The best road cycling routes around Ballystrudder
4.9
(9)
562
riders
32
rides
Road cycling routes around Ballystrudder are primarily located on the Islandmagee peninsula, offering a diverse landscape for cyclists. The terrain features quiet country roads, rolling green hills, and dramatic coastal scenery. Cyclists can experience views across the Irish Sea, with routes often providing a mix of flat sections and challenging hilly climbs.
Best road cycling routes around Ballystrudder
- The most popular road cycling route is Browns Bay Beach – The Rinkha Ice Cream Parlour loop from Ballycarry, an easy…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
5.0
(1)
43
riders
45.7km
02:09
540m
540m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
45
riders
87.7km
03:46
660m
660m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Sign up for free
30
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
25
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
22
riders
18.1km
00:48
130m
130m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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 Ballystrudder
Tips from the Community
Impressive, massive fortress in an ideal waterfront location.
4
0
Avoid this road unless you have a light racing bike and are called Tadej Pogacar. Gradient gets up to 17%. Great view though!
0
0
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
Carrickfergus Marina, situated on Belfast Lough's shore, offers a picturesque harbour for boats and visitors with several restaurants, bars and promenade areas. With scenic views of Belfast Lough, it's a popular spot for seaside enthusiasts and visitors seeking waterfront tranquillity.
2
0
Carrickfergus Castle is a well-preserved medieval fortress overlooking Belfast Lough. Built in the 12th century, it stands as a historic icon, showcasing impressive architecture and giving you a glimpse into Ireland's past.
2
0
For more than 800 years, Carrickfergus Castle has been an imposing monument on the Northern Irish landscape whether approached by land, sea or air. Nestled on the northern shore of Belfast Lough. Unlike many other castles of this era, Carrickfergus Castle sits in excellent condition. In fact, despite being besieged in turn by the Scots, Irish, English and French, and playing an important military role until 1928, it's one of the best preserved medieval structures in Ireland, and the only preserved castle of its age open to the public.
1
0
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.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Ballystrudder?
There are over 30 road cycling routes around Ballystrudder, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include 6 easy routes, 26 moderate routes, and 2 more challenging options, catering to various fitness levels.
What is the typical terrain like for road cycling in Ballystrudder?
Road cycling in Ballystrudder, particularly on the Islandmagee peninsula, features a mix of quiet country roads, rolling green hills, and dramatic coastal scenery. You'll encounter both relatively flat sections and challenging hilly climbs, with breathtaking views across the Irish Sea.
When is the best time of year for road cycling in Ballystrudder?
The Islandmagee peninsula offers enjoyable cycling throughout much of the year. While specific seasonal data isn't provided, the quiet country roads and coastal views are generally best enjoyed in milder weather, typically from spring through autumn, when conditions are more predictable.
Are there any challenging road cycling routes in the Ballystrudder area?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, routes like the Glenarm Castle – Carnlough Harbour loop from Downshire offer significant elevation gain over its 87.6 km distance. The region's rolling hills and coastal climbs provide rewarding efforts with spectacular views.
Are there any beginner-friendly road cycling routes in Ballystrudder?
Absolutely. An excellent option for beginners is the Browns Bay Beach – The Rinkha Ice Cream Parlour loop from Ballycarry. This easy 25.7 km route offers coastal views and is suitable for various fitness levels, providing a gentle introduction to the area's beauty.
What scenic viewpoints or natural features can I expect to see along the road cycling routes?
The routes offer spectacular coastal scenery with views of the Irish Sea. You might pass by picturesque harbours like Portmuck, sandy beaches such as Brown's Bay, and on clear days, even glimpse the coast of Scotland. The rolling green hills and tranquil villages also contribute to the scenic experience.
What historical landmarks or attractions are near the road cycling routes?
Cyclists can explore several historical and natural attractions. You might pass by ancient sites like the Ballylumford Dolmen, or ride near the impressive Carrickfergus Castle. The extraordinary The Gobbins Cliff Path is also a significant nearby feature, offering dramatic geological views.
Are there any circular road cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Ballystrudder are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Viewpoint on the Coast loop from Downshire is a moderate 32.6 km circular route offering great coastal vistas.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Ballystrudder?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 15 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the quiet country roads, the dramatic coastal scenery, and the rewarding mix of flat sections and challenging climbs that offer stunning views.
Are there any routes that pass by significant coastal features or beaches?
Many routes embrace the coastal beauty of the Islandmagee peninsula. The Browns Bay Beach – The Rinkha Ice Cream Parlour loop from Ballycarry specifically passes by Browns Bay Beach, a lovely horseshoe-shaped sandy beach perfect for a stop.
Are there any road cycling routes that offer views towards Bangor or other distant landmarks?
Yes, some routes provide expansive views across the water. The Beach with View of Bangor – Carrickfergus Castle loop from Andrew Jackson Cottage and US Rangers Centre is an easy 32.2 km route that offers views towards Bangor, alongside historical sights like Carrickfergus Castle.
Most popular routes around Ballystrudder
Most popular attractions around Ballystrudder
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
