The best road cycling routes around Beltra Lough

There are 17 road cycling routes around Beltra Lough documented on komoot, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. These include 6 easy routes and 11 moderate routes.

Road cycling around Beltra Lough features a diverse landscape. You'll encounter quiet backcountry roads, lough views, and dramatic mountain backdrops from ranges like Croaghmoyle and Nephin Beg. While primarily paved, some routes may incorporate segments that are unpaved, especially when venturing towards areas like Wild Nephin National Park.

Yes, Beltra Lough offers several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. One popular option is the Crossmolina loop from Crumpaun River, which is 21.3 miles (34.3 km) long and takes about 1 hour 23 minutes to complete. Another easy route is the Newport – Westport Town Centre loop from Newport, covering 23.8 km.

For cyclists seeking a more challenging experience, the region offers moderate routes with significant elevation gains. The Atlantic Coast road and Ballycrow loop from Newport is a substantial 97.1 km ride with nearly 700 meters of elevation gain. Another moderate option is The Windy Gap – Levally Lough loop from The Windy Gap, which is 50.4 km long and features the notable Windy Gap.

The routes offer breathtaking views of Beltra Lough itself, the surrounding mountainous regions, and glimpses of Clew Bay. You might also spot the iconic Croagh Patrick in the distance. The Windy Gap – Levally Lough loop provides views of Levally Lough, while other routes pass through areas with Lough Mallard and Doogan Lough.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Beltra Lough are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Crossmolina loop from Crumpaun River, The Windy Gap – Levally Lough loop, and the Lough Mallard – Doogan Lough loop from Snugboro.

The region's weather can be variable. Generally, late spring to early autumn (May to September) offers the most favorable conditions for road cycling, with milder temperatures and potentially less rainfall. However, the stunning landscapes are enjoyable in any season, provided you are prepared for changing weather.

While the Great Western Greenway nearby is renowned for family cycling, the road cycling routes directly around Beltra Lough include several easy-grade options that could be suitable for families with older children or those comfortable with road cycling. The Crossmolina loop is an easy route that offers a scenic and manageable distance.

Newport, a town near Beltra Lough, serves as a hub for cycling activities and offers facilities like bicycle rentals and shuttle services, suggesting parking options are available there. For specific trailheads, it's advisable to check the individual route details on komoot for designated parking areas or suitable starting points.

The road cycling routes around Beltra Lough are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 3 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning lough views, the dramatic mountain backdrops, and the tranquility of the quiet backcountry roads that define the area's cycling experience.

While the immediate vicinity of Beltra Lough is more rural, the nearby town of Newport is a good place to find amenities like cafes, pubs, and accommodation. Some routes might pass through smaller villages where local establishments could be found, but it's always recommended to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer rides.

Yes, bicycle rentals are available in Newport, a town conveniently located near Beltra Lough. This makes it easy for visitors to access and enjoy the various cycling routes in the region without bringing their own equipment.