5.0
(2)
61
riders
12
rides
Touring cycling routes around Ballyedock offer access to the diverse landscapes of County Down, characterized by coastal stretches, tranquil lough-side paths, and rolling rural roads. The region features a mix of flat sections and gentle inclines, making it suitable for various cycling abilities. Cyclists can expect views of the Irish Sea, Strangford Lough, and verdant farmlands. The terrain is predominantly paved, providing smooth surfaces for touring bicycles.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
4
riders
29.2km
01:46
150m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
57.1km
03:21
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5
riders
15.8km
00:57
80m
80m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
30.3km
01:48
160m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
25
riders
36.7km
02:07
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Ballyedock
Burr Point marks the most easterly point on the island of Ireland. The spot is marked by a coastal sculpture by artist Ned Jackson Smyth. You can rest up in the sheltered cove which has a well-kept toilet and changing facilities close by.
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Built in 1622 by Roland Savage. The tower has had several alterations over its past. The neo gothic style was introduced in the early 19th century.
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Visitors to Corrog Wood will be greeted by a curious wooden sculpture of a Dryad. The sculpture has been affectionately named the ‘Frump in the Stump’. A dryad is a tree nymph in Greek mythology. The Dryad keeps a watchful, protective eye on the new wood standing at the entrance. Continue past the Dryad on through the little kissing gate and a loop pathway will be waiting to lead you around the 14-acre wood, where a mix of approximately 12,000 native trees and 400 metres of hedging have been planted.
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Quintin Castle is one of the few inhabited Anglo-Norman castles to be found in Ulster. The Castle was built in 1184 by John de Courcy, an Anglo-Norman Knight who had conquered substantial parts of Ireland from 1176. It is located in the Ards Peninsula, east of the village of Portaferry on the shore of the Irish Sea, The location hosts an unprecedented view of the surrounding landscape.
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Also known as Phennick Cove Marina, in Ardglass, County Down, one of three major fishing ports in Northern Ireland. Ardglass is now one of the safest small harbours on the east coast of Ireland, following improvements made in recent years.
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Ballyhornan is sandy beach surrounded by cliffs. Guns Island lies just in the bay. On the horizon it is possible to see the Isle of Man.
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The Marina is a nature reserve of unparalleled beauty, it is a good starting point on which to explore the Lough.
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Portaferry ( from Port an Pheire 'landing place of the ferry' ) is a small town in County down, at the southern end of the Ards Peninsula, near the Narrows at the entrance to Strangford Lough. It hosts its own small Marina, From where the The Ferry service operates daily at 30-minute intervals (7.45 am to 10.45 pm) between the villages of Portaferry and Strangford. The Lough being one of the world's most important marine sites with over 2,000 marine species. There are fine Georgian buildings in the town square, including a Market House, now used as a community centre. Portaferry Castle, a 16th-century townhouse ruin, sits atop a slope overlooking the Harbour.
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There are over 10 touring cycling routes around Ballyedock, offering a variety of experiences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars.
Yes, Ballyedock offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners. For example, the Portaferry to Quintin Castle loop is an easy 9.8-mile path that provides pleasant lough-side cycling with views of Quintin Castle.
The touring cycling routes around Ballyedock are predominantly paved, providing smooth surfaces. You can expect a mix of coastal stretches, tranquil lough-side paths, and rolling rural roads, with both flat sections and gentle inclines.
Many of the easier routes around Ballyedock are suitable for families, particularly those with mostly paved surfaces and gentle inclines. The region's lough-side paths and rural roads offer a safe and scenic environment for family rides. The Portaferry to Quintin Castle loop is a good example of an easy route that families can enjoy.
Yes, Ballyedock features several circular touring cycling routes. Popular options include the Kilclief to Ardglass Harbour loop and the Portaferry to Quintin Castle loop, allowing you to start and end your ride in the same location.
Cycling routes around Ballyedock offer views of the Irish Sea, Strangford Lough, and verdant farmlands. You can also discover historical sites and natural beauty. Notable attractions include Castle Ward Tower (a famous filming location), Audley's Castle, and the scenic Forest Path Along Strangford Lough.
Absolutely. Many routes pass by significant historical landmarks. You can cycle past Castle Ward Tower and Audley's Castle, both offering glimpses into the region's rich history. The Portaferry to Quintin Castle loop specifically offers views of Quintin Castle.
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Ballyedock, with an average score of 5.0 stars from more than 3 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from coastal views to tranquil lough-side paths, and the well-maintained, predominantly paved routes.
While specific public transport options directly to every trailhead may vary, the Strangford Ferry Terminal can be a key access point for routes around Strangford Lough, connecting different parts of the region. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for connections to towns like Portaferry or Strangford, which serve as starting points for many routes.
Parking is available at various points, especially near popular starting locations for routes. For example, the Castle Ward Shore Car Park is a convenient option for accessing routes in that area. Many towns and villages along the routes, such as Portaferry and Strangford, also offer public parking facilities.
Yes, the routes often pass through or near towns and villages where you can find cafes, pubs, and other amenities. For instance, Portaferry, a common starting point for several loops, offers various options for refreshments. Planning your route with komoot can help identify specific points of interest for breaks.
The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most favorable weather for touring cycling in Ballyedock, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. However, the region's lush green landscapes are beautiful year-round, and coastal routes can be invigorating even in cooler months.
Yes, while many routes are moderate, experienced touring cyclists can find longer and more challenging options. The Ards Peninsula half loop from Portaferry, at 35.5 miles, offers a more extensive ride through coastal and rural landscapes, providing a good challenge with its length and varied terrain.


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