28.3 miles
Loop
Crossmaglen
This challenging route twists and turns through the geologically intriguing Slieve Gullion area and past many small loughs and lakes which dominate the area close to the border with the Republic of Ireland
TRAIL INFORMATION
Starting at the Square in Crossmaglen the route follows a stretch of the B30 towards Creggan, with its famous graveyard. Turning right here you soon pass the magnificent chapel at Glasdrumman before continuing further south to Ballsmill. Here you turn left, cross the A29 and begin one of several climbs passing through one of the many gaps in the Ring of Gullion.
Take a while to enjoy the scenery at the top before dropping down and following a section of the Poet's Trail cycle route into Mullaghbane. The Ti Chulainn Cultural and Activity Centre here is well worth a visit.
From Mullaghbane the route once again passes up through the hills which give cyclists a wonderful view of Slieve Gullion and the South Armagh, before descending into Silverbridge and turning right for Cullyhanna. From here the route is less demanding as it winds past many small loughs and drumlins where there are ample opportunities for a picnic before returning to Crossmaglen.
TRAIL INFORMATION
Starting at the Square in Crossmaglen the route follows a stretch of the B30 towards Creggan, with its famous graveyard. Turning right here you soon pass the magnificent chapel at Glasdrumman before continuing further south to Ballsmill. Here you turn left, cross the A29 and begin one of several climbs passing through one of the many gaps in the Ring of Gullion.
Take a while to enjoy the scenery at the top before dropping down and following a section of the Poet's Trail cycle route into Mullaghbane. The Ti Chulainn Cultural and Activity Centre here is well worth a visit.
From Mullaghbane the route once again passes up through the hills which give cyclists a wonderful view of Slieve Gullion and the South Armagh, before descending into Silverbridge and turning right for Cullyhanna. From here the route is less demanding as it winds past many small loughs and drumlins where there are ample opportunities for a picnic before returning to Crossmaglen.
GETTING TO THE START
From Newry take the A25 towards Camlough and turn left on the B30 towards Lislea. Follow the B30 through Silverbridge and Creggan before coming to Crossmaglen. This road takes you to Crossmaglen town square where the route begins.
- Facilities Cafes, pubs, shops and public toilets are available in Crossmaglen.
- Getting to the Start From Newry take the A25 towards Camlough and turn left on the B30 towards Lislea. Follow the B30 through Silverbridge and Creggan before coming to Crossmaglen. This road takes you to Crossmaglen town square where the route begins.
- Traffic Information Mostly on quiet country roads. B30 from Crossmaglen to Creggan can be busy at times.
- Bike Hire Providers Iron Donkey Bicycle Touring Iron Donkey Bicycle Touring 15 Ballyknockan Rd Saintfield Email: info@irondonkey.com Phone: 028 9081 3200 http://www.irondonkey.com Lurgaboy Adventure Centre Lurgaboy Adventure Centre 12 Gosford Road ARMAGH
- Accessible Facilities Some sections are relatively hilly. Contact Newry Tourist Information for more details.
