The best cycling routes around Ballyminstra
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Touring cycling routes around Ballyminstra offer access to the diverse landscapes of County Antrim, Northern Ireland. The region is characterized by dramatic coastlines, rolling hills, and the scenic Glens of Antrim, which radiate from the Antrim Plateau. Cyclists can explore routes that traverse these glens, offering views of the plateau and the Irish Sea. The area also features landmarks like Slemish Mountain and the shores of Lough Neagh, providing varied terrain for cycling.
Best touring cycling routes around Ballyminstra
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Last updated: June 25, 2026
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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¦
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riders
81.6km
05:10
880m
870m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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120km
07:18
1,030m
1,030m
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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riders
29.2km
01:45
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
As you cycle through the rolling landscape of County Tyrone, the Wellbrook Beetling Mill is an absolute must for a stopover. Situated in an idyllic, wooded stream valley along the Ballinderry River, this 19th-century water mill provides a stark contrast to the tranquility of its surroundings. This is the last working 'beetling mill' in the United Kingdom. "Beetling" was the final step in traditional Irish linen production: using enormous wooden hammers (beetles), powered by a water wheel nearly five metres high, the linen was processed for hours until it acquired its characteristic sheen. When the mill is running, you can hear the rhythmic thudding from afar β an impressive sound that takes you straight back to the industrial heyday of Northern Ireland.
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High above Cookstown, at the foot of the impressive Sperrin Mountains, you will find the Beaghmore Stone Circles. This is one of Ireland's most fascinating archaeological sites. Only rediscovered in the 1940s during peat cutting, the bog revealed a complex of seven stone circles, ten stone rows, and numerous Bronze Age burial mounds. For a cyclist, the road to Beaghmore is an experience in itself. The route takes you away from the inhabited world into a vast, quiet landscape where the wind has free rein. The complex itself exudes an enormous sense of peace and is the perfect place to get off your bike and soak up the prehistoric atmosphere.
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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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Beaghmore (Bheitheach MhΓ³r), meaning βbig place of birch treesβ. The stones speak of ancient rituals and to a people who understood astronomy. When you visit this ancient site look up in wonder at the sky and reflect, that the people that built these monuments observed the same sky, sun, moon and stars.
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Contained within the ruins is a sculpture of the crucifixion, which is thought to date from the 10th Century, making it one of the oldest in Ireland. St Lurach founded an important church here in the 6th century. It was plundered by Vikings in 832 and burned in 1135. Following the 12th-century ecclesiastical reforms this was the seat of a bishop from the mid 12th to the mid 13th century, then served as parish church until the new church across the road was built in the early 19th century. This long history is reflected in the much patched and altered fabric, and the big uneven graveyard.
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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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There are 7 stone circles, 12 cairns and 10 rows of stones here at Beaghamore. In total 1269 stones were discovered under the peat during the 1930s. The site dates back to 2900 - 2600 BC.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Ballyminstra?
There are 17 touring cycling routes available around Ballyminstra. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from moderate to more challenging rides, exploring the diverse landscapes of County Antrim.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see on touring cycling routes near Ballyminstra?
Touring cycling routes around Ballyminstra traverse the dramatic coastlines, rolling hills, and picturesque Glens of Antrim. You'll encounter views of the Antrim Plateau, the Irish Sea, and landmarks like Slemish Mountain. The region is known for its stunning natural beauty, shaped by glaciers and tides.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in the Ballyminstra area?
While the listed routes are generally moderate to difficult, the broader County Antrim area, accessible from Ballyminstra, offers options for varying skill levels. For easier rides, consider exploring sections of the Motte loop from Ballymena, which is rated as moderate and shorter, making it potentially more suitable for families with some cycling experience. The Ecos Cycle Trail, mentioned in regional research, also includes traffic-free sections that could be family-friendly.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling around Ballyminstra?
The best time for touring cycling in Northern Ireland, including the Ballyminstra area, is generally during the spring and summer months (April to September). During this period, the weather is typically milder, with longer daylight hours and less rainfall, making for more enjoyable cycling conditions. However, the region's weather can be unpredictable, so it's always wise to check forecasts before heading out.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes near Ballyminstra?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Ballyminstra are designed as loops. For example, the challenging Glennariff Forest and Carnlough Harbour loop from Ballymena and the Cullybackey to Waterfoot loop are both circular routes, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.
What are some notable points of interest or attractions along the touring cycling routes?
While cycling, you can explore the scenic Glens of Antrim, which include Glenariff Forest Park, known for its magnificent waterfall walk. The routes also offer views of the Antrim Plateau and the iconic Slemish Mountain. The Glennariff Forest and Carnlough Harbour loop takes you towards the coastal village of Carnlough, offering coastal scenery.
Are there any long-distance or challenging touring cycling routes available?
Yes, the Ballyminstra area offers several challenging long-distance routes. The Beaghmore Stone Circles loop from Cullybackey is a difficult 74.3-mile (119.5 km) trail, often taking over 7 hours to complete. Another demanding option is the Glenarm Castle β Carnlough Harbour loop from Ballymena, covering over 63 km with significant elevation gain.
What are the typical distances and durations for touring cycling routes in this area?
The touring cycling routes around Ballyminstra vary significantly in length and duration. You can find routes ranging from approximately 29 km (18 miles) like the Motte loop from Ballymena, which takes about 3 hours, to much longer and more challenging options such as the Beaghmore Stone Circles loop at nearly 120 km (74.3 miles), requiring over 7 hours to complete.
Is it possible to access these touring cycling routes using public transport?
While specific public transport options for carrying bicycles directly to trailheads can vary, Ballyminstra's proximity to larger towns like Ballymena, which has bus and train connections, may offer starting points for some routes. It's advisable to check local public transport schedules and bicycle carriage policies for specific services if you plan to use public transport to reach your cycling starting point.
Are there any cafes or refreshment stops along the touring cycling routes?
Many of the routes pass through or near villages and towns in County Antrim, such as Carnlough (on the Glennariff Forest and Carnlough Harbour loop) and Waterfoot (on the Cullybackey to Waterfoot loop). These locations typically offer cafes, shops, or pubs where you can find refreshments. Planning your route with potential stops in mind is recommended.
What are the difficulty levels of touring cycling routes around Ballyminstra?
The touring cycling routes around Ballyminstra are predominantly rated as moderate to difficult. There are 9 moderate routes and 8 difficult routes listed, indicating that many of the trails involve significant distances, elevation changes, or challenging terrain suitable for experienced touring cyclists. There are currently no easy routes listed directly from Ballyminstra.
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