4.9
(7)
1,044
riders
77
rides
Road cycling around Ballynanny offers a diverse terrain of undulating roads, challenging climbs, and scenic coastal routes within the dramatic landscapes of the Mourne Mountains. The region is characterized by hilly roads that provide both a test of endurance and rewarding vistas. Cyclists can experience varied terrain, from the slopes of Slieve Donard to routes offering views of Dundrum Bay, utilizing quiet rural roads ideal for road cycling.
Last updated: October 31, 2026
6
riders
52.5km
02:16
440m
440m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
43
riders
89.9km
03:44
550m
550m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

36
riders
36.1km
01:42
390m
390m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
26
riders
57.2km
02:26
440m
440m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
29
riders
82.9km
03:34
740m
740m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Small coffeeshop right by the river Bann, directly next to Sustrans Route 9 / Newry Canal Towpath. The cafe is practically on the roadside, making it a logical stop for cyclists following the canal path. The old brick building has a relaxed atmosphere; inside and out it's a place where cyclists and walkers cross paths. Ideal for a coffee, a small snack and a short break before you cycle back into the canal landscape towards Craigavon Lakes. Enjoyed the stop, but forgot the photo.
7
0
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.
5
0
Nice little cafe in the village of Scarva right alongside the Newry canal towpath, great for brekkie, lunch or just topping up the hydration.
1
0
Hollie Berrie is a good place for refreshments on the route at Scarva
0
1
A great little cafe set in the bike shop, with great coffee and a nice variety of sweet goodies.
0
0
Road cycling around Ballynanny offers a diverse and engaging terrain. You'll encounter undulating roads, challenging climbs, and scenic coastal routes, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the Mourne Mountains. The region is known for its hilly roads, providing both a test of endurance and rewarding vistas. Routes can range from moderate paths with significant elevation gains to easier loops, catering to various skill levels.
Yes, Ballynanny offers routes suitable for various skill levels, including easier options. For instance, the Scarva Village – Lottie's Café loop from Banbridge is an easy 27 km trail with moderate elevation, perfect for a less strenuous ride. Overall, 19 of the 87 routes in the area are classified as easy.
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the Mourne Mountains provide routes with significant climbs and elevation gains. While specific 'difficult' routes aren't detailed here, the region's reputation for challenging ascents, particularly on roads like Ballyaginty Road, suggests plenty of opportunities for advanced riders. There are 11 routes classified as difficult in the area, offering a true test of endurance.
The road cycling routes around Ballynanny offer stunning views of the Mourne Mountains, including vistas towards Lough Reavy Reservoir and Dundrum Bay. You might also pass by the impressive Mourne Wall, which stretches across 15 mountain summits. Specific points of interest include the historic Scarva Village and the tranquil Newry Canal Towpath. The View of the Mourne Mountains – Lackan Road loop from Banbridge is particularly noted for its impressive mountain views.
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Ballynanny are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Scarva Village – Warrenpoint Shore Road loop from Loughbrickland and the Scarva Village – Lottie's Café loop from The Outlet, Bridgewater Park, both offering extensive views and varied terrain.
The broader County Down and East Border Region, including Ballynanny, is generally favorable for road cycling. While specific seasonal advice isn't provided, Northern Ireland's climate suggests that late spring, summer, and early autumn offer the most pleasant conditions with milder weather and longer daylight hours. Winter conditions can be more challenging due to colder temperatures and potentially adverse weather.
Yes, some routes incorporate stops for refreshments. For example, the Scarva Village – Lottie's Café loop from The Outlet, Bridgewater Park specifically highlights a café stop, indicating that such amenities are available along certain paths. The region's quiet rural roads often lead through villages where local cafes and pubs can be found.
The road cycling routes around Ballynanny are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 7 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the diverse terrain, the challenging climbs, and the spectacular views of the Mourne Mountains and surrounding landscapes. The quiet rural roads and varied options for different ability levels are also highly appreciated.
There are 87 road cycling routes available around Ballynanny, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. These include 19 easy routes, 57 moderate routes, and 11 difficult routes.
While specific parking locations are not detailed, the presence of routes starting from places like Loughbrickland, The Outlet at Bridgewater Park, and Banbridge suggests that parking facilities are available in these areas, which serve as common starting points for road cycling adventures around Ballynanny.
The guide data does not explicitly detail public transport access to specific trailheads. However, given that routes often start from towns like Banbridge and Loughbrickland, it is likely that these larger settlements have public transport links, which could provide access points to the wider cycling network around Ballynanny.


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