County Longford Cycle Routes

South Longford Cycling Route A1

Route: Cloondara - Keenagh

This 32km cycle will follow the Royal Canal for most of the route. Care should be taken when crossing the R398, and when using the canal bridges and gates. Soft surfaces on the canal can be difficult for some road bikes. Rating: Moderate

South Longford Cycling Route A2

Loop Route: Keenagh - Barry - Keenagh

This 31km cycle loop follows small country roads and includes views over bogland. You can visit the Corlea Trackway Visitors Centre en route. Rating: Moderate

South Longford Cycling Route A3

Loop Route: Ballymahon - Barry - Colehill - Carrick - Abbeyshrule - Ballymahon

The shortest route in South Longford at 29km, and you will be mostly cycling along the Royal Canal. You will see the beautiful village of Abbeyshrule. Stop off at Newcastle Woods on the banks of the River Inny. You can also make your way to Pallas, the birthplace of poet Oliver Goldsmith. In Ballymahon, you can enjoy the many cafés and restaurants. Care should be taken when crossing the R392 at Newcastle Woods. Rating: Moderate

South Longford Cycling Route A4

Loop Route: Lanesborough - Newtowncashel - Lanesborough

This 36km route is the longest in South Longford. You will see beautiful views of Lough Ree and its islands, with opportunities to visit Barley Harbour, Saints Island and Rathcline Castle along the way. The picturesque towns of Lanesborough and Newtowncashel have plenty of restaurants, cafés, playgrounds and walking trails. Rating: Moderate

North Longford Cycle Route N1

Loop Route: Longford Town - Cullyfad - Ballinalee - Ballinamuck - Drumlish - Newtownforbes - Longford Town

This 52 kilometre (km) route takes in some of Longford’s Rebel Trail and crosses over Corn Hill, with its spectacular views. It features a steep incline for about 5 kilometres. Rating: Difficult.

North Longford Cycle Route N2

Loop Route: Ballinalee - Aughnacliffe - Ballinalee

On this 39km route, you will see the General Sean MacEoin Monument. You will see views of Lough Gowna and can picnic at Leebeen Park, Aughnacliffe. An incline for approximately 8 kilometres. Rating: Difficult

North Longford Cycle Route N3

Loop Route: Granard - Abbeylara - Lough Gowna - Granard

On this 42km trail, you will take in some Irish history, including that of Michael Collins and Kitty Kiernan and their time in Granard and the Knights & Conquests Heritage Centre. See the sights of Lough Gowna and picnic at Derrycassin Woods or at Leebeen Park. Rating: Moderate

North Longford Cycle Route N4

Loop Route: Aughnacliffe - Moyne - Legga - Ballinamuck - Aughnacliffe

This route is 29km and takes in some of Longford’s Rebel Trail, as well as the history of the 1798 Battle of Ballinamuck. You may also explore Edenmore Bog Walk. A steep incline for approx. 5km. Rating: Difficult