The best cycling routes around Lough Derg

Beautiful Café with sheltered outdoor area at McKernan Colour Mill. Great coffee and home baking.

Tuamgraney is a historic village in East Clare, situated on the shores of Lough Derg. It’s home to St. Cronán’s Church, one of the oldest churches in continuous use in Ireland. The village forms part of the scenic East Clare Way, a long-distance walking trail through the region’s lakes and hills.

Hardly any traffic, just a gentle breeze and the rustling of leaves accompany you on the climb. The inclines demand some effort, but that's precisely what makes it so appealing – the view, which opens up a little more with every meter gained, is well worth it. Once you reach the top, a green mosaic of meadows, fields, and rolling hills unfolds before you. In the distance, small white houses appear, nestled in the Irish landscape. The descent requires a bit of caution; the narrow bends and the sometimes rough asphalt surface don't allow for excessive speed. Enjoy the tranquility that surrounds you here and the sweeping views across the valleys. A place that shows you that you don't always need to take the most famous roads to have the most wonderful cycling experiences.

The view of Lough Derg from here is truly something special. The gently rolling landscape alternates between green pastures, dense forests and scattered farms - all framed by the gentle waves of the lake. Sometimes clouds pass over the hills, giving the scenery an almost mystical touch, while on clear days the sun lights up the fields and makes the colors glow. As you cycle along the narrow roads, you can feel nature setting the pace here. Cows graze leisurely in the meadows and from time to time deer cross your path, making the moment all the more impressive. The changing sky ensures constant changes in the play of light - perfect for a little break to enjoy the view in peace. The path is a little bumpy here and there, but that's part of the experience. Such detours are worthwhile, especially if you want to lose yourself for a moment in the lush green and the peaceful sound of the wind. A place that has its own charm in any weather – be it the clear air in the morning or the gentle twilight at sunset.

As you pedal, the view opens up over the sparkling lake, framed by rolling hills. The deep blue of the water contrasts beautifully with the lush green of the surroundings and invites you to take a short break - perhaps to enjoy the view of the lake and the passing clouds. The route runs close to the shore so you can feel the fresh breeze from the water. The route has a pleasant mix of flat sections and gentle climbs that are a bit challenging but reward you with magnificent panoramas. Keep an eye out for the swans that often circle the shore here. They add a touch of idyll to the already picturesque view. The tour is best enjoyed in the morning hours when the light lies gently over the lake and there is little traffic.

When touring Killaloe, the charm of the town can best be captured on the banks of the canal. The route runs along the water and always offers a view over the river to Ballina and the historic Killaloe Bridge. The soothing rippling, the boats gently rocking and the lush green banks can be wonderfully enjoyed from the saddle. The town itself is full of small cafes and restaurants - an ideal place to take a break or start or end the tour. The road itself has a few bumpy spots, but the scenery easily makes up for that.

A wonderful bucolic view. Farmland, Lough Derg, woodland, hills. Beautiful in any weather.

With grass up the middle of the road, you know it will be a quiet one. It's unusual to meet a car here. The climbs in either direction are steep, but as ever, the views make it all worthwhile.