The best cycling routes around Ballyloughan
42
riders
18
rides
Touring cycling around Ballyloughan offers routes through varied landscapes, including coastal areas and forested glens. The region is characterized by its proximity to the Antrim Coast & Glens, featuring undulating terrain and scenic views. Cyclists can expect routes that traverse both open countryside and areas with significant elevation changes. The network of touring bike routes Ballyloughan provides options for experienced riders seeking challenging distances.
Best touring cycling routes around Ballyloughan
- The most popular touring cycling route is Broughshane to Waterfootβ¦
Last updated: May 13, 2026
10
riders
65.2km
04:09
770m
770m
The Broughshane to Waterfoot loop offers a challenging touring bicycle experience through County Antrim's diverse landscapes. You will cycle through the Antrim Plateau, the scenic Glens of Antrim, and pastβ¦
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¦
Sign up for free
4
riders
81.6km
05:10
880m
870m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
51.1km
03:36
780m
780m
Cycle the difficult Broughshane to Slemish Mountain loop, a 31.7-mile route with 2555 feet of gain and panoramic Antrim Coast views.
120km
07:18
1,030m
1,030m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Ballyloughan
Tips from the Community
An old-fashioned marina in a fishing village. An idyllic place to stop during the long walk on this stretch of the CCR.
2
0
Legend has it that this was the first known Irish home of Saint Patrick. The Mountain juts out of the surrounding plain, and is visible for miles around. The dramatic Slemish is actually the central core of a long extinct volcano. The legend goes that following his capture and being brought as a slave to Ireland, St Patrick worked as a shepherd at Slemish Mountain for about six years.
0
0
Wonderfully expansive forest and the lovely Glenwhirry river as a bonus. Apparently this place is well known for having been haunted by an ancient apparition! Always the same four Druids appear. To observe, then vanish.
0
0
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.
0
0
Beaghmore (Bheitheach MhΓ³r), meaning βbig place of birch treesβ. The stones speak of ancient rituals and to a people who understood astronomy. When you visit this ancient site look up in wonder at the sky and reflect, that the people that built these monuments observed the same sky, sun, moon and stars.
0
0
Contained within the ruins is a sculpture of the crucifixion, which is thought to date from the 10th Century, making it one of the oldest in Ireland. St Lurach founded an important church here in the 6th century. It was plundered by Vikings in 832 and burned in 1135. Following the 12th-century ecclesiastical reforms this was the seat of a bishop from the mid 12th to the mid 13th century, then served as parish church until the new church across the road was built in the early 19th century. This long history is reflected in the much patched and altered fabric, and the big uneven graveyard.
0
0
There are 7 stone circles, 12 cairns and 10 rows of stones here at Beaghamore. In total 1269 stones were discovered under the peat during the 1930s. The site dates back to 2900 - 2600 BC.
0
0
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.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the general difficulty level of touring cycling routes around Ballyloughan?
Touring cycling around Ballyloughan offers a mix of challenges. While there is 1 easy route, the majority of the 20 available routes are considered moderate (9 routes) or difficult (10 routes). Cyclists can expect undulating terrain and significant elevation changes, especially along the Antrim Coast & Glens.
Are there any beginner-friendly touring bike routes in the Ballyloughan area?
Yes, there is 1 easy touring cycling route available around Ballyloughan. However, most routes in the region present a significant challenge, traversing varied landscapes with considerable elevation changes. Beginners should look for routes specifically marked as 'easy' on komoot.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see on touring bike routes near Ballyloughan?
The touring cycling routes around Ballyloughan are characterized by diverse landscapes. You can expect to traverse coastal paths with extensive views, explore forested glens, and encounter open countryside. The region's proximity to the Antrim Coast & Glens ensures scenic beauty throughout your ride.
Are there any circular touring bike routes available from Ballyloughan?
Yes, several touring cycling routes around Ballyloughan are designed as loops. For example, you can explore the Broughshane to Waterfoot loop β Antrim Coast & Glens, which offers extensive coastal views, or the Glennariff Forest and Carnlough Harbour loop from Ballymena β Antrim Forest & Glens, which combines forest and coastal scenery.
What are some notable viewpoints or attractions along the touring cycling routes?
Many routes offer extensive views along the Antrim Coast. For instance, the Broughshane to Waterfoot loop β Antrim Coast & Glens provides stunning coastal vistas. Another route, the Glennariff Forest and Carnlough Harbour loop from Ballymena β Antrim Forest & Glens, takes you through the scenic Glennariff Forest and past Carnlough Harbour.
Are there any particularly long touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, Ballyloughan offers routes suitable for experienced riders seeking challenging distances. The Beaghmore Stone Circles loop from Cullybackey β Sperrins is a demanding 74.3-mile (119.5 km) trail, while the Cullybackey to Waterfoot loop β Antrim Coast & Glens covers 50.7 miles (81.6 km) through coastal and glen scenery.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Ballyloughan?
The best time for touring cycling in Ballyloughan is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. This period offers the most comfortable conditions to enjoy the coastal and glen scenery, though weather can be unpredictable.
What are the typical elevation gains on touring cycling routes in this region?
Touring cycling routes around Ballyloughan often feature significant elevation gains due to the undulating terrain. For example, the Beaghmore Stone Circles loop from Cullybackey β Sperrins involves over 1000 meters of ascent, and the Cullybackey to Waterfoot loop β Antrim Coast & Glens has an elevation gain of approximately 877 meters.
Are there any routes that pass by Slemish Mountain?
Yes, the Broughshane to Slemish Mountain loop is a touring cycling route that takes you past this distinctive landmark. This route is considered difficult and covers approximately 31.7 miles (51 km).
What do other touring cyclists enjoy about the Ballyloughan area?
Touring cyclists frequently praise the varied terrain and scenic beauty of the Ballyloughan area, particularly the extensive views along the Antrim Coast and the exploration of forested glens. The challenging nature of many routes is also a draw for those seeking a significant cycling experience.
How many touring cycling routes are available in total around Ballyloughan?
There are over 20 touring cycling routes available around Ballyloughan, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels, though the majority are rated as moderate or difficult.
Most popular routes around Ballyloughan
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
