The best cycling routes around Ballynanny
5.0
(4)
142
riders
21
rides
Touring cycling around Ballynanny offers access to the diverse landscapes of County Down, Northern Ireland. The region is characterized by the granite peaks of the Mourne Mountains, which descend towards the Irish Sea, and includes areas of forest and reservoir. Terrain varies from well-paved roads to unpaved sections, providing a range of cycling experiences. This area is part of a UNESCO Global Geopark, featuring significant natural formations.
Best touring cycling routes around Ballynanny
- The most popular touring cycling route is…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
49.2km
03:08
610m
610m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
53.6km
03:16
450m
450m
Cycle the difficult 33.3-mile Banbridge to Craigavon Lakes loop, featuring scenic lakes, parks, and historical sites.
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5.0
(2)
42
riders
39.9km
02:21
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
50.4km
03:00
360m
360m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
riders
24.1km
01:28
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
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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This largely flat and completely traffic-free path winds through the heart of counties Armagh and Down, along the tranquil waterway that once formed the lifeline for transporting coal to the Irish Sea. As you pedal over the well-maintained asphalt or fine gravel, you'll be surrounded by lush green embankments, historic stone bridges, and the monumental remains of eighteen locks that bridge the elevation difference in the landscape. A mix of smooth asphalt and easily rideable fine gravel, suitable for almost all types of bicycles.
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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.
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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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The entrance to Lisnamintry Rath (located on Ballygargan Road, near Portadown) is the gateway to one of the few officially protected archaeological monuments in this part of County Armagh. A rath is an early medieval fortified farmstead (c. 500–1000 AD) that formerly offered protection to families and their livestock against raiders. Not visible from the road.
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Hollie Berrie is a good place for refreshments on the route at Scarva
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Ballynanny?
There are over 20 touring cycling routes around Ballynanny, offering a variety of experiences. Most of these, about 18, are considered moderate in difficulty, while 5 are more challenging.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes near Ballynanny?
The terrain around Ballynanny is quite varied, ranging from well-paved roads suitable for most fitness levels to segments that may be unpaved and more difficult. You'll encounter granite mountains, scenic coastal roads, and enchanting forest trails, particularly within the Mourne Mountains and areas like Tollymore and Castlewellan Forest Parks.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Ballynanny area?
Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops. For example, the Newry Canal Path – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Loughbrickland is a moderate 39.9 km route that offers waterside scenery. Another option is the Craigavon Lakes – Scarva Village loop from Banbridge, a moderate 50.3 km ride.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks I might see while cycling?
The region is rich in natural beauty, being part of the Mourne Mountains, a UNESCO Global Geopark. You might encounter the iconic Mourne Wall, which stretches 35 kilometers across 15 summits, or enjoy views of peaks like Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland's highest mountain. The Newry Canal Towpath also offers scenic waterside cycling.
Are there any routes suitable for advanced touring cyclists looking for a challenge?
Absolutely. For advanced touring cyclists, routes like the Banbridge to Windy Gap loop — Mourne offer a difficult 49.2 km ride with significant elevation changes and mountain views. Another challenging option is the Banbridge to Craigavon Lakes loop, a difficult 53.6 km path featuring scenic cycling around the lakes.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes around Ballynanny?
The touring cycling routes around Ballynanny are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 5.0 stars from over 4 reviews. More than 160 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the diverse landscapes, from mountain vistas to coastal roads and forest trails.
Are there any specific attractions or points of interest along the touring cycling routes?
Yes, several points of interest can be found along the routes. You could cycle past the historic Scarva Village, explore the Newry Canal Towpath, or discover the ancient Loughbrickland Crannóg. These attractions add cultural and historical depth to your cycling adventure.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Ballynanny?
The Mourne Mountains region, including Ballynanny, offers beautiful scenery year-round. However, for touring cycling, spring and summer (April to September) generally provide the most favorable weather conditions with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures, making for a more comfortable ride through the diverse landscapes.
Are there any routes that offer coastal views?
Many touring cycling routes in the Ballynanny area feature stunning coastal views, as the Mourne Mountains sweep down directly to the Irish Sea. You can expect spectacular vistas of the coastline and the sea on various segments of the trails.
Can I find routes that pass through forest parks?
Yes, the region includes enchanting forest parks that are accessible by touring bicycle. Routes often pass through or near areas like Tollymore Forest Park and Castlewellan Forest Park, offering a different kind of scenic beauty with lush woodlands and shaded paths.
Are there any moderate-difficulty routes that are longer distances?
Certainly. The Craigavon Lakes – Scarva Village loop from Banbridge is a moderate route spanning 50.3 km, offering a good balance of distance and manageable challenge. Another moderate option is the Scarva Village – Scarva Village loop from Banbridge, which is 24.1 km.
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