Route: 48km cycle from Ballincollig - Bandon Road and Begley's Forge

Friday 28th April 2023: As part of a 97km cycle, I did this 48km looped cycle from Ballincollig which others might like to try.

Start: The loop starts at the car park at the western end of Ballincollig Regional Park. There is also a small portable café here for a cuppa afterwards.

0-9kms: The first stage is to go through Ballincollig and get to the Bandon Road Roundabout in Bishopstown. My own route is shown above but you could choose another route.

9-19kms: This 10km section is basically cycling inside the hard shoulder of the N71 Cork to Bandon road. This can be a very busy road and it's not the nicest of cycling routes. Its only real attraction is that gradient is gradual and has nothing worse than about 6%. Its sole purpose is to get to the village of Halfway.

19-24kms: This section is along the R589 from Halfway to Crossbarry.

24-30kms: After crossing over a small bridge in Crossbarry, look for the turn off right for Killumney. This is a 6km gradual ascent to the crossroads at Begley's Forge and the gradient is no worse than 6-8%. This is a popular route with cyclists but it's probably better to do it early on a Sunday morning when the traffic is lighter.

The Cyclist's Rest at Begley's Forge

30-33kms: The gradient on the northern side of Begley's Forge is stepper and it's a rapid 3km descent to the T-junction near Killumney. At the start of the descent, there's a nice view to the north-west of Musheramore and the Boggeragh Mtns.

33-43kms: From the T-junction, this is a short 10km extension to take in Kilcrea Friary. From the T-junction, head west towards Aherla and at 36.6kms, look for the signpost right for Kilcrea Friary. This is a narrow and quiet road. After about 1km, you pass the Friary.

Kilcrea Friary

After crossing over a very narrow bridge, take the next right onto another quite and narrow road. This brings you out in Ovens where you turn right at the church and head towards Killumney.

48-48kms: Return to the Regional Park.

In summary: It's a 48km looped cycle with two long climbs but there are no serious gradients. It's suitable for individuals or small groups.