The best road cycling routes around The Municipal District of Athlone — Moate

The region offers a diverse mix of routes, from the flat, traffic-free Old Rail Trail Greenway to routes traversing rich farmland and riverine landscapes. You'll find options ranging from easy, family-friendly paths to more challenging road routes through picturesque villages and historic sites.

Yes, the Old Rail Trail Greenway is particularly suitable for families and beginners. Its mostly flat and well-surfaced terrain, entirely separated from road traffic, makes it a safe and scenic option. An example of an easy route is the Old Rail Trail – Athlone Castle loop from Athlone, which is 29.6 km long.

Many routes offer views of significant sites. You can pass by Athlone Castle, explore the tranquil Crosswood Bog, or visit Sean's Bar – Ireland's Oldest Pub in Athlone. The Old Rail Trail also provides access to Dún na Sí Heritage Park and passes under historic stone-arched bridges.

For those seeking a greater challenge, routes like the Roscommon and Dunamon loop from Athlone offer a more demanding experience. This route covers 130.6 km with significant elevation gain, providing a test for well-conditioned cyclists.

Yes, there are several excellent circular routes. For example, the Lough Ree loop from Athlone is a popular 89.4 km moderate route, offering scenic views. Another option is the Mullingar – Kilpatrick Bridge loop from Streamstown, which is 64.3 km long.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the opportunity to explore away from busy roads, and the well-maintained surfaces of routes like the Old Rail Trail Greenway.

Yes, particularly along the Old Rail Trail Greenway and in the towns and villages it connects. Athlone itself offers numerous options, including Sean's Bar – Ireland's Oldest Pub. Dún na Sí Heritage Park, accessible from the greenway at Moate, also provides a perfect rest stop.

Athlone is a key transport hub with bus and train services, making it a good starting point for many routes. The Old Rail Trail Greenway connects Athlone with Moate and further to Mullingar, offering access points in various towns along its length, which may be served by local transport.

Parking is generally available at key access points for the Old Rail Trail Greenway in towns like Athlone and Moate. For other road routes, parking can often be found in the starting villages or designated car parks, though it's advisable to check specific route details for the most convenient spots.

The lush green landscapes are beautiful throughout the warmer months. Spring and summer generally offer the most favorable weather conditions for road cycling, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. However, the well-surfaced Old Rail Trail Greenway can be enjoyed year-round, weather permitting.

Yes, routes like the Old Rail Trail and Ballymore Loop are designed to combine the traffic-free greenway experience with sections on rural roads, allowing cyclists to explore a wider variety of landscapes and villages.