The best road cycling routes around Ballynoe
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207
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35
rides
Road cycling routes around Ballynoe traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills and rural roads, with routes often connecting towns and passing by natural features such as the Quoile River. The region includes areas like the Mourne AONB, indicating varied terrain with notable elevation changes. Road cyclists can expect a mix of open countryside and routes that pass through or near woodlands.
Best road cycling routes around Ballynoe
- The most popular road cycling route is Downpatrick to Ballynahinch loop,…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
2
riders
62.0km
02:58
650m
650m
This moderate 38.5 miles (62.0 km) road cycling loop from Downpatrick to Ballynahinch offers scenic County Down views and a rewarding challe
17
riders
87.6km
04:01
940m
940m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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16
riders
48.2km
01:58
310m
310m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
14
riders
73.5km
03:14
520m
520m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
8
riders
50.8km
02:16
330m
330m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Ballynoe
Tips from the Community
This impressive stone circle, dating from the late Neolithic to early Bronze Age, consists of over 50 upright stones enclosing a diameter of around 35 metres. Access is via a narrow hedge-lined path that takes you directly to the entrance of the circle
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The ancient stone arches are perfectly reflected in the calm water, creating an image of timeless elegance. Cycling along here almost feels like a journey back in time - as if you are capturing a moment in another time.
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The small, historic port provides a charming setting with views of the Mourne Mountains and the sea. The promenade is well maintained and is great for a relaxing cruise along the coast. However, it can get quite busy in good weather and at weekends, which can slow down the journey. A highlight is the proximity to Murlough National Nature Reserve, which is just a few kilometers away and is ideal for further exploration. Note, however, that some sections of the promenade can be slippery when wet, so care must be taken.
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Bike parking, nice coffee and eats, friendly staff, nice view of the lough
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Wonderful ornate, twelve arched bridge that seems out of place in this rural setting. The surrounding fields often flood during periods of heavy rain, necessitating a longer bridge than normally appears necessary. Hence the 'Twelve Arches'. The bridge was built sometime after 1836.
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If you fancy a dip after all those hills, this is a very safe spot for swimming. The slipway at the side of the harbour wall is the preferred entry point. If you look back along the side of Slieve Donard, you will see some cottages known as “Widows Row”. These were built for the widows of fishermen who died at sea. They would be able to live out their days in one of the cottages looking out to sea.
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One of the best kept Circles I know of. The late Neolithic to earlier Bronze Age monument was excavated in 1937–1939 but its development and date are still not entirely clear. Excavation uncovered a slab feature with three compartments at the west end of the cairn, which could suggest the court tomb tradition, and a single stone cist at the east end which could point to the passage tomb tradition. Cremated remains representing at least seven individuals and some Neolithic pottery were found. Parallels for the outer stone circle with sites in Cumbria have been suggested.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Ballynoe?
There are nearly 40 road cycling routes around Ballynoe, offering a variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.
Are there easy road cycling routes for beginners in Ballynoe?
Yes, Ballynoe offers a good selection of routes suitable for beginners. Nearly half of the routes, specifically 19, are rated as easy, providing gentle terrain for those new to road cycling.
What are some challenging road cycling routes for experienced cyclists in Ballynoe?
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the region includes routes with significant elevation changes, particularly within the Mourne AONB. An example is the Head Road, Mourne AONB – Trassey Road loop from Downpatrick, which is rated as difficult and covers over 87 kilometers with substantial climbing.
Are there any circular road cycling routes around Ballynoe?
Many of the road cycling routes around Ballynoe are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For instance, the Quoile River View – Down Cathedral loop from Ballynoe Stone Circle offers a scenic circular ride.
What kind of scenery can I expect on road cycling routes in Ballynoe?
Road cycling routes in Ballynoe feature diverse scenery, including rolling hills, quiet rural roads, and views of natural features like the Quoile River. You'll also pass through open countryside and areas near woodlands, with some routes offering glimpses of the Mourne Mountains.
What historical sites or landmarks can I see while road cycling near Ballynoe?
Several routes pass by significant historical sites. You can explore the ancient Ballynoe Stone Circle, or visit Dundrum Castle. Other notable landmarks include Annadorn Dolmen and St Patrick's Well.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling options in Ballynoe?
While specific 'family-friendly' routes are not explicitly categorized, the 19 easy-rated routes around Ballynoe generally feature less challenging terrain and shorter distances, which could be suitable for families with older children or those looking for a more relaxed ride. Always check the route details for elevation and traffic conditions.
What is the typical duration for road cycling routes in Ballynoe?
The duration of road cycling routes in Ballynoe varies significantly. Many moderate routes, such as the Down Cathedral – Quoile River View loop from Ballynoe Stone Circle, can be completed in under two hours, while longer, more challenging routes like the Head Road, Mourne AONB – Trassey Road loop from Downpatrick can take closer to four hours.
What do other cyclists say about road cycling in Ballynoe?
The road cycling routes in Ballynoe are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 5.0 stars. Over 200 cyclists have explored the area using komoot, often praising the varied terrain and scenic rural roads.
Are there any natural viewpoints or scenic spots along the road cycling routes?
Yes, many routes offer scenic views. You can find beautiful vistas of the Quoile River, and some routes provide a View of the Mourne Mountains and Dundrum, offering stunning natural backdrops for your ride.
What are some other interesting places to explore near Ballynoe while cycling?
Beyond the routes themselves, you might consider visiting Seaforde Gardens and Tropical Butterfly House, or the picturesque St. John's Point Lighthouse (County Down). The historic Ardglass Harbour is also a charming spot.
Most popular routes around Ballynoe
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