The best cycling routes around Cullion
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Touring cycling routes around Cullion traverse a landscape shaped by ancient volcanic activity, featuring a distinctive ring dyke formation. The region is characterized by a mix of heather-clad uplands, ancient woodlands, and tranquil waterside scenery. Cyclists can expect varied terrain, including well-surfaced country roads and some demanding hill sections, offering diverse experiences. This area, part of a UNESCO Global Geopark, provides a unique geological backdrop for cycling.
Best touring cycling routes around Cullion
- The most popular touring cycling route is…
Last updated: June 15, 2026
35.9km
02:11
290m
300m
Cycle 22.3 miles (35.9 km) on the Kingfisher Cycle Trail Ride 6, featuring scenic views, historic sites, and challenging climbs.
7
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
3
riders
54.4km
03:17
370m
360m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
45.5km
02:43
320m
320m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
21.6km
01:15
120m
120m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Cullion
Tips from the Community
A beautiful riverside town, Belturbet is a delight to explore. Popular with boaters and golfers, the surrounding area also has some pretty walking trails too. There are several bars and restaurants for post hike refreshment.
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Home to a Anglo-Norman motte and bailey castle, Turbet Island occupies a strategic position on the River Erne. Today, it's a nature reserve in the pretty riverside town of Belturbet. The river here is inhabited by several protected bird species, including the whooper swan and the Greenland white-fronted goose.
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Forming part of the Kingfisher Cycle Trail, this country lane is lovely and quiet with good views of Round Lough
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Known locally as the "Wee Abbey", Clones Abbey is a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century. The original abbey was founded by St. Tigernach as early as the 6th century. However, the abbey was destroyed by fire not once, but four times during its history. In the 16th century, the abbey suffered once again during the suppression of monasteries and Protestant reformation under Henry VIII. Less than a hundred years later, it lay in ruin, although some solitary monks still lived here until the 18th century. Today, you can visit the crumbling walls and take a look at the interesting graveyard. The abbey is free to visit and you can access it any time.
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Managed by the National Trust, the Crom Estate is a large nature reserve of woodlands, lake, castle ruins and islands. It is an important habitat for pine martens, bats, deer, red squirrels and butterflies. There is a coffee shop at the estate and if you fancy something different you can hire a boat to explore the lough. For more details check out the website https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/crom
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The Crom Castle estate boathouse sits on the shore of Lough Erne below the main castle. The views out on onto the water from the boathouse are splendid, the perfect spot to pull up a picnic blanket and enjoy some relaxation.
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Great accommodation for cyclists in the centre of Clones. Very good food too.
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The round tower in Clones was originally built around the 10th century as part of the abbey. Although it would once have stood at 75 feet (23 m), the top part is now missing. Nonetheless, it is still a prominent feature on Clones' skyline. There would once have been four storeys, including a bell storey. St Tierney's graveyard, which surrounds the tower, is also an interesting place to explore with many 17th and 18th-century gravestones and the tomb shrine of St Tighernach.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in the Cullion area?
There are currently 4 touring cycling routes around Cullion listed on komoot, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Cullion?
The Cullion area, part of the Ring of Gullion AONB, features a unique landscape shaped by ancient volcanic activity. Cyclists can expect varied terrain, including well-surfaced country roads, some demanding hill sections, and occasionally unpaved segments on more challenging routes. The region offers a mix of heather-clad uplands, ancient woodlands, and tranquil waterside scenery.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Cullion?
Yes, Cullion offers easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. An excellent option is the Old Crom Castle Ruins – Crom Estate Castle Ruins loop from Old Crom Castle (Ruins), which is 7.7 km long with minimal elevation gain. Another easy route is the Clones 'Wee' Abbey – Clones Round Tower loop from Newtownbutler, covering 21.6 km.
What are some longer touring cycling routes in Cullion for more experienced riders?
For those seeking a longer ride, the Clones 'Wee' Abbey – Clones Round Tower loop from Clones is a moderate 53.9 km route with a substantial ascent of 354 meters. Another good option is the Drumgola Lough – Putiaghan Lough loop from Redhills, a moderate 45.2 km trail leading through rural landscapes.
What are the best times of year to go touring cycling in Cullion?
The Ring of Gullion is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling. During these seasons, the weather is often milder, and the natural landscapes, from heather-clad uplands to ancient woodlands, are particularly vibrant. Summer is also popular, though can be busier, while winter rides are possible for those prepared for cooler, potentially wetter conditions.
What historical sites or natural landmarks can I see along the touring cycling routes?
The Cullion area is rich in history and natural beauty. You can explore ancient passage tombs, such as those on Slieve Gullion's summit, or visit the Clones 'Wee' Abbey and Clones Round Tower. The Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins offer glimpses into the past, while tranquil waterside scenery can be enjoyed at Camlough Lake.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Cullion?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Cullion are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Old Crom Castle Ruins – Crom Estate Castle Ruins loop from Old Crom Castle (Ruins) and the Clones 'Wee' Abbey – Clones Round Tower loop from Clones, providing convenient options for exploring the region.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Cullion?
The touring cycling routes in Cullion are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars from over 3 reviews. Cyclists often praise the unique volcanic landscapes, the blend of ancient woodlands and tranquil lakes, and the well-surfaced country roads that make for an enjoyable and immersive experience.
Is there public transport access to the touring cycling routes in Cullion?
Direct access to the Ring of Gullion, where many of these routes are located, is available from Newry via National Cycle Network Route 9. This provides a good option for reaching the area without a car, allowing you to connect to the local cycling network.
Are there bike rental or repair services available in the Cullion area?
Yes, the Ring of Gullion area benefits from services such as bike rental and repair shops. This makes it convenient for visitors who may not have their own equipment or require assistance during their cycling tour.
What are some scenic viewpoints along the touring cycling routes in Cullion?
The summit of Slieve Gullion mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views that can stretch as far as the Mourne Mountains, the Cooley Peninsula, and even the Wicklow Mountains on clear days. Many routes also provide scenic vistas of Camlough Lake and the distinctive ring dyke landscape.
Are there any routes that highlight the unique geology of Cullion?
The entire Ring of Gullion is an ancient volcanic ring dyke, a distinctive geological feature. Routes like the Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Clones - Newbliss - Scotshouse (Ride 6) traverse this unique landscape, allowing cyclists to experience the geological backdrop firsthand. The area's designation as part of a UNESCO Global Geopark further emphasizes its geological significance.
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