The best cycling routes around Carrogs
4.5
(47)
921
riders
79
rides
Touring cycling around Carrogs offers a diverse landscape for exploration, characterized by historic canal paths, rolling hills, and coastal stretches. The region's routes often traverse areas like the Ring of Gullion, known for its unique geological formations and scenic vistas. Cyclists can expect a mix of flat, waterside sections along the Newry Canal and more challenging ascents through elevated terrain. This varied topography provides a range of experiences for touring cyclists.
Best touring cycling routes around Carrogs
- The most popular…
Last updated: October 28, 2026
2
riders
52.6km
03:06
350m
350m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
1
riders
70.2km
04:50
1,080m
1,080m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
2
riders
42.6km
02:45
470m
480m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
19.6km
01:15
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
11
riders
5.61km
00:20
30m
30m
Easy bike ride. Mostly paved surfaces.
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Tips from the Community
The narrow "crooked lake" Camlough is named after. Coffee nearby at Café Mon Abri and Dr Brew. On our Ring Dyke ride: cyclesoutharmagh.com/routes/the-ring-dyke
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Between the rustling trees along the Newry Canal Towpath, you'll encounter the tranquil ruin of a lock keeper's cottage. Once, this was the proud and bustling heart of the waterway, where the lock keeper stood ready day and night to operate the heavy wooden canal gates for passing barges. Today, only the robust stone walls remain, slowly being reclaimed by nature.
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Quiet canal section south of Poyntzpass, where the towpath runs tightly along the narrow water. The bank is lightly overgrown with low trees and hedges, giving the stretch an intimate, green impression. The water is mostly still, forming a straight line through the open agricultural landscape. An even, traffic-free segment ideal for quiet miles on the towpath.
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The Newry Canal Towpath is a 32-kilometer-long, almost entirely traffic-free green corridor connecting the towns of Portadown and Newry. It follows the towpath of the oldest canal in the British Isles, opened in 1742 to transport coal from County Tyrone to the sea. The Newry Canal Towpath offers an unparalleled cycling experience through the tranquil heart of County Armagh and County Down. This historic route, part of the National Cycle Network Route 9, takes you along a flat and largely asphalted path past fourteen monumental locks and characteristic lock-keeper's cottages. As you follow the waterway, you'll traverse a varied landscape of dense forests and open meadows, passing through welcoming villages like Scarva and Poyntzpass along the way. The path is a haven for wildlife; keep an eye out for kingfishers, swans, and otters that inhabit the reed beds. Whether you cycle the full 32 kilometers or explore just a section, the combination of industrial history and natural beauty makes this one of the absolute gems of Irish cycling routes.
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Added to the collection: komoot.com/de-de/collection/3600632/-naturdenkmaeler-besondere-baeume-und-weitere-schaetze-der-natur
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Hollie Berrie is a good place for refreshments on the route at Scarva
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This impressive tree, which has stood here for centuries, is a testament to the region's rich natural history. The paths leading there lead through dense forest and offer a pleasant ride away from traffic. However, some sections are slippery in wet weather, so care should be taken. A particular highlight is the proximity to the Cloughmore Stone, a huge boulder that was transported here during the last Ice Age.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Carrogs?
There are over 80 touring cycling routes around Carrogs, offering a wide variety of experiences. These include 9 easy routes, 34 moderate routes, and 45 difficult routes, catering to all skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Carrogs?
The terrain around Carrogs is quite diverse. You'll find historic canal paths offering relatively flat, waterside sections, particularly along the Newry Canal. There are also routes with rolling hills and more challenging ascents through elevated areas like the Ring of Gullion, providing a mix of experiences for touring cyclists.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Carrogs?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Carrogs are designed as loops. For example, the Ring of Gullion loop from Newry offers a challenging ride through scenic landscapes, while the Newry Canal Way Loop provides a moderate, picturesque journey along the canal.
What are some family-friendly touring cycling options in Carrogs?
For a more relaxed and family-friendly experience, routes along the Newry Canal Path are ideal due to their relatively flat terrain. The Newry to Jerrettspass loop on the Newry Canal Path is a moderate 12.2-mile (19.6 km) trail that is often completed in about 1 hour 15 minutes, making it suitable for families.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Carrogs?
The touring cycling routes in Carrogs are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 43 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from tranquil canal-side paths to challenging climbs through scenic areas like the Ring of Gullion.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes for beginners in Carrogs?
Yes, Carrogs offers several easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners. An excellent option is the Lock Keeper's Cottage Ruins – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Newry, which is an easy 10.5-mile (16.9 km) route with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a relaxed ride.
What are some challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders in Carrogs?
Experienced touring cyclists looking for a challenge will find several difficult routes in Carrogs. The Ring of Gullion loop from Newry is a demanding 43.6-mile (70.2 km) trail with significant elevation gain, offering a rewarding experience through unique geological formations and scenic vistas.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the touring cycling routes in Carrogs?
Many routes in Carrogs pass by notable natural features and landmarks. You can explore areas like the Ring of Gullion, known for its unique geological formations. Highlights include Slieve Gullion Summit, North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, and Camlough Lake, offering picturesque views and points of interest.
Are there any routes that offer coastal views in Carrogs?
While the primary focus is on canal paths and rolling hills, the region of Carrogs does offer routes that incorporate coastal stretches. Some routes may provide views towards Carlingford Lough from Mourne AONB, adding a coastal element to your touring cycling adventure.
What is the longest touring cycling route available in Carrogs?
One of the longer and more challenging touring cycling routes in Carrogs is the Lily Finnegan's – Lookout Post 1, Ballagan Point loop from Newry. This difficult route spans approximately 53.5 miles (86.1 km) and features significant elevation changes, making it suitable for a full day's adventure.
Can I find routes that combine canal paths with more elevated terrain?
Absolutely. Carrogs is characterized by a blend of historic canal paths and rolling hills. Many routes allow you to experience both, starting with flat, tranquil sections along the Newry Canal and then transitioning into more elevated terrain, offering a varied and engaging touring cycling experience.
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