4.4
(18)
369
riders
29
rides
Road cycling routes around Ballyridley are characterized by rolling country roads and quiet laneways, offering scenic rides through rural Ireland. The region features natural beauty, including the River Nore and River Barrow, which provide tranquil waterside views. Cyclists can also encounter woodlands and views of natural landmarks such as Brandon Hill. The area provides a diverse environment for outdoor activities.
Last updated: October 28, 2026
3.8
(15)
102
riders
70.9km
02:53
280m
280m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
81
riders
86.5km
03:33
410m
410m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

5.0
(3)
28
riders
58.8km
02:51
360m
360m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
7
riders
39.3km
01:36
180m
180m
Easy road ride. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
8
riders
Easy road ride. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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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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Carrowdore Castle Gate is one of the original 19th-century entrance lodges to the Carrowdore Castle estate in County Down. Built in a Gothic style, it features a castellated parapet and turret-like details that echo the look of the main house. Today it stands as one of the most distinctive remnants of the castle complex, marking the historic gateway to the estate.
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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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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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From Donaghadee visitors can enjoy spectacular views across the Irish Sea, where on a clear day you can see all the way to Scotland, only 20 miles away by sea. It was the province’s principle port before Belfast developed. The Harbour was built in 1820's to the design of John Rennie and is part built of limestone from Wales known as "Anglesea marble". On the harbour is Donaghadee's impressive lighthouse, which was built in 1836 and was the first lighthouse in Ireland to be lit by electricity. Sit and rest in the harbour with a bag of chips from Rainy's on the High Street ( on the hill as you roll in to town from Millisle ) Best fryers in the town. Perfect recovery after a long cycle, Irelands oldest Pub - Grace Neills, is only around the corner.
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There are over 35 road cycling routes available around Ballyridley, offering a variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community.
Road cycling routes around Ballyridley are characterized by rolling country roads and quiet laneways. The broader County Kilkenny area offers scenic rides through rural Ireland, with natural beauty including the River Nore and River Barrow, and views of landmarks like Brandon Hill. The terrain is generally suitable for road bikes, with options ranging from easy to moderate difficulty.
Yes, Ballyridley offers several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners. For instance, the View of Portaferry Harbor – Portaferry Waterfront Walk loop from Strangford is an easy 27.5 km path providing pleasant waterfront views. Another easy option is the View of Portaferry Harbor – Corrog Wood loop from Strangford, which is 39.3 km long and offers views of Portaferry Harbor and Corrog Wood.
While many routes are easy to moderate, some offer a longer distance. The Ballywalter Remembrance Mural – Ballywalter Beach loop from Knockinelder is a moderate 58.1 km trail leading through coastal areas. The East Kilkenny Cycle Route, though not directly listed in the guide data, is a moderate 89.4 km route in the wider region, connecting towns and offering views of Brandon Hill and the rivers.
The region offers beautiful natural features. You can enjoy tranquil waterside views along the River Nore and River Barrow. Some routes provide views of prominent natural landmarks such as Brandon Hill. Specific highlights include View of Castle Ward and Strangford & Lecale AONB, and the Ringhaddy Sound.
Yes, the area is rich in history. While cycling, you might pass by sites like Castle Ward Tower (Winterfell Filming Location) and Audley's Castle. The wider County Kilkenny region also features historic sites such as Kells Priory and charming towns like Graiguenamanagh with its abbey, and Inistioge with its extensive Woodstock Estate.
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Ballyridley are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the View of Portaferry Harbor – Corrog Wood loop from Strangford and the Ballywalter Remembrance Mural – Ballywalter Beach loop from Knockinelder.
The road cycling routes around Ballyridley are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 14 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet country roads, scenic views, and the diverse environment for outdoor activities.
Yes, Ballyridley and the surrounding County Kilkenny area offer options suitable for families. There are several easy routes, such as the View of Portaferry Harbor – Portaferry Waterfront Walk loop from Strangford, which are less strenuous and provide pleasant scenery. The North Kilkenny Cycle Loop, mentioned in regional research, is also an easier option passing through Jenkinstown Park.
Yes, parking options are available. For example, the Castle Ward Shore Car Park is a designated parking area that could serve as a starting point for nearby routes. Many routes in the region utilize quiet country roads, and parking may be found in or near the charming towns and villages they connect.
The best time to go road cycling in Ballyridley is generally during the milder months, from spring through early autumn (April to October), when the weather is more favorable for outdoor activities. This period offers pleasant temperatures and less chance of harsh winter conditions, allowing you to fully enjoy the rural landscapes and scenic views.
Yes, County Kilkenny actively promotes cycling. Organizations like Trail Kilkenny and Cycling Ireland have mapped routes and initiatives to enhance the cycling experience. For more information on regional cycle routes, you can visit visitkilkenny.ie.
While specific cafes and pubs are not detailed for every route, the road cycling routes in County Kilkenny often connect charming towns and villages. These settlements, such as Graiguenamanagh and Inistioge, typically offer local amenities including pubs and cafes where cyclists can stop for refreshments.


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