Route 1 - The Newcastle / Lough Island Reavy Route

This challenging touring bicycle route is approximately 37.8 kilometers (25 miles) long. Most cyclists can expect to complete it in about 2 hours and 25 minutes, though this can vary depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

This route is graded as difficult and is quite strenuous and hilly, featuring significant steep sections that may require you to dismount and push your bike. The terrain is entirely on smooth public roads. Be prepared for reasonably heavy traffic when entering and leaving Newcastle and Castlewellan, with lighter traffic on the minor public roads in between. The return journey to Newcastle also includes a steep climb.

Given its 'difficult' grading, significant steep sections, and overall hilly nature, this route is not recommended for beginner touring cyclists. It's best suited for experienced riders looking for a challenging workout and dramatic scenery.

The route starts and ends in Newcastle, which offers various parking options. You can find public car parks within the town. For specific details on parking facilities, it's advisable to check local council websites or resources like visitmournegullionstrangford.com for up-to-date information on parking availability and fees in the area.

You can expect spectacular and diverse scenery throughout the route. It offers breathtaking vistas of the Mourne Mountains and Dundrum Bay, with Newcastle visible in the distance. You'll also enjoy views of Slieve Croob and cycle alongside the picturesque Tollymore Forest Park and Castlewellan Forest Park. Lough Island Reavy Reservoir is another prominent scenic feature, showcasing diverse countryside from beaches and bays to majestic mountains.

Key points of interest along the route include the starting town of Newcastle, Tollymore, Lough Island Reavy Reservoir, the village of Leitrim, Castlewellan, and the historic Maghera Round Tower. You'll also pass by the Shimna River in Tollymore Forest Park.

The best time to cycle this route is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. Always check the local weather forecast before you go, as conditions in the Mourne Mountains area can change rapidly.

As this route primarily follows public roads, dogs are generally permitted, provided they are kept under control and any local regulations regarding leashing and waste disposal are followed. If you plan to stop at any specific parks or attractions along the way, it's best to check their individual dog policies.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle this route, as it primarily uses public roads within the Mourne Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). However, if you choose to visit specific attractions or parks along the way, they may have their own entry fees or regulations.

Yes, while the route primarily follows 'Route 1 - The Newcastle / Lough Island Reavy Route', it also intersects with sections of other trails. You'll find it briefly overlaps with parts of 'Route 3 - The Legananny Route', 'Route 2 - The Slieve Croob Route', and the 'National Cycle Network National Route 99 Extension'.

The route starts and ends in Newcastle, which offers a wide selection of cafes, pubs, and restaurants. You'll also pass through Castlewellan, which provides further options for refreshments and meals. It's a good idea to plan your stops in advance, especially if you have specific dietary needs or preferences.