The best road cycling routes around Hacknahay
4.4
(131)
2,181
riders
264
rides
Road cycling routes around Hacknahay traverse a landscape characterized by rural roads and paths alongside waterways. The area features gentle ascents and descents, with some routes offering views towards Lough Neagh. The terrain is generally accessible, making it suitable for various road cycling experiences.
Best road cycling routes around Hacknahay
- The most popular road cycling route is Newry Canal Path – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Drumnacanvy, a 28.6 miles (46.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 53 minutes…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
3.8
(8)
96
riders
46km
01:53
230m
230m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
19
riders
30.5km
01:21
240m
240m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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4.3
(6)
22
riders
41.9km
01:43
250m
250m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
16
riders
69.8km
03:04
450m
450m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
7
riders
52.9km
02:24
470m
470m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Hacknahay
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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Nice little cafe in the village of Scarva right alongside the Newry canal towpath, great for brekkie, lunch or just topping up the hydration.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Hacknahay?
There are over 290 road cycling routes around Hacknahay, offering a wide variety of options for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 120 reviews.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Hacknahay?
Road cycling routes around Hacknahay primarily traverse rural roads and paths alongside waterways. The landscape features gentle ascents and descents, with some routes offering views towards Lough Neagh. The terrain is generally accessible for various road cycling experiences.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for different skill levels?
Yes, the routes in Hacknahay cater to all abilities. You'll find options for easy, moderate, and difficult ability levels. Specifically, there are 78 easy routes, 177 moderate routes, and 36 difficult routes to choose from.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling routes in Hacknahay?
While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't always explicit, many of the easy routes, particularly those along canal paths, are well-suited for families. The Left Turn loop from Drumnacanvy is an easy 19.0-mile path exploring the local countryside, which could be a good option for families.
What landmarks or points of interest can I see along the road cycling routes?
Many routes offer scenic views and pass by interesting sites. You might encounter historical sites like Scarva Village or the Moyallan Pillbox. Natural features include the Cusher River and the Craigavon Lakes. Some routes, like the Hillsborough Road – View of Lough Neagh loop, offer direct views of Lough Neagh.
Are there circular road cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the routes around Hacknahay are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Newry Canal Path – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Drumnacanvy and the Scarva Village – Newry Canal Path loop from KD Cars.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Hacknahay?
Given the general climate of the region, spring through autumn typically offers the most pleasant conditions for road cycling, with milder temperatures and less chance of adverse weather. However, the accessible terrain means cycling is possible year-round, weather permitting.
Are there any cafes or pubs along the road cycling routes for a break?
While specific cafes and pubs are not detailed for every route, many routes pass through or near villages and towns where you can find refreshments. For instance, the Scarva Village – Lottie's Café loop from Bleary explicitly mentions a cafe, and Scarva Village itself is a known point of interest.
Where can I find parking for road cycling routes in Hacknahay?
Many routes start from locations like Drumnacanvy or KD Cars, which often have local parking facilities. For routes passing through towns or near attractions like Craigavon Lakes or Lough Neagh Discovery Centre, dedicated parking for visitors is usually available.
Can I access road cycling routes near Hacknahay using public transport?
While specific public transport links directly to every trailhead are not detailed, major towns and villages in the wider area, such as Lurgan or Newry, are typically served by public transport. From these points, you may be able to cycle to the start of various routes or find local connections.
What is the longest road cycling route available in Hacknahay?
One of the longer routes available is the Hillsborough Road – View of Lough Neagh loop from Craigavon Area Hospital, which covers a distance of 43.3 miles (69.7 km) and is classified as moderate difficulty.
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