The best cycling routes around Ballygortgarve
3.0
(1)
21
riders
4
rides
Touring cycling around Ballygortgarve features a landscape characterized by a mix of lough shores, historical gardens, and varied terrain. The region includes routes that pass by significant landmarks and natural water bodies. Elevation changes across the area provide diverse cycling experiences, from gentler paths to more challenging climbs.
Best touring cycling routes around Ballygortgarve
- The most popular touring cycling route is Craigavon Lakes – Antrim Castle Gardens loop from Antrim, a 78.7 miles (126.6 km) difficult trail that takes 7 hours 25 minutes to complete. This route connects two prominent local features, offering a comprehensive cycling experience.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is View of Lough Shore – Antrim Castle Gardens loop from Ballinderry Upper, a moderate 36.3 miles (58.4 km) path. This trail provides views of the lough shore and leads towards the historic Antrim Castle Gardens.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Bobby Sands mural loop from Crumlin, a 29.3 miles (47.1 km) trail leading through areas with cultural landmarks, often completed in about 3 hours.
- Touring cycling around Ballygortgarve is defined by lough shores, castle gardens, and varied elevation changes. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult ability levels.
- The routes in Ballygortgarve are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.0 stars from 1 review. More than 20 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Ballygortgarve's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
10
riders
127km
07:30
640m
640m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
3
riders
25.2km
01:30
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
6
riders
58.4km
03:25
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
47.1km
03:02
560m
560m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Ballygortgarve
Tips from the Community
Small coffeeshop right by the river Bann, directly next to Sustrans Route 9 / Newry Canal Towpath. The cafe is practically on the roadside, making it a logical stop for cyclists following the canal path. The old brick building has a relaxed atmosphere; inside and out it's a place where cyclists and walkers cross paths. Ideal for a coffee, a small snack and a short break before you cycle back into the canal landscape towards Craigavon Lakes. Enjoyed the stop, but forgot the photo.
7
0
For cyclists following the 'Lough Neagh Cycle Way' (National Cycle Route 94), the Maghery footbridge is an iconic resting point and an essential link. This elegant, modern bridge spans the mouth of the Upper Bann as it enters the lough.
8
0
Need water proof gear heavy rain Crumlin, I just cycled on as I’ve stated skin is water proof
0
0
The Round Tower is an impressive reminder of Antrim's ancient monastic settlement. Built around the 10th century as the monastery's bell tower, it is known locally as The Steeple. It stands 28 meters tall. The monastic site was burned down in 1147.
2
0
A row of terraced houses just outside the town of Randalstown. An important military location, these houses could've been used as barracks or staff housing. The symmetry of these houses is very pleasing as you ride past.
0
0
The Maghery Footbridge on the edge of Lough Neagh offers a small moment of peace in the midst of the expansive landscape. As you cross the bridge, your gaze glides over the gentle waters of the largest lake in the British Isles. In good weather, the clouds are impressively reflected on the surface of the water, making the scene look almost like a painting. Even when the sky is cloudy, the lake has a special atmosphere that invites you to linger rather than to quickly pass by. The paths around the bridge are mostly flat, but you should be prepared for occasional sections with unpaved surfaces. This could be a bit slippery, especially in wet weather, but this is not a problem. The connection to the National Cycle Network, Route 94, also offers you many other opportunities to explore the area. A little tip: Maghery itself does not have much to offer apart from the bridge, but a short detour to the nearby Oxford Island nature reserve is definitely worth it. This means you can easily combine a visit to the bridge with a larger circular tour.
4
0
The paths are wide and perfect for families, as there are no cars to disturb you. As you glide along the car-free cycling and hiking trails, you can enjoy the view of the water - especially when the sky is cloudy, the lake has a very special atmosphere, almost mystical. The route is mostly asphalt, but there are also some gravel sections that provide some variety. These single-track paths add a certain challenge to the route without being really demanding. Ideal if you prefer to take it easy, but still don't want to just walk on smooth asphalt. If you want to take a break, the lake offers many corners to catch your breath and have a picnic. There is enough space on the banks to rest a bit and enjoy the surroundings to the fullest.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Ballygortgarve?
There are 4 dedicated touring cycling routes around Ballygortgarve, offering a range of experiences from easy to difficult.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Ballygortgarve?
Yes, for those seeking a gentler ride, the Foxes Pub – Antrim Castle Gardens loop from Crookedstone Road is an easy 25.2 km route that takes you past scenic spots and the historic Antrim Castle Gardens.
Which routes offer views of the lough shore?
The View of Lough Shore – Antrim Castle Gardens loop from Ballinderry Upper is a moderate 58.4 km route specifically designed to provide scenic views of the lough shore as it leads towards Antrim Castle Gardens.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Experienced cyclists can tackle the Craigavon Lakes – Antrim Castle Gardens loop from Antrim, a difficult 126.6 km route that connects two prominent local features, or the Bobby Sands mural loop from Crumlin, another difficult 47.1 km trail with significant elevation changes.
What kind of landmarks or points of interest can I expect to see on these routes?
The touring cycling routes around Ballygortgarve feature a mix of natural beauty and historical sites. You can expect to see the expansive lough shores, the historic Antrim Castle Gardens, and cultural landmarks such as the Bobby Sands mural.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the area?
All the touring cycling routes listed for Ballygortgarve are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Craigavon Lakes – Antrim Castle Gardens loop from Antrim and the View of Lough Shore – Antrim Castle Gardens loop from Ballinderry Upper.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Ballygortgarve?
The best time for touring cycling in Ballygortgarve is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is generally milder and drier, and daylight hours are longer. This allows for more comfortable riding conditions and better enjoyment of the scenery.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Ballygortgarve?
The touring cycling routes in Ballygortgarve are appreciated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.0 stars from 1 review. Over 20 touring cyclists have explored the varied terrain, often praising the mix of lough views and historical gardens.
Are there places to stop for refreshments along the touring routes?
Given the routes pass through or near towns like Antrim, Crumlin, and Ballinderry Upper, you will find opportunities for cafes and pubs. For example, the Foxes Pub – Antrim Castle Gardens loop from Crookedstone Road explicitly mentions a pub in its name, indicating a potential stop.
What are the typical terrain and elevation changes like on Ballygortgarve's touring routes?
The terrain around Ballygortgarve is varied, characterized by lough shores, historical gardens, and mixed landscapes. You can expect diverse cycling experiences, from relatively flat sections along the lough to more challenging climbs with significant elevation changes, particularly on the difficult routes.
Is public transport available to access the touring cycling routes?
While specific public transport links directly to trailheads may vary, towns like Antrim and Crumlin, which serve as starting points for some routes, are generally accessible by local bus services. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information on connecting to your chosen route's starting point.
Most popular routes around Ballygortgarve
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
