Cycling Trails

With so much to cram in, cycling is the perfect way to explore Mourne Gullion Strangford. You’ll love the feeling of the wind in your hair as you journey through the Armagh and Down countryside. 

Looking for something a little bit different? Mourne Gullion Strangford offers a range of themed cycling excursions to suit every taste. Whether you’re looking for a quiet coastal jaunt or a guided food tour, look no further. 

Step into nature on the Carlingford Lough Greenway 

This 20km traffic-free trail runs between Newry City and Carlingford, following the shoreline of Carlingford Lough. Starting in Newry City, you can enjoy its many shops and cafés before heading onto the old canal path with stunning views of the Mourne Mountains and Cooley Peninsula. With plenty of places to pause, picnic, or simply take in the scenery, the Carlingford Lough Greenway is perfect for walkers, cyclists, and families alike. Find out more about Carlingford Lough Greenway here.

Sample Local Brews in the Mourne Mountains 

Get a taste of the local culture on the Mourne Trails and Ales tour. This tour combines two of life’s great pleasures: cycling and craft beer. Along the way, your guide will talk you through the local myths and legends which inspire their beers. 

Don’t sweat the small stuff, as your guide will provide equipment, transport, and beers.  

Meet Artisan Producers on Your Bike 

Taste the delights of Northern Ireland’s top farmers and chefs on the Mourne Food Cycle Trail. Take this trail at your own pace, and stop to hear the stories behind your food. You’re specially provided panniers will be loaded with local produce by the end of your journey. 

Tranquil Escapes from Urban Life 

Follow what was once one of the busiest waterways in Ireland on the Newry Canal Way. With the rise of rail travel, canals quickly fell out of favour. Today, the Newry Canal offers a tranquil escape from the stresses of city life. 

For a quiet trip with the family, this flat, level path is the perfect cycling trail for all abilities. 

Countryside Trails at Castle Ward 

Explore the rich and varied landscape of Castle Ward Demesne. You’ll journey through woodlands and along the shores of Strangford Lough on a series of family friendly bike trails. TV fans will also love the Game of Thrones® themed cycle path. 

Rest your legs, and enjoy a steaming coffee or a fresh treat at the Courtyard Cafe. 

Family Friendly Cycling Adventures in Castlewellan  

Venture into the wild on the Castlewellan Mountain Biking trails. A variety of trails weave their way through Castlewellan Forest, with routes to suit every ability level. You’ll also find countless beautiful places to stop for a family picnic. 

In the forest, admire the National Arboretum of Northern Ireland, with exotic trees and plants from all corners of the world. 

Travel Back in Time  

Pedal back to a different era on the Tobar Mhuire Heritage Cycling Trail. Explore the rich delights of the Tobar Mhuire Estate, including wooded areas, grasslands and open greenspaces. 

You’ll adore the area’s fascinating heritage, such as the healing waters of Mary’s Well, and the meticulously preserved Victorian Walled Garden. 

Adrenaline Rushes in Rostrevor Forest 

Thrill seekers look no further than the hair raising Rostrevor Mountain Bike Trails. Over 50km of forest trails colour the foothills of the Mournes on the shores of Carlingford Lough. 

Intrepid adventurers will be rewarded by panoramic views of the Lough’s shore as they wind their way downhill. Along the way, you’ll also encounter a number of native bird species in their natural habitat. 

Journey Through Open Countryside on the Mourne Greenways 

You won’t know where to go first on Northern Ireland’s network of scenic greenways. These shared paths run the lengths of the old railway network, connecting towns and cities across the country. 

The first branch opened in 2008, with County Down segments in the towns of Newry, Newcastle and Downpatrick. Journey around the top beauty spots in the Mournes along miles of car-free greenway. 

Survey the Open Skies in County Down 

Take a deep dive and explore the Northern Ireland countryside on your bike. Open Road Skies offer longer cycling adventures from two to seven days, including accommodation for up to eight guests. 

Your itinerary covers all of the top destinations around the Mournes, including Strangford Lough, Downpatrick and the mighty Mournes themselves. 

Cycling and More at the Life Adventure Centre 

If you want to plan an adventure without the headache of worrying about all the details, the Life Adventure Centre has you covered. With canoeing, bouldering, hiking and more, the centre is the ideal place for families to take a walk on the wild side. 

Friendly and professional guides will help you to shred the local mountain biking trails, no matter your level of fitness or ability. All you need is that adventurous spirit.