![Cover image](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/photos/ireland/eastern-and-midland/9764080901/coolbanagher-castle-ruins-1.webp)
Castles and Countryside: A Road Cyclist's Paradise
A road cycling route starting from Portlaoise
Embark on a journey through time as you cycle past historic castles and soak in the breathtaking countryside of Portlaoise.
Map
![Map miniature of "Castles and Countryside: A Road Cyclist's Paradise" cycling inspiration in Eastern and Midland, Ireland. Generated by Tarmacs.app cycling route planner](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/routemaps/600/ireland/eastern-and-midland/portlaoise/road/83673.webp)
This 55 km road cycling route takes you through some of Portlaoise's most scenic landscapes and cultural landmarks. Catch a glimpse of the magnificent Coolbanagher Castle ruins and pedal your way through the charming village of Ballyfin. With a moderate ascent of 150 meters, this route is suitable for well-trained amateurs. Epicness level: 3.
road
55 km
150 m
Chill
Route profile
Highlights on the route
0 km
0 km
Start: Portlaoise City centerPortlaoise: Exploring the scenic routes and challenging climbs of Portlaoise on a bike.
Portlaoise is a pretty town located in the Eastern and Midland region of Ireland. From a cyclist's perspective, it offers a good mix of flat routes for beginners and challenging hills for more experienced riders. The surrounding countryside is known for its scenic landscapes and quiet roads, making it an ideal destination for road and gravel cyclists. One of the famous cycling spots in the area is The Slieve Bloom Mountains, which offer stunning views and challenging climbs. With its friendly atmosphere and cycling-friendly infrastructure, Portlaoise is a great place to explore on two wheels.8 km
8 km
BallyfinHamletAdmire the beauty of Ballyfin, a picturesque village known for its well-preserved Georgian architecture.
25 km
25 km
Kilcavan CrossHamletVisit the historic Kilcavan Cross, an ancient Celtic symbol standing in serene surroundings.
31 km
31 km
ClonygowanVillageTake in the scenic vistas surrounding the village of Clonygowan as you cycle through its idyllic streets.
47 km
47 km
Coolbanagher Castle (ruins)CastleImmerse yourself in the rich history of Coolbanagher Castle ruins, a testament to the area's medieval past.
56 km
56 km
PortlaoiseTownEnd your journey in Portlaoise, a vibrant town bursting with history, culture, and plenty of dining options.
55 km
55 km
Finish: Portlaoise City centerPortlaoise: Exploring the scenic routes and challenging climbs of Portlaoise on a bike.
Cycling routes from Portlaoise:
Mad for Mulled Wine: Portlaoise and Beyond The Durrow Castle Loop Hidden Castles and Scenic Landscapes: Mountrath Loop Castles and Countryside: A Road Cyclist's Paradise The Mountrath Circuit The Vicarstown Loop The Borris-in-Ossory Loop Exploring Emo Court and Beyond: A Cycling Adventure The Stradbally Loop Countryside Exploration: From Johnstown to Freshford Portlaoise to Portarlington Loop
Cycling routes nearby:
![Image of Mountmellick](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/ireland/eastern-and-midland/mountmellick-4.webp)
![Image of Mountrath](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/ireland/eastern-and-midland/mountrath-5.webp)
![Image of Abbeyleix](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/ireland/eastern-and-midland/abbeyleix-5.webp)
![Image of Portarlington](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/ireland/eastern-and-midland/portarlington-5.webp)
![Image of Monasterevin](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/ireland/eastern-and-midland/monasterevin-5.webp)
![Image of Athy](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/ireland/eastern-and-midland/athy-5.webp)
![Image of Castlecomer](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/ireland/southern/castlecomer-5.webp)
![Image of Rathangan](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/ireland/eastern-and-midland/rathangan-5.webp)
![Image of Kildare](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/ireland/eastern-and-midland/kildare-5.webp)