The best cycling routes around Knockaree ED
4.2
(17)
312
riders
29
rides
Touring cycling around Knockaree ED offers diverse landscapes in County Sligo, Ireland. The region features scenic coastal views, serene lake scenery around Lough Gill, and fertile pastures. Cyclists encounter the dramatic backdrop of the Ox Mountains and the prominent limestone landmark of Knocknarea mountain. This area provides a variety of terrain suitable for different cycling abilities.
Best touring cycling routes around Knockaree ED
- The most popular touring cycling route is Sligo, Strandhill and Lough Gill Loop, a 19.6 miles (31.5 km) trail that takes 1 hour 53 minutes to complete. This route offers diverse scenery including coastal vistas and lake views.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Carrowmore and Union Rock loop from Strandhill Beach, a moderate 20.7 miles (33.4 km) path. It leads past ancient historical sites and offers coastal views near Strandhill.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Killaspugbrone Loop Trail – Strandhill Beach loop from Sligo Mac Diarmada, a 10.9 miles (17.6 km) trail leading through coastal areas and near Strandhill village, often completed in about 1 hour 4 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Knockaree ED is defined by coastal paths, lake scenery, and ancient historical sites like Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult routes, catering to various ability levels.
- The routes in Knockaree ED are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 200 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Knockaree ED's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
3.0
(1)
12
riders
31.5km
01:54
250m
250m
Cycle the Sligo, Strandhill and Lough Gill Loop, a moderate 19.6-mile route offering coastal views, lake scenery, and historic sites.
4.0
(1)
2
riders
33.4km
02:13
320m
320m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
27
riders
26.9km
01:39
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
13
riders
72.7km
04:39
830m
830m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
riders
35.8km
02:07
260m
260m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
49.8km
02:59
380m
380m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
40.8km
02:28
350m
350m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
22.6km
01:23
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
60.9km
03:40
470m
470m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
36.3km
02:10
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Parke's Castle is a 17th century manor house, originally known as Newtowne, and is situated on the shore of Loch Gill.
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Small bridge over the Ballintrillick River, just before the southwestern entrance of the Gleniff Horseshoe. A quiet, green viewpoint where the river flows beneath you and the first outlines of Benwiskin and the Dartry Mountains become visible. But I don't find it that special.
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The Drumcliff Round Tower is the remnant of an early Christian monastery traditionally founded around 560 by Columcille (Columba). Only the stump of the tower remains standing, but together with the High Cross across the road, it forms a clear landmark of the old abbey site. The tower was part of a larger monastic complex that was a religious center for centuries along the old route between Sligo and Donegal. The weathered stones and the open space around the tower give a clear picture of the early medieval presence in Drumcliff.
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The grave of William Butler Yeats lies next to the church of Drumcliff, at the foot of Benbulben. The simplicity of the gravestone contrasts with his status as a Nobel laureate: a sober limestone slab with his famous last line “Cast a cold Eye / On Life, on Death. / Horseman, pass by.” The place forms a silent, symbolic stop in the landscape that shaped so much of his poetry. The proximity of the old monastery site, the High Cross, and the remains of the round tower give the whole a layered historical atmosphere.
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Drumcliff is one of the most symbolic places in County Sligo: an early Christian site with a 12th-century High Cross, remains of a round tower, and the quiet church where W. B. Yeats is buried. The high cross displays weathered biblical reliefs, while the tower base recalls the ancient monastery that once stood here. Yeats’ grave lies simply beside the church, with his famous last line as an epitaph. The combination of history, literature, and the view towards Benbulben makes this one of the most layered stops in the north.
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The strange silhouette of Benbulben watches over Drumcliff, the village where Yeats, who died in Roquebrune (France), wanted to be buried. To the left of the church is his tombstone with the epitaph written by the poet. Don't miss the round tower and the high cross (early 11th century), engraved with biblical scenes, reminiscent of the first monastery founded in the 6th century by Saint Columba.
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Central bridge over the Garavogue River, named after Douglas Hyde. A recognizable landmark in the heart of Sligo, with views of the river and direct access to the Yeats Memorial Building and the city's main streets.
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This Dominican priory, the city's oldest monument, built in the 13th century by Maurice Fitzgerald, has a choir and the remains of a stone rood screen with three arches from that period. Heavily damaged by fire, the abbey received additions in the 15th century, such as the cloister, the nave, the tower, and especially the most beautiful element of the building: the sarcophagus altar, carved with nine panels, unique in its kind in Ireland.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Knockaree ED?
Knockaree ED offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 30 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including easy, moderate, and difficult trails, ensuring there's something for every cyclist.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while cycling in Knockaree ED?
Touring cycling in Knockaree ED provides a diverse range of landscapes. You'll encounter scenic coastal views, particularly around Strandhill and Ballysodare Bay, serene lake scenery around Lough Gill, and fertile pastures. The majestic Ox Mountains form a dramatic backdrop, and the prominent limestone landmark of Knocknarea mountain dominates the skyline.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Knockaree ED?
Yes, Knockaree ED has several easy routes perfect for beginners. One such option is the Killaspugbrone Loop Trail – Strandhill Beach loop from Sligo Mac Diarmada, which is 10.9 miles (17.6 km) long and leads through coastal areas near Strandhill village.
What historical sites or landmarks can I explore along the cycling routes?
The region is rich in historical and cultural attractions. You can cycle past ancient sites like the Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, one of Europe's oldest. Other notable landmarks include Queen Maeve's Grave (Knocknarea Cairn) atop Knocknarea mountain, and Sligo Abbey. The Carrowmore and Union Rock loop from Strandhill Beach specifically leads past ancient historical sites.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Knockaree ED?
Many of the touring cycling routes in Knockaree ED are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to explore without retracing your steps. Examples include the popular Sligo, Strandhill and Lough Gill Loop and the Sligo Abbey – Hyde Bridge loop from Sligo Mac Diarmada.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Knockaree ED?
Knockaree ED offers enjoyable cycling experiences throughout much of the year. While specific seasonal recommendations aren't provided, the diverse landscapes, from coastal paths to lake scenery, can be appreciated in various conditions. Generally, spring and summer offer milder weather, ideal for exploring the region's natural beauty.
Where can I find places to eat or drink along the cycling routes?
The vibrant Strandhill Village is a popular stop for cyclists, offering various establishments where you can enjoy food, drinks, or ice cream. Routes like the Strandhill Beach – Cows in Pasture loop from Sligo Mac Diarmada pass near this village, providing convenient refreshment opportunities.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Knockaree ED?
The touring cycling routes in Knockaree ED are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, which includes coastal paths, lake scenery, and ancient historical sites, as well as the options available for different ability levels.
Are there any challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists?
Yes, for experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Knockaree ED offers several difficult routes. One such route is the Beautiful river view – Gleniff Horseshoe loop from Sligo Mac Diarmada, which is 72.7 km long and features significant elevation gain, providing a demanding yet rewarding experience.
Can I observe wildlife while cycling in Knockaree ED?
Yes, the diverse natural environment of Knockaree ED provides opportunities for wildlife spotting. Around Ballysodare Bay, for instance, you might observe seals basking on sandbanks during low tide. The varied landscapes, including pastures and lake areas, also support a range of local birdlife and other animals.
Are there any routes that offer views of the famous Knocknarea mountain?
Many routes in the area offer views of the iconic Knocknarea mountain, which dominates the skyline. The mountain itself provides rewarding climbs with spectacular views of the surrounding areas, including Lough Gill and the Ox Mountains. Routes that circle its base or pass nearby will offer excellent vantage points.
What are some of the longer touring cycling routes available?
For those looking for longer rides, the Strandhill Beach – Sligo Abbey loop from Sligo Mac Diarmada is a substantial option, covering 61.7 km. Another extensive route is the Copper River – Rosses Point Beach loop from Sligo Airport, which is 37.1 km long and offers diverse scenery.
Most popular routes around Knockaree ED
Most popular attractions around Knockaree ED
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