Cycling Trails in Mourne Gullion Strangford

Cycling has always been a favourite way to get out and about to explore our beautiful region and with so many activity centres available to hire a bike for the day, you don’t even need to have your own wheels!  Have a look at the cycling routes we have laid out for you and get on your bike!

Newry to Slieve Gullion Courtyard

Starting in the city of Newry, there are many points of interest on this cycle trail such as the elegant 18^th century thatched cottage, Derrymore House, a National Trust treasure steeped in history.  Cycle further to the quaint village of Camlough, named after the lake, Cam Lough.  South of the village you will enjoy the spectacular views of Camlough Mountain which is part of the Ring of Gullion geological formation.  Contact Ring of Gullion Cycles in Newry for everything you need to make your trip.

The Rostrevor Route

The beautiful village of Rostrevor is your starting point for this route and leads you to the shady paths and fine forest of Kilbroney.  While you are here, follow the trail up to see the Cloughmore Stone, a huge granite boulder supposedly thrown there by legendary giant, Finn McCool when he was fighting with one of his rivals.  The viewpoint nearby will give you amazing views of Carlingford Lough below.  Contact East Coast Adventure Centre or Stewart Cycles 02841773565, both based in nearby Warrenpoint for bike hire and accessories.

The Poet’s Trail

The Ring of Gullion is famed for its strong association with poets and poetry.  The poets’ remains can be found in Creggan Church and graveyard in Slieve Gullion which is known as the poet’s graveyard.  You can follow the folklore and life and times of the Poets and Scholars of the area as you cycle. 

Download - Poet's Trails and other walks 

The Head Road Route

This route starts in the Lower Square of Kilkeel, a busy coastal fishing town but you will soon be travelling out of the town through narrow roads with their symmetrical stone walls and impressive high-rising Mourne Mountains all around.  Take a well earned break at Silent Valley Reservoir where you will find a café if you fancy some refreshments en route.  Further inland, have a look at the quaint little cottages at Hanna’s Close, one of the last remaining medieval-style settlements in Ireland. 

Call into J P Quinn Cycles, 9 Bridge Street, Kilkeel for all your cycling needs.

Legananny Route

This cycle route starts out in the townland of Finnis near Dromara.  Enjoy the superb views of Slieve Croob as you ride along the narrow country roads close to Seeconnell Residential Home.  You can stop off in the picturesque market town of Castlewellan at one of the many cafes or take a ride up the avenue of Castlewellan Forest Park to have a lakeside rest before you continue your journey.  Legananny Dolmen is definitely a great point of interest on this trail and dates back to the Neolithic period making the monument approximately 5,000 years old!  Hire your bikes from Life Adventure Centre - Castlewellan 

Strangford Lough Cycle Trail

A varied cycle route which passes by many attractions such as Delamont Country Park, Inch Abbey, Exploris in Portaferry and the wildlife rich wetlands of Castle Espie.  You can be sure of fantastic views of both the Mourne Mountains and Strangford Lough as you go. 

Castle Ward Trails

For a family friendly day out, Castle Ward Trails is your go to!  There are 4 trails to choose from, 3 of which are very easy and 1 for those with a little more experience.  Within the National Trust’s picturesque demesne of Castle Ward, you can be sure of a safe environment for your youngest cyclists and the most beautiful scenery as you venture along the Strangford Lough shoreline. 

Hire your bikes from Clearsky Adventure Centre which is based on the Castle Ward Estate. 

Castlewellan Forest Park – A Haven for Mountain Biking

Castlewellan Forest Park is a must-visit for mountain bikers of all ages and abilities. For families the best bets are the two-and-a-half-mile Green Trail or the slightly longer Blue Trail. Both routes take you around Castlewellan Lake in under an hour and offer stunning views of the Mourne Mountains. The fifteen-mile Red Trail is definitely one for families with older and very fit kids. This one is not for the faint-hearted and involves a fair bit of climbing. The views are stunning, however, and you’ll have quite the achievement to discuss around the dinner table that evening. If you’re not too keen on lugging your bikes all the way from home, you can rent at Life Adventure Centre.

Bunkers Hill Walk, Cycle & Play Trail

Bunkers Hill is a small, forest area on the outskirts of Castlewellan. This circular 1.2 mile trail is suitable for walking and family cycling only and has 3 lovely viewpoints. It also has a natural play trail for children age 4-11 made entirely out of natural materials.

The walking and family cycling trail starts and finishes at the Play Trail and is fully signposted.

Opposite the Play Trail entrance walkers turn right and follow the waymarkers along the trail as it climbs steadily to afford walkers 3 stunning views of Slieve Croob and surrounding countryside, Dundrum Bay and Mourne Mountains.  Seating has been provided at various points along the trail for your comfort and to stop and enjoy the views!  

Rostrevor Mountain Bike Trails – For Experienced Riders

It’s a similar story at Rostrevor Mountain Bike Trails. These routes on the shores of Carlingford Lough are for families who have plenty of experience of the sport and are considered among the most challenging but most rewarding on these islands. Enjoy incredible coastal views and some exhilarating single-track descents.

It is worth noting that you save yourself the hassle of setting up your roof rack by hiring bikes, e-bikes and even trikes from Bike Mourne at both Castlewellan Forest Park and Rostrevor Mountain Bike Trails. You can even take the bikes further afield and explore the surrounding area while you’re at it.

Newry Canal Way – A Scenic Family Cycle

For families who like their cycling a little gentler, the Newry Canal Way is ideal, although not short!  At twenty miles, it will take a little something out of those legs. But with an easy gradient and plenty of places to stop and explore along the way, take your time and enjoy the scenery. From Newry itself, cyclists can access the wonderful Ring of Gullion via National Cycle Network Route 9. Cycling fans will remember that the Giro d’Italia passed through this scenic area in 2014 and while we don't expect you to pedal through these majestic hills and mountains as their speed, there are all sorts of routes on offer for cyclists of all levels.

A Gentle Ride on the Strangford Lough side

Further along, near Downpatrick, families can saddle up and pedal around the Castle Ward Shore Trail. This wide and flat trail follows the shore of Strangford Lough from the farmyard at Castle Ward to Audley's Quay. A gentle route, it’s less than a mile long and is accessible to everyone. It offers a smooth, consistent, surface with no physical barriers so it is perfect for the smaller members of your peloton.

Those who might be interested in a biking package should check out nearby Clearsky Adventure Centre. Not only can you hire bikes there, but they also offer their great Family Camping Pod Adventure which allows you to spend a night in one of their fantastic family camping pods at Castle Ward and explore the beautiful estate on their top quality bikes. They also throw in a choice of either archery or canoeing. Quite a busy, but wonderful way, to spend a night away from home.

Delamont Country Park - Cycle with a View

Delamont Country Park is a great option for a family cycling adventure. Explore the park's interlinked trails, which offer beautiful views of Strangford Lough and the Mourne Mountains. Whether you're cycling with stabilisers or confident pedal-pushers, the park's well-maintained paths make for a stress-free, enjoyable ride. Delamont is the perfect setting for family friendly cycling adventures, its well maintained paths and scenic surroundings make it a popular choice for cyclists of all ages. But it’s not just about the biking! Delamont is packed with family-friendly features including picnic areas, a cafe and a children’s play park, you’re sure to keep families entertained all day long.

Newcastle Promenade - Beachside Cycling Fun

Ideal for cyclists of all ages the Newcastle Promenade is your go-to destination! This 2.6 km paved trail stretches from Donard Park along the beach and offers stunning views of the Mourne Mountains and the Shimna River estuary.  Along the way, you'll find cafes and pubs to take a break and enjoy some refreshments. Just be mindful of pedestrians as you ride. So, grab your bikes and helmets, and head to the promenade for a delightful day of cycling by the sea!

Why Mourne Gullion Strangford is Perfect for Cycling Families

From thrilling mountain trails to scenic loughside paths, Mourne Gullion Strangford offers a diverse range of family-friendly cycling experiences. With rental options, adventure packages, and a variety of terrain, it's the ultimate destination for your next cycling holiday. 

There’s no doubt that for families who like to spend time in the saddle, Mourne Gullion Strangford has it all. 

Things to remember:  

• Please be mindful of your safety and the safety of others at all times. 

• Obey traffic signals, and use lights at night.

• Ride in a predictable manner at least a door's width from parked cars, and riding in single file or in the centre of the lane when necessary to prevent dangerous overtakes.

• Do not ride on pavements and remember to ride on the left side of the road in Northern Ireland. 

• It is not compulsory to wear a helmet in Northern Ireland however, your risk of head injury will be greatly reduced if you do wear one. 

• Please note that trail diversions are in place at present across Castlewellan MTB Trails red and blue trails, including at the trailhead, due to storm damage. Staff are working hard to open these sections as soon as possible

Happy cycling!