The best cycling routes around Derrygonnelly

There are over 10 touring cycling routes detailed for the Derrygonnelly area on komoot, offering a range of experiences from moderate to difficult. These routes traverse diverse landscapes, including lakes, rivers, and extensive forest parks.

While many routes in Derrygonnelly are moderate to difficult due to varied terrain and elevation, there are several moderate options available. For instance, the The Big Tree – Carrickreagh Forest loop from Derrygonnelly is a moderate 23.7-mile trail that provides a balanced ride through woodland, suitable for those with some cycling experience looking for a less strenuous option.

Derrygonnelly's touring cycling routes feature a mix of paved and unpaved segments. You'll encounter varied terrain, including scarplands and hills, with some routes presenting significant elevation changes. Cyclists should be prepared for diverse surfaces, and some more challenging routes may even require pushing bikes on certain segments.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in the Derrygonnelly area are circular. For example, the challenging Carrick Lough – Roogagh Waterfall loop from Derrygonnelly is a 30.5-mile circular path that takes you around a scenic lough and past a waterfall. Another option is the Blaney – Shore Road loop from Blaney, a moderate 23.9-mile circular route.

The region is rich in natural beauty. Many routes offer views of the numerous small lakes and the Sillees River. A major highlight is Lough Navar Forest Park, where the Magho Cliffs Viewpoint offers dramatic panoramic views across Lower Lough Erne and beyond. You might also encounter features like the Roogagh Waterfall on the Carrick Lough loop, or explore areas within the Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark. For specific viewpoints, consider visiting Rossmore Point Beacon or the View of Lough Erne from Cliffs of Magho.

Absolutely. The area around Derrygonnelly is steeped in history. You can find ruins like the 15th-century Carrick Church, 17th-century Dunbar manor plantation castle, and other 17th-century ruins including Tully Castle Ruins. The Tully Castle Ruins – Lough Melvin loop from Heron Island is a challenging route that passes by this historic site. Other notable landmarks include the Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery and Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones.

While many routes in Derrygonnelly are moderate to difficult and can include unpaved segments or significant climbs, some areas might be suitable for families with older, more experienced children. The Fermanagh Scarplands Cycle Trail, for instance, is a dedicated gravel trail not recommended for family-friendly cycling or road bikes. For families, it's best to look for shorter, flatter sections or designated paths within forest parks, though specific easy family routes are not prominently featured in the more challenging touring options.

The best time for touring cycling in Derrygonnelly is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is typically milder, with longer daylight hours and less rainfall, making for more enjoyable riding conditions. However, be prepared for changeable weather, as is common in Northern Ireland, and always check local forecasts before heading out.

While specific parking details for every route are not provided, areas like Lough Navar Forest Park and other popular trailheads typically offer designated parking facilities for visitors. When planning your ride, it's advisable to check the starting point of your chosen route on komoot for any specific parking information or local signage.

The touring cycling routes around Derrygonnelly are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from 2 reviews. Cyclists often praise the serene lakes, winding rivers, and dense forests that define the landscape, as well as the diverse terrain that offers a good challenge. The opportunity to explore areas within the Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark is also a significant draw.

Yes, Derrygonnelly offers connections to longer-distance cycling options. The wider region is part of the EuroVelo 1 route, a long-distance coastal cycling path. A 250km section of this route, designed to take cyclists on quiet, scenic roads away from heavy traffic, connects Derry to Belfast, providing substantial touring opportunities beyond the immediate Derrygonnelly area.

Yes, the Carrick Lough – Roogagh Waterfall loop from Derrygonnelly is a difficult 30.5-mile path that specifically passes by a waterfall. Additionally, Correl Glen, adjacent to Lough Navar Forest, features native woodland and small waterfalls, which may be accessible via nearby routes or short detours.