Continuing our showcase of road cycling routes throughout Co. Wicklow, we now set our sights on South Wicklow.

From the quaint villages of Tinahely and Shillelagh to the iconic surroundings of the Sally Gap, this area offers an incredible range of cycling experiences waiting to be conquered.

Discover some of the diverse routes that define South Wicklow as a must-visit destination for cyclists.

Cycling Loop 10: Tinahely to Aughrim Loop – 26.4km

Loop 10 leads riders along quieter roads, crossing the River Derry into Tinahely before ascending to Aughrim. The scenic route then guides cyclists back to Tinahely.

Grade: Challenging

Distance: 26.4 km

Ascent: 330 m

Estimated Time: 1hr 45mins

Cycling Loop 11: Tinahely Loop via Moyne & Knockananna – 22.4km

Loop 11 starts in Tinahely, crossing the River Derry and ascending to Ballinglen. The route follows the Ballycumber River to Moyne and continues on to Knockananna. Exiting Knockananna southwards, cyclists follow the R747 before returning to Tinahely with a final 2km section.

Grade: Challenging

Distance: 22.4 km

Ascent: 230 m

Estimated Time: 1hr 20mins

Cycling Loop 12: Tinahely Loop via Aughrim – 34.8km

Beginning in Tinahely, Loop 12 heads northeast through Ballinglen to Aughrim village, along the Ow River and into Moyne and Knockananna. From there, the route guides cyclists south and concludes with a stretch along the Derry River into Tinahely.

Grade: Challenging

Distance: 34.8 km

Ascent: 420 m

Estimated Time: 2hrs 10mins

Cycling Loop 13: Tinahely Loop via Shillelagh – 21.5km

Loop 13 guides cyclists in a south-easterly direction towards Shillelagh from Tinahely.

Cyclists then journey north to The Dying Cow pub, continuing through Mullinacuffe and into Crossbridge.

The route finishes by following the Derry River back to Tinahely.

Grade: Challenging

Distance: 21.5 km

Ascent: 190 m

Estimated Time: 1hr 15mins

Cycling Loop 14: Tinahely Loop via Shillelagh & Wicklow Gap – 42.2km

Loop 14 takes cyclists southeast from Tinahely to Shillelagh.

The route includes a steady climb to the ‘alternative Wicklow Gap‘ with a detour to the Gap Pub.

Heading northward on the return, riders can enjoy views of the Derry River before climbing back to Tinahely.

Grade: Very Challenging

Distance: 42.2 km

Ascent: 460 m

Estimated Time: 2hrs 40mins