The best road cycling routes around Drumleckney
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(3)
250
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47
rides
Road cycling routes around Drumleckney traverse a landscape characterized by a mix of forest and coastal terrain. The region features varied elevations, including ascents through areas like Glenariff Forest and routes along the Antrim Coast. Road cyclists can expect to encounter both challenging climbs and scenic stretches near villages and beaches. The area offers diverse conditions suitable for different cycling preferences.
Best road cycling routes around Drumleckney
- The most popular road cycling route is Glenariff Forest loop from Ballymena,…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
44
riders
73.2km
03:28
690m
690m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
37
riders
116km
05:11
1,000m
1,000m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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15
riders
84.3km
04:06
760m
760m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
8
riders
28.5km
01:13
190m
190m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
9
riders
53.2km
02:19
390m
390m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Drumleckney
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.
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Antrim Castle Gardens are an absolute historical gem. You will find nothing like these 400 year old gardens anywhere else in Northern Ireland. Walk into the past as you stroll around this magnificent setting, visiting beautiful features such as the Large Parterre, Her Ladyship’s Pleasure Garden and Yew Tree Pond. Within the heart of the Gardens is a unique visitor experience, the refurbished Clotworthy House. Visit the Garden Heritage Exhibition where you can read about the history of the Gardens and the story of the Massereene family. It provides a fantastic opportunity to come and learn about garden history how the lives of the key family members intertwine with the development of Antrim town and the surrounding areas.
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Antrim Castle Gardens is the perfect place for a jog. It has flat gravel paths throughout as well as a wonderful medley of landmarks to discover such as Large Parterre, Her Ladyship's Pleasure Garden and Yew Tree Pond. Admission to the castle is free and is open 24 hours.
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Here you can discover the beauty of Antrim Castle Gardens & Clotworthy House. There's many beautiful landmarks along the way such as Large Parterre, Her Ladyship's Pleasure Garden and Yew Tree Pond. Admission to the castle is free and is open 24 hours.
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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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Good beach in front of the quiet and quaint village of Waterfoot. great views across the water to Scotland and a pub in the village for refreshments.
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Castle gardens including various buildings and ruins on the river. Plenty to look at and explore in the gardens.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in the Drumleckney area?
There are over 50 road cycling routes available around Drumleckney, catering to various skill levels and preferences. These routes traverse a diverse landscape of forests and coastal areas.
Are there routes suitable for beginner road cyclists?
Yes, the Drumleckney area offers routes suitable for beginners. There are 11 easy routes, providing a gentler introduction to road cycling in the region's varied terrain.
What options are there for experienced road cyclists seeking a challenge?
Experienced road cyclists can find challenging routes with significant elevation gains. For instance, the Cushendun Village – Waterfoot Beach loop from Ballymena is a difficult 75.3-mile (121.2 km) path featuring extensive coastal views and demanding climbs.
Can I find circular road cycling routes around Drumleckney?
Many of the road cycling routes in the Drumleckney area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Glenariff Forest loop from Ballymena and the Waterfoot Beach – View of Glendun Valley loop from Martinstown.
What kind of scenery can I expect on road cycling routes near Drumleckney?
Road cycling routes around Drumleckney offer a mix of scenic landscapes. You can expect to cycle through forested areas like Glenariff Forest, along the picturesque Antrim Coast, and past charming villages and beaches. Routes often feature varied elevations, providing diverse views.
Are there road cycling routes that include villages or potential cafe stops?
Yes, several routes pass through or near villages, offering opportunities for breaks and refreshments. The Cushendun Village – Waterfoot Beach loop from Ballymena connects two notable villages, and other routes pass near settlements like Martinstown and Ballymena, where you can find amenities.
What do other cyclists think about the road cycling in Drumleckney?
The road cycling routes in Drumleckney are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from more than 3 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from challenging climbs to scenic coastal stretches, and the well-maintained paths.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Drumleckney?
Given the mix of forest and coastal terrain, spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in the Drumleckney area, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. However, routes can be enjoyed year-round, with appropriate gear for cooler or wetter conditions.
Are there any long-distance road cycling routes in the Drumleckney region?
Yes, for those looking for longer rides, the Drumleckney area has several options. The Cushendun Village – Waterfoot Beach loop from Ballymena is a substantial 75.3-mile (121.2 km) route, providing an extensive journey through the region's diverse landscapes.
Are there routes with significant elevation gain for climbing practice?
Absolutely. The region is characterized by varied elevations, including ascents through areas like Glenariff Forest. Routes such as the Glenariff Forest loop from Ballymena feature significant elevation gain, making them ideal for cyclists looking to challenge their climbing abilities.
How long do road cycling routes in Drumleckney typically take to complete?
The duration of routes varies significantly based on distance and difficulty. For example, the Glenariff Forest loop from Ballymena typically takes around 3 hours 28 minutes, while the longer Cushendun Village – Waterfoot Beach loop from Ballymena can take over 5 hours.
Are there any hidden gem road cycling routes in the Drumleckney area?
While specific 'hidden gems' are often discovered through local exploration, routes like the Waterfoot Beach – Glenariff Descent loop from Martinstown offer a beautiful combination of coastal views and forest descents that many cyclists find particularly rewarding.
Most popular routes around Drumleckney
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