The best cycling routes around Island Taggart
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Touring cycling around Island Taggart offers routes within the broader Strangford Lough area, characterized by a mix of coastal scenery, rolling farmland, and diverse natural habitats. The region features drumlins, sheltered mud-flats, salt-marshes, and varied landscapes including pastureland, scrub, and woodland. While Island Taggart itself is small, it is part of the larger Strangford Lough Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which provides extensive cycling opportunities.
Best touring cycling routes around Island Taggart
- The most popular touring cycling route is Portaferry…
Last updated: May 15, 2026
6
riders
15.8km
00:57
80m
80m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
57.1km
03:21
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4
riders
51.7km
03:05
340m
340m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
30.3km
01:48
160m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
25
riders
36.7km
02:07
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Island Taggart
Tips from the Community
Burr Point marks the most easterly point on the island of Ireland. The spot is marked by a coastal sculpture by artist Ned Jackson Smyth. You can rest up in the sheltered cove which has a well-kept toilet and changing facilities close by.
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The vast coastline stretches out endlessly before you, and the panorama with the majestic Mourne Hills in the background creates a scene that is hard to put into words. The gentle waves touching the sand and the silence of the surroundings make you feel the vastness and freedom of this place.
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Built in 1622 by Roland Savage. The tower has had several alterations over its past. The neo gothic style was introduced in the early 19th century.
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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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Quintin Castle is one of the few inhabited Anglo-Norman castles to be found in Ulster. The Castle was built in 1184 by John de Courcy, an Anglo-Norman Knight who had conquered substantial parts of Ireland from 1176. It is located in the Ards Peninsula, east of the village of Portaferry on the shore of the Irish Sea, The location hosts an unprecedented view of the surrounding landscape.
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Also known as Phennick Cove Marina, in Ardglass, County Down, one of three major fishing ports in Northern Ireland. Ardglass is now one of the safest small harbours on the east coast of Ireland, following improvements made in recent years.
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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 touring cycling routes are available around Island Taggart?
There are over 30 touring cycling routes available around Island Taggart, catering to various skill levels. You'll find 10 easy routes, 17 moderate routes, and 3 more challenging options.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes near Island Taggart?
The routes around Island Taggart, part of the wider Strangford Lough area, feature a mix of coastal paths, rolling farmland, and diverse natural habitats. You'll encounter drumlins, sheltered mud-flats, salt-marshes, and areas of pastureland, scrub, and woodland. While Island Taggart itself is small, the surrounding region offers varied landscapes.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in the area?
Yes, there are several family-friendly options. For an easy ride, consider the Portaferry to Quintin Castle loop, which is 9.8 miles (15.8 km) long and takes about 57 minutes to complete. Another easy choice is the Mallard Plantation – View of Castle Ward Mansion loop from Portloughan, offering scenic views in a more sheltered environment.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see while cycling around Island Taggart?
The region around Island Taggart is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can cycle past the historic Sketrick Castle, the ancient Nendrum Monastery Ruins, or explore Delamont Country Park. Many routes also offer stunning views of Castle Ward and the Strangford & Lecale AONB.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, many routes in the area are circular. For example, the Delamont to Ardglass Harbour loop is a moderate 32.1-mile (51.7 km) circular route. The Portaferry to Kirkistown Castle loop is another moderate circular option, covering 18.8 miles (30.3 km).
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes around Island Taggart?
The touring cycling routes around Island Taggart are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 9 reviews. Cyclists often praise the scenic coastal views, the peaceful rural landscapes, and the variety of routes available for different abilities.
Is it possible to combine a visit to Island Taggart with a longer cycling tour?
Absolutely. While Island Taggart itself is a tranquil spot for walking and nature observation, it's an integral part of the broader Strangford Lough Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The prominent 82-mile Strangford Lough Cycle Trail encompasses the lough, offering extensive cycling opportunities that can easily incorporate a visit to the island.
Are there any routes that offer views of the Ards Peninsula?
Yes, the Ards Peninsula half loop from Portaferry — Strangford & Lecale is a moderate 35.5-mile (57.1 km) route specifically designed to explore the scenic Ards Peninsula, featuring stunning coastal views and rural landscapes.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see while cycling in the region?
The diverse habitats around Island Taggart, including pastureland, scrub, hedgerows, marsh, foreshore, and woodland, make it exceptionally attractive to wildlife. You might spot a wide variety of butterflies and insects, numerous small birds, and even otters, badgers, or foxes. The area is also an important wintering ground for species like chaffinches and skylarks.
Are there any specific viewpoints along the cycling routes?
Many routes offer excellent viewpoints, particularly those along the coast or on the drumlins. For instance, the View of Castle Ward and Strangford & Lecale AONB is a popular highlight that provides expansive prospects of the surrounding landscapes and the lough.
Are there any historical sites related to the island's past?
Yes, beyond its natural beauty, Island Taggart holds historical remnants. You can find old farm buildings that illustrate past life, and remains of kelp kilns, including a well-preserved larger one with a stone corbelled roof near the north-eastern bay. Ancient wells are also present, offering a glimpse into the island's history.
Most popular routes around Island Taggart
Most popular attractions around Island Taggart
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