The best road cycling routes around Cloughfin
4.9
(9)
582
riders
32
rides
Road cycling around Cloughfin features a diverse landscape, offering routes that traverse coastal areas, rolling hills, and scenic countryside. The region's terrain includes moderate ascents and descents, providing varied challenges for road cyclists. Many routes pass by historic landmarks and offer views of the surrounding natural environment.
Best road cycling routes around Cloughfin
- The most popular road cycling route is Browns Bay Beach – The Rinkha Ice Cream Parlour loop from Ballycarry, a 15.9 miles (25.7 km) trail that…
Last updated: November 8, 2026
48
riders
89.0km
03:52
730m
730m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
30
riders
Easy road ride. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
24
riders
Easy road ride. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
22
riders
73.2km
03:04
380m
380m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
17
riders
81.2km
03:51
480m
480m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Tips from the Community
If you get the chance visit the Great Hall with the portraits of all the chancellors of the university.
1
0
The restaurant is less interesting, but a visit to the pub is a must when in Belfast.
1
0
Impressive main building of the University and a great sight in early evening witrh twilight outside and all windows lit.
2
0
Impressive, massive fortress in an ideal waterfront location.
4
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
The Dirty Onion is divided into a pub with a beer garden on the ground floor and a restaurant specializing in chicken on the first floor.
3
0
The Dirty Onion is Belfast's oldest building. Dating back to 1780, the building was used as a bonded liquor warehouse from 1921. It was known then as 'STACK N' - a nod to its location on the north side of Waring Street - and still bears a giant red-painted 'N' on its brick facade. The distinctive external timber structure is another original feature which, after careful restoration, frames the pub's beer garden at the front of the complex, with a new contemporary courtyard extending to Hill Street. Inside, low ceilings supported by exposed timber beams and original brick walls throughout are a nod to the past. In addition, the building's heritage is further highlighted by a sensitive partnership with Jameson Irish Whiskey - a tribute to the tens of thousands of Jameson barrels and cases that passed through the building, which was operated by Edward Dillon Bonders (now a subsidiary of Irish Distillers and Dillon Bass) until 1991. Live Music The Dirty Onion is a modern take on a traditional Irish pub. The novel partnership with multi-award-winning cultural centre An Droichead ensures a varied music programme seven nights a week. From open workshops in singing and various traditional instruments to sessions with traditional musicians of the highest quality, there is something for participants and spectators every night at The Dirty Onion.(Source:https://visitbelfast.com/partners/dirty-onion-yardbird/)
4
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of road cycling routes can I find around Cloughfin?
Cloughfin offers a diverse range of road cycling routes, traversing coastal areas, rolling hills, and scenic countryside. You'll find options with moderate ascents and descents, suitable for various skill levels. The region's terrain includes both easy loops and more challenging moderate routes.
How many road cycling routes are available in the Cloughfin area?
There are over 30 road cycling routes available around Cloughfin, catering to different preferences and abilities. The komoot community has explored these routes extensively, with over 500 road cyclists using komoot to discover the area.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Cloughfin?
Yes, Cloughfin has several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. An excellent option is the Browns Bay Beach – The Rinkha Ice Cream Parlour loop from Ballycarry, which is 15.9 miles (25.7 km) long and offers coastal views with gentle gradients. Another easy route is the Beach with View of Bangor – Carrickfergus Castle loop from Andrew Jackson Cottage and US Rangers Centre.
What are some challenging road cycling routes for advanced riders in Cloughfin?
For more advanced riders seeking a challenge, Cloughfin offers routes with significant elevation gain and longer distances. The Glenarm Castle – Carnlough Harbour loop from Downshire is a moderate 54.4 miles (87.6 km) trail with substantial climbing, leading through varied coastal and rural areas. There are also 2 difficult routes available for experienced cyclists.
What kind of views and landmarks can I expect along the road cycling routes?
Many routes offer scenic coastal views and pass by historic landmarks. You might cycle past impressive sites like Carrickfergus Castle, or enjoy the dramatic coastline near The Gobbins Coastal Walk and Blackhead Lighthouse.
Are there any circular road cycling routes around Cloughfin?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Cloughfin are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Glenarm Castle – Straidkilly Trail loop from Glynn and the Antrim Castle Gardens – Carrickfergus Castle loop from Downshire.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Cloughfin?
The best time for road cycling in Cloughfin is generally during the warmer, drier months, typically from late spring to early autumn. This period offers more predictable weather conditions and longer daylight hours, making for more enjoyable rides along the coast and through the countryside.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about the routes in Cloughfin?
The road cycling routes in Cloughfin are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 14 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from coastal paths to rolling hills, and the opportunity to pass by historic sites.
Are there any cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the routes?
While specific cafes vary by route, the region has several towns and villages where you can find refreshments. For example, The Gobbins Cliff Path Visitor Centre is a known spot that includes a cafe, and routes passing through towns like Ballycarry, Glynn, or Downshire will offer opportunities for stops.
What are the typical distances and durations for road cycling routes in Cloughfin?
Road cycling routes in Cloughfin vary significantly in length and duration. You can find shorter routes like the Browns Bay Beach – The Rinkha Ice Cream Parlour loop from Ballycarry at 15.9 miles (25.7 km) taking about 1 hour 12 minutes, up to longer excursions such as the Glenarm Castle – Carnlough Harbour loop from Downshire, which is 54.4 miles (87.6 km) and typically takes around 3 hours 57 minutes.
What should I know about the elevation gain on Cloughfin's road cycling routes?
The elevation gain varies across routes, reflecting the region's rolling hills. Easy routes like the Beach with View of Bangor – Carrickfergus Castle loop have around 200 meters of ascent, while moderate routes such as the Glenarm Castle – Straidkilly Trail loop from Glynn can involve over 500 meters of climbing, providing a good workout.
Most popular routes around Cloughfin
Most popular attractions around Cloughfin
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
