36.7 miles (59.1 km).

The terrain around Levally Lough is characterized by green, rural landscapes with gently undulating roads. You'll find a mix of sandstone and mudstone bedrock. Routes like the View of rolling green hills – The Windy Gap loop from Massbrook Lower can have over 485 meters of elevation gain, while easier loops like the Turlough Round Tower loop from Crimlin National School have closer to 196 meters of ascent.

Yes, there are several easy routes suitable for beginners. The Turlough Round Tower loop from Crimlin National School is an easy 21.4 miles (34.4 km) trail. Another option is the Crossmolina loop from Crumpaun River, which is also considered easy and covers 21.3 miles (34.3 km).

The routes offer scenic views of the surrounding countryside, including the possibility of seeing the majestic Nephin Mountain reflected in the lough. The area is known for its peaceful ambiance, green landscapes, and wetland plants.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the green, rural landscapes, the gently undulating roads, and the scenic views, particularly those of Nephin Mountain.

Levally Lough refers to two distinct bodies of water. The road cycling routes featured in this guide are primarily around Levally Lough in County Mayo. This region is known for its green, rural landscapes, and quiet roads, making it ideal for scenic road cycling. The other Levally Lough in County Galway is a unique turlough with different geological characteristics.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the The Windy Gap – Levally Lough loop from The Windy Gap and the Turlough Round Tower loop from Crimlin National School.

The best time to cycle is generally during the warmer, drier months, typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September). This period offers more predictable weather and longer daylight hours to enjoy the scenic routes.

While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't provided, the easier routes with less elevation and moderate distances, such as the Crossmolina loop from Crumpaun River, could be suitable for families with older children or those comfortable with road cycling on quiet rural roads.

Public transport options directly to the starting points of these rural routes may be limited. It's advisable to check local bus services or consider driving to a suitable parking spot near the route's beginning.

As the routes are in rural areas, parking is often available in small villages or designated lay-bys near the starting points of the loops. Always ensure you park responsibly and do not obstruct local access.