The best cycling routes around Gorteen

There are 9 touring cycling routes around Gorteen listed in this guide. These routes offer a mix of moderate and difficult options, catering to various fitness levels.

While the routes in this guide are rated moderate to difficult, the region around Gorteen generally offers varied terrain, including well-paved surfaces suitable for all fitness levels. For a moderate option, consider the Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Northern Loop, which is 38.6 km long.

Gorteen's cycling routes traverse diverse landscapes, including quiet river environments, lough shores, and forested areas. You'll encounter the magnificent River Shannon, the Shannon-Erne Waterway, and scenic loughs like Lough Gill and Annagh Lough. The iconic Benbulben mountain often dominates the skyline, and you can explore areas like Killykeen Forest Park and Slish Wood.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops. For example, the challenging The Quarry – View of Lough Nabrickboy loop from Blacklion offers varied landscapes and views of Lough Nabrickboy. Another option is the Lower Lough MacNean – Enniskillen Castle loop from Belcoo, which provides views of Lough MacNean and passes historical sites.

Along the routes, you can discover several interesting sites. Highlights include the ancient Giant's Grave & Giant's Cave and the Cavan Burren Park Megalithic Stones. You might also encounter natural wonders like the Cladagh Glen Waterfall or the impressive Cliff Edge of Cuilcagh Mountain. The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail (Stairway to Heaven) is also a prominent nearby attraction.

The region offers cycling opportunities throughout the year. However, spring and summer generally provide the most pleasant weather for touring, with longer daylight hours. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage. Some routes may include unpaved segments, which could be more challenging in wet conditions.

Yes, many routes in the Gorteen area feature stunning waterways. You can enjoy quiet river landscapes along the Ballyconnell Canal, and routes often pass by loughs such as Lough Gill, Annagh Lough, and Lower Lough MacNean. The Belmore Forest – Gravel Path by the Lake loop from Belcoo is a particularly good option for lakeside cycling.

The routes vary significantly in length and elevation. Distances range from approximately 38 km for moderate rides to over 112 km for more challenging tours. Elevation gains can be substantial, with some difficult routes featuring over 1600 meters of ascent, such as The Quarry – View of Lough Nabrickboy loop from Blacklion.

Yes, the region is rich in history. You can cycle past sites like the ruins of Moygara Castle, Sligo Abbey, and Drumcliffe Churchyard, the burial place of W.B. Yeats. The Aghanaglack Prehistoric Tomb – View of Lough Nabrickboy loop from Belcoo route specifically highlights a prehistoric tomb.

The routes around Gorteen offer a mix of surfaces. Many feature well-paved roads, while others include mixed terrain, such as towpaths, single-track, and gravel paths, particularly in forested areas like Killykeen Forest Park or on routes like the Belmore Forest – Gravel Path by the Lake loop from Belcoo.

While this guide focuses on routes around Gorteen, the wider Western Ireland region, particularly County Mayo, is known for its cycling infrastructure. The Great Western Greenway, Ireland's longest off-road cycling experience, offers a 42 km traffic-free route along a former railway line with idyllic scenery, providing an excellent option for extended touring.