Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Cycling routes
United Kingdom
Northern Ireland
Ards

Ardkeen

The best cycling routes around Ardkeen

4.9

(8)

116

riders

14

rides

Touring cycling routes around Ardkeen are characterized by their coastal proximity and varied terrain, offering views of Strangford Lough and the surrounding green landscapes. The region features mostly paved surfaces, accommodating a range of skill levels from easy rides to moderate excursions. Elevation changes are generally gentle, with the highest points remaining below 200 meters. This area provides a tranquil environment for cyclists, blending natural beauty with historical points of interest.

Best touring cycling routes around Ardkeen

  • The most popular…

Last updated: June 27, 2026

3

riders

#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.

Navigate with device

Send to Phone

Save

Moderate

5

riders

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

Easy
guide_signup
Let us show you the way with the komoot mobile app
With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

Sign up for free

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

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

Moderate
Sign up for free to see 10 more rides around Ardkeen.

Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Ardkeen

Hiking around Ardkeen

Road Cycling Routes around Ardkeen

Running Trails around Ardkeen

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.

1

0

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.

0

0

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.

0

0

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.

0

0

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

0

0

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.

0

0

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.

1

1

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.

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many touring cycling routes are available around Ardkeen?

Ardkeen offers a selection of over 10 touring cycling routes, catering to various preferences and skill levels. These routes provide an excellent way to explore the region's coastal landscapes and historical sites.

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

The touring cycling routes around Ardkeen primarily feature mostly paved surfaces, making them suitable for a wide range of cyclists. While most routes are gentle, some longer excursions might include unpaved or slightly more challenging segments, offering diverse terrain for experienced riders.

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

Yes, Ardkeen has several easy touring cycling routes. A great option for beginners or families is the Portaferry to Quintin Castle loop, which is 9.8 miles (15.8 km) long and leads to the historic Quintin Castle.

What historical sites or landmarks can I see along the cycling routes?

Ardkeen's cycling routes are rich with historical and natural points of interest. You can explore sites like Sketrick Castle, the serene Nendrum Monastery Ruins, and the iconic Castle Ward Tower (a 'Game of Thrones' filming location). Other notable landmarks include Kirkistown Castle and Quintin Castle, often incorporated into scenic loops.

Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Ardkeen?

Yes, many of Ardkeen's touring cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Portaferry to Quintin Castle loop and the Portaferry to Kirkistown Castle loop, offering convenient round trips.

What are the best routes for scenic views of Strangford Lough?

For breathtaking views of Strangford Lough, the Ards Peninsula half loop from Portaferry — Strangford & Lecale is highly recommended. This moderate 35.5-mile (57.1 km) route offers extensive coastal vistas and a truly immersive experience of the region's natural beauty.

What do other touring cyclists say about Ardkeen's routes?

The touring cycling routes in Ardkeen are highly rated by the komoot community, with an impressive average score of 4.9 stars from 9 reviews. Cyclists often praise the tranquil environment, the stunning coastal views, and the blend of natural beauty with historical exploration.

Are there any longer, more challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?

For those seeking a longer and more challenging ride, the Ards Peninsula half loop from Portaferry — Strangford & Lecale is a moderate 35.5-mile (57.1 km) route that provides a good workout while showcasing extensive views of the peninsula and Strangford Lough.

Can I find parking near the starting points of the cycling routes?

While specific parking details vary by route, many popular starting points in Ardkeen, such as Portaferry, offer convenient parking options. It's advisable to check local information for specific car park locations before your ride.

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

Ardkeen's green and peaceful landscapes are enjoyable throughout much of the year. The region's coastal setting means pleasant conditions during spring and summer are ideal for touring cycling, offering comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery. Autumn also provides beautiful views with changing foliage.

Are there places to stop for refreshments or a picnic along the routes?

Yes, the region offers opportunities for rest stops. For instance, the Nendrum Monastery Ruins site includes a picnic area with views of Strangford Lough. Additionally, towns like Portaferry, which serve as common starting points, have cafes and pubs where you can refuel.

What unique natural features can be explored by bike in Ardkeen?

Beyond the stunning views of Strangford Lough, cyclists can discover unique natural features such as Corrog Wood, a 14-acre woodland featuring a distinctive wooden sculpture known as the 'Frump in the Stump'. Burr Point, the most easterly point on the island of Ireland, also offers a coastal sculpture and a sheltered cove for a rest stop.

Most popular routes around Ardkeen

Hiking around Ardkeen

Most popular attractions around Ardkeen

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.

Castle EspieCullintrawBallykeelBallycreellyGreyabbeyGordonallTown ParksBallymurphyGranshaRosemountRingcreevyBallyurnanellanLisbarnetLisbaneTullynageeRingneillBallymartinCarnasureBallynicholBallyrushCherryvalleyEdenslateGreengravesTrooperfieldBallymaladyKillynetherMarlfieldTown Parks Of DonaghadeeBallycrossPortavoeBallywilliamBallyfotherlyHogstownCarryreaghBallynoeHerdstownBallyboleyBootownBallyrickardGlass MossLonglandsBallyhenry MinorCastleaverryReagh IslandKilnatiernyBallyglighornBallydrainKilmood And BallybundenBallywilliamBallymagaugheyCattogsBallygraffanDrumhirkBallyministraghBallymacashenTullygarvanTullynakillBallygowanGranshaBallyaltonBallyhenry MajorBallyroganOrlockCottonMahee IslandBallyewryBallygrangeeRowreaghInishargyFish QuarterNunsquarterKircubbinUnicarvalBallycopelandBallybuttleIslandhillBallybryanBallygarvanThomastownBallycran MoreBallyaltikilliganBallyallolyBallydornBallyhayConly IslandTullynagardyMilecrossBootownBallyalicockMovillaBallyharryCorporation NorthScraboGregstownCommonsBallyreaghBallywatticockBallyhaftMagherascouseNewcastle RoadBallyrusleyKearneyTullymallyDooeyBallyrawerGrangeeCarney HillSloanstownBallyloughanTullyhubbertBallybeenDrumreaghCraigaruskyKillinchyKillinakinBallymorranBallydornBallyphilipBallyquintin Point National Nature ReserveBallytrustanTullyboardBallyfounderBallyminnishBallymurphyKnockinelderBallyblackBallywierdBallynicholBallymarterBallyquintinBallycamBallyhenryBallyherlyBallywhiteTaraCorrogKeentaghDerryGranaghTieveshillyTullynacrewCraigaroddanKillydressyArdgeehanTullycarnanParson HallBallyedockCarrickmannanBallymacreellyBallooCarrigullianBallyraineyBallystockartRavaraBallyaltonCastlebegBallyblackBallyblack LittleBallycastleMount StewartBallyridleyLoughdooBallyfinraghBroom QuarterBallyspurgeArdquinDrumardanBallygalgetDunevlySlanesDemesneDrumardan QuarterCastleboyBallymagreehanMount AlexanderCraigboyBallynesterKillaghyCorporation SouthBallycullenCrossnamuckleyPriest TownBallywallonBallywaddanBallywhollartBallywardTullycorssGanawayBallyfrenisBallywhiskinDrumfad BayBallyrollyBallyhaskinBallymacruiseGanawayBallymoneyKilbrightBallyferisBallybraniganBallygarviganArdminnanBallymacnameeBallyadamBallyskeagh HighCardyDunoverBallydoonanBallybarnesBallygelaghTullytramonLisbaneCloghyRatallaghBallyskeagh LowCronstownBallyhennyBallycran BegCookstownKirkistownLoughriscouseCunningburnBallywalterBlack AbbeyBallyboghilboBallyatwoodTullykevinSpringvaleBallyvesterKillarnWhitechurchMiller HillDrumhirkWhitespotsTemplepatrickBalligganDrumawhyBallyfrenchBallyobeganKillyvolganEchlinville

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Lisbane

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy