The best road cycling routes around Lough Arrow

There are over 19 road cycling routes around Lough Arrow, offering a variety of options for different skill levels. You'll find everything from easy loops to more challenging long-distance rides.

Yes, Lough Arrow offers several easy routes perfect for beginners or a relaxed family outing. For example, the Castle Baldwin – Ballinafad Castle loop from Castlebaldwin is an easy 15.3-mile (24.6 km) path with less climbing, providing a gentle ride.

Advanced road cyclists will find routes with significant elevation gains and longer distances. The area features rolling terrain and some routes include substantial ascents and descents. The Caves of Keash – Boyle Abbey loop from Boyle, for instance, is a 64.2-mile (103.3 km) trail with the highest elevation gain in the area, offering a demanding ride.

The best time for road cycling around Lough Arrow is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to September) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially wet conditions.

Many of the road cycling routes around Lough Arrow are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. A popular option is the Ballinafad Castle – Boyle Abbey loop from Lough Arrow, a moderate 38.7-mile (62.4 km) trail that circles through the scenic landscape.

Routes vary significantly in length and duration. You can find shorter rides like the Lough Key scenic road – Boyle Abbey loop from Boyle, which is 16.5 miles (26.5 km) and takes around 1 hour 10 minutes. Longer routes, such as the Caves of Keash – Boyle Abbey loop from Boyle, can be over 64 miles (103 km) and take more than 4 hours to complete.

The road cycling routes in Lough Arrow are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the prominent lake views, rolling hills, and scenic roads that define the area, as well as the variety of routes available for different ability levels.

Yes, the routes often pass by historical sites and natural features. For example, the Ballinafad Castle – Boyle Abbey loop from Lough Arrow takes you past both Ballinafad Castle and Boyle Abbey, offering glimpses into the region's rich history. The Caves of Keash – Boyle Abbey loop from Boyle also leads through varied terrain, with the Caves of Keash being a significant natural landmark nearby.

Parking availability varies by starting point. Many routes begin in or near towns like Boyle or Castlebaldwin, where public parking options are generally available. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for recommended starting points and parking information.

While specific cafes are not listed for every route, the towns and villages around Lough Arrow, such as Boyle and Carrick-on-Shannon (which is part of the View of Lough Key – Carrick-on-Shannon loop from Boyle), offer various options for refreshments, including cafes, pubs, and shops where you can refuel during your ride.

The elevation gain varies significantly. Easy routes like the Castle Baldwin – Ballinafad Castle loop from Castlebaldwin have a modest gain of around 140 meters. More challenging routes, such as the Caves of Keash – Boyle Abbey loop from Boyle, can feature over 670 meters of climbing, providing a good workout for experienced cyclists.