The best road cycling routes around Guiness
4.5
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417
riders
57
rides
Road cycling routes around Guiness offer varied terrain, from coastal paths with views of the Irish Sea to rolling country roads. The region features a mix of flat sections and moderate climbs, providing diverse experiences for road cyclists. Landscapes include open plains, canal paths, and areas with some elevation, suitable for different skill levels.
Best road cycling routes around Guiness
- The most popular road cycling route is Strangford Ferry Terminal – Strangford Ferry loop from Drumaness, a 58.7 miles (94.5 km) trail that takes 3 hours 59 minutes to complete. This moderate route features coastal views and rolling roads.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Daft Eddy's Coffee Shop – Sketrick Castle loop from Bohill Nature Reserve, a moderate 51.1 miles (82.2 km) path. This route includes varied terrain with some elevation gain, passing by natural reserves.
- Local road cyclists also love the Picnic Café – Down Cathedral loop from Bohill Nature Reserve, a 27.7 miles (44.6 km) trail leading through scenic landscapes, often completed in about 1 hour 49 minutes.
- Road cycling around Guiness is defined by coastal paths, rolling country roads, and varied terrain with some climbs. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Guiness are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 4 reviews. More than 400 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Guiness's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 11, 2026
17
riders
94.4km
03:59
650m
650m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
11
riders
82.2km
03:51
720m
720m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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8
riders
43.9km
01:48
280m
280m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
8
riders
79.9km
03:22
600m
600m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5
riders
58.9km
02:31
450m
450m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
The vast coastline stretches out endlessly before you, and the panorama with the majestic Mourne Hills in the background creates a scene that is hard to put into words. The gentle waves touching the sand and the silence of the surroundings make you feel the vastness and freedom of this place.
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This historic 12th century building is a typical example of an Anglo-Norman motte with a kidney-shaped bailey. The 7.6m high mound, which once housed a wooden tower, was later replaced by a stone tower house, the ruins of which can still be seen today. Access is via Clough's main road; there is a small car park, but it is not always well signposted. Access is usually permitted. The surrounding countryside, with views of the Mourne Mountains, offers a tranquil atmosphere that invites you to linger.
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The ancient stone arches are perfectly reflected in the calm water, creating an image of timeless elegance. Cycling along here almost feels like a journey back in time - as if you are capturing a moment in another time.
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Bike parking, nice coffee and eats, friendly staff, nice view of the lough
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Wonderful ornate, twelve arched bridge that seems out of place in this rural setting. The surrounding fields often flood during periods of heavy rain, necessitating a longer bridge than normally appears necessary. Hence the 'Twelve Arches'. The bridge was built sometime after 1836.
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The motte and bailey dates to c.1200 and is an excellent example of an Anglo-Norman earthwork castle. The taller mound, the motte, was built of earth to provide a look-out position and the central defence. Excavations at the top of the motte during the 1950s uncovered a wooden palisade which originally extended around the summit. When you climb the motte you realise what an important position the castle is in, over looking the routes east to Downpatrick, south to Dundrum and north to Belfast Lough. The views from the top of the motte west to Slieve Croob are particularly fine.
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The Dolmen can be found on the north east shore of Loughinisland Lake, within sight of Loughinisland Church. A slightly displaced capstone covers a rectangular chamber of which three side stones survive. An early account suggests that this was formerly inside a large circular cairn and approached through a lintelled passage, so it may be the remains of a passage tomb. It is famous as the platform from which Thomas Russell addressed a crowd of United Irishmen in 1803, after the main 1798 rising.
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Sketrick Castkle is a historic landmark situated on Sketrick Island near Whiterock. The castle dates back to the 12th century and the grounds are free to explore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in this region?
The region offers a diverse range of terrain for road cyclists. You'll find coastal paths with scenic views of the Irish Sea, rolling country roads, and areas with some elevation. This mix provides varied experiences, from relatively flat sections to moderate climbs, suitable for different skill levels.
Are there any circular road cycling routes available?
Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops. For example, the Strangford Ferry Terminal – Strangford Ferry loop from Drumaness is a popular moderate route offering coastal views. Another option is the Daft Eddy's Coffee Shop – Sketrick Castle loop from Bohill Nature Reserve, which features varied terrain and some elevation gain.
What are some scenic viewpoints or landmarks I can see along the routes?
The routes offer numerous scenic spots and historical landmarks. You might encounter views of Castlewellan Castle, the impressive Dundrum Castle, or the ruins of Clough Castle. For panoramic vistas, consider routes that pass near Slieve Croob Summit.
Are there routes suitable for beginner road cyclists?
Yes, there are routes suitable for beginners. Out of over 60 road cycling routes in the area, 17 are classified as easy. An example of an easier route is the Picnic Café – Down Cathedral loop from Bohill Nature Reserve, which is 27.7 miles (44.6 km) long and leads through scenic landscapes.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in this region?
While specific weather conditions can vary, the region's coastal and rolling landscapes are generally enjoyable for road cycling from spring through autumn. These seasons typically offer milder temperatures and more stable weather for exploring the routes.
Can I find cafes or pubs along the road cycling routes for a break?
Yes, many routes are designed to pass through or near charming towns and villages where you can find cafes and pubs. For instance, the Daft Eddy's Coffee Shop – Sketrick Castle loop starts near a coffee shop, providing an opportunity for refreshments.
How many road cycling routes are available in total?
There are over 60 road cycling routes available in the region, catering to various skill levels from easy to difficult. This includes 17 easy routes, 48 moderate routes, and 2 difficult routes.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling here?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 4 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, which includes coastal paths and rolling country roads, and the opportunities to explore scenic landscapes and historical sites.
Are there any routes that pass by castles or historical sites?
Absolutely. Many routes offer glimpses of historical landmarks. For example, the Clough Castle Ruins – Dundrum Castle loop from Loughinisland specifically takes you past significant historical sites like Clough Castle Ruins and Dundrum Castle.
What are some longer, more challenging road cycling routes?
For those seeking a longer challenge, the Strangford Ferry Terminal – Strangford Ferry loop from Drumaness is a moderate route spanning 58.7 miles (94.5 km) with over 650 meters of elevation gain. Another substantial option is the Quoile River View – Quoile Bridge loop from Ballylough, which is nearly 80 km long with significant elevation.
Are there any routes that offer views of natural reserves?
Yes, some routes allow you to cycle through or near natural reserves. The Daft Eddy's Coffee Shop – Sketrick Castle loop from Bohill Nature Reserve is a great example, starting from a nature reserve and featuring varied terrain.
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