The best cycling routes around Ballymoney

Ballymoney offers a variety of touring cycling routes, ranging from leisurely paths along rivers to more challenging loops through scenic countryside. You'll find routes on quiet country lanes, through river valleys, and past historical sites. Options include moderate and difficult trails, catering to different experience levels.

Yes, for a more leisurely and family-friendly experience, Riverside Park in Ballymoney offers a shared-use path ideal for cycling along the Ballymoney River. Enthusiastic cyclists can combine routes within the park for a three-mile figure-of-eight circuit. The Causeway Gateway (National Cycle Network Route 96) also passes through Ballymoney and is largely flat and traffic-free, making it accessible for all abilities.

The terrain around Ballymoney is varied. You can expect quiet country lanes and roads, with some routes featuring flat sections along rivers like the Ballymoney River and the Lower Bann. Other routes, particularly those leading into areas like the Sperrin Mountains foothills, involve significant elevation gains and more challenging climbs. For example, the Banagher Dam – Altnaheglish Reservoir loop has over 1600 meters of elevation gain.

Many routes around Ballymoney offer glimpses into the region's rich history. The Ballymoney Cycle Route passes by ancient raths, mottes, and standing stones, as well as the beautiful Lissanoure Castle Estate. You can also visit Learmount Castle on the Learmount Castle – Learmount Wood loop from Feeny. Other nearby historical attractions include Dooey's Cairn and Dunluce Castle, accessible via longer loops.

Absolutely. Cyclists can enjoy picturesque views of the Maine and Bush River Valleys. Routes like the Banagher Dam – Altnaheglish Reservoir loop offer scenic reservoir views, including Altnaheglish Reservoir itself. The region is also close to the stunning Causeway Coast, with routes extending towards Whiterocks Beach, and the impressive Glens of Antrim are nearby.

The best time to cycle in Ballymoney is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is typically milder and drier, making for more pleasant cycling conditions. The anti-clockwise direction of the Ballymoney Cycle Route is particularly recommended to maximize scenic vistas.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Ballymoney are designed as loops. Examples include the 25.4-mile Ballymoney Cycle Route, the Banagher Dam – Altnaheglish Reservoir loop, the Learmount Castle – Learmount Wood loop, and the Sperrin Road loop. Riverside Park also offers a three-mile figure-of-eight circuit.

The longest touring cycling route listed is the Banagher Dam – Altnaheglish Reservoir loop from Feeny Road Bus Stop, which spans 67.2 miles (108.1 km). This difficult route features significant elevation gain and is typically completed in about 7 hours and 27 minutes.

Some routes, like the Banagher Dam – Altnaheglish Reservoir loop, start from locations such as the Feeny Road Bus Stop, indicating potential public transport access points. The Causeway Gateway (National Cycle Network Route 96) also passes through Ballymoney, which may offer connections to public transport networks.

Yes, experienced touring cyclists will find several challenging routes. The Banagher Dam – Altnaheglish Reservoir loop is classified as difficult, covering over 108 km with significant elevation. Another difficult option is the Sperrin Road loop from Feeny, which leads through the foothills of the Sperrin Mountains.

Beyond the river valleys, the region offers access to the stunning Causeway Coast, home to iconic sites like the Giant's Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. The Glens of Antrim, characterized by impressive glacial valleys, are also nearby. For nature lovers, Garry Bog Nature Reserve provides another natural attraction to explore.

The touring cycling routes around Ballymoney cater to various skill levels. You can find moderate routes, such as the Learmount Castle – Learmount Wood loop from Feeny, which is 42.5 km long. For those seeking a greater challenge, there are several difficult routes, including the Banagher Dam – Altnaheglish Reservoir loop and the Sperrin Road loop.