The best cycling routes in Ballymena

Ballymena's touring cycling routes feature diverse terrain, from the prominent volcanic plug of Slemish Mountain to the scenic Antrim Coast and Glens. You'll encounter winding roads, coastal vistas, and natural environments like Glenariff Forest Park with its waterfalls, and ancient woodlands such as Portglenone Forest. Many routes also incorporate riverside paths and varied terrain across the Antrim Plateau.

Yes, Ballymena offers several challenging routes. For instance, the Broughshane to Waterfoot loop — Antrim Coast & Glens is a difficult 40.5-mile trail with significant elevation changes, offering extensive views. Another demanding option is the Glennariff Forest and Carnlough Harbour loop from Ballymena – Antrim Forest & Glens, a 48.1-mile path leading through the humid microclimate of Glenariff Forest Park.

Yes, there are moderate options available. The Motte loop from Ballymena is a moderate 18.1-mile route that can be completed in just over 1 hour 40 minutes, offering a less strenuous ride while still exploring the local area.

Many routes offer views of significant natural features. You can cycle towards the base of Slemish Mountain, a distinctive volcanic plug, on routes like the Broughshane to Slemish Mountain loop. The area also provides access to the stunning Antrim Coast and Glens, with picturesque villages and coastal vistas. Glenariff Forest Park, known as the 'Queen of the Glens,' features impressive waterfalls like the Inver River Waterfall and Ess-na-Laragh waterfall, which can be explored on foot from nearby cycling paths.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Ballymena are designed as loops. Examples include the Cullybackey to Waterfoot loop — Antrim Coast & Glens, a 50.7-mile trail, and the Glenarm Castle – Carnlough Harbour loop from Ballymena, which covers 39.4 miles.

While specific weather patterns vary, the spring and summer months generally offer more favorable conditions for touring cycling in Ballymena, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. This allows for better enjoyment of the scenic coastal roads, glens, and forest parks.

For families or those seeking easier rides, the ECOS Millennium Environmental Centre near Ballymena town center offers over 8km of scenic walking and cycling paths through woodlands, wetlands, and meadows. These traffic-free sections are ideal for a relaxed family outing and wildlife observation.

Parking is generally available at key access points for many routes. For example, the ECOS Millennium Environmental Centre provides parking for its cycle trail. For routes starting from villages like Broughshane or Cullybackey, local parking facilities would be the best option.

The touring cycling routes in Ballymena are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an impressive average score of 5.0 stars. Over 90 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the stunning coastal views and the challenging yet rewarding climbs.

Yes, you can explore routes that venture towards historical sites. The Beaghmore Stone Circles loop from Cullybackey — Sperrins is a challenging 74.3-mile route that takes you towards the ancient Beaghmore Stone Circles, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical interest.

Absolutely. Ballymena serves as a gateway to the breathtaking Antrim Coast and the nine Glens of Antrim. Routes like the Cushendun Village and Harbour – Waterfoot Beach loop from Cargan, a 30.4-mile difficult trail, allow you to experience the scenic coastal vistas and charming villages of this iconic region.

Yes, several routes incorporate or pass near forest parks. The View of Glenariff Valley – Glenariff Forest loop from Cargan is a 18.4-mile difficult route that offers stunning views of Glenariff Valley and takes you through the beautiful Glenariff Forest.