The best cycling routes around Annaghanoon

There are over 55 touring cycling routes around Annaghanoon, offering a wide range of options for different abilities and preferences. These include 18 easy routes, 28 moderate routes, and 9 more challenging options.

The terrain around Annaghanoon is quite varied. You'll find quiet country roads, lush green fields, and routes that explore the extensive Lough Neagh shoreline, which can include both paved and gravel sections. Some routes also venture through forest parks, offering a mix of surfaces and environments.

Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for beginners or families. For example, the Craigavon Lakes – Craigavon Balancing Lakes loop from Lurgan is a gentle 16.8 km (10.4 miles) ride through a lakeside environment. Another short and easy option is the Craigavon Lakes – Shortcut loop from Craigavon, which is about 8 km (5 miles).

Experienced cyclists looking for a challenge can explore routes with significant elevation gain. The Banbridge to Windy Gap loop — Mourne is a difficult 49.2 km (30.5 miles) route featuring challenging climbs and views towards the Mourne Mountains. Another demanding option is the Banbridge to Craigavon Lakes loop, a 53.6 km (33.3 miles) route also rated as difficult.

Many of the touring cycling routes around Annaghanoon are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Bartin's Bay – Lough Neagh Shoreline loop from Lurgan, which offers varied scenery along the Lough Neagh shoreline, and the Craigavon Lakes – Craigavon Balancing Lakes loop from Lurgan.

While cycling around Annaghanoon, you can explore several interesting places. The routes often pass by or near Craigavon Lakes, offering scenic lakeside views. You might also encounter historical sites like Scarva Village, Moyallan Pillbox, or Moneypenny's Lock and Canal Museum. The region's proximity to Lough Neagh also means opportunities to see its vast expanse and related attractions like the 1,000-year-old Celtic high cross at Ardboe.

The touring cycling routes around Annaghanoon are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 14 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet country roads, the diverse scenery of the Lough Neagh shoreline, and the well-maintained paths through forest parks.

Yes, several forest parks in County Down and nearby areas are great for cycling. Gosford Forest Park offers dedicated cycling routes, and Castlewellan Forest Park provides options for both mountain biking and leisure cycling. Drumkeeragh Forest also offers a mountainous setting with views towards the Mourne Mountains.

The best time for touring cycling in Annaghanoon is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is typically milder and drier, making for more pleasant riding conditions. The lush green landscapes are particularly vibrant in spring and summer.

While Annaghanoon itself is a rural townland, major towns in the wider region, such as Lurgan and Banbridge, often serve as starting points for routes and may have better public transport links. It's advisable to check local bus or train schedules to these towns and plan your route accordingly, considering the final leg to the trailheads.

Generally, no specific permits are required for touring cycling on public roads and designated cycle paths around Annaghanoon. However, if you plan to cycle within private estates or certain managed forest parks, it's always a good idea to check their specific regulations beforehand, though this is uncommon for touring routes.

For a touring bike trip around Annaghanoon, it's recommended to pack essentials such as a repair kit, water, snacks, and appropriate clothing layers for varying weather conditions. Given the rural nature of some areas, a fully charged phone, a map or GPS device, and a first-aid kit are also advisable. Don't forget your helmet for safety.