The best road cycling routes around Altawark

While the guide focuses on moderate to difficult routes, the Fermanagh Lakelands offer varied terrain. Routes like the Lough Narye – Lough Barry loop from Cloghagaddy (53.8 km) or the Fivemiletown loop from Fivemiletown (50.6 km) are rated moderate and can be a good starting point for those looking for a less strenuous ride compared to the more challenging options.

For experienced road cyclists seeking a significant challenge, the Sliabh Beagh Cycle Loop is a difficult 100 km route with over 1180 meters of elevation gain. This route traverses hills and provides expansive views of the surrounding countryside, characteristic of the Fermanagh Lakelands.

The road cycling routes in this guide generally range from approximately 50 km to over 100 km. Durations vary based on distance and difficulty, from about 2 hours 17 minutes for shorter moderate routes to over 4 hours for longer, more challenging loops like the St Macartan's Cathedral – View of Aughintain Castle loop from Brookeborough.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Altawark are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Sliabh Beagh Cycle Loop and the Shannon–Erne Waterway Lock – Ballyconnel Lock 2 loop from Brookeborough, offering convenient circular journeys through the Fermanagh Lakelands.

Road cycling around Altawark offers diverse and picturesque scenery. Routes often weave through the extensive Fermanagh Lakelands, providing stunning views of Upper and Lower Lough Erne. You'll also pass through dense forests, rolling hills, and open countryside, with some routes offering glimpses of historic sites and geological features within the Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark.

Yes, the region around Altawark is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. While cycling, you might encounter highlights such as Carnmore Lough or Lough Antrawar. The broader Fermanagh Lakelands also feature attractions like the Marble Arch Caves, Cuilcagh Mountain, and historic castles such as Enniskillen Castle.

The Fermanagh Lakelands are beautiful year-round, but spring and summer generally offer the most favorable weather for road cycling, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. Autumn can also be stunning with vibrant foliage. Winter cycling is possible but may require more preparation for colder, potentially wetter conditions.

Many routes in the Fermanagh Lakelands offer scenic viewpoints, especially those traversing higher ground or skirting the loughs. For instance, the Sliabh Beagh Cycle Loop provides expansive views of the surrounding countryside. The wider region also boasts spots like the Magho Cliffs Viewpoint in Lough Navar Forest, offering panoramic vistas over Lower Lough Erne.

The road cycling routes around Altawark utilize the local road network, which generally offers varied surfaces typical of rural areas in County Fermanagh. You can expect a mix of well-maintained roads and some quieter country lanes. The diverse topography means you'll encounter both flat stretches and rolling hills.

While specific cafes are not listed directly on the routes, the Fermanagh Lakelands region has various towns and villages, such as Brookeborough and Fivemiletown, which are often starting points or pass-through locations for these routes. These communities typically offer opportunities for refreshments, including cafes and local shops.

This guide features 5 highly-rated road cycling routes around Altawark, showcasing the best of the region's landscape. These routes have been explored by over 20 road cyclists using komoot.