The best cycling routes around Ballymakeonan
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Touring cycling routes around Ballymakeonan offer access to the diverse landscapes of County Down, Northern Ireland. The region is characterized by rolling countryside, leading towards the foothills of the Mourne Mountains and the shores of Strangford Lough. Cyclists can find routes traversing open farmland, wooded areas, and coastal sections, providing varied terrain for exploration.
Best touring cycling routes around Ballymakeonan
- The most popular touring cycling route is Loughshore trail route 2 — Moira loop, an easy 17.7 miles (28.4 km) trail that takes 1 hour 50 minutes to complete, offering views of the lough.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Moira to Lisnamintry loop, a moderate 31.3 miles (50.3 km) path. This route features varied terrain through rural landscapes and small villages.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Shaw's Bridge – Lagan Towpath loop from Moira, a 45.8 miles (73.7 km) trail leading through river valleys and along the Lagan Towpath, often completed in about 4 hours 16 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Ballymakeonan is defined by tranquil lough shores, river paths, and rolling countryside. The network offers options for easy rides and more challenging moderate routes.
- The routes in Ballymakeonan are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 15 reviews. More than 290 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Ballymakeonan's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
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28.4km
01:50
110m
110m
The Loughshore trail route 2 — Moira loop offers an inviting and generally accessible touring bicycle ride through scenic Northern Irish landscapes. This easy 17.7-mile (28.4 km) loop, with a gentle elevation gain of 370 feet (113 metres), takes you along the tranquil Lough Neagh shoreline, providing continuous vistas of the largest freshwater lake in the British Isles. You will also cycle through surrounding woodlands and enjoy views of the Broad Water, making for a diverse and pleasant natural experience that can be completed in about 1 hour and 50 minutes.
Planning your visit to the Moira loop is straightforward, as the route is predominantly flat and suitable for cyclists of all skill levels. The trail surface is mostly paved, though you will encounter a mix of surfaces, including quiet country lanes. Be prepared to share some minor country roads with local traffic and potentially farming vehicles. This route is part of the broader Loughshore Trail, which is well-signed, ensuring an easy navigation experience.
This loop is a segment of the extensive Loughshore Trail, designated as Route 94 of the National Cycle Network. The wider trail is notable for circumnavigating Lough Neagh and linking pretty villages and open countryside. While specific attractions directly on the Moira loop are not detailed, the area's waterside paths and access to the Lagan Towpath are key features for touring cyclists, offering connections to historic canals and rivers.
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30.5km
01:59
140m
140m
Cycle the easy Loughshore Trail Route 2 - Moira Loop, a 18.9-mile route through tranquil County Antrim with views of Lough Neagh.
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1
riders
50.3km
03:09
420m
420m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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55
riders
73.2km
04:15
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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8
riders
24.4km
01:35
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The entrance to Lisnamintry Rath (located on Ballygargan Road, near Portadown) is the gateway to one of the few officially protected archaeological monuments in this part of County Armagh. A rath is an early medieval fortified farmstead (c. 500–1000 AD) that formerly offered protection to families and their livestock against raiders. Not visible from the road.
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Cycle and pedestrian bridge over the Lagan
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The bridge is named after Captain John Shaw of Oliver Cromwell's army, who built an oak bridge here in 1655. A stone bridge was built by Thomas Burgh in 1691, although this was destroyed by flooding, which led to it being replaced by the present bridge in 1709.
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The path, which is part of National Cycle Route 9, offers a peaceful atmosphere that is ideal for relaxed bike rides - but walkers, joggers and dog owners also appreciate the route. The contrast between the quiet river and the partially flooded sections that can appear after heavy rain is particularly exciting. Sometimes the path leads directly to the water, and it almost seems as if the Lagan wants to reclaim a bit more space. The trees are reflected in the calm waters, which creates an almost mystical atmosphere in cloudy weather. Another highlight are the small, branching mountain bike trails that bring a bit of adventure to the tour. If you want a change and don't just want to follow the river, these trails offer a welcome change.
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The path, which is part of National Cycle Route 9, offers a peaceful atmosphere that is ideal for relaxed bike rides - but walkers, joggers and dog owners also appreciate the route. The contrast between the quiet river and the partially flooded sections that can appear after heavy rain is particularly exciting. Sometimes the path leads directly to the water and it almost seems as if the Lagan wants to reclaim a bit more space. The trees are reflected in the calm waters, which creates an almost mystical atmosphere in cloudy weather. Another highlight are the small, branching mountain bike trails that bring a bit of adventure to the tour. If you want a change and don't just want to follow the river, these trails offer a welcome change.
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The park covers almost 130 hectares and offers a variety of landscapes - from wide meadows and shady woodlands to manicured rose and Japanese gardens. The International Rose Trials, which take place here every year, are particularly exciting. If you come at the right time, you can admire an impressive variety of roses, which are judged by international experts. But the park has a lot to offer away from the roses in bloom: whether you just want to take a quiet walk in the Walled Garden, explore the Japanese Garden or challenge yourself on the orienteering course - everyone will find a favorite spot here. A small café provides refreshments and the playground also has something for younger visitors. The park has many hidden corners that make it an ideal stop to recharge.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Ballymakeonan?
There are over 45 touring cycling routes around Ballymakeonan, offering a wide range of options for exploring the diverse landscapes of County Down. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars.
What types of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in this area?
Touring cycling around Ballymakeonan features varied terrain, from tranquil lough shores and river paths to rolling countryside. You'll find routes traversing open farmland, wooded areas, and coastal sections, with some leading towards the foothills of the Mourne Mountains.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or a relaxed ride?
Yes, Ballymakeonan offers several easy touring cycling routes. An excellent option is the Loughshore trail route 2 — Moira loop, an easy 17.7-mile (28.4 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 50 minutes to complete, offering pleasant views of the lough.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes around Ballymakeonan?
Many of the touring cycling routes in the Ballymakeonan area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Moira to Lisnamintry loop is a moderate 31.3-mile (50.3 km) path that takes you through rural landscapes and small villages.
What are some notable attractions or landmarks I can see along the touring cycling routes?
Along the touring cycling routes, you can explore various attractions. Consider visiting the Craigavon Lakes, or the Wave Sculptures Overlooking Lough Neagh. The Lisnamintry Rath Entrance also offers a glimpse into local history.
Are there any touring cycling routes that follow river paths or lough shores?
Absolutely. The region is known for its scenic water-side routes. The Shaw's Bridge – Lagan Towpath loop from Moira is a popular choice, leading through river valleys and along the Lagan Towpath for 45.8 miles (73.7 km).
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Ballymakeonan?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience around Ballymakeonan, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 15 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil lough shores to rolling countryside, and the well-maintained paths that offer options for both easy rides and more challenging moderate routes.
Are there any routes that offer views of Lough Neagh?
Yes, you can find routes that provide views of Lough Neagh. The Lough Neagh Shoreline – Bartin's Bay loop from Moira is a moderate 33.4-mile (53.7 km) route that takes you along the lough's edge, offering scenic vistas.
Are there any forest parks or wooded areas accessible by touring bike?
While Ballymakeonan itself is a townland, the wider County Down area is home to several forest parks like Tollymore Forest Park and Castlewellan Forest Park. These parks feature lush woodlands and well-marked trails, providing scenic and shaded routes for cyclists. You can also find the Oxford Island National Nature Reserve near Lough Neagh, which includes forested areas.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling around Ballymakeonan?
The best time for touring cycling around Ballymakeonan, like much of Northern Ireland, is typically during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. This allows for more comfortable rides and better enjoyment of the scenic landscapes.
Are there options for longer, more challenging touring cycling routes?
Yes, for those seeking a longer and more challenging ride, the area offers moderate routes that cover greater distances and elevation. The Loughshore Trail Route 2 - Moira Loop, for instance, is a moderate 18.9-mile (30.5 km) route with some elevation, providing a good workout while still being accessible.
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