The best road cycling routes around Lisbarnet
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(12)
1,206
riders
84
rides
Road cycling around Lisbarnet offers a network of routes through County Down, characterized by rolling terrain and a mix of rural roads and dedicated bike paths. The area features varied landscapes, including views towards coastal areas and historical sites. Elevations are generally moderate, with some routes incorporating gentle climbs.
Best road cycling routes around Lisbarnet
- The most popular road cycling route is View of Portaferry Harbor – Grey Abbey Ruins loop from Ballygowan, a 69.3 miles (111.5 km) trail…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
50
riders
49.5km
02:08
310m
310m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
24
riders
111km
04:38
610m
610m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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29
riders
66.6km
02:42
350m
350m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
24
riders
77.1km
03:08
440m
440m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
16
riders
21.8km
00:58
100m
100m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Lisbarnet
Tips from the Community
Nendrum Monastery was a Christian monastery founded in the 5th century. The monastery finished somewhere between 974 and 1178, but the church survived until the 15th century. You can visit the ruins if you're riding past.
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Simple sandwiches, paninies and drinks. outdoor seating or in a covered space.
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Bike parking, nice coffee and eats, friendly staff, nice view of the lough
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Visitors to Corrog Wood will be greeted by a curious wooden sculpture of a Dryad. The sculpture has been affectionately named the ‘Frump in the Stump’. A dryad is a tree nymph in Greek mythology. The Dryad keeps a watchful, protective eye on the new wood standing at the entrance. Continue past the Dryad on through the little kissing gate and a loop pathway will be waiting to lead you around the 14-acre wood, where a mix of approximately 12,000 native trees and 400 metres of hedging have been planted.
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Sketrick Castkle is a historic landmark situated on Sketrick Island near Whiterock. The castle dates back to the 12th century and the grounds are free to explore.
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The Marina is a nature reserve of unparalleled beauty, it is a good starting point on which to explore the Lough.
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Portaferry ( from Port an Pheire 'landing place of the ferry' ) is a small town in County down, at the southern end of the Ards Peninsula, near the Narrows at the entrance to Strangford Lough. It hosts its own small Marina, From where the The Ferry service operates daily at 30-minute intervals (7.45 am to 10.45 pm) between the villages of Portaferry and Strangford. The Lough being one of the world's most important marine sites with over 2,000 marine species. There are fine Georgian buildings in the town square, including a Market House, now used as a community centre. Portaferry Castle, a 16th-century townhouse ruin, sits atop a slope overlooking the Harbour.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Lisbarnet?
There are over 80 road cycling routes in the Lisbarnet area, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.
What is the general difficulty level of road cycling routes near Lisbarnet?
The routes around Lisbarnet are primarily easy to moderate. There are 29 easy routes and 53 moderate routes, making the area accessible for most road cyclists. There are no routes classified as difficult in this selection.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling options in Lisbarnet?
Yes, many of the easy and moderate routes are suitable for families. For example, the Bike Path to Belfast – Peartree Hill Path loop from Comber is an easy 18-mile (29 km) trail that offers a pleasant ride through varied countryside.
What kind of scenery can I expect on road cycling routes around Lisbarnet?
Road cycling in Lisbarnet offers diverse scenery, including rural roads, dedicated bike paths, and views towards coastal areas. You'll also encounter historical sites and rolling terrain throughout County Down.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions along the road cycling routes?
Yes, several routes pass by interesting landmarks. You might encounter historical sites like Sketrick Castle, Nendrum Monastery Ruins, or Kilmood Church. Some routes also offer views of Whiterock Harbour or the Comber Greenway.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about the routes in Lisbarnet?
The road cycling routes in Lisbarnet are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the mix of rural roads and dedicated paths, and the scenic views towards coastal areas and historical sites.
Are there any longer, more challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?
For experienced riders seeking a longer challenge, the View of Portaferry Harbor – Grey Abbey Ruins loop from Ballygowan is a moderate 69.3-mile (111.5 km) route. It features over 600 meters of elevation gain and offers expansive views.
Are there any road cycling routes that include sections of the Bike Path to Belfast?
Yes, several routes incorporate sections of the Bike Path to Belfast. The Tullynakill Church Ruins – Bike Path to Belfast loop from Ballygowan ED is a moderate 30.4-mile (48.9 km) option that traverses rural landscapes and includes this path.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Lisbarnet?
The best time for road cycling in Lisbarnet is generally from spring through autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures, potential rain, and shorter days.
Are there any circular road cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the routes around Lisbarnet are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Kilmood Church – Bike Path to Belfast loop from Balloo and the Bike Path to Belfast – Kilmood Church loop from Balloo.
Where can I find parking for road cycling routes near Lisbarnet?
While specific parking details vary by route, many routes start from towns or villages like Comber or Ballygowan, where public parking is often available. It's advisable to check the starting point of your chosen route for local parking options.
Most popular routes around Lisbarnet
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