North Mayo is a cyclist’s paradise with a large amount of routes available. Different terrains with different levels of ability, there is a trail/route for everyone.
Belleek Cycling Trail
Belleek Trail is a 4.5km trail in a mature woodland setting with magnificent views of the River Moy.
Cyclists will pass the ‘Creteboom’ a concrete boat beached over 35 years ago, a famine wall, even a disused ice-house. Belleek Woods is a diverse woodland with mixed woodland types. Red squirrels are just some of the animals that call Belleek home and remember, keep a watch along the riverbank, you might catch a glimpse of some herons, kingfisher, seals and swans to name a few. The Belleek Trail can be walked or cycled. Cyclists are to be made aware that this trail is also used by walkers and runners.
Cycling in North Mayo is one of the top recommended “to do” activities when visiting the area. Level of Difficult: Easy
Monasteries of the Moy
The Monasteries of the Moy is a 14km route which forms part of the Western Way, linking a series of monastic sites along the banks of the River Moy between Ballina and Killala.
The sites to visit include:
- The ruined Augustinian Abbey beside St. Muredach’s Cathedral in Ballina
- Rosserk Friary, a Franciscan friary founded in 1460, is situated 4km outside Ballina, It is still in remarkably fine condition with an impressive and climbable bell tower
- Moyne Abbey is just outside Killlala. Overlooking the River Moy estuary, it was founded by the powerful Burke family as a Franciscan friary in 1462
- The Priory of the Holy Cross at Rathfran, founded for the Dominicans in 1274 and, like many monasteries, burnt during the reign of Elizabeth I
The tranquility and pastoral beauty along this trail can be as captivating as the artistic and architectural allure of the monasteries themselves.
Céide Fields/Downpatrick Head
A 32km route or 64km round trip from Ballina that takes in some of the most stunning cliff edge views Ireland has to offer. This route takes approximately 6-8 hours.
Kilcummin Loop
An amazing 14km route or 28km round trip taking approximately 4-5 hours.
Cycle along the stunning Lacken Strand and explore this hidden cycling gem surrounded by breath-taking landscapes.
