The best road cycling routes around Ballymuldrogh
5.0
(5)
329
riders
29
rides
Road cycling around Ballymuldrogh features routes that traverse coastal areas and rolling terrain, characteristic of the Antrim Coast. The landscape includes a mix of seaside roads, small hills, and scenic points such as waterfalls and historic castles. This region offers varied gradients suitable for different road cycling preferences.
Best road cycling routes around Ballymuldrogh
- The most popular road cycling route is Glenoe Waterfall loop from Larne, an 18.3 miles (29.5 km) trail that takes 1 hour 26 minutes to complete. This moderate route passes by Glenoe Waterfall.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Glenarm Castle – Straidkilly Trail loop from Glynn, a moderate 28.4 miles (45.7 km) path. This route features views of Glenarm Castle and coastal scenery.
- Local road cyclists also love the Browns Bay Beach – The Rinkha Ice Cream Parlour loop from Ballycarry, a 15.9 miles (25.7 km) trail leading along Browns Bay Beach, often completed in about 1 hour 11 minutes.
- Road cycling around Ballymuldrogh is defined by coastal roads, rolling hills, and scenic points of interest. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy coastal rides to more challenging routes with elevation gain.
- The routes in Ballymuldrogh are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 12 reviews. More than 380 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Ballymuldrogh's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
9
riders
94.7km
04:35
1,310m
1,310m
Embark on the Larne Town to Waterfoot loop, a difficult racebike route that spans 58.8 miles (94.7 km) and features a significant 4293 feet (1308 metres) of elevation gain. This challenging ride typically takes about 4 hours and 34 minutes to complete. You will experience dramatic coastal vistas as the route hugs the Irish Sea, passing through charming villages and serene glens like Glenarm and Glenariff, which are rich with woodlands. Expect invigorating inclines and descents as you navigate the undulating terrain, with rugged hillsides on one side and expansive sea views on the other, often framed by farms and stone walls.
When planning your ride, be aware that the Antrim Coast Road can get busy with sightseers and motorcyclists, especially on Sundays. To fully appreciate the scenery and avoid crowds, you might consider riding on weekdays or earlier in the morning. The route offers several opportunities to pause for refreshments in coastal villages such as Glenarm, Carnlough, and Waterfoot, allowing you to break up the journey. While primarily on paved surfaces, some segments might be unpaved and require careful navigation.
This loop is considered one of the best road cycling routes in the Larne area and within the Antrim Coast & Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is part of the renowned Antrim Coast Road, a region celebrated for its extraordinary landscapes and diverse terrain, including high cliffs and deep river-cut valleys. The trail is ideal if you are seeking both challenging climbs and breathtaking scenery, making it a standout experience for road cyclists in Northern Ireland.
1
riders
29.5km
01:27
340m
340m
This moderate 18.3-mile road cycling loop from Larne takes you to the picturesque Glenoe Waterfall, with 1104 feet of elevation gain.
Sign up for free
47
riders
38.1km
01:50
320m
320m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
43
riders
45.7km
02:09
540m
540m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
48
riders
98.0km
04:35
950m
950m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
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 Ballymuldrogh
Tips from the Community
The tower is an exact replica of an Irish round tower and is 27 m high and 7.5 m wide at the base.
2
0
The Chaine Memorial Tower, or "The Pencil" as it is known locally, is an impressive lighthouse made of Irish granite, built in 1887 as a memorial to James Chaine, the developer of Larne Harbour. The tower was converted into a lighthouse by the Commissioners of Irish Lights in March 1899.
3
0
Avoid this road unless you have a light racing bike and are called Tadej Pogacar. Gradient gets up to 17%. Great view though!
0
0
Glenariff is one of nine valleys in the Glens of Antrim. These impressive glens were created by glaciers millions of years ago during the Ice Age and shaped by the tides. Glenarm, Glenariff, Glendun, Glencorp, Glenaan, Glenbllyeamon, Glenshesk, Glencloy, and Glentaisie are a scenic gem located on the coast of Northern Ireland.
0
0
An old-fashioned marina in a fishing village. An idyllic place to stop during the long walk on this stretch of the CCR.
2
0
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.
0
0
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.
2
0
Nature reserve with waterfalls
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in Ballymuldrogh?
There are over 30 road cycling routes around Ballymuldrogh, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels. The komoot community has explored these routes over 380 times, giving them an average rating of 4.9 stars.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes around Ballymuldrogh?
Road cycling around Ballymuldrogh features routes that traverse coastal areas and rolling terrain, characteristic of the Antrim Coast. You'll find a mix of seaside roads, small hills, and scenic points, offering varied gradients suitable for different road cycling preferences.
Are there easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Ballymuldrogh offers several easy road cycling routes. For instance, the Browns Bay Beach – The Rinkha Ice Cream Parlour loop from Ballycarry is a moderate 15.9 miles (25.7 km) trail that leads along Browns Bay Beach, often completed in about 1 hour 11 minutes. There are 5 easy routes in total.
Are there challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for more experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 7 difficult road cycling routes around Ballymuldrogh. These routes typically feature more significant elevation gains and longer distances, providing a rewarding experience for advanced cyclists.
Are there any circular road cycling routes in Ballymuldrogh?
Many of the road cycling routes in Ballymuldrogh are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. An example is the Glenoe Waterfall loop from Larne, an 18.3 miles (29.5 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 26 minutes to complete.
What scenic viewpoints or landmarks can I see while road cycling?
While road cycling around Ballymuldrogh, you can encounter various scenic points and landmarks. Routes often feature coastal views and may pass by attractions such as The Gobbins Coastal Walk, Blackhead Lighthouse, and The Tubular Bridge. The region is known for its blend of natural beauty and historic sites.
Are there any routes that pass by waterfalls or castles?
Yes, some routes offer views of natural and historical landmarks. For example, the Glenoe Waterfall loop from Larne passes by Glenoe Waterfall. Another route, the Glenarm Castle – Straidkilly Trail loop from Glynn, features views of Glenarm Castle and coastal scenery.
What do other road cyclists enjoy the most about road cycling in Ballymuldrogh?
The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Ballymuldrogh, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 12 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse coastal roads, rolling hills, and the scenic points of interest encountered along the routes.
Is there a long-distance road cycling route available?
For those looking for a longer ride, the Glenarm Castle – Carnlough Harbour loop from Larne Harbour is a notable option. This route covers approximately 35.4 miles (56.9 km) and offers a substantial cycling experience with varied terrain.
Are there cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the routes?
While specific cafes are not listed for every route, the region's coastal towns and villages often provide opportunities for refreshments. For example, the Browns Bay Beach – The Rinkha Ice Cream Parlour loop from Ballycarry mentions 'The Rinkha Ice Cream Parlour' in its name, suggesting a potential stop. Additionally, The Gobbins Cliff Path Visitor Centre also includes a cafe.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Ballymuldrogh?
The best time for road cycling in Ballymuldrogh generally aligns with milder weather conditions, typically from spring through autumn. During these seasons, you can expect more favorable temperatures and less chance of harsh weather, making the coastal and hilly routes more enjoyable.
Are there any routes that offer views of Browns Bay Beach?
Yes, the Browns Bay Beach – The Rinkha Ice Cream Parlour loop from Ballycarry is a popular route that leads along Browns Bay Beach, offering scenic coastal views during your ride.
Most popular routes around Ballymuldrogh
Most popular attractions around Ballymuldrogh
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
