The best road cycling routes around Ardshankill
4.6
(26)
123
riders
18
rides
Road cycling routes around Ardshankill, located within County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, offer varied terrains suitable for different cycling abilities. The region features rolling hills and lakeside routes, providing scenic views and a mix of challenges. Cyclists can explore areas with mostly well-paved surfaces, alongside segments that may require good fitness due to elevation changes. The landscape includes mature forest lands and proximity to numerous loughs, enhancing the outdoor experience.
Best road cycling routes around Ardshankill
- The most popular road cycling…
Last updated: November 7, 2026
1
riders
40.9km
01:57
280m
280m
Easy road ride. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.5
(4)
55
riders
88.9km
03:40
500m
500m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3.7
(20)
15
riders
40.2km
01:53
350m
350m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
8
riders
24.6km
01:01
170m
170m
Easy road ride. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
9
riders
73.3km
03:09
490m
490m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
For Ballyshannon, Rory Gallagher is not just a world-famous guitarist; he is the "Born and Bred" pride of Ireland's oldest town. Although he moved to Cork at a young age, Ballyshannon claims him with heart and soul as their own son. He was born here in 1948 at the Rock Hospital, and that deep connection can be felt everywhere in the streets. In the eyes of the local community, Rory embodies the humble, hardworking spirit of Donegal. He was the man who brought the blues to the Irish soul, armed with his iconic, battered Fender Stratocaster and his signature checkered shirt. For the locals, he is the reason thousands of fans from all over the world flock to the Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival every year, turning the town into the centre of rock 'n' roll for a while. Rory is not a distant legend here, but a tangible presence that lives on in the statue on The Diamond and the colourful murals that adorn the town.
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For those who want to hear the music of Rory GALLAGHER – whom the British newspaper The Times praised with "He is one of the few guitarists you can recognize within seconds, his style is so individual." –: In 1977, the native Irishman (1948 to 1995) gave a one-hour concert on the then popular German show "Rockpalast" by Westdeutscher Rundfunk (WDR), which can be viewed on YouTube => https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6qkr-XlNZKM
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The castle now houses the Fermanagh County Museum, which focuses on the history, culture and natural history of the county.
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Gorgeous views of the Lough, well paved surface
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The Wee Bakery Coffee Shop Ballyshannon Address: Main St, Townparks, Ballyshannon, Co. Donegal, F94 HTW5 Lovely little cafe with friendly staff and tasty food. If you have the opportunity to stop here, do so.
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From here over the Lough you can see St Patrick's Purgatory which is an ancient pilgrimage site that is suggested to have not been interrupted for fifteen hundred years, with it continuing in the present day. Its importance in medieval times is clear due to its present on maps all over Europe as early as the 15th century. It was the only Irish site designated on Martin Behaim's world map of 1492.
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In the graveyard are several interesting stones, probably the most noted one is known as the Bishops stone, this odd shaped stone has been altered and reused several times, originally thought to have been a carved figure similar to those on nearby White Island. Another stone with a lot of history is the large slab standing west of the bishops stone, one side of the stone bears at least twelve cup-shaped hollows, see image above right, which suggest this maybe a multiple bullaun stone/cup marked stone that has been reused as an early Christian cross slab, as on the obverse face is a Greek cross in a circle with a bifurcated stem. Situated south of the bullaun stone is a holed stone, as the image shows this stone is half embedded in the ground. Immediately to the West of the holed stone is a broken 1.2 metre high stone pillar. This stone may have been damaged. http://www.megalithicireland.com/Killadeas.htm
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The magnificent Enniskillen Castle is situated in the heart of Enniskillen on the banks of the River Erne. The castle was founded in the 15th century by Hugh 'The Hospitable' Maguire and belonged to the Maguire family for centuries. Between 2007 and 2013 a massive refurbishment took place so that the castle could be opened to the public. Today you can explore the castle grounds and learn about this landmarks rich history.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Ardshankill?
There are nearly 20 road cycling routes around Ardshankill, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include 5 easy routes, 12 moderate routes, and 2 more challenging options, catering to various skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect when road cycling in Ardshankill?
Ardshankill, located within County Fermanagh, offers varied terrain for road cycling. You'll find a mix of mostly well-paved surfaces, rolling hills, and scenic lakeside routes. Some segments may include elevation changes that require good fitness, while others are more gentle, providing options for all abilities.
Are there any easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners or a relaxed ride?
Yes, Ardshankill has 5 easy road cycling routes. A great option is the Boa island to Lough Derg and back route, which is 40.9 km long and offers beautiful views of Boa Island and Lough Derg. Another easy choice is the Roadbike loop from Pettigo, covering 24.6 km.
Can I find circular road cycling routes in the Ardshankill area?
Many of the routes around Ardshankill are designed as loops, perfect for circular rides. For example, the Enniskillen Castle – Enniskillen Castle loop from Kesh is a moderate 89.0 km circular path. Another popular loop is the Tully Castle Ruins – The Big Tree loop from Heron Island, which is 40.2 km.
What historical sites or landmarks can I see along the road cycling routes?
The region is rich in history. You can cycle past or near sites like the historic Enniskillen Castle, which is featured in the Enniskillen Castle loop from Kesh. The Tully Castle Ruins – The Big Tree loop from Heron Island takes you near the 17th-century Tully Castle Ruins. Other notable attractions include Old Castle Archdale and the Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery.
Are there any scenic viewpoints or natural features to enjoy while cycling?
Absolutely. The Ardshankill area is known for its natural beauty. Many routes offer stunning lakeside views, particularly around Lough Erne. You can find excellent vistas from spots like the Rossmore Point Beacon or the View of Lough Erne from Cliffs of Magho. The region also features mature forest lands and proximity to numerous loughs like Carrick Lough.
What do other road cyclists say about the routes in Ardshankill?
The road cycling routes around Ardshankill are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the scenic lakeside sections, and the opportunity to combine rides with visits to historical sites.
Are there any longer, more challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 2 difficult routes in the area. Additionally, several moderate routes offer significant distances and elevation gains. The Enniskillen Castle – Enniskillen Castle loop from Kesh, at 89.0 km with nearly 500 meters of elevation gain, provides a substantial ride.
Can I find routes that pass by lakes or offer waterside cycling?
Many routes in Ardshankill feature beautiful waterside sections due to the region's numerous loughs. The Boa island to Lough Derg and back route offers views of Lough Derg, and the wider County Fermanagh area is known for its scenic lakeside roads, especially around Lough Erne.
Are there any routes that include or pass near castles?
Yes, several routes incorporate historical castles. The Enniskillen Castle – Enniskillen Castle loop from Kesh directly circles the historic Enniskillen Castle. Another route, the Tully Castle Ruins – The Big Tree loop from Heron Island, passes close to the Tully Castle Ruins.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Ardshankill?
While specific conditions vary, the spring and summer months generally offer the most favorable weather for road cycling in Ardshankill, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. However, the region's natural beauty can be enjoyed throughout the year, with autumn providing vibrant foliage.
Are there any routes that offer a mix of cultural and natural sights?
Many routes in Ardshankill blend cultural and natural attractions seamlessly. For instance, the Enniskillen Castle – Enniskillen Castle loop from Kesh combines the historical significance of Enniskillen Castle with varied natural terrain. Similarly, routes near Tully Castle Ruins often pass through scenic landscapes.
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