The best road cycling routes around Derrycaw
812
riders
83
rides
Road cycling around Derrycaw offers diverse landscapes, from tranquil lakeside paths to routes through glens and past historical sites. The region features rolling terrain, with areas around Lough Neagh providing varied cycling experiences. Cyclists can find routes near Craigavon Lakes, offering traffic-free sections, and paths along the Blackwater River. The area's geography supports a range of road cycling, from gentler rides to more challenging ascents.
Best road cycling routes around Derrycaw
- The most popular road cycling route is Chicken Fillet…
Last updated: July 11, 2026
25
riders
51.2km
02:15
400m
400m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
10
riders
65.6km
02:50
470m
470m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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8
riders
55.9km
02:28
400m
400m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
7
riders
107km
04:47
990m
990m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
8
riders
68.4km
02:56
480m
480m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Other adventures around Derrycaw
Tips from the Community
Between the rustling trees along the Newry Canal Towpath, you'll encounter the tranquil ruin of a lock keeper's cottage. Once, this was the proud and bustling heart of the waterway, where the lock keeper stood ready day and night to operate the heavy wooden canal gates for passing barges. Today, only the robust stone walls remain, slowly being reclaimed by nature.
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Quiet canal section south of Poyntzpass, where the towpath runs tightly along the narrow water. The bank is lightly overgrown with low trees and hedges, giving the stretch an intimate, green impression. The water is mostly still, forming a straight line through the open agricultural landscape. An even, traffic-free segment ideal for quiet miles on the towpath.
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Nice little cafe in the village of Scarva right alongside the Newry canal towpath, great for brekkie, lunch or just topping up the hydration.
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Hollie Berrie is a good place for refreshments on the route at Scarva
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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.
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There is something enchanted about this old, dilapidated stone hut - as if it were whispering stories of times gone by, when the canal was still full of life and the lock keepers worked here day and night. The walls, overgrown with greenery and moss, show how nature is slowly reclaiming its place. The building itself is only a ruin, but that is precisely what makes it somehow interesting. The mixture of broken brickwork and wild growth has something melancholic about it that fits perfectly into the tranquility of the surroundings. Right next to it there is a small rest area with a bench - ideal for stopping for a moment and taking in the atmosphere.
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Navan Fort, also known as Emain Macha, is one of those places that literally breathes history. As a cyclist, you can feel a breath of the past here as you roll gently over the grassy hills. The site, rich in Neolithic, Bronze Age and Iron Age finds, is not only archaeologically fascinating, but also firmly embedded in Irish mythology. The kings of Ulster are said to have ruled here, and the legends of Macha, the namesake, are omnipresent. The gentle climbs around the fort are not too demanding, but give you space to let your gaze wander over the green hills - particularly dramatic when dark clouds pile up in the sky and cast a mystical atmosphere over the landscape. A detour to the visitor center is worthwhile: Here you can find out more about the exciting stories and the excavations that provide insight into Ireland's deepest past.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Derrycaw?
There are over 90 road cycling routes available around Derrycaw, catering to various preferences and skill levels. The majority, about 77, are considered moderate, with 13 easier options and 5 more challenging routes for experienced cyclists.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Derrycaw?
Road cycling in Derrycaw offers a diverse range of terrain. You'll find tranquil lakeside paths, routes through rolling countryside, and sections along riverbanks. Areas around Lough Neagh provide varied experiences, while routes near Craigavon Lakes offer traffic-free sections. More challenging routes may include ascents through glens.
Are there family-friendly road cycling routes in Derrycaw?
Yes, Derrycaw offers family-friendly road cycling options. The paths around Craigavon Lakes are particularly suitable, providing traffic-free sections with both paved and single-track gravel surfaces, ideal for a relaxed ride or a gentle off-road experience. Many of the easier routes listed in the guide are also suitable for families.
What natural features can I see while road cycling in Derrycaw?
You can experience significant natural beauty while cycling. The region is home to Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in Ireland and the UK, offering picturesque viewpoints and ever-changing perspectives of the water. You can also cycle along the tranquil banks of the Blackwater River. For stunning lake views, consider visiting Maghery Footbridge at Lough Neagh or View of Coney Island from Maghery.
Are there any historical landmarks along the cycling routes in Derrycaw?
Yes, several routes pass by historical landmarks. For example, the Caledon Beam Engine – The Mall, Armagh Memorials loop from Moy leads through varied landscapes and past historical sites. The Blackwater Riverwalk, accessible from some routes, allows you to discover landmarks like Bond's Bridge. You might also encounter sites like Benburb Priory or the Blackwater River Weir.
Are there any circular road cycling routes in Derrycaw?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Derrycaw are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Chicken Fillet Shop – Caledon Beam Engine loop from Moy and the St John the Baptist Church loop from Moy. The Derrytransa Loop, starting at the Lough Neagh Discovery Centre, is another immersive circular experience around the lake.
What is a good route for an advanced road cyclist looking for a challenge?
For advanced road cyclists seeking a challenge, the Lottie's Café – Scarva Village loop from Moy is a difficult route covering over 100 km with significant elevation gain. While slightly further afield, the Eagle's Glen Cycle Route in the Glenullin Valley also presents a substantial 16.9-mile loop with technical challenges and rewarding scenic payoffs, traversing Garvagh Forest and Errigal Glen.
Where can I find cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the routes?
Several routes offer opportunities for refreshments. For instance, the Chicken Fillet Shop – Stables Café at Benburb Priory loop from Moy passes by the Stables Café at Benburb Priory. The region generally has cafes and pubs in towns and villages along popular cycling paths, especially around Lough Neagh and in areas like Moy.
What are some scenic viewpoints accessible by road bike in Derrycaw?
Derrycaw offers several scenic viewpoints for road cyclists. The areas around Lough Neagh provide numerous spots with beautiful lake vistas. Specific highlights include the Maghery Footbridge at Lough Neagh, the Bannfoot Picnic Area, and the Dungannon Park Lake. The Eagle's Glen Cycle Route also culminates in spectacular views of the Glenullin Valley.
Are there any easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners?
Yes, beginners can find suitable routes in Derrycaw. There are 13 routes classified as 'easy' in the region. The paths around Craigavon Lakes are particularly recommended for their traffic-free and gentle terrain. These routes are perfect for those new to road cycling or looking for a relaxed ride.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Derrycaw?
The best time for road cycling in Derrycaw is generally during the warmer, drier months, typically from spring through early autumn. During these periods, the weather is more favorable, and the natural landscapes, such as flowering meadows along the Blackwater River, are at their most vibrant. While cycling is possible year-round, winter can bring colder temperatures and more challenging conditions.
Can I find routes that combine road cycling with exploring nature reserves?
Absolutely. The Derrytransa Loop, which starts at the Lough Neagh Discovery Centre, offers an immersive cycling experience that includes lakelands, urban areas, parkland, and grasslands, and notably passes by the Oxford Island Nature Reserve. This allows cyclists to combine their ride with opportunities to explore diverse natural environments.
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