4.7
(20)
248
riders
27
rides
Best touring bike trails near Carrickbroad traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and scenic lough views. The region offers varied terrain, from the slopes around Slieve Gullion to the woodlands of Ravensdale Forest. Elevation changes are common, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience for touring cyclists.
Last updated: November 2, 2026
5.0
(12)
45
riders
18.0km
01:28
430m
430m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
29
riders
19.6km
02:03
520m
520m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.

17
riders
36.3km
02:48
610m
610m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
8
riders
42.1km
02:55
720m
720m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
9
riders
54.2km
03:13
290m
290m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Coffee, traybakes, soup and breakfast baps at the foot of Slieve Gullion. A handy stop before or after the climb round the mountain: cyclesoutharmagh.com/routes/the-cailleach-bheara
0
0
The picnic spot on the Ryland River and Clermont Pass is a great place to stop and take in the views, it's also one of the start points for a walk up to the summit.
0
0
Taaffes Castle (2026-08-07): https://taaffescastle.com/ TRIPADVISOR (Taaffes Castle Bar, 2026-08-07): https://www.tripadvisor.ie/Restaurant_Review-g315880-d2223151-Reviews-Taaffes_Castle_Bar-Carlingford_Cooley_Peninsula_County_Louth.html
1
0
As you leave the Cooley peninsula, you will pass the characteristic Rampark Farmhouse, a beautiful example of a traditional Irish farmhouse that has stood the test of time. This historic whitewashed property, with its thick walls and classic layout, reflects the deep agricultural roots of this region, where generations of farming families have worked the land around the foothills of the mountains.
6
2
Remains of the medieval Dominican priory on the west side of Carlingford, recognisable by its high, narrow windows and the elongated ruin wing in grey stone. The site lies quietly just outside the centre, with views of the hills and the open grass around the old priory walls.
5
1
The Tholsel is undoubtedly one of the most unique structures in the heart of Carlingford. This medieval city gate, originally built in the 15th century, is the only remaining gate from the original town wall and served for centuries as the ceremonial and administrative entrance to the town.
6
2
The former Carlingford Railway Station is a beautifully preserved reminder of the time when the steam train was the lifeblood of the Cooley Peninsula. The station was once an important stop on the Dundalk, Newry & Greenore Railway (DN&GR) line, opened in 1873 and closed in 1951.
6
2
There are over 25 touring cycling routes around Carrickbroad, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists. The komoot community has explored 29 routes in total.
Carrickbroad's touring cycling routes are predominantly moderate to difficult, reflecting the region's rolling hills and elevation changes. You'll find 17 moderate routes and 10 difficult ones, with a few easier options available for a more relaxed ride.
While many routes feature significant elevation, some sections are suitable for families. For a moderate option that offers scenic views, consider the Giant's Lair – View of Slieve Gullion loop from Meigh, which is 11.6 miles (18.7 km) long and explores varied terrain.
The routes often pass through dense forests and offer scenic lough views. You can also find natural landmarks like Slieve Gullion Summit and the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, providing stunning vistas during your ride.
Yes, the region is rich in history. Along your rides, you might encounter sites such as the Druids' Circle in Ravensdale Forest or the Long Woman's Grave Memorial. For those interested in castles, Castle Roche and Moyry Castle are also nearby.
Absolutely. For a more demanding ride, the Faughart Old Graveyard – View of Carlingford Lough loop from Ballymascanlan is a difficult 41.7 km (25.9 miles) route with significant elevation gain, offering a rewarding challenge and expansive views.
The touring cycling routes in Carrickbroad are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 15 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, scenic lough views, and the challenging yet rewarding experience provided by the region's rolling hills and forests.
Many of the routes in Carrickbroad are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. An example is the Ravensdale Forest loop from Ballymascanlan ED, a 36.3 km (22.6 miles) trail that takes you through the beautiful Ravensdale Forest.
The best time for touring cycling in Carrickbroad is generally from spring through autumn, when the weather is milder and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. While some routes are accessible year-round, be prepared for potentially wet and windy conditions, especially during winter months.
Yes, the Ravensdale Creek – Ruins in Ravensdale Forest loop from Drumnasillagh is a difficult 20 km (12.4 miles) path that specifically leads through Ravensdale Forest, featuring historical ruins and significant elevation gain, offering a blend of nature and history.
For a longer ride that is still within the moderate difficulty range, consider the Rampark Thatched Farmhouse – Lily Finnegan's loop from Jonesborough. This route spans 55.5 km (34.5 miles) and offers a substantial touring experience with manageable elevation.


Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.