The best cycling routes around The Municipal District of Navan
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Touring cycling around The Municipal District of Navan is characterized by its location at the confluence of the Rivers Boyne and Blackwater, offering picturesque waterside routes. The Boyne Valley features scenic views and gentle gradients, while mixed woodlands are common along many paths. Although not mountainous, the region includes hills like the Hill of Tara, providing panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Dedicated cycling infrastructure, such as the Boyne Valley to Lakelands Greenway, further enhances the experience.
Best touring cycling routes around The Municipal District of Navan
- The most popular touring cycling route is Slane Castle loop from Navan, a 26.4 miles (42.5 km) trail that takes 2 hours 36 minutes to complete. This route offers views of Slane Castle and involves some climbs.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Maguire's Café at Hill of Tara – Hill of Tara loop from Athlumney Castle, a moderate 23.0 miles (37.0 km) path. This route leads to the historic Hill of Tara, providing rewarding views.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Bench in Kilmessan loop from Athlumney Castle, a 16.3 miles (26.2 km) trail leading through the local countryside, often completed in about 1 hour 32 minutes.
- Touring cycling around The Municipal District of Navan is defined by gentle river valleys, historical sites, and developing greenways. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy riverside paths to more moderate routes with varied terrain.
- The routes in The Municipal District of Navan are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 6 reviews. More than 40 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore The Municipal District of Navan's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
1
riders
42.5km
02:36
290m
290m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
56.4km
03:25
400m
400m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
13
riders
37.5km
02:19
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
5
riders
37.0km
02:16
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
19.1km
01:11
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
19.5km
01:11
150m
150m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
23.5km
01:24
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
13.5km
00:47
50m
50m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around The Municipal District of Navan
Tips from the Community
Footbridge over the Boyne Navigation near the Currach Centre. The towpath west of here is very nice for a walk but to continue east you'll have to use a section of road.
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currachs built by Ross van Boyne's Boats. Along the banks of the River Boyne at Oldbridge, you can admire the special currachs, traditional Irish boats that are handcrafted here by Ross van Boyne Boats. These unique vessels – with their distinctive wooden frame and stretched skin – are directly linked to the ancient history of the river. Ross uses his expertise not only to build these boats but also to let visitors experience the river as the inhabitants did back in the Stone Age. If you get the chance to see them on the water, you will witness a beautiful piece of craftsmanship that connects the Boyne Valley to its distant past.
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The Boyne River Greenway takes you on a relaxing journey through Ireland's history. This beautifully crafted trail follows the winding River Boyne from the vibrant quays of Drogheda to the historic fields of Oldbridge. You'll cycle through a landscape of lush woodlands and rolling riverbanks, far from traffic. Along the way, you'll pass information boards that tell the story of the legendary Battle of the Boyne. Whether you come for the nature, the fresh air, or the unique heritage of the Boyne Valley; this green artery offers a relaxing and inspiring experience for every cyclist.
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This historic lock, officially the Oldbridge Sealock but locally known as Tiernan’s Lock, marks the beginning of the canal section of the Boyne Navigation. It is the only lock on the route that is directly influenced by the river's tide. The robust limestone walls and the associated lock keeper's cottage form a beautiful ensemble of 18th-century hydraulic engineering. For cyclists, this is an iconic point on the Greenway: here you exchange the view of the wide river for the tranquil, green setting of the towpath. An atmospheric place where the history of inland navigation is still tangible.
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Take time to enjoy the peaceful stretch of the Boyne River Greenway as it follows the gentle curves of the River Boyne through the historic town of Drogheda. This scenic route also forms part of the Boyne Valley Camino, adding a sense of pilgrimage and heritage to your journey.
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Founded by the Cistercian order in 1147, Bective Abbey sits on the River Boyne, just outside Bective in County Meath. A Hollywood favourite, the Abbey have been used three times (so far) in major films. These are Captain Lightfoot in 1955, Braveheart in 1995 and most recently in 2020 by Ridley Scott's The Last Duel. The well-preserved ruin are free to access having been bought by the state in 2011.
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Bective Bridge is typical of the old stone bridges that cross the Boyne in this area. Just outside the town of Beative, it is the perfect counterpoint to Ballinter Bridge a bit futher down river, which makes a good walking loop.
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Beautiful old stone bridge crossing the River Boyne. Take a momnet to pause in the middle and enjoy the scenic view.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in The Municipal District of Navan?
There are over 30 touring cycling routes in The Municipal District of Navan, offering a diverse range of experiences. These routes cater to various abilities, from easy riverside paths to more moderate rides with varied terrain.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, The Municipal District of Navan offers several easy touring cycling routes. For instance, the Fox Covert loop from Athlumney Castle is an easy 19.3 km path. The Blackwater Park in Navan also features a family-friendly 1.4 km tarmac route along the River Blackwater, providing views of the town center.
What are some notable historical sites or landmarks I can visit by bike?
The region is rich in history and offers numerous sites accessible by bike. You can cycle to the well-preserved ruins of Bective Abbey, a Cistercian abbey from 1147. The Maguire's Café at Hill of Tara – Hill of Tara loop from Athlumney Castle will take you to the historic Hill of Tara, an important archaeological area and legendary inauguration site. Other attractions include Trim Castle, Newgrange, and the Donaghmore Round Tower.
Are there any greenways or dedicated cycling paths in the area?
Yes, the area is developing its cycling infrastructure. The Boyne Valley to Lakelands Greenway is a significant 30 km linear route starting from Blackwater Park in Navan, tracing old railway lines. The Boyne Greenway, including the Ramparts, is also a key feature. You can explore a section of the Boyne Greenway on the Boyne Greenway Cycle Path – Dunmoe Castle Ruins loop from Athlumney Castle.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around Navan?
The terrain around Navan is generally characterized by gentle gradients, especially along the picturesque waterside routes of the Rivers Boyne and Blackwater. While not mountainous, some routes, such as those leading to Slane Castle or the Hill of Tara, involve moderate climbs, offering rewarding panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Can I find circular cycling routes in The Municipal District of Navan?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Slane Castle loop from Navan and the Athlumney Bridge loop from Athlumney Castle, providing convenient options for exploring the region.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in The Municipal District of Navan?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 6 reviews. Reviewers often praise the blend of ancient history, gentle river valleys, and the developing cycling infrastructure, which offers engaging rides with cultural and scenic rewards.
Are there any routes that pass by castles or historic ruins?
Absolutely. The Boyne Greenway Cycle Path – Dunmoe Castle Ruins loop from Athlumney Castle takes you past the Dunmoe Castle Ruins. Additionally, the region is home to other historic structures like Trim Castle and Athlumney Castle, which are often incorporated into cycling routes.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Navan?
While cycling is enjoyable year-round, spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions with milder weather and longer daylight hours. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage. It's always advisable to check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Are there any routes that offer scenic viewpoints?
Many routes offer scenic views, particularly those along the Rivers Boyne and Blackwater. The Maguire's Café at Hill of Tara – Hill of Tara loop from Athlumney Castle provides rewarding panoramic views from the Hill of Tara, overlooking the surrounding countryside.
Can I find routes that include stops at local cafes or pubs?
While specific routes aren't explicitly designed for pub stops, many routes pass through or near villages and towns where you can find local cafes and pubs. For example, the Bench in Kilmessan loop from Athlumney Castle passes through Kilmessan, where you might find local establishments.
Is there public transport access to the cycling routes?
Navan itself is a central hub with public transport connections. While specific routes may not have direct public transport links at every starting point, you can often reach Navan by bus and then cycle to the beginning of your chosen route. The Boyne Valley to Lakelands Greenway starts from Blackwater Park in Navan, making it accessible from the town center.
Most popular routes around The Municipal District of Navan
Most popular attractions around The Municipal District of Navan
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