4.5
(13)
645
riders
49
rides
Touring cycling around Ballincurry offers diverse routes through rural Irish landscapes. The region features a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, providing varied cycling experiences across rolling hills and tranquil areas. Cyclists can expect scenic roads and quiet paths, often passing by natural waterways and through green countryside. These routes cater to different skill levels, from gentle rides to more challenging ascents.
Last updated: August 20, 2026
10
riders
25.3km
01:29
70m
70m
Cycle the easy Carlingford Lough Greenway, a 15.7-mile route with stunning lough and mountain views, perfect for families and beginners.
5.0
(1)
6
riders
28.1km
01:52
460m
460m
Embark on Route 7 - The Rostrevor Route for a challenging touring cycling experience through the scenic Mourne AONB. This difficult route spans 17.4 miles (28.1 km) and demands a…

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125
riders
23.6km
02:37
730m
740m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
44
riders
15.8km
01:30
350m
350m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
37
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Taaffes Castle (2026-08-07): https://taaffescastle.com/ TRIPADVISOR (Taaffes Castle Bar, 2026-08-07): https://www.tripadvisor.ie/Restaurant_Review-g315880-d2223151-Reviews-Taaffes_Castle_Bar-Carlingford_Cooley_Peninsula_County_Louth.html
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The former Carlingford Railway Station is a beautifully preserved reminder of the time when the steam train was the lifeblood of the Cooley Peninsula. The station was once an important stop on the Dundalk, Newry & Greenore Railway (DN&GR) line, opened in 1873 and closed in 1951.
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Above the medieval street pattern, which dominates the silhouette of Carlingford, stands the imposing ruin of Carlingford Castle, also known as King John’s Castle. This castle was built around 1190 by the Norman knight Hugh de Lacy and was for centuries the strategic key to the entrance of Carlingford Lough.
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Quiet viewpoint along the Greenway near Ballyonan. Old quay on the lough, open view of the Mournes and a quiet coastal passage between Omeath and the border.
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Small, elevated Calvary hill on the edge of Omeath, with a short path leading up to a series of white crosses on an open grassy plateau. The spot offers a quiet moment above the village, with clear views towards Carlingford Lough and the surrounding hills.
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Taaffe's Castle is a fortified merchant's house dating from the early 16th century, built by the wealthy Taaffe family, who later became the Earls of Carlingford. Situated near the old harbour, the building originally served as a trading post on the ground floor with residential floors above. The architecture displays typical defensive features such as machicolations, narrow loopholes, spiral staircases, and multi-level garderobes. [curiousireland.ie], [castles.nl], [carlingfor...centre.com] The main structure is a four-storey rectangular tower, later extended with a 16th-century northern extension. Its location and construction clearly demonstrate Carlingford's importance as a thriving trading town during that period. After the 17th century, it fell into disuse, and eventually fell into disuse. Today, it forms part of a pub complex and remains a striking example of medieval urban defensive architecture in Carlingford.
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Carlingford Castle, also known as King John’s Castle, is a striking 12th-century fortress overlooking the charming medieval town of Carlingford and its scenic harbour. Built by Hugh de Lacy to guard the strategic Lough, the castle has a commanding presence with its weathered stone walls and rugged silhouette against the water. Though partially in ruins, it still captures the atmosphere of Ireland’s Norman past, and its elevated position offers sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.
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There are over 50 touring cycling routes around Ballincurry, offering a wide variety of experiences for different skill levels. The komoot community has explored these routes over 800 times, highlighting the area's popularity among cyclists.
The routes around Ballincurry feature a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, providing diverse cycling experiences. You can expect scenic roads, quiet paths, and rolling hills, with some routes including more challenging ascents. This varied terrain is characteristic of rural Ireland, offering engaging rides through green countryside and natural waterways.
Yes, Ballincurry offers 8 easy touring cycling routes. An excellent option for a gentle ride is the Carlingford Lough Greenway, which is 25.3 km long and offers a scenic, traffic-free experience along the lough.
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Ballincurry has 24 difficult routes. One such route is the Crocknafeola Wood – Kilbroney Park loop from Rostrevor, which covers nearly 57 km with significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is Route 7 - The Rostrevor Route, a 28.1 km path with substantial climbing.
Many touring cycling routes in the Ballincurry area pass by notable landmarks and natural features. You can discover the unique Cloughmore Stone, explore the scenic Kilbroney Park, or visit the historic Long Woman's Grave Memorial. For panoramic views, routes may lead you near summits like Slieve Foye Summit or Eagle Mountain.
Yes, there are several circular routes available. An example is the Kilbroney Park – Rostrevor Forest loop from Killowen, a 23.0 km trail that takes you through beautiful parkland and forest, offering a complete loop back to your starting point.
The Ballincurry area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 10 reviews. Reviewers often praise the scenic roads, the mix of terrain, and the tranquil atmosphere that allows for an immersive experience in the rural Irish landscape. The variety of routes, from easy greenways to challenging climbs, is also frequently highlighted.
Yes, some routes will take you through or near charming settlements. For instance, the The Old Oak Tree – The Calvary of Omeath loop from Rostrevor, a moderate 68.6 km route, passes through areas where you might find opportunities for breaks or to explore local amenities in places like Carlingford.
While specific family-friendly routes are not explicitly detailed, the presence of easy routes like the Carlingford Lough Greenway suggests options for families. These traffic-free paths along scenic waterways are generally ideal for a relaxed cycling experience with children.
Rural areas in Ireland, including Ballincurry, generally offer pleasant cycling conditions from late spring through early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is typically milder, with longer daylight hours, making for more enjoyable rides through the green landscapes. However, be prepared for changeable weather, as is common in Ireland.
Absolutely. For those looking for a strenuous workout, many of the 24 difficult routes in Ballincurry feature significant elevation gain. The Crocknafeola Wood – Kilbroney Park loop from Rostrevor, for example, includes nearly 960 meters of ascent, providing a challenging and rewarding ride through the region's hills.


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