The best traffic-free bike rides around Ballina Municipal District
4.3
(13)
154
riders
7
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Ballina Municipal District traverse a diverse landscape, featuring dramatic coastal cliffs along the Wild Atlantic Way and tranquil inland waterways. The region is characterized by the River Moy, picturesque lakes such as Lough Talt, and extensive woodlands like Belleek Woods. Cyclists can also explore the foothills of the Ox Mountains and the rugged terrain of Wild Nephin National Park, offering varied elevations and scenic vistas.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes around Ballina Municipal…
Last updated: May 29, 2026
5
riders
31.4km
02:27
400m
400m
Cycle the moderate 19.5-mile Gravel loop of Wild Nephin National Park, enjoying rugged Irish scenery and mountain vistas.
41.5km
02:29
300m
300m
Cycle the moderate Lough Talt loop, a 25.8 miles route around a glacial lake in the Ox Mountains, taking about 2 hours and 29 minutes.
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4.0
(2)
16
riders
76.0km
04:34
490m
490m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
20
riders
33.5km
02:05
160m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
9.25km
00:37
50m
50m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Large, quiet forest along the Moy with wide, sheltered paths and beautiful light between pines and old oaks. You ride through it smoothly without traffic. Along the way, you pass quiet landmarks like Belleek Castle and the old ice house. Perfect as a green corridor around Ballina.
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The cycle path through Belleek Woods takes you through a lush, historic forest along the banks of the River Moy. As you cycle beneath the dense tree canopy, you'll pass unique sights such as the Crete Boom (a concrete ship), an old ice house, and a mysterious 19th-century famine wall. This paved forest path is part of the Monasteries of the Moy Greenway and offers a safe, natural passage towards the historic abbeys further on. Keep an eye out for the rare red squirrels that thrive here.
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Moyne Abbey is a beautiful example of a late medieval Franciscan friary, founded in 1460. The ruin has remained astonishingly intact, featuring a slender central tower, atmospheric cloisters, and Gothic windows overlooking the sea. In 1590, the friary was plundered and burned by the English governor of Connacht, but the stone walls endured. Today, the site offers a serene tranquility and a unique glimpse into 15th-century monastic life, surrounded by green fields and the gentle waters of the estuary.
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This quiet little harbour is a small seaside resort that has still been preserved from tourism. The French General Humbert, who landed there with his troops to help with the rebellion against the English, had a lot to do with the undisciplined Irish troops, who only spoke Gaelic! The village has preserved a beautiful round tower (12th century) 25 metres high, which served as a refuge during an attack.
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The Killala Round Tower is an impressive 12th-century landmark that towers over the village at 25.5 meters high. This limestone tower originally served as a bell tower and place of refuge for the nearby monastic settlement. A notable detail is the doorway, located more than 3 meters high as a defense against raiders. Despite a severe lightning strike in the 19th century, the tower stands in full glory again after a thorough restoration, right next to St. Patrick's Cathedral.
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Rough cliff top on the north coast of Mayo, known for the vertical Dún Briste sea stack and the open, windy plateau above the Atlantic surf. You are literally standing on a straight cliff edge with wide views towards Ballycastle and the North Mayo coastline. The terrain is flat, open and exposed, ideal as a short stop on a coastal leg. Height: ±70 m.
4
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Lackan Strand (often written as Lacken), one of North Mayo's most impressive hidden sandy beaches. It is a vast area of golden dunes and a sheltered bay, surrounded by the rugged hills of Killala.
3
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Off-road, largely flat and surfaced with gravel or dust.
3
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no traffic touring cycling routes are available in Ballina Municipal District?
There are 7 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes featured in this guide for the Ballina Municipal District, offering a variety of experiences from easy loops to more challenging rides.
Are there any easy, family-friendly no traffic cycling routes in the Ballina Municipal District?
Yes, for an easy and family-friendly option, consider the Belleek Wood – Belleek Woods loop from Ballina. This route is just over 9 km long with minimal elevation, making it suitable for all ages. Belleek Woods itself is one of Europe's largest urban forests, offering a tranquil setting away from traffic.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see along these no traffic cycling routes?
The routes in Ballina Municipal District offer diverse natural beauty. You can cycle along the famous River Moy, explore woodlands like Belleek Wood, or experience the serene landscapes around lakes such as Lough Talt. The region also boasts dramatic coastal scenery, including cliffs and sea stacks, particularly along sections of the Wild Atlantic Way.
Are there any historical landmarks or attractions accessible from the no traffic cycling routes?
Absolutely. Many routes pass by significant historical sites. For instance, the Belleek Woods – Killala Round Tower loop from Ballina takes you past the historic Killala Round Tower. The wider region is also home to the ancient Céide Fields and the impressive Monasteries of the Moy, which include several well-preserved monastic ruins.
What is the best time of year to cycle the no traffic routes in Ballina Municipal District?
The best time to cycle in Ballina Municipal District is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is milder, with longer daylight hours and less rainfall, making for more enjoyable touring conditions. However, the region's natural beauty can be appreciated year-round, with proper gear for cooler or wetter weather.
Are there any longer, more challenging no traffic routes for experienced touring cyclists?
Yes, for a more challenging experience, consider the Killala Round Tower – Belleek Woods loop from Ballina. This route spans over 76 km with significant elevation gain, offering a demanding yet rewarding ride through varied landscapes.
Can I find routes that offer views of the Wild Atlantic Way without heavy traffic?
While the Wild Atlantic Way is a major route, many of the no traffic touring routes in Ballina Municipal District offer glimpses or access to its stunning coastal scenery. You can experience dramatic cliffs like Downpatrick Head Cliffs and the iconic Dún Briste Sea Stack, often via quieter roads or dedicated paths that connect to these viewpoints.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the no traffic routes in Ballina Municipal District?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Ballina Municipal District, with an average score of 4.2 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the routes, the stunning natural scenery, and the opportunity to explore historical sites away from busy roads.
Are there any routes that explore the Wild Nephin National Park?
Yes, the Gravel loop of Wild Nephin National Park offers a moderate 31 km ride through this rugged and beautiful area. It provides an excellent opportunity to experience the wild, untamed landscapes of the Nephin Beg mountains.
Are there any circular no traffic routes available?
Many of the routes in this guide are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Lough Talt loop and the various Belleek Woods loops, providing convenient options for exploring the district.
Where can I find parking for these no traffic cycling routes?
Parking is generally available in Ballina town, which serves as a convenient starting point for many routes. For routes further afield, look for designated parking areas near trailheads or key attractions, such as those close to Belleek Woods or the Wild Nephin National Park.
Are there any routes that follow river or estuary paths?
Yes, the Ballina Municipal District is renowned for the River Moy. You can enjoy scenic rides along the Moy Estuary Riverside Ride, which offers tranquil, traffic-free sections and beautiful views of the river, known as the 'Salmon Capital of Ireland'.
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