Castle Archdale Family Cycling Trail

You have two starting options, either from the Marina in Castle Archdale Country Park or from Old Castle Archdale. Both locations have interpretation panels mapping out the cycle route. Posted directional arrows clearly signal the route.

From the Marina car park a two-way cycle section gently limbers you up before heading into the longer loop through the forest toward Old Castle Archdale. This loop swings right into a narrower single track section. You suddenly find yourself darting between trees in soft spruce-filtered light before arriving back onto firmer track once again. Follow the arrow right and through another short, thrilling single track section. This mix of forest roads and single track is a great introduction for all ages and abilities and just might whet your appetite for something more adventurous. The Old Castle ahead, destroyed during the 17th Century Irish Rebellion, roughly marks the half-way point from the Marina and is a unique spot to grab a quick breather. Also, check out the WWII features situated along the Burma Road including the bomb store and petrol store.

The return leg offers a different experience to the secluded enclosure of the forest. Hugging the shore of Lower Lough Erne for a mile or so, it offers stunning panoramic views across to Davy’s Island, White Island and further across Lower Lough Erne. Both Christians and Vikings settled on these Islands and each turn of the pedal feels like a journey back in time. From here head back towards the two-way track just south of the Courtyard and follow the trail back to the Marina. Visit the “Castle Archdale at War” exhibition for information about the fascinating links with WWII. A café and Countryside Centre are also housed in the Courtyard and in summer you can take advantage of the boat trips to White Island to see the world famous carved figures.

This route does not have accessible toilet facilities.

Information can be found in Castle Archadale Visitor Brochure.