The best cycling routes around Clonmain
5.0
(2)
42
riders
12
rides
Touring cycling routes around Clonmain are set within County Armagh, Northern Ireland, an area known for its diverse landscapes. The region features rolling hills, extensive apple orchards, and drumlin country, providing varied topography for cycling. To the north, the area borders Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in the British Isles, offering routes with lake views. Rivers such as the Blackwater and Callan also wind through the county, alongside which cycling paths can be found.
Best touring cycling routes around…
Last updated: June 27, 2026
6
riders
42.9km
02:33
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
riders
47.6km
02:53
350m
350m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
5
riders
52.5km
03:11
360m
360m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
72.5km
04:24
550m
550m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
33.3km
01:58
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Clonmain
Tips from the Community
Navan Fort, also known as Emain Macha, is one of those places that literally breathes history. As a cyclist, you can feel a breath of the past here as you roll gently over the grassy hills. The site, rich in Neolithic, Bronze Age and Iron Age finds, is not only archaeologically fascinating, but also firmly embedded in Irish mythology. The kings of Ulster are said to have ruled here, and the legends of Macha, the namesake, are omnipresent. The gentle climbs around the fort are not too demanding, but give you space to let your gaze wander over the green hills - particularly dramatic when dark clouds pile up in the sky and cast a mystical atmosphere over the landscape. A detour to the visitor center is worthwhile: Here you can find out more about the exciting stories and the excavations that provide insight into Ireland's deepest past.
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The Caledon Beam Engine is an exciting relic from another era that will accompany you on your tour through the Northern Ireland countryside. Nestled in the remains of an old wool mill, the beam engine tells of an era when the pounding and banging of machines shaped everyday life. Today it stands almost forgotten by the roadside and is a reminder of the region's industrial past. The ruin has its own charm - rusty gears, weathered walls and a feeling of time standing still. If you want to pause for a moment to take in the surroundings, this is an ideal place to dismount for a moment. This is not about perfectly restored monuments, but about the raw charm and stories that such places carry. Look out for the old inscriptions and the signs of decay that give the Beam Engine an almost sculptural appearance. This place is a silent witness to a time long gone and offers you a welcome change from the wide fields and winding roads of the region.
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As you step through the magnificent gate, you will be enveloped by the timelessness of this historic place. The old walls, which shine in the sun, tell stories from times long past and invite you to discover them. The municipality has enriched this treasure trove of history with a library and a museum that attract knowledge seekers and history lovers. In the quiet rooms of the library you can leaf through old writings and be transported back to times gone by, while the museum brings the history of the place and its people to life. After a journey of discovery through history and culture, the Priorat's café beckons with its seductive scent of freshly brewed coffee. Here, in an ambience that wonderfully combines modernity and history, you can take a little time out. Choose from comfortable seating inside or settle on one of the terraces to soak up the rays while munching on delicious pastries. But the Priory has even more to offer. A dreamy little walkway winds from the building down to the river. A path lined with blooming flowers and old trees that acts as an invitation to explore this wonderful terrain in all its splendor.
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Nice little cafe at Benburb Priory. Well worth a stop if you are in the area.
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Navan Fort is an important part of Irish mythology. It is said to be a pre-Christian royal site and is sometimes known as Navan Rath. It is full of legend and archeology. There is a visitor centre at the fort with guided tours available. For further information see the website https://visitarmagh.com/places-to-explore/navan-centre-fort/
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The last housed beam engine in Ireland is a significant piece of industrial and social history. The Caldon Beam Engine has been preserved since the Woollen Mill was destroyed in 1985.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Clonmain?
There are over 10 touring cycling routes around Clonmain, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes near Clonmain?
The touring cycling routes around Clonmain are set within County Armagh, known as the "Orchard County." You can expect diverse landscapes including picturesque rolling hills, extensive apple orchards, and drumlin country. Some routes offer views of Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in the British Isles, while others follow the winding River Blackwater and Callan River. The terrain varies from gentle paths to more challenging routes with significant elevation gain.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly touring cycling routes around Clonmain?
Yes, there are options suitable for beginners and families. Loughgall Country Park, for instance, offers peaceful circuits with tarmac paths around a lake and through apple orchards, including a relatively flat 2-mile Orchard Path. The Newry Canal Way is another excellent choice, providing a flat, traffic-free towpath ideal for relaxed cycling. Additionally, the Craigavon Lakes Circuit offers smooth, shared paths around artificial lakes in Craigavon City Park.
Can I find challenging touring cycling routes in the Clonmain area?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the region offers routes with more significant elevation gain. For example, the The Mall, Armagh – Benburb Priory loop from Armagh is classified as difficult, covering over 71 km with more than 540 meters of ascent. The broader Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, located south of County Armagh, also features rugged landscapes and challenging climbs, including Slieve Gullion, an extinct volcano.
What interesting places or landmarks can I see along the touring cycling routes near Clonmain?
Many routes pass by historical sites and natural features. You might encounter the historic Benburb Priory or the ancient Navan Fort (Emain Macha). The Benburb Priory – Navan Fort (Emain Macha) loop from Armagh Observatory is a moderate route that connects these historical sites. You can also explore Loughgall Country Park with its orchards and lake, or Gosford Forest Park with its extensive woodlands and Gosford Castle. Some routes offer views of Lough Neagh, and you might even spot the Maghery Footbridge at Lough Neagh.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Clonmain?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Clonmain are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. A popular example is the Lough Gall – Loughgall Country Park loop from Tullyroan Oval, which takes you through scenic countryside and Loughgall Country Park. Another option is the Benburb Priory – Navan Fort (Emain Macha) loop from Moy, offering a journey through rolling landscapes and historical landmarks.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Clonmain?
The spring and summer months are generally ideal for touring cycling in Clonmain. Spring brings the beautiful blossom of the apple orchards, making for a particularly scenic ride. Summer offers longer daylight hours and generally milder weather. However, the diverse landscapes can be enjoyed in all seasons, with autumn providing vibrant foliage.
Are there cafes or amenities along the touring cycling routes near Clonmain?
While Clonmain itself is a small townland, the surrounding areas and towns like Loughgall, Armagh, and Moy offer various amenities. Loughgall Country Park has facilities, and you can find cafes and pubs in the nearby towns. For example, Benburb Priory, which is part of several routes, also features a cafe.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Clonmain?
The touring cycling routes around Clonmain are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 3 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's diverse and picturesque landscapes, from the rolling hills and apple orchards to the tranquil lake views near Lough Neagh. The variety of routes, catering to different difficulty levels, is also a frequently appreciated aspect.
Are there any routes that offer views of the Blackwater River?
Yes, the county is home to the winding River Blackwater, and cycling routes can be found alongside it. The Blackwater River Walk is a highlight in the area, and routes like the Shelter Point loop from Armagh may offer glimpses of the river or its tributaries as you explore the surrounding countryside.
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