National Cycle Network Route 93: Woodburn Reservoir Loop

This 43.4-kilometer route is generally completed in about 3 hours and 20 minutes on a touring bicycle. This duration can vary depending on your cycling pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The Woodburn Reservoir Loop primarily features mostly paved surfaces, making it well-suited for touring cyclists. While the majority is smooth, some segments may include unpaved sections. It's generally considered a moderate ride with an elevation gain of around 320 meters.

Yes, despite being rated as moderate and requiring good fitness, the route is suitable for all skill levels due to its predominantly paved surfaces. It's a great option for those looking for a scenic and accessible ride.

The route offers picturesque views of the Woodburn Reservoir and its surrounding forested hills. Notable points of interest include a Beach with View of Bangor, the Woodburn Reservoir itself, and Monkstown Wood. The area is also home to diverse wildlife and plants.

The Woodburn Reservoir Loop is enjoyable for cycling throughout much of the year. However, if you plan to explore the more rugged forest tracks within Woodburn Forest, be aware that these can become muddy and challenging, particularly during winter. For the main reservoir loop, spring through autumn generally offers the most pleasant conditions.

While the specific starting point for this tour is from Belfast, there are established cycling loops around Woodburn Reservoir. You would typically look for parking facilities near the reservoir or at common access points for these local routes. Specific parking details would depend on your chosen starting location around the reservoir area.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Woodburn Reservoir Loop or access the general Woodburn Forest area for recreational purposes. However, it's always a good idea to check local council or land management websites for any updated regulations or specific event-related fees before your visit.

While the route is popular for outdoor activities, specific regulations for dogs can vary. It's generally advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially around the reservoir and in forested areas, to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other users. Always clean up after your pet.

Yes, the route intersects with and utilizes sections of several other cycling paths. Notably, it covers significant portions of the National Cycle Network National Route 93 and the National Cycle Network National Route 93 Extension. You'll also find it crosses parts of the Newtonabbey Way, Titanic Trail, Causeway Coast and Glens - 7 - Woodburn Forest, and the North Foreshore Path.

The Woodburn Reservoir area is highlighted as a great place for a picnic stop, enjoying the natural environment. While the loop itself might not have cafes or pubs directly on the trail, you'll find amenities in nearby towns like Belfast or Carrickfergus, depending on your starting and ending points.

Given that the route is primarily on mostly paved surfaces and is rated as moderate, a touring bicycle is ideal. Hybrid bikes or road bikes with slightly wider tires would also be suitable. Mountain bikes are not strictly necessary unless you plan to venture onto the more rugged, unpaved forest tracks within Woodburn Forest.