The best cycling routes around Coolsythe
4.2
(5)
40
riders
5
rides
Coolsythe cycling routes offer a diverse landscape for touring cyclists, characterized by a mix of coastal paths, forested areas, and historical sites. The region features varied terrain, from the gentle undulations around heritage houses to more significant climbs through glens and along the coast. Touring cyclists can explore routes that traverse scenic forest parks, pass by historic castles, and follow picturesque harbour fronts. The area provides a range of elevations, ensuring options for different fitness levels.
Best touring cycling routesβ¦
Last updated: May 13, 2026
8
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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.
3
riders
29.2km
01:45
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
44.5km
02:38
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Coolsythe
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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This is the best preserved court tomb in the Causeway Coast area. A Neolithic tomb dating from c.4000 to 2000 BC. It was excavated twice, in 1935 and 1975. It consists of a horse shoe shaped forecourt that leads into a small chamber. There is a cremation passage behind the chamber containing three pits, one of these pits held the remains of several people. This form of cremation passage is the only one of its type found in Ireland.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Coolsythe?
Coolsythe offers a selection of 5 touring cycling routes, catering to various skill levels and preferences. These routes explore the region's diverse landscapes, including coastal paths, forested areas, and historical sites.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Coolsythe?
Yes, Coolsythe has easy touring routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. An excellent option is the Antrim Castle Gardens β Randalstown Heritage Houses loop from Randalstown, which is 19.6 km long and takes about 1 hour 10 minutes to complete. This route leads through scenic gardens and past heritage houses with minimal elevation gain.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Coolsythe?
The terrain in Coolsythe is varied, featuring a mix of coastal paths, forested areas, and roads connecting historical sites. You'll find gentle undulations around heritage houses, as well as more significant climbs through glens and along the coast, offering options for different fitness levels.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Coolsythe?
Many of Coolsythe's touring cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the challenging Glennariff Forest and Carnlough Harbour loop from Ballymena β Antrim Forest & Glens is a popular circular option that takes you through forest and along the coast.
What are the more advanced touring cycling routes like in the Coolsythe area?
For experienced touring cyclists, Coolsythe offers routes with significant elevation gain and longer distances. The Glenarm Castle β Carnlough Harbour loop from Ballymena is a difficult 63.5 km path, providing stunning views of Glenarm Castle and the coastal scenery around Carnlough Harbour.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Coolsythe?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Coolsythe, with an average score of 4.2 stars from 5 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's diverse scenery, which includes coastal views, forest trails, and historical landmarks, as well as the variety of routes available for different skill levels.
Are there any moderate touring cycling routes in Coolsythe?
Yes, Coolsythe features moderate routes that offer a good balance of challenge and accessibility. The Motte loop from Ballymena is a moderate 29.2 km route, providing an engaging ride without being overly strenuous.
What kind of historical landmarks or points of interest can I explore on a touring bike in Coolsythe?
Coolsythe's touring routes often pass by significant historical landmarks. You can cycle through Antrim Castle Gardens, past heritage houses, and even catch views of Glenarm Castle on various routes. The region is rich in history, with many routes connecting these points of interest.
How long do touring cycling routes in Coolsythe typically take to complete?
The duration of touring cycling routes in Coolsythe varies depending on their length and difficulty. Shorter, easy routes like the Antrim Castle Gardens loop can take around 1 hour 10 minutes, while more challenging and longer routes, such as the Glennariff Forest and Carnlough Harbour loop, may require up to 4 hours 48 minutes.
Are there any touring cycling routes that offer a mix of forest and coastal scenery?
Absolutely. The Coolsythe region is known for its blend of landscapes. The Glennariff Forest and Carnlough Harbour loop from Ballymena β Antrim Forest & Glens is a prime example, taking you through lush forest and along the picturesque coast, offering a diverse and scenic experience.
What is the total distance covered by the touring cycling routes in Coolsythe?
The touring cycling routes in Coolsythe range in length from approximately 19.6 km (12.2 miles) for easier rides to 77.4 km (48.1 miles) for more challenging adventures, providing options for various distances and endurance levels.
Most popular routes around Coolsythe
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