The best road cycling routes around Clongowna
102
riders
35
rides
Road cycling routes around Clongowna traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills and lush farmland, offering varied terrain for cyclists. The region features quiet roads and laneways, providing a smooth ride through rural villages. Elevations range from gentle slopes to more demanding climbs, with routes often following river valleys. This area provides a mix of tranquil rural roads and challenging sections.
Best road cycling routes around Clongowna
- The most popular road cycling route is Newbliss and Rockcorry Loop from Clones…
Last updated: May 16, 2026
2
riders
42.3km
01:45
290m
300m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
6
riders
37.8km
01:35
260m
260m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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4
riders
46.7km
02:01
410m
410m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4
riders
38.6km
01:39
280m
280m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4
riders
65.7km
02:44
410m
410m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Clongowna
Tips from the Community
Known locally as the "Wee Abbey", Clones Abbey is a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century. The original abbey was founded by St. Tigernach as early as the 6th century. However, the abbey was destroyed by fire not once, but four times during its history. In the 16th century, the abbey suffered once again during the suppression of monasteries and Protestant reformation under Henry VIII. Less than a hundred years later, it lay in ruin, although some solitary monks still lived here until the 18th century. Today, you can visit the crumbling walls and take a look at the interesting graveyard. The abbey is free to visit and you can access it any time.
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The round tower in Clones was originally built around the 10th century as part of the abbey. Although it would once have stood at 75 feet (23 m), the top part is now missing. Nonetheless, it is still a prominent feature on Clones' skyline. There would once have been four storeys, including a bell storey. St Tierney's graveyard, which surrounds the tower, is also an interesting place to explore with many 17th and 18th-century gravestones and the tomb shrine of St Tighernach.
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Known locally as the "Wee Abbey", Clones Abbey is a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century. The original abbey was founded by St. Tigernach as early as the 6th century. However, the abbey was destroyed by fire not once, but four times during its history. In the 16th century, the abbey suffered once again during the suppression of monasteries and Protestant reformation under Henry VIII. Less than a hundred years later, it lay in ruin, although some solitary monks still lived here until the 18th century. Today, you can visit the crumbling walls and take a look at the interesting graveyard. The abbey is free to visit and you can access it any time.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Clongowna?
There are nearly 40 road cycling routes available around Clongowna on komoot, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists of all levels. This includes 18 easy routes, 19 moderate routes, and 2 more challenging options.
Are there easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Clongowna?
Yes, Clongowna offers a good selection of easy road cycling routes, with 18 trails specifically rated as easy. Routes like the Newbliss and Rockcorry Loop from Clones (42.3 km) and the Clones Round Tower – Clones 'Wee' Abbey loop from Clones (37.8 km) provide gentle gradients through rural landscapes, perfect for those new to road cycling or looking for a relaxed ride.
What are some longer distance road cycling routes near Clongowna?
For those seeking longer rides, Clongowna and the wider County Kilkenny region offer several options. The Lough Nanarragh – Putiaghan Lough loop from Scotshouse is a moderate 65.7 km route. The East Kilkenny Cycle Route, while not a single komoot tour, is a self-guided 64 km route connecting towns like Gowran and Graiguenamanagh, offering stunning views of Brandon Hill and the Rivers Barrow and Nore.
Are there any challenging road bike climbs near Clongowna?
While Clongowna itself features rolling hills, the broader County Kilkenny area, often called the 'Provence of Ireland,' includes more demanding journeys with significant elevation gains. Brandon Hill, for instance, offers challenging climbs for experienced cyclists looking for tougher ascents.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see on road cycling routes around Clongowna?
Road cycling routes around Clongowna traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills and lush green farmland. You'll experience quiet rural roads and laneways, often following river valleys like the Barrow and Nore, providing picturesque views and a mix of tranquil and varied terrain.
Are there circular road bike routes available in Clongowna?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Clongowna are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Newbliss and Rockcorry Loop from Clones and the Drumeena Lough – Killoughter loop from Scotshouse, which offer convenient round trips through the countryside.
What is the best time of year for road biking in Clongowna?
County Kilkenny generally offers excellent cycling conditions, with good road surfaces. The best time of year for road biking is typically during the warmer, drier months from late spring to early autumn (May to September), when the weather is most favorable for enjoying the scenic routes and outdoor activities.
Are there scenic road bike routes with viewpoints around Clongowna?
Absolutely. The region is known for its scenic beauty. Many routes offer stunning views of the lush green farmland and rolling hills. The East Kilkenny Cycle Route, for example, provides views of Brandon Hill and the River Barrow, while other routes pass by natural features like Lough Nanarragh and Dunmore Cave, offering picturesque stops.
What historical sites or attractions can I see along road cycling routes in County Kilkenny?
County Kilkenny is rich in history. Cyclists can pass by and visit numerous historic sites, such as Kilkenny Castle, dating back to the 12th century, and the historic Kells Priory. The Clones Round Tower – Clones 'Wee' Abbey loop from Clones specifically features historic sites along its path.
Where can I find more information about cycling in the wider Kilkenny region?
For additional information on cycling routes and networks across County Kilkenny, including details on various cycle loops and greenway developments, you can visit the official tourism website: visitkilkenny.ie.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Clongowna?
Road cyclists using komoot often praise the varied terrain and the tranquility of the rural roads around Clongowna. The region's mix of gentle slopes and more demanding sections, combined with its picturesque green farmland, makes it an appealing destination for different ability levels.
Most popular routes around Clongowna
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