5.0
(5)
382
riders
16
rides
Road cycling routes around Cross are characterized by a varied landscape featuring rolling hills, forested areas, and open country roads. The region offers routes with significant elevation gains, such as those leading to reservoirs and through woodlands, providing diverse challenges for cyclists. The terrain includes both moderate climbs and easier sections, making it suitable for different skill levels.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
28
riders
35.0km
01:35
390m
390m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
20
riders
53.1km
02:30
680m
690m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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18
riders
28.8km
01:15
280m
280m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
18
riders
37.7km
01:50
560m
560m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
9
riders
50.1km
02:18
460m
460m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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A great little cafe set in the bike shop, with great coffee and a nice variety of sweet goodies.
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When you cycle and explore Tollymore Forest Park, you'll find a diverse mix of nature and history. The trails are well maintained and lead through dense forests, along the Shimna River and past historic structures such as the Hermitage and the iconic bridges. However, some sections are quite steep and can be slippery when wet, so caution is advised. Signage could be clearer in places, making orientation difficult. Nevertheless, the park offers a rewarding experience for cyclists who appreciate both scenic beauty and cultural highlights.
1
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The crannóg is a man made island dating from around the Late Bronze Age period (from approx. 2000 to 500 BC). The Island was inhabited by the Magennis family in the 17th century, who had vacated a castle that is thought to have stood on the lake shore. It was also used as a hiding place for the Irish Rebellion around 1642.
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Forest paths along the Shimna river marked by many curiosities, both natural and artificial. Rocky outcrops, bridges, grottos and caves. Elsewhere in the park the tree lover can find exotic trees such as monkey puzzle and eucalyptus, or admire the tall giant redwoods and Monterey pines. Oak wood from Tollymore was the preferred material for the interiors of the White Star liners including the 'Titanic' which was built in Belfast.
1
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Good road surface with great views on all sides.
1
0
Great view of the Mourne Mountains and close to Tollymore Forest Park.
1
0
Nice road - usually quiet and leading to opportunities to branch off on other quiet roads
0
0
There are over 45 road cycling routes available around Cross, catering to various skill levels. This includes 11 easy routes, 33 moderate routes, and 2 more challenging options.
Road cycling routes around Cross are characterized by a varied landscape featuring rolling hills, forested areas, and open country roads. You'll find routes with moderate climbs and easier sections, offering diverse challenges and scenic views.
Yes, for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the Spelga Reservoir Hill Climb – Trassey Road loop from Rathfriland offer significant elevation gains. This particular route includes a notable hill climb towards Spelga Reservoir, providing sustained ascents and rewarding views.
For an easier ride, consider the The Yard Café loop from Rathfriland. This 17.9-mile (28.8 km) trail leads through local roads and is often completed in about 1 hour 15 minutes, making it a great option for a more relaxed pace.
The road cycling routes around Cross are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 6 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from rolling hills to forested sections, and the well-maintained country roads that make for an enjoyable ride.
Many of the routes around Cross are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. For example, the popular The Yard Café – Loughbrickland Crannóg loop from Rathfriland is a 21.6-mile (34.8 km) circular trail that features moderate climbs and passes by the Loughbrickland Crannóg.
While road cycling around Cross, you can encounter various natural attractions. Routes often pass by features like the Loughbrickland Crannóg. The broader area also offers views of peaks such as Hen Mountain and Pierce's Castle, providing scenic backdrops to your ride.
Yes, some routes offer glimpses of significant points of interest. For instance, the area includes viewpoints like Slievenaman Climb and historical sites such as Leitrim Lodge and Game of Thrones Filming Location, which can be explored in conjunction with your cycling adventure.
A good moderate route covering a decent distance is the The Yard Café – Lackan Road loop from Rathfriland. This route spans 50.1 miles (80.6 km) and offers a balanced challenge with varied terrain.
Yes, road cycling around Cross includes routes that take you through picturesque forested sections. The Climb by Rostrevor Forest loop from Rathfriland is an excellent example, offering a 37.7-mile (60.7 km) ride with notable climbs through woodland scenery.


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