Whiterock Harbour – Sketrick Castle loop from Ballybeen

Routes

Bike touring routes & trails

Whiterock Harbour – Sketrick Castle loop from Ballybeen

Moderate

riders

Whiterock Harbour – Sketrick Castle loop from Ballybeen

03:17

55.7km

320m

Cycling

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: October 15, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through protected areas

Please check local regulations for:

Strangford & Lecale AONB

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

7.95 km

View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road

Highlight (Segment) • Lake

Picturesque rolling trail through Barley fields, and vistas of the beautiful Strangford Lough always present. Hosts great views of Scrabo Tower in the distance, and if you catch this trail …

Tip by

21.8 km

Whiterock Harbour

Highlight • Settlement

It's home to two yacht clubs: Strangford Lough Yacht Club and 1.5 kilometres (0.95 mi) to the north, Down Cruising Club. Between the two yacht clubs is Sketrick Castle, a …

Tip by

23.0 km

Sketrick Castle

Highlight • Castle

Sketrick Castkle is a historic landmark situated on Sketrick Island near Whiterock. The castle dates back to the 12th century and the grounds are free to explore.

Tip by

23.5 km

Ballydorn Bay & Lightship LV Petrel

Highlight • Monument

If you get caught in a rain shower, there is decent shelter to be had, just opposite the moorings around the same position as this Highlight. The view will keep you settled.

Tip by

31.8 km

Beach

33.9 km

Mahee Castle

Highlight • Historical Site

Great atmosphere. Especially towards evening when the quiet really begins. listen to the Birds call across the Lough, or sit and rest for a while. The Castle is also great …

Tip by

34.1 km

Nendrum Monastery Ruins

Highlight • Historical Site

Love spending time here. There is a park bench to the far east corner, and to the left of that hosts one of the best views of the Lough. When …

Tip by

35.3 km

Twisted Tree on Reagh Island

Highlight • Viewpoint

Reagh Island ( An tOileán Riabhach meaning “The Brindled Island” ) is one of the many islands in Strangford Lough. Along with some other islands, it provides shelter for Ringneill …

Tip by

40.5 km

WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre

Highlight • Natural

WWT Castle Espie is home to the largest collection of ducks, geese and swans in Ireland. Wide open spaces, and wetlands full of the sights and sounds of nature.

Surprised …

Tip by

55.7 km

End point

Bus stop

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types