The best road cycling routes around Ballyveely Upper

There are over 25 road cycling routes available around Ballyveely Upper, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy and moderate rides to explore the scenic County Antrim countryside.

The terrain around Ballyveely Upper features quiet, well-paved country lanes and rolling hills. Routes often include varied elevation gains, with some offering up to 3,000 feet, providing challenges for more experienced cyclists while still having plenty of options for easier rides through river valleys like the Maine and Bush.

Yes, Ballyveely Upper offers several easy road cycling routes. For a pleasant ride through rural landscapes, consider the Motte loop from Cloughmills, which is 27.2 miles (43.8 km) long. Another great option is the Roadbike loop from Cloughmills, a 26.9 miles (43.3 km) trail offering views of the surrounding countryside.

The road cycling routes in Ballyveely Upper are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 2 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet country lanes, picturesque river valleys, and the presence of historical sites along the paths.

For those seeking a more challenging ride, Ballyveely Upper has moderate routes with greater distances and elevation. The Rougery Hill – Bark Hill Climb loop from Cloughmills is a 71.4 km (44.4 miles) route with significant climbs. Another moderate option is the Clough Castle loop from Drumadarragh, spanning 54.0 km (33.6 miles).

The region is rich in history. You can encounter various historical features such as raths, mottes, and standing stones. The Ballymoney Cycle Route passes by the lake of Lissanoure Estate. Nearby attractions include Gracehill House and Dooey's Cairn Neolithic Court Tomb.

Absolutely. Cyclists can enjoy picturesque views of the surrounding countryside, including the Maine and Bush River Valleys. The area is also close to the renowned Causeway Coast and Glens, offering breathtaking scenery, although not directly on the Ballyveely Upper routes. You might also spot The Dark Hedges nearby.

Many of the road cycling routes around Ballyveely Upper are designed as loops, offering circular journeys that bring you back to your starting point. For example, the Roadbike loop from Drumadarragh is a popular circular option.

While specific family-designated routes aren't listed, the numerous easy-grade routes with quiet country lanes are generally suitable for families with older children or those comfortable with road cycling. The routes with lower elevation gains and less traffic would be the best choice.

While Ballyveely Upper itself is a rural area, nearby towns and villages like Cloughmills or Ballymoney offer options for cafes and pubs. You might find places like Tea at Tilly's in the vicinity for a refreshment stop.

Parking is generally available in the starting points of many routes, particularly in nearby villages like Cloughmills or Drumadarragh. As the routes traverse country lanes, specific designated cycling parking might be limited, but local village parking is usually an option.

The best time to go road cycling in Ballyveely Upper is typically during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. This allows for more comfortable riding conditions and better enjoyment of the scenic landscapes.