The best cycling routes around Lough Tay

The Lough Tay area offers a mix of routes suitable for different skill levels. You'll find 9 moderate routes and 14 difficult routes. Moderate options, like the Ballinastoe MTB Trails loop from Ballinastoe Wood, are generally shorter with less elevation gain. Difficult routes often involve significant climbs and longer distances, traversing the mountainous terrain of the Wicklow Mountains National Park.

While many routes in the immediate Lough Tay area are rated moderate to difficult due to the mountainous terrain, some shorter, moderate loops can be suitable for families with older children or those comfortable with some elevation. For instance, the Roundwood – Roundwood loop from Kilmacanogue offers a 17.6 km ride with manageable climbs, providing a good option for a family outing.

Parking is generally available at popular starting points for cycling routes. The Region Research mentions car parks along the R759 road, such as those near Ballinastoe Wood and J.B. Malone, which are convenient access points for many trails in the area.

You can expect dramatic and diverse landscapes. The routes wind through the Wicklow Mountains National Park, offering views of blanket bogs, heath habitats, and ancient woodlands. The highlight is often Lough Tay itself, known as the 'Guinness Lake,' with its dark waters contrasting with a white sand beach, framed by mountains like Djouce and Luggala. Scenic roads like the Military Road (R115/L1013) and R759 provide panoramic vistas.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Lough Tay are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Ballinastoe MTB Trails – View From the Bridge loop from Ballinastoe Wood, which is a challenging 25.9 km ride, and the Sally Gap – Wicklow Way loop from Ballinastoe Wood, a longer 38.6 km option.

The Wicklow Mountains National Park, including the Lough Tay area, is beautiful year-round, but the best time for touring cycling is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, you'll typically experience milder weather, longer daylight hours, and drier conditions, making the mountainous terrain more enjoyable and safer to navigate. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Given the variable weather in the Wicklow Mountains, it's advisable to dress in layers. Even on sunny days, conditions can change quickly, especially at higher elevations. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are recommended, along with moisture-wicking base layers. Helmets are essential, and gloves and appropriate cycling footwear will enhance your comfort and safety.

Yes, the wider Wicklow Mountains National Park features natural attractions like waterfalls. For example, the Sally Gap – Glenmacnass Waterfall loop from Vartry Reservoir Upper is a challenging 41.2 km touring cycling route that includes the scenic Glenmacnass Waterfall, offering a rewarding stop along your ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from more than 5 reviews. Reviewers often praise the dramatic mountain backdrops, the scenic road networks, and the diverse national park landscapes. The unique visual of the 'Guinness Lake' itself, viewed from surrounding roads, is frequently highlighted as a memorable experience.

While you can enjoy breathtaking views of Lough Tay from various points along the surrounding roads and cycling routes, direct access to the lake and its shore is restricted as it is on private property. The beauty of the 'Guinness Lake' is best appreciated from the designated viewpoints and roads that traverse the area.

While the immediate vicinity of Lough Tay is largely natural and undeveloped, the surrounding villages and towns within the Wicklow Mountains National Park, such as Roundwood, offer options for cafes, pubs, and shops where you can refuel and refresh during or after your ride. It's always a good idea to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer routes.

There are over 20 touring cycling routes available around Lough Tay on komoot. These routes cater to various preferences, ranging from moderate loops to more challenging mountain routes, all set within the stunning landscapes of the Wicklow Mountains National Park.