The best cycling routes around Straid

There are over 10 touring cycling routes around Straid listed on komoot, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. These routes benefit from the region's diverse landscape within the Antrim Coast and Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Yes, Straid offers a few easy touring cycling routes. For instance, the Waterfoot Beach – Carnlough Harbour loop from Cushendall is an easy 32.3 km (20.1 miles) trail that takes approximately 2 hours to complete, featuring relatively flat terrain and scenic coastal views.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, routes around Straid feature invigorating inclines and descents. A difficult option is the Cushendun to The Dark Hedges Loop, a 63.7 km (39.6 miles) trail with significant elevation gain, offering coastal views and passing iconic landmarks.

Many of the touring cycling routes around Straid are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Waterfoot Beach – Glenariff Waterfall loop from Waterfoot and the Cushendun Village and Harbour – Ballycastle Harbour loop from Cushendall.

The routes around Straid offer spectacular scenery, particularly along the Antrim Coast. You can cycle past natural formations like the White Rocks Coastal Park, historic sites such as Dunluce Castle, and enjoy views of the Torr Head Coastal Road. Other highlights include the Cushendun Caves and the picturesque Cushendun Harbour.

Absolutely. The region is known for its dramatic coastal scenery and glens. The Waterfoot Beach – Glenariff Waterfall loop from Waterfoot specifically leads towards Glenariff Waterfall, while many routes, such as the Waterfoot Beach – Cushendun Village and Harbour loop from Cushendall, offer extensive coastal sections.

The Antrim region is beautiful year-round, but the best season for touring cycling is generally spring through autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. This allows for comfortable exploration of the coastal and inland routes, though conditions can change quickly, so always check the forecast.

While specific family-friendly routes are not detailed in the guide, the broader Antrim area is developing greenways and traffic-free paths, which are ideal for families. Routes with easier difficulty grades and shorter distances, such as the Waterfoot Beach – Carnlough Harbour loop from Cushendall, could be suitable for families with some cycling experience.

Touring cycling around Straid offers a diverse range of terrain. You can expect a mix of paved roads, particularly along the coast and around Lough Neagh, as well as unpaved or gravel sections, providing options for both road and 'dirt touring' experiences. The Antrim Coast and Glens feature invigorating inclines and descents.

While specific parking facilities for each route are not detailed, many routes start and end in villages or towns like Cushendall, Waterfoot, or Cushendun, where public parking is typically available. It's advisable to check local information for parking options at your chosen starting point.

Touring cyclists often praise the stunning and varied landscapes of the Antrim Coast and Glens. They appreciate the combination of challenging climbs with rewarding coastal views, the serene waterside cycling opportunities around Lough Neagh, and the chance to explore charming villages and historic sites along the way. The diverse terrain, from paved roads to gravel sections, also offers something for every preference.