Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Cycling routes
United Kingdom
Northern Ireland
Down

Loughkeelan

The best cycling routes around Loughkeelan

5.0

(3)

111

riders

22

rides

Touring cycling routes around Loughkeelan are characterized by coastal landscapes and rural roads, offering varied terrain for cyclists. The region features a mix of flat sections along the coastline and gentle rolling hills inland. These routes often provide views of the sea and pass through agricultural areas. The area is suitable for exploring by bicycle, with routes that cater to different experience levels.

Best touring cycling routes around Loughkeelan

  • The most popular touring cycling route is Kilclief to Ardglass Harbour…

Last updated: June 28, 2026

4

riders

#1.

Kilclief to Ardglass Harbour loop —Strangford & Lecale

29.2km

01:46

150m

150m

Embark on the Kilclief to Ardglass Harbour loop, a moderate touring cycling route that takes you along the scenic coast of Strangford & Lecale. This 18.1-mile (29.2 km) journey offers…

Navigate with device

Send to Phone

Save

Moderate

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

Moderate
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

Embark on the Saint John's Point loop from Downpatrick, a moderate touring bicycle route spanning 39.0 miles (62.8 km) with an elevation gain of 1460 feet (445 metres). This journey,…

Moderate

Embark on the Saul to St Patrick's Well loop, a moderate touring bicycle ride spanning 21.2 miles (34.1 km) with an elevation gain of 735 feet (224 metres), typically completed…

Moderate

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

Moderate
Sign up for free to see 18 more rides around Loughkeelan.

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 Loughkeelan

Hiking around Loughkeelan

Running Trails around Loughkeelan

Road Cycling Routes around Loughkeelan

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

Lough Money is a quiet, almost mystical place, perfect for relaxing and taking a deep breath. The gentle waves of the lake gently hit the shore, while the reeds sway in the wind, creating a gentle rustling sound. Surrounded by rolling countryside and shady trees, you feel like you've been transported to another world. Ideal for a break on your bike ride.

Translated by Google

0

0

The vast coastline stretches out endlessly before you, and the panorama with the majestic Mourne Hills in the background creates a scene that is hard to put into words. The gentle waves touching the sand and the silence of the surroundings make you feel the vastness and freedom of this place.

Translated by Google

1

0

This impressive stone circle, dating from the late Neolithic to early Bronze Age, consists of over 50 upright stones enclosing a diameter of around 35 metres. Access is via a narrow hedge-lined path that takes you directly to the entrance of the circle

Translated by Google

1

0

One of the best kept Circles I know of. The late Neolithic to earlier Bronze Age monument was excavated in 1937–1939 but its development and date are still not entirely clear. Excavation uncovered a slab feature with three compartments at the west end of the cairn, which could suggest the court tomb tradition, and a single stone cist at the east end which could point to the passage tomb tradition. Cremated remains representing at least seven individuals and some Neolithic pottery were found. Parallels for the outer stone circle with sites in Cumbria have been suggested.

1

0

sm milligan
November 25, 2023, St Patrick's Well

The Well is an ancient site of pilgrimage with legends of Saint Patrick. The waters of the well are said to cure any ailment. Saint Patrick founded Ardtole Church which can be seen on the horizon. In the next field at low tide Saint Patrick's Road becomes visible. This was to be his route to the Isle of Man but when a red haired woman crossed his path he seen it as a bad omen and didn't make the journey.

0

0

sm milligan
November 25, 2023, Lough Money

Lough Money is the source for the River Slaney, which flows to the supposed landing spot of Saint Patrick on Strangford Lough. Lough Money’s water is remarkably clear as befits a facility that was once used as a reservoir for Downpatrick. The remains of the disused pumping station still stand on the island. Beautified by the presence of herons, just one of many bird species that comprise an abundance of bird life.

1

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How many touring cycling routes are available around Loughkeelan?

There are over 20 touring cycling routes available around Loughkeelan, catering to various skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored these routes over 170 times, providing valuable insights.

What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around Loughkeelan?

The touring cycling routes around Loughkeelan are characterized by a mix of coastal landscapes and rural roads. You can expect varied terrain, including flat sections along the coastline and gentle rolling hills inland, often providing scenic views of the sea and agricultural areas.

Are there touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Loughkeelan?

Yes, Loughkeelan offers several routes suitable for beginners and families. There are 6 easy touring cycling routes, such as the Mallard Plantation – View of Castle Ward Mansion loop from Portloughan, which is 9.1 miles (14.7 km) long and takes about 1 hour 13 minutes to complete. These routes are generally shorter and have less elevation gain.

Are there more challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists in the Loughkeelan area?

Yes, for more experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, there are 3 difficult touring cycling routes available. Additionally, 15 moderate routes, like the Saint John's Point loop from Downpatrick — Strangford & Lecale, offer greater distances and elevation changes, providing a rewarding experience.

What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see along the touring cycling routes around Loughkeelan?

While cycling around Loughkeelan, you can explore various points of interest. Notable attractions include historical sites like Audley's Castle and Inch Abbey. You might also pass by the Castle Ward Tower, known as a filming location, and the intriguing Strangford Stone.

Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Loughkeelan area?

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Loughkeelan are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. Examples include the popular Kilclief to Ardglass Harbour loop —Strangford & Lecale and the Saul to St Patrick's Well loop, allowing you to start and finish in the same location.

What is the best time of year for touring cycling in the Loughkeelan area?

The best time for touring cycling in the Loughkeelan area, similar to much of Ireland, is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, you can expect milder temperatures, longer daylight hours, and generally more settled weather, making for more enjoyable rides along the coast and through rural landscapes.

Is there parking available near the touring cycling routes in Loughkeelan?

Yes, parking is generally available at various points along or near the touring cycling routes. For instance, the Castle Ward Shore Car Park is a known parking location that provides access to routes in that vicinity. It's advisable to check specific route starting points for detailed parking information.

What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about touring cycling in Loughkeelan?

The touring cycling routes in Loughkeelan are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 4 reviews. Cyclists often praise the scenic coastal views, the tranquility of the rural roads, and the diverse terrain that caters to different experience levels. The opportunity to explore historical sites and natural beauty spots is also a highlight.

Are there any long-distance touring cycling routes in the Loughkeelan region?

Yes, for those looking for longer rides, routes like the Ards Peninsula half loop from Portaferry — Strangford & Lecale cover significant distances, at 35.5 miles (57.1 km). This route offers extensive coastal scenery and open roads, ideal for a longer day out on the bike.

Can I find routes that combine cycling with natural features like forests or loughs?

While the primary routes focus on coastal and rural roads, the region offers opportunities to cycle near natural features. For example, the Forest Path Along Strangford Lough highlight suggests areas where you can experience woodlands alongside the water, providing a varied cycling environment.

Most popular routes around Loughkeelan

Hiking around Loughkeelan

Most popular attractions around Loughkeelan

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.

Mourne AonbArdtanaghBallykinler UpperCommons Of ClanmagheryTullynacreeCumranScribSeaforde DemesneCreeghduffNaghanFarranfadDrumanakellyCastlenavanTievenadarraghKilmoreRossconorTyrella NorthDrumnaconagherMurvaclogherSeavaghanMagheraloneDunnanewWalshestownBallywalterRussells Quarter NorthTannaghmoreEdendarriffDunmoreGuinessBallymacarameryBallylone LittleTobercorranBallykine UpperBallykineBallykine LowerDundrumBallynahinchBallymaglave NorthRaffreyDrumanaghanDrumaroadLissaraDooglenCraignasasonaghTonaghmoreAnnadornMagheralaganDrumanessDrumsnadeRaleaghCreevyargonDrumgivenDrumaghlisBallylone BigCloghramMagheradroolCumberBallymaglave SouthArdileaBallykinler LowerBallykeelBallyrollyBallintlieveCarrowcarlinTullyrattySalt IslandCloughBallyloughlinLisbaneCorporationCommonsBallywillinBallykinler MiddleWhitehillsDillinCreevytenantBallyvangeRingreaghBallymote MiddleHollymount Forest National Nature ReserveInchCarrickinabTullymurryDrumgoolandGlasdrummanAnnacloyWoodgrangeDrumcawClaraghCarnacallyDunturkBallykilbegCorballyLisnamaulHollymountBallydonetyDrumaconnell WestLeggygowanSaintfield ParksCreevyloughgareDrumaconnell EastClontaghnaglarLisowenListooderRademanBallydyanCahardDrumgavlinBallymacarn SouthMagheratimpanyBallysallaghBallycruttleBallysugaghBallystokesBallynagross LowerMurlough LowerRathgormanBallymacarn NorthKnockstickenClonvaraghanAudleystownCastle IslandLisboyCarnacavillFinnabrogueBallybrannagh LowerBallywoodanTullymoreBallymacarronMoneycarraghMagherasaulBallylenaghBallyculter LowerBallynagross UpperTullywasnacunaghBallymote UpperClogherBallynagarrickTullyfoyle LowerBallinarryCastlemahonCargaghCarrintaggartBallywillwill DemenseBallyrenanKillinchy In The WoodsBallybrannagh UpperDrumanaquoileMagheracranmoneyTyrella SouthBallyaghertyMoneylaneDunnanellyChurch BalleeBallydonnellBallypluntErenaghBallystrewBallylucasBallynoeBallynewportQuarter CormickCastleskreenLegamaddyIslandbaneMarshallstownGrangicamBallyduganCargaghBonecastleBallydarganDrumkeeragh Forest ParkDunbeg UpperMoneynabaneDrumkeeraghDrinBallytrustanMurlough UpperBallyaltonGores IslandPortloughanLisbaneBallyrenanBallintogherCarrowvannyRussell'S Quarter SouthRingbaneIsland TaggartCarrownacawLough MoneyLoughmoneyCarrowbaghranIslandmoreIslandbaneRinghaddyRathcunninghamTullyveeryBallyloughTullymacnousLisinawBallygoskinDerryboyToy And KirklandMoymoreDemesne Of DownSaul QuarterQuoileArdmeenRussell'S QuarterKillaveesAudley'S AcreStruellTobermoneySaulBallymacromwellClayRingdufferinTullycoreSlieveniskyDunbeg LowerAghlisnafinKillard UpperCarsonstownCrossgarLisnamoreGlasdrummanLessansCastlewardFerryquarterCloghyStrangford LowerGlebeBallyculter UpperStrangford UpperLagnagappogeKilcliefBallybredaghQuarterlandBallygeeganTurmennan

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Whitehills

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