The best road cycling routes around Ballymoney

There are over 110 road cycling routes around Ballymoney, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. You'll find everything from easy loops to more challenging climbs.

Road cycling routes in Ballymoney feature diverse terrain, predominantly utilizing quiet country lanes and scenic roads. You can expect a mix of tranquil countryside, river valleys, and more challenging coastal sections with notable climbs. The region offers 15 easy routes, 82 moderate routes, and 17 difficult routes.

Yes, Ballymoney offers family-friendly cycling options. The Causeway Gateway route (National Cycle Network Route 96) provides traffic-free urban sections along the Ballymoney River through Riverside Park. Riverside Park itself is ideal for leisurely cycling, especially for families, with less formal paths for circular loops.

Many routes around Ballymoney are designed as circular loops. For instance, the 25.4-mile Ballymoney Cycle Route is a dedicated loop mainly on country lanes, offering views of the Lissanoure Castle Estate. Other options include the 29.3-mile loop from Ballymoney to Whiterocks Beach and Dunluce Castle, or the 20.3-mile Ballymoney to Dooey's Cairn loop.

The region is rich in scenic views and landmarks. You can cycle past dramatic coastal features like Dunluce Castle, or explore ancient sites such as Dooey's Cairn. Other notable natural features include the unique basalt columns of the Giant's Causeway and the atmospheric Dark Hedges. For stunning vistas, consider routes that pass by Slieve Bearnagh or the Entrance to The Mournes.

Yes, the Ballymoney area is steeped in history. You can cycle past the impressive ruins of Dunluce Castle perched on a cliff, or enjoy views of the beautiful Lissanoure Castle Estate. The region also features various raths, mottes, and standing stones, offering glimpses into ancient history. For more heritage information, you can visit visitcausewaycoastandglens.com.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Ballymoney, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil country lanes and river valleys to scenic coastal vistas, as well as the blend of historic sites and natural beauty.

Yes, for advanced cyclists seeking climbs, routes like the Climb by Rostrevor Forest – Spelga Reservoir Hill Climb loop from Castlewellan offer significant elevation gain, reaching over 880 meters. Another challenging option is the Spelga Reservoir Hill Climb – Trassey Road loop from Castlewellan, which includes a notable hill climb.

For longer distances, consider routes such as the Warrenpoint Shore Road – Climb by Rostrevor Forest loop from Castlewellan, which covers nearly 87 kilometers. Another option is the Scarva Village – The Yard Café loop from Castlewellan, extending over 73 kilometers.

The region offers enjoyable cycling conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and summer generally provide the most pleasant weather for exploring the coastal routes and inland trails. However, the diverse landscapes can be appreciated in all seasons, with autumn offering beautiful foliage and milder winter days still suitable for riding.

Absolutely. The region features picturesque river valleys, such as the Maine and Bush River Valleys, which offer scenic cycling. While cycling, you might also encounter highlights like Blue Lough or Sandy beach at Lough Shanna, providing beautiful waterside views.