The best cycling routes around Carran East
3.5
(2)
26
riders
8
rides
Touring cycling routes around Carran East traverse the unique Burren uplands, characterized by a distinctive limestone landscape. The region features a mix of open terrain, woodlands, and the notable Carron Polje, which includes a turlough. Slieve Carran Nature Reserve, part of a Special Area of Conservation, adds to the diverse environment with its unique flora and cliffs.
Best touring cycling routes around Carran East
- The most popular touring cycling route is Carrick Lough – Roogagh Waterfall loop from Derrygonnelly,…
Last updated: July 10, 2026
12
riders
49.1km
03:08
550m
550m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
38.1km
02:21
320m
320m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
3
riders
66.1km
04:14
740m
740m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
38.6km
02:26
330m
330m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
2
riders
33.1km
02:07
380m
380m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The shimmering waters of Lough Melvin attract anglers from around the world for its beauty and diverse fish. The lake is home to three unique species of trout, as well as salmon, and an endemic species of char, the Melvin charr. If you want to try your hand at fishing, you should purchase a license and consider renting a boat. The lake is 7.5 miles (12 km) long and 1.9 miles (3 km) wide and set amongst the beautiful green countryside along the border of County Leitrim and Country Fermanagh. If you are not into fishing, there's plenty of wonderful flora and fauna to enjoy too.
1
0
Nice village green with toilets and Loch side views
0
0
This fortified house is on Tully Point and built for Sir John Hume who occupied the house until 1641 when it was attacked by John Maguire and burned on Christmas Eve with all its inhabitants massacred. After that it was not lived in again. There is a visitors centre in a restored farmhouse that has an interesting exhibition telling a number of stories relating to the castle. To visit the castle be sure to step off the bike as it is on foot only!
1
0
Surrounded by green rolling countryside, Roogagh Waterfall is a pretty nature spot on the outskirts of Garrison village close to Lough Melvin. There's a short walk that leads along the river and through woodland to reach the falls. You can pick up supplies in Garrison to enjoy a packed lunch overlooking the cascading water at one of the numerous picnic benches.
0
0
Covering an area of 9 acres (3.7 ha), Carrick Lough is a small lake compared to some of its impressive neighbours such as Lough Erne. Set amongst green countryside, the lake, although small, is still a lovely place to visit. With a thriving population of pike, perch, bream, and roach, the lake is popular with anglers. It's also home to diverse flora and fauna. The lakeshore makes for a wonderful picnic on a bike trip!
1
0
The shimmering waters of Lough Melvin attract anglers from around the world for its beauty and diverse fish. The lake is home to three unique species of trout, as well as salmon, and an endemic species of char, the Melvin charr. If you want to try your hand at fishing, you should purchase a license and consider renting a boat. The lake is 7.5 miles (12 km) long and 1.9 miles (3 km) wide and set amongst the beautiful green countryside along the border of County Leitrim and Country Fermanagh. If you are not into fishing, there's plenty of wonderful flora and fauna to enjoy too.
0
0
This fortified house and bawn are set on Tully Point and were built for Sir John Hume who occupied the house until 1641 when it was attacked and burned on Christmas Eve by Rory Maguire and the inhabitants massacred. It was not lived in again. A visitor’s centre, located in a restored farmhouse, houses an exhibition telling local stories relating to the castle. (https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/tully-castle-p675521)
3
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Carran East?
Carran East offers a selection of 10 touring cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a mix of moderate and difficult trails to explore the unique Burren landscape.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Carran East?
The routes in Carran East traverse the distinctive Burren uplands, characterized by limestone pavements, open terrain, and Ash/Hazel woodlands. You'll also encounter unique natural features like the Carron Polje and its turlough (disappearing lake).
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes in the area?
Yes, Carran East features several challenging routes. For instance, the Carrick Lough – Roogagh Waterfall loop from Derrygonnelly is a difficult 49.1 km trail with significant elevation gain, offering scenic lough views and a waterfall. Another difficult option is the Tully Castle Ruins – Lough Melvin loop from Heron Island, which is 66.1 km long.
What natural features can I see along the touring cycling routes in Carran East?
The region is rich in natural beauty. You can expect to see the unique limestone landscape of the Burren, including the Carron Polje and its turlough. The Slieve Carran Nature Reserve showcases diverse flora, and 'Eagle's Rock' is home to various birds of prey. Routes like the Carrick Lough – Roogagh Waterfall loop from Derrygonnelly feature scenic lough views and a waterfall.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks to visit while cycling in Carran East?
Absolutely. The area is dotted with historical and cultural attractions. You can visit the impressive Tully Castle Ruins, explore the Devenish Monastic Site, or see the Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones. The Tully Castle Ruins – Lough Melvin loop from Heron Island specifically leads through historical sites.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes in Carran East?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Carran East are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Carrick Lough – Roogagh Waterfall loop from Derrygonnelly and the Carrick Lough loop from Giltagh.
What are some popular lakes or viewpoints accessible by bike in Carran East?
Several routes offer stunning views of the region's lakes. You can cycle along Carrick Lough or Lough Nabrickboy. The Tully Castle Ruins – Lough Melvin loop from Heron Island takes you along Lough Melvin, providing picturesque lakeside cycling.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Carran East?
The touring cycling routes in Carran East are generally well-regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 3.0 stars. Cyclists often appreciate the diverse terrain, from open uplands to dense forest areas, and the opportunity to explore unique natural and historical sites.
Are there any moderate touring cycling routes suitable for a less strenuous ride?
Yes, Carran East offers several moderate routes. The The Big Tree – Carrickreagh Forest loop from Derrygonnelly is a popular moderate 38.1 km path that leads through dense forest areas, offering varied terrain and natural beauty without being overly strenuous. Another moderate option is the Blaney – Shore Road loop from Blaney.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Carran East?
The Burren region, including Carran East, is known for its unique flora, with plants typically found in the Alps thriving alongside Mediterranean species. While cycling is enjoyable year-round, spring and summer offer the best conditions to witness the full bloom of this diverse plant life and generally more favorable weather for outdoor activities.
Where can I find more information about the Carran area beyond cycling?
For broader information about the Carran area, including its unique geology, cultural heritage, and other attractions, you can visit the official tourism website for County Clare: visitclare.ie.
Most popular routes around Carran East
Most popular attractions around Carran East
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
