The best road cycling routes around Kells

There are over 70 road cycling routes around Kells, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored these routes over 650 times.

Road cycling around Kells is characterized by quiet country roads and dedicated greenways, such as the Boyne Valley to Lakelands Greenway. The terrain is generally gently undulating, typical of the Boyne Valley, with fertile plains and scenic river sections along the River Boyne.

Yes, Kells offers a good selection of routes suitable for beginners and families. Out of the 71 available routes, 20 are classified as easy, providing gentle gradients and a pleasant cycling experience. The Boyne Valley to Lakelands Greenway, for example, is a car-free pathway with easy gradients, ideal for leisure cyclists and families.

For those seeking a challenge, Kells offers routes with significant elevation gains. For instance, the Glenariff Forest loop from Ballymena is a moderate route covering 45.5 miles (73.2 km) with over 2,200 feet (691m) of ascent. Another option is the Cushendun Village – Waterfoot Beach loop from Ballymena, which is a difficult route with over 3,400 feet (1047m) of climbing over 75 miles (121 km).

The Kells area is rich in historical and natural attractions. You can explore sites like the Kells Round Tower and High Crosses, or visit the Spire of Lloyd, an 18th-century inland lighthouse offering panoramic views. While cycling, you might pass by the serene Girley Bog, a Special Area of Conservation. Nearby attractions also include Antrim Castle Gardens and the Antrim Round Tower.

Yes, the region offers several scenic viewpoints. The Spire of Lloyd, located on the outskirts of Kells, provides panoramic views of the surrounding lush landscapes of Meath. Additionally, some routes offer views of the Boyne Valley and its picturesque countryside. You might also encounter the View of Slemish Mountain from Colin Road on certain routes.

The road cycling routes around Kells are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 5 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet country roads, the scenic beauty of the Boyne Valley, and the variety of routes available, from gentle greenways to more challenging climbs.

The Boyne Valley region generally offers pleasant cycling conditions for much of the year. Spring and summer provide warmer weather and longer daylight hours, ideal for exploring. Autumn also offers beautiful scenery with changing foliage. It's always advisable to check local weather forecasts before heading out.

While specific parking details for every route vary, Kells and its surrounding villages typically offer public parking options. For routes like the Boyne Valley to Lakelands Greenway, designated parking areas are available at various access points along the greenway. It's recommended to check specific route details for the most convenient parking.

Yes, as Kells is a historic town and the routes often pass through or near villages like Wilkinstown, Nobber, and Kilmainhamwood, you can find cafes and pubs to refuel. The town of Kells itself has various establishments where cyclists can stop for refreshments.

Yes, Kells serves as a gateway to the Boyne Valley to Lakelands Greenway. This 30km car-free pathway, built along an old railway line, offers a serene journey through open farmland and villages, making it an excellent option for a safe and enjoyable ride away from traffic.

One of the longer and more challenging routes is the Cushendun Village – Waterfoot Beach loop from Ballymena, which spans approximately 75 miles (121 km) and involves significant elevation gain, making it a full-day adventure for experienced cyclists.