The best cycling routes around Appletee
4.2
(5)
42
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14
rides
Touring cycling around Appletee features a diverse landscape, encompassing dense forests, historic castle gardens, and scenic river valleys. The region offers routes that traverse coastal areas and pass by heritage sites. With varied elevation gains, the terrain includes both gentle riverbank paths and more challenging climbs.
Best touring cycling routes around Appletee
- The most popular touring cycling route is Glennariff Forest and Carnlough Harbour loop from Ballymena β Antrim Forest & Glens, a 48.1 miles (77.4 km) trail thatβ¦
Last updated: June 25, 2026
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riders
Embark on a difficult touring bicycle adventure with the Glennariff Forest and Carnlough Harbour loop from Ballymena. This challenging 48.1-mile (77.4 km) route, featuring 2442 feet (744 metres) of elevationβ¦
9
riders
63.5km
03:53
570m
570m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.2
(5)
9
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
29.2km
01:45
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
41.5km
02:35
380m
380m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Appletee
Tips from the Community
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.
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The Protector of the Lough statue shows the mythological giant Finn McCool standing guard at Antrim Marina on the shores of Lough Neagh. It's an eight-metre-tall sculpture created by Spanish artist Casto Solan to celebrate the local folklore of the Lough.
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An old-fashioned marina in a fishing village. An idyllic place to stop during the long walk on this stretch of the CCR.
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The Queen of the Antrim Glens. Part of the Glenariff Glen has been designated as a National Nature Reserve. The timber boardwalk that winds through the glen and alongside the river gorge was first built about 100 years ago and has been carefully reconstructed to provide one of several spectacular walks. These include Rainbow Trail, Scenic Trail, Viewpoint Trail, and Waterfall Walk Trail...Yes there's a lovely Waterfall.
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Nice small town to walk around and some great history of Randalstown
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Here you can walk through the forest instead of avoiding cars on the Coast Road. Either for about half like me or you continue to follow the International Appalachian Trail. But I don't know where it comes from.
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Antrim Castle Gardens is the perfect place for a jog. It has flat gravel paths throughout as well as a wonderful medley of landmarks to discover such as Large Parterre, Her Ladyship's Pleasure Garden and Yew Tree Pond. Admission to the castle is free and is open 24 hours.
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Here you can discover the beauty of Antrim Castle Gardens & Clotworthy House. There's many beautiful landmarks along the way such as Large Parterre, Her Ladyship's Pleasure Garden and Yew Tree Pond. Admission to the castle is free and is open 24 hours.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Appletee?
Appletee offers a diverse selection of over 15 touring cycling routes, catering to various skill levels and preferences. These routes explore the region's forests, river valleys, and coastal areas.
Are there easy touring cycling routes in Appletee suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Appletee has several easy touring cycling routes. For instance, the Antrim Castle Gardens β Randalstown Heritage Houses loop from Randalstown is an easy 12.2-mile (19.6 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 10 minutes, perfect for a relaxed ride through historic sites.
Where can I find more challenging touring cycling routes around Appletee?
For those seeking a challenge, Appletee offers several difficult routes with significant elevation gains. The Glennariff Forest and Carnlough Harbour loop from Ballymena is a demanding 48.1-mile (77.4 km) trail that navigates through forest landscapes and along coastal sections, taking nearly 5 hours to complete.
What kind of scenery and attractions can I expect on touring cycling routes in Appletee?
Touring cycling in Appletee provides a rich tapestry of landscapes. You can expect to cycle through dense forests, along scenic river valleys, and past historic castle gardens. Many routes also feature coastal sections and heritage sites, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural interest.
Are there circular touring cycling routes available in Appletee?
Many of the touring cycling routes in Appletee are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Glennariff Forest and Carnlough Harbour loop and the Glenarm Castle β Carnlough Harbour loop.
What is the typical duration for touring cycling routes in Appletee?
Route durations vary significantly based on distance and difficulty. Shorter, easier routes like the Antrim Castle Gardens β Randalstown Heritage Houses loop can be completed in just over an hour. Longer, more challenging routes, such as the Glennariff Forest and Carnlough Harbour loop, may take around 4-5 hours.
Are there opportunities for refreshments or cafe stops along the touring cycling routes?
Given the region's blend of rural and coastal areas, many routes pass through or near towns and villages where you can find cafes, pubs, or shops for refreshments. Coastal sections, in particular, often feature harbour-side establishments.
When is the best time of year for touring cycling in Appletee?
The best time for touring cycling in Appletee generally aligns with milder weather, typically from spring through early autumn (April to October). During these months, you'll experience more pleasant temperatures and longer daylight hours, making for more enjoyable rides through forests, river valleys, and along the coast.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about touring cycling in Appletee?
The touring cycling routes in Appletee are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from 5 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from dense forests to scenic river valleys and coastal views, as well as the variety of routes catering to different skill levels.
Are there any moderate touring cycling routes in Appletee?
Yes, Appletee offers a good selection of moderate touring cycling routes. For example, the Motte loop from Ballymena is a moderate 18.1-mile (29.2 km) route, and the Braid Riverbank loop from Ballymena covers 25.3 miles (40.7 km) with moderate elevation, offering a balanced challenge.
Most popular routes around Appletee
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