4.2
(5)
47
riders
13
rides
Touring cycling around Lisnawhiggel features a landscape characterized by rolling hills, river valleys, and coastal stretches. The region offers varied terrain, from the forested paths of Glennariff to the scenic routes along the Antrim coastline. Cyclists can expect a mix of moderate climbs and longer, more challenging routes with significant elevation gain. The area's natural features provide diverse backdrops for cycling adventures.
Last updated: May 13, 2026
8
riders
Embark on a difficult touring bicycle adventure with the Glennariff Forest and Carnlough Harbour loop from Ballymena. This challenging 48.1-mile (77.4 km) route, featuring 2442 feet (744 metres) of elevationβ¦
9
riders
63.5km
03:53
570m
570m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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3
riders
29.2km
01:45
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
41.5km
02:35
380m
380m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
44.5km
02:38
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Lisnawhiggel
An old-fashioned marina in a fishing village. An idyllic place to stop during the long walk on this stretch of the CCR.
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This is the best preserved court tomb in the Causeway Coast area. A Neolithic tomb dating from c.4000 to 2000 BC. It was excavated twice, in 1935 and 1975. It consists of a horse shoe shaped forecourt that leads into a small chamber. There is a cremation passage behind the chamber containing three pits, one of these pits held the remains of several people. This form of cremation passage is the only one of its type found in Ireland.
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The Queen of the Antrim Glens. Part of the Glenariff Glen has been designated as a National Nature Reserve. The timber boardwalk that winds through the glen and alongside the river gorge was first built about 100 years ago and has been carefully reconstructed to provide one of several spectacular walks. These include Rainbow Trail, Scenic Trail, Viewpoint Trail, and Waterfall Walk Trail...Yes there's a lovely Waterfall.
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Here you can walk through the forest instead of avoiding cars on the Coast Road. Either for about half like me or you continue to follow the International Appalachian Trail. But I don't know where it comes from.
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Start your walk off in the picturesque seaside village of Glenarm in County Antrim. There are a number of enjoyable things to do here such as visit the mighty Glenarm Castle, discover one of the many fantastic small eateries and bars, or take a walk down the marina.
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If you cycle along the beautiful coast road you will inevitably come through Carnlough. Carnlough Harbor is also central to the filming of Game of Thrones. On the screen, it turned into the free city of Braavos.
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Working fishing village in the Antrim Hills. A few good places to stop and refuel, of just sit on the harbour and watch the boats come in.
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Good road surface through the forest - nice views on each side. Be warned, whichever way you come from you'll be facing a climb!
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There are 15 touring cycling routes around Lisnawhiggel documented on komoot. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from moderate loops to more challenging rides.
While there are no routes specifically classified as 'easy' in Lisnawhiggel, there are 9 moderate routes that might be suitable for beginners with some cycling experience. For example, the Motte loop from Ballymena is a moderate 18.1-mile trail that takes about 1 hour 45 minutes to complete.
Touring routes in Lisnawhiggel vary significantly in length and elevation. Distances range from around 18 miles (29 km) to over 48 miles (77 km). Elevation gains can be substantial, with some routes featuring over 700 meters of ascent, particularly those traversing the rolling hills and coastal areas.
Completion times for touring routes in Lisnawhiggel vary based on distance, elevation, and individual pace. Shorter, moderate routes like the Motte loop from Ballymena can take under 2 hours, while longer, more difficult routes such as the Glennariff Forest and Carnlough Harbour loop may require around 4 to 5 hours.
Many of the touring routes in Lisnawhiggel, such as those starting from Ballymena, offer parking options within or near the town. It's advisable to check local parking facilities in Ballymena or at specific trailheads before your ride.
Ballymena, a common starting point for many routes, is a well-connected town with public transport links. You can typically reach Ballymena by bus or train, and then cycle to the start of your chosen route. Always check schedules and bike carriage policies with local transport providers.
While there are no routes specifically designated as 'easy' for very young children, some of the moderate routes, like the Braid Riverbank loop from Ballymena, could be suitable for families with older children or those with some cycling experience. These routes often feature varied terrain but avoid the most challenging climbs.
Lisnawhiggel offers 6 difficult touring routes for experienced cyclists. The Glennariff Forest and Carnlough Harbour loop is a prime example, covering 48.1 miles with significant elevation gain through forest and along the coast.
The best time for touring cycling in Lisnawhiggel is generally from spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is milder, and the natural scenery, from forested paths to coastal views, is at its most vibrant. Winter cycling is possible but can be more challenging due to colder temperatures and potentially wetter conditions.
Yes, many of the touring routes in Lisnawhiggel are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Glenarm Castle β Carnlough Harbour loop from Ballymena and the Bike loop from Ballymena.
The touring cycling routes in Lisnawhiggel are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, which include rolling hills, river valleys, and scenic coastal stretches, as well as the varied terrain that caters to different skill levels.
Touring cycling in Lisnawhiggel offers a diverse range of scenery. You can expect to ride through lush forested areas, along tranquil river valleys, and experience breathtaking views of the Antrim coastline. The region's natural features provide a constantly changing backdrop for your rides.


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