The best cycling routes around Kildare-Newbridge

Kildare-Newbridge offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 80 options available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 30 easy, 42 moderate, and 15 difficult trails.

Yes, Kildare-Newbridge has many easy routes perfect for beginners or family outings. The flat plains and canal greenways provide gentle gradients. For example, the Canal Gate on Cycling Route – Monasterevin loop from Rathangan is an easy 23 km trail, and The Rising Sun – St Bridgid's Round Tower loop from Kildare offers a shorter 17.1 km easy ride.

The region is characterized by diverse natural beauty. You'll cycle through expansive flat plains, alongside tranquil waterways like the Grand Canal and River Barrow, and through woodlands such as Donadea Forest Park and Killinthomas Wood. The vast, unenclosed grasslands of The Curragh also offer a unique cycling experience, often with views of thoroughbred horses.

Many of the touring cycling routes in Kildare-Newbridge are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular St Brigid's Round Tower loop from Kildare, a moderate 36.2 km route, and the Moore's Bridge – Athy loop from Monasterevin, which covers 47 km through the flat plains.

Kildare-Newbridge is rich in historical and natural attractions. You can cycle past significant sites like the Kildare Round Tower and St. Brigid's Cathedral. The region also features the serene Japanese Gardens and Irish National Stud, and the impressive Castletown House and Parklands. For nature lovers, the Bluebell Forest, Kildare offers a beautiful experience, especially in spring.

Yes, for experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Kildare-Newbridge offers several difficult routes with significant elevation gain. A notable option is the Glendalough Round Tower – Glendalough Monastic Site loop from Newbridge, a demanding 113.6 km path that extends towards the Glendalough Monastic Site.

The touring cycling routes in Kildare-Newbridge are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists often praise the accessible terrain, the scenic canal greenways, and the variety of routes that cater to different fitness levels.

Absolutely. Many routes pass through or near towns and villages where you can find cafes and shops. For instance, the Coffee Stop at Digby Bridge – Sallins loop from Newbridge is specifically named for a popular refueling spot, and routes along the Grand Canal Greenway often have amenities nearby.

Yes, several towns in the Kildare-Newbridge region are accessible by public transport, including train and bus services, making it convenient to reach starting points for many cycling routes. For example, Sallins, Monasterevin, and Kildare town are well-connected and offer access to canal greenways and other trails.

Parking is generally available in the towns and villages that serve as common starting points for cycling routes, such as Kildare, Newbridge, Sallins, and Monasterevin. Many trailheads, especially along the Grand Canal Greenway and in forest parks like Donadea, also provide designated parking areas for visitors.

The region is enjoyable for touring cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring the greenways and woodlands, with wildflowers like bluebells in bloom. Autumn provides beautiful foliage. While cycling is popular even in winter months, be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially wetter conditions, especially on exposed routes.

Yes, for those seeking elevated views, Cupidstown Hill, the highest point in County Kildare, offers vistas over the county and parts of Wicklow. The Hill of Allen also provides panoramic views of the surrounding flat landscape and the Bog of Allen, which can be incorporated into longer touring routes.