4.7
(33)
852
riders
53
rides
Road cycling around Rosstrevor Upper offers diverse terrain, combining coastal routes with challenging mountain ascents. The region is characterized by its position on the northern shores of Carlingford Lough, providing scenic paths along the water. It also serves as a gateway to the Mourne Mountains, with Slieve Martin directly overlooking the area, offering rewarding climbs into the foothills. Rostrevor Forest and Kilbroney Park contribute extensive woodlands and varied trails to the cycling landscape.
Last updated: July 11, 2026
4.7
(3)
52
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(5)
43
riders
36.3km
01:50
430m
430m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

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17
riders
38.9km
01:47
300m
300m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
18
riders
53.8km
02:23
500m
500m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
21
riders
88.2km
03:36
480m
480m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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The Newry Canal Towpath is a 32-kilometer-long, almost entirely traffic-free green corridor connecting the towns of Portadown and Newry. It follows the towpath of the oldest canal in the British Isles, opened in 1742 to transport coal from County Tyrone to the sea. The Newry Canal Towpath offers an unparalleled cycling experience through the tranquil heart of County Armagh and County Down. This historic route, part of the National Cycle Network Route 9, takes you along a flat and largely asphalted path past fourteen monumental locks and characteristic lock-keeper's cottages. As you follow the waterway, you'll traverse a varied landscape of dense forests and open meadows, passing through welcoming villages like Scarva and Poyntzpass along the way. The path is a haven for wildlife; keep an eye out for kingfishers, swans, and otters that inhabit the reed beds. Whether you cycle the full 32 kilometers or explore just a section, the combination of industrial history and natural beauty makes this one of the absolute gems of Irish cycling routes.
5
0
Nice little cafe in the village of Scarva right alongside the Newry canal towpath, great for brekkie, lunch or just topping up the hydration.
1
0
Hollie Berrie is a good place for refreshments on the route at Scarva
0
1
The small town of Scarva, nestled between green meadows and the quiet canal, offers a welcome break on my bike tour through Northern Ireland. Here you cycle on well-maintained paths past historic bridges and small villages that give you the feeling that time has stood still. The British flags fluttering along the side of the road remind you that you are in a culturally special area - a detail that reflects the identity of the region. The route is easy to cycle, the surrounding landscape is gently rolling, which makes for pleasant cycling. The view of wide fields and rolling hills invites you to slow down now and then and take in the peace and quiet. A special feature of Scarva is the annual Orange Order March, which transforms the village into a kind of open-air stage once a year and keeps the traditions of this region alive.
1
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On the cycle path between Newry and Portadown, the gentle idyll of Northern Ireland unfolds in all its splendor. The route winds its way past lush green meadows where cows graze peacefully, through a wonderfully quiet landscape. The gentle rise and fall of the fields, the vastness of the sky and the gentle rustling of the wind create a unique atmosphere of relaxation. Here you can let your gaze wander into the distance while the path runs picturesquely between fields and hedges. A perfect place to let your bike roll and unwind.
1
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Start of a beautiful path
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The perfect meeting spot to start any run in this area. From this point you can head either into Rostrevor village, out towards Killowen, into Kilbroney park or head north alongside the river.
1
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There are over 60 road cycling routes in Rostrevor Upper, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. The komoot community has explored these routes extensively, with over 900 road cyclists using them.
Yes, Rostrevor Upper offers several routes suitable for beginners. There are 7 easy routes available, providing a gentler introduction to road cycling in the area. These routes often feature less challenging terrain compared to the more mountainous options.
Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Rostrevor Upper provides 6 difficult routes. These routes often include significant ascents into the foothills of the Mourne Mountains, such as the Climb by Rostrevor Forest – Spelga Reservoir Hill Climb loop from Rostrevor, which features over 590 meters of elevation gain.
Many routes offer breathtaking views. You can expect panoramic vistas over Carlingford Lough and the Cooley Mountains. A notable landmark accessible via cycling routes is the Cloghmore Stone on Slieve Martin, which provides spectacular scenery. Other routes offer views of Carlingford Lough from various points, such as the View of Carlingford Lough from Mourne AONB.
Yes, the region is rich in natural beauty and historical landmarks. Many routes pass through or near the picturesque Fairy Glen, a local favorite with a river winding through trees. You might also encounter Fiddler's Green within Rostrevor Oakwood, a peaceful clearing with cultural significance. The Rostrevor Forest itself is a Special Area of Conservation with ancient oak trees.
The routes in Rostrevor Upper are incredibly diverse, combining both scenic coastal paths along Carlingford Lough and challenging ascents into the foothills of the Mourne Mountains. You can experience routes like The Fairy Glen – Warrenpoint Shore Road loop from Killowen, which features a coastal stretch, or opt for routes with significant climbs through woodlands and open moorland.
The road cycling routes in Rostrevor Upper are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning and varied landscapes, from the beautiful views over Carlingford Lough to the rewarding climbs in the Mourne Mountains, and the diverse terrain that caters to different abilities.
Yes, the majority of road cycling routes in Rostrevor Upper are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Climb by Rostrevor Forest – Warrenpoint Shore Road loop from Rostrevor, which offers a comprehensive tour of the area's features.
Kilbroney Park is a central hub for outdoor activities in Rostrevor Upper and offers amenities, including parking, making it a convenient starting point for many road cycling routes that explore the surrounding forest and mountain foothills.
Yes, Rostrevor Forest is a prominent feature in many road cycling routes. For instance, the Fairy Glen – Climb by Rostrevor Forest loop from Rostrevor includes ascents through the extensive woodlands, allowing you to experience the diverse tree species and wildlife of this 1,700-hectare forest. For more information on the forest, you can visit the nidirect.gov.uk page on Rostrevor Forest.
Rostrevor Upper offers enjoyable road cycling throughout much of the year due to its varied terrain. While specific conditions can vary, spring and autumn often provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, though routes with significant climbs can be more challenging in warmer weather. Winter cycling is possible, but it's advisable to check local conditions, especially for higher elevation routes in the Mourne Mountains.


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