The best road cycling routes around Foy Beg
4.5
(72)
896
riders
108
rides
Road cycling routes around Foy Beg offer access to the diverse landscapes of County Armagh, characterized by the southern shores of Lough Neagh, extensive peatlands, and rolling drumlins. The region also features scenic hills and picturesque apple orchards, providing varied terrain for cyclists. Key cycling areas include the Newry Canal Way, a largely flat, traffic-free path, and the network of paths around Craigavon Lakes.
Best road cycling routes around Foy Beg
- The most popular road cycling route is Newry Canal…
Last updated: July 11, 2026
4.3
(14)
146
riders
62.7km
02:22
120m
120m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.2
(10)
49
riders
35.9km
01:23
90m
90m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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22
riders
48.2km
02:04
390m
390m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
19
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
16
riders
40.9km
01:44
320m
320m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Foy Beg
Tips from the Community
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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Along the picturesque route near the River Bann, you'll find the Moyallan Pillbox. Built around 1940 as part of Britain's coastal and inland defences, this compact bunker served as an observation post and machine gun nest. Strategically positioned to guard the river crossing and nearby roads, this robust structure is a reminder of a time when this peaceful landscape was on high alert. For the passing cyclist, it's an intriguing stop; its moss-green walls blend almost seamlessly with the surrounding nature, revealing the bunker's secrets only at the last moment. A raw piece of military heritage that sharply contrasts with the tranquility of the present-day countryside.
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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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Hollie Berrie is a good place for refreshments on the route at Scarva
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Foy Beg?
There are over 120 road cycling routes available around Foy Beg, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes near Foy Beg?
The region around Foy Beg offers diverse terrain for road cyclists. You'll find largely flat, traffic-free canal-side paths, rolling drumlins, and varied landscapes around the Craigavon Lakes. The broader County Armagh area also features scenic hills and picturesque apple orchards, providing a mix of gentle and moderately challenging routes.
Are there any easy, traffic-free road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, the area is well-suited for easy, traffic-free cycling. The Scarva Village – Newry Canal Path loop from Portadown is an easy 22.4-mile route that follows the historic Newry Canal. The Newry Canal Way itself is a 20-mile traffic-free path, largely flat and well-maintained, perfect for leisurely rides. Additionally, the network of paths around Craigavon Lakes provides a traffic-free environment suitable for families and cyclists of varying abilities.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see while cycling near Foy Beg?
While cycling near Foy Beg, you can encounter several interesting landmarks and natural features. The Craigavon Lakes offer extensive cycling paths and scenic views. You might also pass by the historic Moyallan Pillbox or enjoy views of Lough Neagh, particularly from the Maghery Footbridge or near the Wave Sculptures Overlooking Lough Neagh.
Are there any circular road cycling routes around Foy Beg?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Foy Beg are designed as loops. For example, the Newry Canal Path – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Portadown is a popular circular route following the canal. Another option is the Scarva Village – Craigavon Lakes loop from Portadown, which takes you through the scenic Craigavon Lakes area.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Foy Beg?
The road cycling routes around Foy Beg are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 60 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from traffic-free canal paths to routes through rolling drumlins and around the scenic Craigavon Lakes, offering options for various ability levels.
Can I find routes that combine canal-side cycling with other scenic areas?
Absolutely. Routes like the Scarva Village – Craigavon Lakes loop from Portadown offer a great combination, allowing you to experience both the charm of Scarva Village along the Newry Canal and the extensive cycling paths around Craigavon Lakes.
Are there any routes that pass through charming villages or offer places to stop for refreshments?
Yes, the Scarva Village – Newry Canal Path loop from Portadown passes through Scarva Village, which is known for its floral displays and tea rooms, making it an ideal spot for a refreshment break during your ride.
What is the best time of year to go road cycling around Foy Beg?
County Armagh, known as the 'Orchard County,' is particularly picturesque in spring when the apple orchards are in blossom. However, the varied landscapes, including canal paths and lake areas, offer enjoyable cycling experiences throughout the warmer months. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any routes suitable for more experienced road cyclists looking for moderate challenges?
Yes, Foy Beg offers routes with moderate elevation changes for more experienced riders. The Newry Canal Path – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Portadown is a moderate 39-mile route with some elevation. Another moderate option is the Scarva Village – Craigavon Lakes loop from Portadown, which covers 30 miles and includes varied terrain around the lakes.
Are there any road cycling routes that venture into the 'Orchard County' areas?
While specific routes through orchards aren't detailed in the provided data, the broader County Armagh region, where Foy Beg is located, is renowned as the 'Orchard County.' Many local roads and routes will take you through or near these picturesque areas, especially beautiful during spring blossom.
Can I find routes that are generally flat for a relaxed ride?
Yes, many routes, particularly those along the Newry Canal Way, are largely flat. The Newry Canal Way is a 20-mile traffic-free path, ideal for a relaxed ride. The Scarva Village – Newry Canal Path loop from Portadown is an easy route that follows this flat canal path.
Most popular routes around Foy Beg
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