The best road cycling routes around Oughaval Wood
5.0
(2)
144
riders
7
rides
Road cycling routes around Oughaval Wood traverse a landscape characterized by broadleaf woods and a Carboniferous Limestone ridge, offering varied terrain for cyclists. The area provides scenic vistas over the surrounding countryside, with routes that often incorporate historical landmarks such as Cobbler's Castle and the Mass Rock. This region in County Laois is known for its blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it suitable for diverse road cycling experiences.
Best road cycling routes around Oughaval Wood
- The most popular road cycling route is Portarlington, Emo and Portlaoise loop from Stradbally, a 35.1 miles (56.4 km) trail that takes 2 hours 36 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers a comprehensive exploration of the wider region around Oughaval Wood.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Little Bog Lake – Oughaval Church loop from Stradbally, an easy 25.4 miles (40.8 km) path. This route guides cyclists through local points of interest, including the historic Oughaval Church.
- Local road cyclists also love the Rock of Dunamase Castle Ruins loop from Stradbally Hall, a 20.4 miles (32.8 km) trail leading through historical sites and scenic countryside, often completed in about 1 hour 19 minutes.
- Road cycling around Oughaval Wood is defined by broadleaf woodlands, historical landmarks, and rolling terrain along a limestone ridge. The network offers options for both easy and moderate ability levels, catering to various cycling preferences.
- The routes in Oughaval Wood are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from 2 reviews. More than 150 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Oughaval Wood's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
56.4km
02:37
410m
410m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
8
riders
40.8km
01:46
290m
290m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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4
riders
32.8km
01:20
180m
180m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
15
riders
46.5km
01:57
300m
300m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
9
riders
58.2km
02:32
300m
300m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Popular around Oughaval Wood
Tips from the Community
Nice friendly cafe, open 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day, serving tasty coffee, drinks, cake and savoury snacks. Well worth a stop to refuel!
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A great example of the old stone footbridges that provide crossing points across the Grand Canal. A walk from nearby Athy to Milltown Bridge and back makes for an accessible and enjoyable route.
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Ballymanus Bridge is a pretty stone footbridge, one of many on the Grand Canal - Barrow Line. Walking the quiet Barrow Blueway between the bridges is a peaceful way to spend a few hours.
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Excellent food and service. Warm and friendly, highly recommended
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The towering Rock of Dunamase is such an obvious strategic place to build a fortress. Through the centuries, warriors have fought to control this craggy outcrop and it simply reeks of violent history. There are stunning views of the surrounding countryside to be had from here too and it's a great place for a rest stop.
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The Rock of Dunamase is an impressive Celtic fortification that overlooks the valley of the O'Moores. Originally it was the site of a early Christian settlement which was pillaged by the Vikings in 842. The fort has spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and makes a great spot to stop for a refuel.
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Monasterevin is a wonderful town that lies on the River Barrow in County Kildare. The area has so many bridges that it has been named the 'Venice of Ireland'. Whilst you're here check out Moore Abbey Wood and the Gerard Manley Hopkins Monument. There are also numerous great restaurants and pubs where you can relax and refuel.
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Great gravel/off-road tracks through Moore Abbey Wood. It's so peaceful you'll think you're the only person in the world.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Oughaval Wood?
There are 8 road cycling routes available around Oughaval Wood on komoot, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists.
What are the typical difficulty levels for road cycling in this area?
The road cycling routes around Oughaval Wood are generally classified as easy or moderate. You'll find 4 easy routes and 4 moderate routes, making the area accessible for various skill levels.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling options near Oughaval Wood?
Yes, several routes are suitable for families, particularly the easy-rated ones. For instance, the Little Bog Lake – Oughaval Church loop from Stradbally is an easy 25.4-mile (40.8 km) path that guides cyclists through local points of interest, including the historic Oughaval Church, offering a pleasant ride for most families.
What historical landmarks or scenic points can I see while cycling around Oughaval Wood?
The region is rich in history and natural beauty. You can encounter historical landmarks such as the old estate stone walls from the Cosby Estate, the folly of Cobbler's Castle, and the poignant Mass Rock. Routes like the Rock of Dunamase Castle Ruins loop from Stradbally Hall specifically lead through historical sites and scenic countryside, offering splendid vistas over the surrounding area.
Are there circular road cycling routes available in Oughaval Wood?
Yes, many of the routes around Oughaval Wood are designed as loops, providing convenient circular journeys. Examples include the Portarlington, Emo and Portlaoise loop from Stradbally and the Little Bog Lake – Oughaval Church loop from Stradbally.
What is the best season for road cycling around Oughaval Wood?
Oughaval Wood and the broader County Laois area offer enjoyable cycling conditions across various seasons. The broadleaf woods provide beautiful scenery, especially in spring and autumn. While specific seasonal conditions can vary, the region is generally recognized as a 'push-bike paradise' year-round, with routes suitable for different weather.
Where can I find parking for road biking near Oughaval Wood?
While specific parking areas for cyclists are not detailed in every route description, Oughaval Wood itself is a well-known outdoor destination, suggesting general parking facilities are available. For routes starting in Stradbally, parking options within the town would be a good starting point.
Are there cafes or pubs near the road cycling routes for a break?
Stradbally, being a central starting point for many routes, offers options for cafes and pubs where you can take a break and refuel. The wider County Laois area also has various establishments to cater to visitors.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Oughaval Wood?
The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience around Oughaval Wood, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and varied terrain, noting the quiet woodlands and scenic vistas over the surrounding countryside.
Can I access Oughaval Wood cycling trails using public transport?
Public transport options, such as Bus Éireann routes, serve Stradbally, which is a common starting point for many of the road cycling routes around Oughaval Wood. Checking the latest Bus Éireann schedules for services to Stradbally would be advisable for planning your trip.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the road cycling routes?
The road cycling routes around Oughaval Wood traverse a landscape characterized by broadleaf woods and a Carboniferous Limestone ridge. This means you can expect varied terrain, including some rolling sections and scenic climbs, offering a dynamic cycling experience.
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