The best road cycling routes around Upper Lough Erne
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Road cycling around Upper Lough Erne is characterized by a labyrinthine waterway, winding rivers, and numerous islands set within a drumlin landscape. The region features a predominantly limestone catchment, offering routes with mostly paved surfaces and varying elevation gains. Cyclists can navigate through ancient woodlands, past historical ruins, and along extensive shorelines. The area provides diverse cycling options, from gentle, flat paths to routes with significant climbs.
Best road cycling routes around Upper Lough Erne
- The most popular road cyclingβ¦
Last updated: July 25, 2026
4
riders
28.9km
01:10
120m
120m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
9
riders
45.8km
02:01
240m
240m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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11
riders
59.3km
02:29
300m
300m
Embark on the Enniskillen Kinawley loop from Lisnaskea for a scenic road cycling adventure through County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. This moderate route covers 36.9 miles (59.3 km) with an elevationβ¦
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9
riders
119km
05:22
970m
970m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5
riders
50.7km
02:18
480m
480m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Upper Lough Erne
Tips from the Community
A beautiful riverside town, Belturbet is a delight to explore. Popular with boaters and golfers, the surrounding area also has some pretty walking trails too. There are several bars and restaurants for post hike refreshment.
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Home to a Anglo-Norman motte and bailey castle, Turbet Island occupies a strategic position on the River Erne. Today, it's a nature reserve in the pretty riverside town of Belturbet. The river here is inhabited by several protected bird species, including the whooper swan and the Greenland white-fronted goose.
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The castle now houses the Fermanagh County Museum, which focuses on the history, culture and natural history of the county.
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Known locally as the "Wee Abbey", Clones Abbey is a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century. The original abbey was founded by St. Tigernach as early as the 6th century. However, the abbey was destroyed by fire not once, but four times during its history. In the 16th century, the abbey suffered once again during the suppression of monasteries and Protestant reformation under Henry VIII. Less than a hundred years later, it lay in ruin, although some solitary monks still lived here until the 18th century. Today, you can visit the crumbling walls and take a look at the interesting graveyard. The abbey is free to visit and you can access it any time.
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The magnificent Enniskillen Castle is situated in the heart of Enniskillen on the banks of the River Erne. The castle was founded in the 15th century by Hugh 'The Hospitable' Maguire and belonged to the Maguire family for centuries. Between 2007 and 2013 a massive refurbishment took place so that the castle could be opened to the public. Today you can explore the castle grounds and learn about this landmarks rich history.
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The road passed around the edge of Doon Forest. Mostly a conifer plantation, there is also a lot of deciduous planting around the outside. The quiet road through the trees feel particularly lush in May when the leaves are at their newest and greenest.
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From this vantage point as the terrain starts to rise up to Tullybrack Hill, you can see all the way across the Sillees River, Ross Lough and Carran Lough. Your eyes are also drawn to th lush green farmland and woodlands stretching out below.
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The magnificent Enniskillen Castle is situated in the heart of Enniskillen on the banks of the River Erne. The castle was founded in the 15th century by Hugh 'The Hospitable' Maguire and belonged to the Maguire family for centuries. Between 2007 and 2013 a massive refurbishment took place so that the castle could be opened to the public. Today you can explore the castle grounds and learn about this landmarks rich history.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Upper Lough Erne?
There are over 80 road cycling routes around Upper Lough Erne, offering a diverse range of options for all skill levels. This includes 24 easy routes, 55 moderate routes, and 5 more challenging options.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Upper Lough Erne?
Yes, Upper Lough Erne offers several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or family outings. For instance, the Enniskillen Castle β Enniskillen Castle loop from Rossdoney is an easy 28.9 km (18 miles) route with minimal elevation gain. Another great option is the Kilgarrow Lough β Derrycanon Lough loop from Teemore, an easy 45.2 km (28.1 miles) path offering scenic views.
What about more challenging road cycling options for experienced cyclists?
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Upper Lough Erne provides routes with significant climbs and longer distances. The Enniskillen, Kinawley and Derrynawilt loop from Lisnaskea is a difficult 119 km (74 miles) route with nearly 1000 meters of elevation gain. A moderate option is the Ennisskillen Kinawley loop from Lisnaskea, covering almost 60 km (37 miles) with around 300 meters of ascent.
What natural features and historical sites can I see while road cycling around Upper Lough Erne?
Road cycling around Upper Lough Erne offers stunning views of its labyrinthine waterways, numerous islands, and drumlin landscapes. You can explore historical sites like the Crom Estate, a 1,900-acre National Trust property featuring ancient woodlands, tranquil islands, and historical ruins, including the Old Crom Castle Ruins. The Florencecourt Estate is another National Trust property with trails offering views of the Benaughlin and Cuilcagh Mountains. Routes also provide scenic views of the Sillees River and various loughs.
Are there any circular road cycling routes around Upper Lough Erne?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Upper Lough Erne are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Enniskillen Castle β Enniskillen Castle loop from Rossdoney and the Clones Round Tower β Clones 'Wee' Abbey loop from Lisnaskea, which takes you through historical sites and varied terrain.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Upper Lough Erne?
The road cycling routes in Upper Lough Erne are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the scenic views of the loughs and surrounding natural features, the varied terrain, and the opportunity to explore historical sites. Over 300 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the area's diverse landscape.
What is the best time of year to go road cycling in Upper Lough Erne?
Upper Lough Erne offers beautiful cycling conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with fewer crowds. Summer is also popular, though it can be busier. The region's natural beauty, including its diverse habitats and woodlands, makes it appealing across seasons, with different flora and fauna to observe.
Is Upper Lough Erne suitable for dog-friendly cycling?
While the routes themselves are public roads, specific regulations for dogs may apply in certain estates or natural reserves you pass through. It's always best to check with individual attractions like Crom Estate or Florencecourt Estate regarding their dog policies, especially if you plan to cycle within their grounds or bring a dog trailer. Generally, dogs should be kept on a lead and under control.
Are there cafes, pubs, or accommodation options near the road cycling routes?
Yes, the Upper Lough Erne region, including areas near popular cycling routes, offers various cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. Towns and villages like Lisnaskea, Teemore, and Rossdoney, which serve as starting points for many routes, typically have amenities. Some accommodations also cater specifically to cyclists, offering secure bike storage and e-bike charging facilities.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Upper Lough Erne?
The road cycling routes around Upper Lough Erne feature mostly paved surfaces. The terrain varies from relatively flat paths, especially around the lough shores, to routes with significant elevation gains as you traverse the drumlin landscape. You'll encounter winding roads through ancient woodlands, past historical ruins, and along extensive shorelines, offering a mix of gentle and challenging sections.
Can I reach Upper Lough Erne cycling routes using public transport with my bike?
Public transport options to Upper Lough Erne for cyclists, especially with bike carriage, can be limited. It's advisable to check specific bus or train services in Northern Ireland for their bike policies and routes to towns like Enniskillen or Lisnaskea, which are common access points to the cycling network. Planning ahead is recommended to ensure your bike can be accommodated.
Most popular routes around Upper Lough Erne
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