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Glenties, Lough Finn and Ballybofey From Donegal

Glenties, Lough Finn and Ballybofey From Donegal

Hard

riders

Glenties, Lough Finn and Ballybofey From Donegal

Q: What is the difficulty level of this road cycling route?

This route is considered a difficult road cycling experience, demanding a very good level of fitness. It's categorized as a 'hard road ride' due to significant elevation changes, particularly in the 'Hills of Donegal'.

Q: What kind of terrain can I expect on this cycling route?

The route primarily features well-paved and asphalt surfaces, totaling approximately 117 km of asphalt and 5.65 km of paved roads. However, some challenging segments may be unpaved or difficult to navigate, potentially requiring you to push your bike.

Q: What scenic highlights will I see along the way?

You can expect stunning and varied landscapes. The route passes through Glenties , nestled at the convergence of two glens, and alongside Lough Finn , a notable freshwater lake. The broader Donegal region offers beautiful coastline, spectacular landscapes, beaches, cliffs, mountains, and expansive green fields.

Q: Where does the Glenties, Lough Finn and Ballybofey route start?

The route is described as starting 'From Donegal '. While specific trailhead parking isn't detailed, starting points in Donegal or Glenties would be logical access points for this loop.

Q: What is the best time of year to cycle this route?

While not explicitly stated, the 'Hills of Donegal' and varied terrain suggest that spring, summer, and early autumn would offer the most favorable weather conditions for road cycling, avoiding potential ice or heavy rain in winter.

Q: Are there any cafes or pubs along the route for refreshments?

Yes, Glenties , a multiple recipient of the Ireland Tidy Towns award, boasts charming cafes and pubs where you can stop for refreshments during or after your ride.

Q: Does this route connect with other cycling trails?

Yes, this route is part of the larger Donegal Cycle Route, which is integrated into both the National Cycle Network and the EuroVelo European Cycling Network (Route 1). It also intersects with sections of the North West Trail and the Bluestack Way.

Q: Do I need any permits or pay entrance fees for this route?

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle this public road cycling route.

Q: Is this road cycling route dog-friendly?

As this is a road cycling route primarily on public roads, dogs are generally permitted. However, they would need to be transported safely, perhaps in a bike trailer, and kept under control, especially in populated areas or near livestock.

Q: What should I pack for this road cycling trip?

Given the route's difficulty and length (over 120 km), you should pack essentials like sufficient water and snacks, repair kit (spare tubes, pump), appropriate cycling gear for varied weather, a helmet, navigation tools, and a first-aid kit. Consider layers as weather in Donegal can change quickly.

05:25

123km

1,140m

Road cycling

Cycle 76.1 miles (122.5 km) on this difficult road cycling route through Glenties, Lough Finn, and Ballybofey in Donegal.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1.89 km

Donegal

Highlight • Settlement

Donegal (Dún na nGall) lies in the very south of the county, between Donegal Bay and the Blue Stack Mountains. It's the biggest town around, with plenty of pubs, hotels and restaurants. With its wonderful surroundings it's a great place for cycling, hill walking, surfing, you name it.

Tip by

32.5 km

Glenties

Highlight • Settlement

Glenties is sits at the meeting point of two glens, north-west of the Bluestack mountains. Having won the Ireland Tidy Towns award a number of times, the town has a beautiful appearance and has both a cafe and a pub to retreat to after your cycle.

Tip by

45.7 km

Lough Finn

Highlight • Lake

Lough Finn is a freshwater lake named after a mythological women, Finngeal who drowned in the lake after attemping to save her wounded brother Feargamhain. Behind the Lough you can see Aghla and Scraigs Mountain.

Tip by

123 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

70.9 km

51.6 km

158 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

117 km

5.65 km

182 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (280 m)

Lowest point (10 m)

Weather

Saturday 11 July

26°C

14°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 20.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difficulty level of this road cycling route?

This route is considered a difficult road cycling experience, demanding a very good level of fitness. It's categorized as a 'hard road ride' due to significant elevation changes, particularly in the 'Hills of Donegal'.

What kind of terrain can I expect on this cycling route?

The route primarily features well-paved and asphalt surfaces, totaling approximately 117 km of asphalt and 5.65 km of paved roads. However, some challenging segments may be unpaved or difficult to navigate, potentially requiring you to push your bike.

What scenic highlights will I see along the way?

You can expect stunning and varied landscapes. The route passes through Glenties, nestled at the convergence of two glens, and alongside Lough Finn, a notable freshwater lake. The broader Donegal region offers beautiful coastline, spectacular landscapes, beaches, cliffs, mountains, and expansive green fields.

Where does the Glenties, Lough Finn and Ballybofey route start?

The route is described as starting 'From Donegal'. While specific trailhead parking isn't detailed, starting points in Donegal or Glenties would be logical access points for this loop.

What is the best time of year to cycle this route?

While not explicitly stated, the 'Hills of Donegal' and varied terrain suggest that spring, summer, and early autumn would offer the most favorable weather conditions for road cycling, avoiding potential ice or heavy rain in winter.

Are there any cafes or pubs along the route for refreshments?

Yes, Glenties, a multiple recipient of the Ireland Tidy Towns award, boasts charming cafes and pubs where you can stop for refreshments during or after your ride.

Does this route connect with other cycling trails?

Yes, this route is part of the larger Donegal Cycle Route, which is integrated into both the National Cycle Network and the EuroVelo European Cycling Network (Route 1). It also intersects with sections of the North West Trail and the Bluestack Way.

Do I need any permits or pay entrance fees for this route?

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle this public road cycling route.

Is this road cycling route dog-friendly?

As this is a road cycling route primarily on public roads, dogs are generally permitted. However, they would need to be transported safely, perhaps in a bike trailer, and kept under control, especially in populated areas or near livestock.

What should I pack for this road cycling trip?

Given the route's difficulty and length (over 120 km), you should pack essentials like sufficient water and snacks, repair kit (spare tubes, pump), appropriate cycling gear for varied weather, a helmet, navigation tools, and a first-aid kit. Consider layers as weather in Donegal can change quickly.

Is this road cycling route suitable for beginners?

No, this route is classified as 'difficult' and requires a very good level of fitness. Beginners may find the significant elevation changes and overall distance too challenging. It's recommended for experienced road cyclists.