Best Cycling Routes in Northern Ireland for Active Tourists

Best Cycling Routes in Northern Ireland for Active Tourists

April 11, 2025

Northern Ireland is a paradise for cycling and active travelers. Picturesque landscapes, varied terrain and well-prepared cycling routes make it an ideal destination for both families with children and more advanced cyclists. In this article, we'll highlight the best cycling routes in Northern Ireland that will allow you to discover the beauty of the region on two wheels. From quiet forest paths to challenging mountain trails, there is something for everyone. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure among green hills, mysterious forests and breathtaking views. Whether you are a novice cyclist or an experienced mountain biker, Northern Ireland has much to offer you. Embark with us on a journey through the region's most beautiful cycling routes and discover why Northern Ireland is becoming an increasingly popular destination for two-wheeled enthusiasts from all over the world.

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Bike routes in the heart of the Mourne Mountains

Start our cycling tour of Northern Ireland with the scenic Mourne Mountains, where you'll find some of the best trails for mountain biking enthusiasts. The first stop on our list is the Castlewellan Mountain Bike Trails, located in Castlewellan Forest Park. This trail complex offers something for cyclists of all skill levels. The trails lead around a picturesque lake, and the variety of terrain means there's a route to suit everyone. For families with children, the gentle route around the lake, which offers beautiful views and is relatively easy to follow, will be ideal. More advanced cyclists can try their hand at the red and black trails, which offer more technical challenges and adrenaline. It's worth mentioning that electric bikes can be rented locally, which is a great option for those who want to explore the beauty of the area without too much effort. Castlewellan Mountain Bike Trails received an impressive rating of 4.8 out of 5, a testament to the high quality of the trails and infrastructure. Another noteworthy spot is Tollymore Forest Park, which offers not only bike trails, but also beautiful scenery and rich history. Famous for its 'Game of Thrones' movie locations, this park combines charming forests, scenic streams and fascinating rock formations. The bike trails at Tollymore are slightly less demanding than those at Castlewellan, making it ideal for families with children or novice cyclists. A rating of 4.8 out of 5 confirms that this is a place worth visiting. Comparing the two places, Castlewellan offers more varied and technical trails, ideal for challenge seekers, while Tollymore is a better choice for those who appreciate a quieter ride surrounded by beautiful nature. Both parks offer excellent facilities, including parking, restrooms and picnic areas, making them ideal for day-long cycling trips. It's worth remembering that parking fees may apply at both places, so it's worth checking current prices on the parks' official websites before visiting.

Forest trails for nature lovers and adrenaline junkies

Continuing our cycling adventure, we move on to places that offer a combination of natural beauty and thrill. The first of these is Davagh Forest Trails - MTB Trailhead, a true paradise for mountain biking enthusiasts. Located in the heart of County Tyrone, Davagh Forest offers some of the most exciting mountain biking trails in Northern Ireland. With a rating of 4.7 out of 5, the place is extremely popular with cyclists. The trails in Davagh Forest range in difficulty from easy family trails to challenging red and black routes. A particular highlight is the 'Big Wig Jig' route, which offers technical descents and jumps for the most experienced cyclists. What sets Davagh Forest apart is not only the great trails, but also the additional attractions, such as the possibility of stargazing and glamping, which makes this place ideal for an extended stay. It is worth noting that there is a cafe on site, where you can relax and replenish your energy after an intense ride. Another place worth noting is Gortin Glen Forest Park, which received an impressive rating of 4.8 out of 5. This scenic park offers not only bike trails, but also beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The trails in Gortin Glen are slightly gentler than those in Davagh Forest, making them ideal for families with children or less experienced cyclists. The park also offers walking paths and vehicle routes, allowing for a variety of explorations of the area. Noteworthy is the excellent infrastructure, including parking, restrooms and children's playgrounds, making it an ideal place for a day trip. Comparing the two places, Davagh Forest is a better choice for thrill seekers and technical challenges, while Gortin Glen Forest Park offers more diverse recreational opportunities, ideal for families. What both places have in common, however, is the natural beauty and fresh mountain air that make cycling a real pleasure. It's worth noting that safety and environmental rules apply at both parks, so be sure to read the rules and regulations before visiting and prepare for your trip accordingly.

Family cycling routes and country parks

To conclude our cycling tour of Northern Ireland, we'll focus on places ideal for families with children and those who prefer quieter routes. One such place is Gosford Forest Park, which received a high rating of 4.7 out of 5. This sprawling forest park offers not only biking trails, but also many other attractions that make it the perfect place for a family day trip. The bike trails in Gosford Forest Park are relatively easy and safe, making them ideal for novice cyclists and children. The park offers a special cycling learning area for the youngest riders, a unique attraction in the region. In addition to bicycle trails, the park also has walking paths, picnic areas and playgrounds, allowing for a variety of active recreation. It's worth mentioning that the park is pet-friendly, which means we can bring our four-legged friend along for the ride. Another place worth mentioning is Bike Mourne, which, although not a park sensu stricto, offers a wide variety of biking trails in the Mourne Mountains region. With a rating of 4.8 out of 5, Bike Mourne has an excellent reputation among cyclists. What sets Bike Mourne apart is their professional approach to organizing bicycle tours. They offer bike rentals, including electric bikes, which is a great option for those who want to explore the beauty of the region without too much effort. The routes offered by Bike Mourne range in difficulty, from easy family tours to more challenging routes for experienced cyclists. Guided tours are highly recommended, allowing you to discover the region's most beautiful corners and learn more about local history and culture. Comparing the two, Gosford Forest Park is an ideal choice for families with young children, offering safe and easy routes and additional on-site activities. Bike Mourne, on the other hand, is a great option for those looking for more varied trails and professional service. What both places have in common, however, is the beauty of nature and the opportunity for active outdoor activities. It's worth remembering that parking fees apply for Gosford Forest Park (£5 per day according to the latest information), while costs for Bike Mourne depend on the rental or tour option chosen. Before planning a trip, it's worth checking current prices and availability on the official websites of both places. Regardless of your choice, both Gosford Forest Park and the trails offered by Bike Mourne guarantee an unforgettable experience and the opportunity to discover the beauty of Northern Ireland on two wheels.

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