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United Kingdom
Northern Ireland
Ards

Ratallagh

The best cycling routes around Ratallagh

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Touring cycling routes around Ratallagh are situated on the eastern side of the Ards Peninsula in County Down, Northern Ireland. The region is characterized by its scenic coastal landscapes, offering extensive routes with views of the Irish Sea and proximity to Strangford Lough. Cyclists can expect a mix of flatter coastal roads and gently rolling hills further inland, providing varied terrain for exploration. Natural landmarks like Burr Point and Ballywalter Beach offer notable points of interest along the routes.

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Last updated: June 27, 2026

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#1.

Ards Peninsula half loop from Portaferry — Strangford & Lecale

57.1km

03:21

270m

270m

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

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Popular around Ratallagh

Road Cycling Routes around Ratallagh

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Tips from the Community

Alice Baddeley
September 24, 2025, Burr Point – Easternmost Point of Ireland

Burr Point marks the most easterly point on the island of Ireland. The spot is marked by a coastal sculpture by artist Ned Jackson Smyth. You can rest up in the sheltered cove which has a well-kept toilet and changing facilities close by.

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sm milligan
November 26, 2023, Kirkistown Castle

Built in 1622 by Roland Savage. The tower has had several alterations over its past. The neo gothic style was introduced in the early 19th century.

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sm milligan
November 26, 2023, Corrog Wood

Visitors to Corrog Wood will be greeted by a curious wooden sculpture of a Dryad. The sculpture has been affectionately named the ‘Frump in the Stump’. A dryad is a tree nymph in Greek mythology. The Dryad keeps a watchful, protective eye on the new wood standing at the entrance. Continue past the Dryad on through the little kissing gate and a loop pathway will be waiting to lead you around the 14-acre wood, where a mix of approximately 12,000 native trees and 400 metres of hedging have been planted.

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Quintin Castle is one of the few inhabited Anglo-Norman castles to be found in Ulster. The Castle was built in 1184 by John de Courcy, an Anglo-Norman Knight who had conquered substantial parts of Ireland from 1176. It is located in the Ards Peninsula, east of the village of Portaferry on the shore of the Irish Sea, The location hosts an unprecedented view of the surrounding landscape.

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The Marina is a nature reserve of unparalleled beauty, it is a good starting point on which to explore the Lough.

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Portaferry ( from Port an Pheire 'landing place of the ferry' ) is a small town in County down, at the southern end of the Ards Peninsula, near the Narrows at the entrance to Strangford Lough. It hosts its own small Marina, From where the The Ferry service operates daily at 30-minute intervals (7.45 am to 10.45 pm) between the villages of Portaferry and Strangford. The Lough being one of the world's most important marine sites with over 2,000 marine species. There are fine Georgian buildings in the town square, including a Market House, now used as a community centre. Portaferry Castle, a 16th-century townhouse ruin, sits atop a slope overlooking the Harbour.

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Your as far east as it gets. chapeau ! rest up in the sheltered cove. Burr Point is the most easterly point on the mainland of the island of Ireland. The point is marked by a sculpture by artist Ned Jackson Smyth. Just offshore is the intriguingly named Burial Island. Local stories say the name comes from a Danish burial reputed to have taken place on the island. The name might also derive from the Irish for cormorant, na broighill, or from the pronunciation of “Burr Isle”. well kept and fully enclosed toilet & changing facilities.

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Lovely place to rest. There are tables arranged outside to the right of the Abbey. Grab some supplies from the shop just up the road in the village, and enjoy the atmosphere. The Abbey is open 24 / 7. Grey Abbey is one of the best examples of Anglo-Norman Cistercian architecture in Ulster, and was the daughter house of Holm Cultram (Cumbria). It was founded in 1193 by Affreca, wife of John de Courcy, the Anglo-Norman invader of East Ulster. The remains, in the beautiful parkland setting of the nearby grand house of Rosemount, consist of the church with cloister and surrounding buildings to the south.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many touring cycling routes are available around Ratallagh?

There are 5 touring cycling routes available around Ratallagh, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars.

What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Ratallagh?

The routes around Ratallagh, situated on the Ards Peninsula, feature a mix of flatter coastal roads with stunning views of the Irish Sea and gently rolling hills as you move further inland. This provides varied terrain suitable for touring cyclists.

Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, there are 3 easy touring cycling routes around Ratallagh. A great option for an accessible ride is the Portaferry to Quintin Castle loop, which is 9.8 miles (15.8 km) long and offers coastal views.

What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see along the cycling routes?

Cyclists can explore several interesting points along the routes. Don't miss Burr Point – Easternmost Point of Ireland, which offers facilities and coastal views. You can also enjoy the long sandy stretch of Ballywalter Beach, or take in the View of Portaferry Harbor. The historic Path to Kearney Village, a restored 19th-century fishing village, is also a charming stop.

Are there any longer touring cycling routes for more experienced cyclists?

For those seeking a longer challenge, the Ards Peninsula half loop from Portaferry — Strangford & Lecale is a moderate 35.5 miles (57.1 km) path. This route provides extensive views of the Ards Peninsula and the unique environment of Strangford Lough.

Are there any circular cycling routes in the Ratallagh area?

Yes, many of the routes around Ratallagh are designed as loops. For example, the Portaferry to Kirkistown Castle loop — Strangford & Lecale offers a moderate 18.8 miles (30.3 km) circular ride through coastal scenery.

What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Ratallagh?

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 57 touring cyclists. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal views, the varied terrain from flat coastal roads to gently rolling hills, and the unique marine environment of Strangford Lough.

Can I find places to eat or stay near the cycling routes?

Yes, the region offers charming villages like Portaferry, which has fine Georgian buildings and a town square, and Kearney Village, a restored fishing village. Burr Point also provides well-kept facilities including toilets and changing rooms, which are beneficial for cyclists. You can find cafes, pubs, and accommodation options in these areas.

Is public transport available to access cycling routes around Ratallagh?

While specific public transport links directly to every trailhead are not detailed, the Ards Peninsula is generally accessible. It's advisable to check local bus services or ferry schedules, particularly for connections to Portaferry, which serves as a starting point for several routes.

Where can I park my car when cycling in Ratallagh?

Parking is generally available in the towns and villages that serve as starting points for routes, such as Portaferry or Portavogie. Burr Point, a significant landmark on the coast, also offers facilities, which often include parking for visitors.

Are there any routes that offer views of Strangford Lough?

Absolutely. The Ards Peninsula half loop from Portaferry — Strangford & Lecale provides extensive views of the Ards Peninsula and the unique environment of Strangford Lough, a globally important marine site.

What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Ratallagh?

The Ards Peninsula's coastal location means cycling can be enjoyable for much of the year. Spring and summer offer milder weather and longer daylight hours, ideal for exploring the scenic coastal landscapes. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, though weather can be more unpredictable.

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