Get on your bike and go - Explore the Mourne Gullion Strangford Region

The great outdoors of Mourne Gullion Strangford are possibly the greatest in the world. The climbs and dips of the peaks and valleys offer those who like to get on their bikes and explore a chance to do just that in a place of giant wonder. There are, of course, different... ‘spokes’... for different folks and we have something to offer every family. Whether you and yours enjoy pedalling at your own gentle pace or prefer pumping down the side of a mountain, we have it all. So get on your bike and join us.

Whether you're a thrill-seeker looking for fast descents or a family wanting a relaxing ride, Mourne Gullion Strangford has the perfect cycling route for you.

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 Mournes. 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 some here at Life Adventure.

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. It is not short mind you. 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, you can take it handy 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

Up the road, 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 and so is perfect for the smaller members of your peloton.

Those who might be interested in a biking package should check out the guys at 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 adventured, 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 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, the Mourne Mountains, Ring of Gullion and Strangford Lough offer 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 in Northern Ireland.

There’s no doubt that for families who like to spend time in the saddle, the Mourne Mountains, Ring of Gullion and Strangford Lough rule the roost.

Rostrevor Mountain Bike Trails
Mountain Biking Trails
Rostrevor Mountain Bike Trail

Rostrevor Mountain Bike Trails in Kilbroney Park and Rostrevor Forest offer challenging climbs with some serious descents and Ireland's first two official downhill trails and other trails suitable for families to use. Make time to stop off at Kodak Corner to take in the view over Carlingford Lough and beyond.

Clearsky Adventure Centre
Activity Centre
Clearsky Adventure Centre

Newcastle and Castlewellan Bike Hire We have a wide range of bikes available for hire. Mountain bikes, electric e-bikes, tandem bicycles, kids bicycles. You name it, we should have it. Free delivery and shuttle bus service.

Ring of Gullion Way
Walking & Hiking
Slieve Gullion View

The Ring of Gullion Area offers an unforgettable walking experience for all abilities, surrounded by dramatic scenery and stunning natural landscapes. Whether you're an experienced hiker or simply looking for a leisurely stroll, this area has something for everyone. Explore its rolling hills, lush forests, and scenic trails that wind through the beautiful Slieve Gullion Forest Park, providing breathtaking views and a sense of tranquillity in one of Northern Ireland's most captivating regions.

Life Adventure Centre
Activity Centre
Life Adventure Centre

Epic adventures are on offer all year round at Life Adventure Centre. Their extensive range of activities include mountain biking, stand-up paddleboarding, wet bouldering, rock climbing, sit on top kayaking, coasteering, electric biking and open canoeing - something for everyone!

Castle Ward
The National Trust
Castle Ward

Discover a place of contrasts and creativity at Castle Ward, an eccentric 18th century mansion and estate looking out over the tranquil waters of Strangford Lough in County Down where visitors can explore cultivated gardens, sheltered woodland and the shoreline.

Delamont Country Park
Public Park
Family standing over a gate looking at the view of the Islands on Strangford Lough, from Grey Point Lookout at Delamont Country Park.

Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty, Delamont Country Park, Killyleagh offers peace, beauty and tranquillity. The stunning views across Strangford Lough and the relaxing atmosphere make Delamont Country Park a place to enjoy that 'away from it all feeling'.

Castlewellan Forest Park
Forest Parks
Group of ladies enjoying the Annesley Garden walk in Castlewellan Forest Park

Castlewellan Forest Park is located on Forest Park View, Castlewellan, County Down, in a dramatic setting of mountains and sea. Castlewellan Forest Park has one of the most outstanding tree and shrub collections in Europe. The beauty, vigour and perfect shape of the trees in the National Arboretum attract tree enthusiasts from around the world.

Kilbroney Park
Forest Parks
Children enjoying Aslan's Table in Kilbroney Park

Kilbroney Park features riverside walks and an arboretum. There is a two-mile forest drive which showcases panoramic views over Carlingford Lough. There is also a Play Park with children's play area and tennis courts, an Information area and a café all on site.

Bike Mourne
Cycling and Mountain Biking
Cyclists on bikes from Bike Mourne, Newcastle admiring the Mourne Mountains from the Promenade, Newcastle, County Down

Experience the Mournes by bike on road, track and trail with the guided and self-guided bike and electric bike tours or do it yourself with bike and electric bike hire. Explore the majestic mountains, dramatic coasts, stunning landscapes, enchanting forests, award winning mountain bike trails and endless year-round cycle adventures.