The best cycling routes around Ballynafoy
5.0
(4)
141
riders
29
rides
Touring cycling around Ballynafoy, an area largely known as Ballynafeigh in South Belfast, features a blend of urban green spaces and accessible routes leading into wider County Down. The landscape includes elevated areas like Ballynafoy Hill, green areas such as Ormeau Park and Victoria Park Lake, and river paths along the Lagan. This region provides a mix of relatively flat towpaths and more challenging hilly sections, connecting to extensive cycling networks.
Best touring cycling routes around Ballynafoy
- The most popular…
Last updated: July 12, 2026
49.2km
03:08
610m
610m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
53.6km
03:16
450m
450m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
42
riders
39.9km
02:21
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
50.4km
03:00
360m
360m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
riders
24.1km
01:28
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Between the rustling trees along the Newry Canal Towpath, you'll encounter the tranquil ruin of a lock keeper's cottage. Once, this was the proud and bustling heart of the waterway, where the lock keeper stood ready day and night to operate the heavy wooden canal gates for passing barges. Today, only the robust stone walls remain, slowly being reclaimed by nature.
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This largely flat and completely traffic-free path winds through the heart of counties Armagh and Down, along the tranquil waterway that once formed the lifeline for transporting coal to the Irish Sea. As you pedal over the well-maintained asphalt or fine gravel, you'll be surrounded by lush green embankments, historic stone bridges, and the monumental remains of eighteen locks that bridge the elevation difference in the landscape. A mix of smooth asphalt and easily rideable fine gravel, suitable for almost all types of bicycles.
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Small coffeeshop right by the river Bann, directly next to Sustrans Route 9 / Newry Canal Towpath. The cafe is practically on the roadside, making it a logical stop for cyclists following the canal path. The old brick building has a relaxed atmosphere; inside and out it's a place where cyclists and walkers cross paths. Ideal for a coffee, a small snack and a short break before you cycle back into the canal landscape towards Craigavon Lakes. Enjoyed the stop, but forgot the photo.
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Quiet canal section south of Poyntzpass, where the towpath runs tightly along the narrow water. The bank is lightly overgrown with low trees and hedges, giving the stretch an intimate, green impression. The water is mostly still, forming a straight line through the open agricultural landscape. An even, traffic-free segment ideal for quiet miles on the towpath.
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The Newry Canal Towpath is a 32-kilometer-long, almost entirely traffic-free green corridor connecting the towns of Portadown and Newry. It follows the towpath of the oldest canal in the British Isles, opened in 1742 to transport coal from County Tyrone to the sea. The Newry Canal Towpath offers an unparalleled cycling experience through the tranquil heart of County Armagh and County Down. This historic route, part of the National Cycle Network Route 9, takes you along a flat and largely asphalted path past fourteen monumental locks and characteristic lock-keeper's cottages. As you follow the waterway, you'll traverse a varied landscape of dense forests and open meadows, passing through welcoming villages like Scarva and Poyntzpass along the way. The path is a haven for wildlife; keep an eye out for kingfishers, swans, and otters that inhabit the reed beds. Whether you cycle the full 32 kilometers or explore just a section, the combination of industrial history and natural beauty makes this one of the absolute gems of Irish cycling routes.
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The entrance to Lisnamintry Rath (located on Ballygargan Road, near Portadown) is the gateway to one of the few officially protected archaeological monuments in this part of County Armagh. A rath is an early medieval fortified farmstead (c. 500–1000 AD) that formerly offered protection to families and their livestock against raiders. Not visible from the road.
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Hollie Berrie is a good place for refreshments on the route at Scarva
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Ballynafoy?
There are over 30 touring cycling routes in the Ballynafoy area, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists. These routes vary in difficulty, from easy to challenging, ensuring options for different skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes near Ballynafoy?
The Ballynafoy area, particularly the Annaclone part, features elevated landscapes and hilly terrain, including Ballynafoy Hill. Closer to Belfast, routes like those around Ballynafeigh offer urban green spaces and flatter towpaths. You'll find a mix of relatively flat, accessible paths and more challenging climbs, connecting to wider County Down networks.
Are there any family-friendly cycling options in the Ballynafoy area?
Yes, the region offers accessible routes suitable for families. The Newry Canal Path – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Loughbrickland is a moderate route that follows a historic canal, providing a relatively flat and enjoyable experience. Additionally, the Lagan and Lough Cycle Way, accessible from the wider Belfast area, is mostly traffic-free and suitable for all ages and abilities.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see along the cycling routes?
Along the routes, you can explore various points of interest. The Newry Canal Towpath itself is a highlight, offering historical significance. You might also pass through Scarva Village, known for its charm, or see the ancient Loughbrickland Crannóg. The broader region also features green spaces like Ormeau Park and Victoria Park Lake.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops. For example, the challenging Banbridge to Windy Gap loop — Mourne offers significant elevation gain, while the moderate Scarva Village – Scarva Village loop from Banbridge provides a shorter, scenic option.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Ballynafoy?
While cycling is possible year-round, the spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for touring cycling in Northern Ireland. During these seasons, you can expect longer daylight hours and milder temperatures, making for more comfortable rides.
How do other touring cyclists rate the routes around Ballynafoy?
The touring cycling routes around Ballynafoy are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 5.0 stars from several reviews. Cyclists often appreciate the varied terrain, from scenic towpaths to challenging climbs, and the access to both urban green spaces and wider County Down networks.
Are there options for more challenging touring cycling routes?
Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the Banbridge to Craigavon Lakes loop offer significant distances and elevation changes. The region's hilly terrain, especially towards the Mourne area, provides ample opportunity for demanding rides.
Can I access these cycling routes using public transport?
Ballynafeigh, being part of South Belfast, benefits from public transport links. While direct public transport to specific trailheads might vary, Belfast's central location makes it a good starting point for accessing the wider cycling network, including routes along the Lagan and Lough Cycle Way. It's advisable to check local bus or train services for connections to specific starting points.
Where can I find parking if I drive to a cycling route?
Parking availability will depend on your chosen starting point. For routes originating from towns like Banbridge, public car parks are generally available. If starting from urban green spaces in Belfast, such as Ormeau Park, designated parking areas are usually present. Always check local signage for parking restrictions and fees.
Are there any moderate difficulty routes for touring cyclists?
Yes, the majority of routes in the Ballynafoy area are classified as moderate. An excellent example is the Craigavon Lakes – Scarva Village loop from Banbridge, which offers a substantial distance with manageable elevation, making it suitable for cyclists looking for a good workout without extreme challenges.
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