The best cycling routes around Ballymacombs-Beg

There are several touring cycling routes around Ballymacombs-Beg. This guide features 3 highly-rated routes, all of which are considered moderate in difficulty, offering a good challenge for touring cyclists.

The touring cycling routes around Ballymacombs-Beg are characterized by a rolling countryside, extending through Counties Antrim and Londonderry. Many routes feature mostly paved surfaces, making them suitable for touring bikes. You'll encounter scenic landscapes, attractive riverside settings, and areas with deciduous woodlands and lowland raised bogs.

While the routes in this guide are rated moderate, the general area around Ballymacombs-Beg, particularly along the Lower Bann River, offers accessible cycling options. The region's mostly paved surfaces and scenic, quiet country roads can be suitable for families with some cycling experience, though specific 'easy' routes for very young children might require local inquiry.

Cycling routes in the area often offer views of the River Bann and pass near Lough Neagh and Lough Beg, the largest freshwater lake in the UK. You can also see historic assets like Church Island and views of designed houses such as Ballyscullion House. The Randalstown Heritage Houses – View of the River Bann loop from Ballymena, for example, passes by Randalstown Heritage Houses.

Yes, all the featured routes in this guide are circular. For instance, you can enjoy the View of the River Bann – Toome Lock loop from Magherafelt, the Randalstown Heritage Houses – View of the River Bann loop from Ballymena, or the View of the River Bann – Randalstown Heritage Houses loop from Cullybackey, all designed as loops to bring you back to your starting point.

The rolling countryside and riverside settings of Ballymacombs-Beg are enjoyable throughout the warmer months. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for cycling, with lush landscapes. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, as conditions can vary.

The routes highlighted in this guide are all rated as moderate, providing a good level of challenge for touring cyclists. They feature distances ranging from approximately 30 to 42 miles (49 to 68 km) and involve some elevation gain, making for a rewarding ride without being overly strenuous.

While specific cafes are not listed for each route, the region around Ballymacombs-Beg is dotted with towns and villages like Magherafelt, Ballymena, and Cullybackey, which serve as starting points for some routes. These towns typically offer local amenities, including cafes and shops, where you can refuel during your ride.

The area is rich in natural beauty, situated near Lough Neagh and Lough Beg, which are significant freshwater bodies. The fringes of Lough Beg feature diverse habitats, including deciduous woodlands and extensive areas of lowland raised bog. Ballymacombs More, bordering Ballymacombs-Beg, is also recognized for its internationally important diatomite deposits, offering a unique ecological insight. You can learn more about this protected area at daera-ni.gov.uk.

The routes often start from towns such as Magherafelt, Ballymena, and Cullybackey. These towns typically have public transport links, including bus services, which may allow you to reach the starting points. However, specific information on transporting bicycles via public transport should be checked with local operators.

Touring cyclists who have explored Ballymacombs-Beg often appreciate the region's diverse natural environment, including the rolling countryside, views of Lough Neagh and the Lower Bann River, and areas of deciduous woodlands. The network offers well-defined options primarily on paved surfaces, making for enjoyable and scenic rides.

The Lower Bann Cycleway, which follows the Lower Bann River Corridor, is known for passing through unspoilt countryside and quiet, scenic country roads. This route offers a great opportunity for adventurous touring cyclists to experience the region's natural and cultural heritage away from busier areas.