The best cycling routes around Old Freehold
5.0
(4)
100
riders
15
rides
Touring cycling routes around Old Freehold navigate a landscape characterized by coastal roads, rolling hills, and scenic glens. The region features routes that often include climbs towards elevated points like Slemish Mountain, offering expansive views. Terrain varies from coastal stretches to inland areas with significant elevation changes. The routes frequently connect towns and villages along the Antrim Coast & Glens.
Best touring cycling routes around Old Freehold
- The most popular touring cycling route is Larne to Slemish Mountain loop ββ¦
Last updated: May 13, 2026
1
riders
61.4km
04:20
1,050m
1,050m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
91.1km
06:05
1,340m
1,340m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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107km
06:57
1,380m
1,380m
This difficult 66.8-mile touring cycling loop from Larne explores the Antrim Coast & Glens, featuring Waterfoot Beach and Glenariff Waterfal
5.0
(3)
31
riders
81.4km
04:56
550m
550m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
26
riders
134km
08:30
1,480m
1,480m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Old Freehold
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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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.
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Affectionately known as βThe Pencilβ The granite tower was built in 1887 as a memorial to James Chaine, the Harbour's developer. It's an accurate replica of an Irish Round Tower and was converted into a lighthouse by the Commissioners of Irish Lights in 1899. Has stood like a sentinel over the Lough ever since.
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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.
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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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Definitely one for the climbers this, as its known for being one of this part of Northern Ireland's steepest climbs, The vistas are well worth all the effort. You can see over to Scotland on a clear day, and the quiet narrow winding road that hugs the rugged coastline is really something quite special.
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Beautiful little harbour located in the seaside village of Cushendun. The Mary McBrides across the road from here sells delicious food and real ales. There is also a cafΓ© and convenience store nearby where you can pick up some snacks and take a respite on the sandy shore nearby.
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Especially nice and interesting at low tide
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around Old Freehold?
The routes around Old Freehold are characterized by a diverse landscape, including coastal roads, rolling hills, and scenic glens. You'll encounter varying terrain, from flat coastal stretches to inland areas with significant elevation changes, often including climbs towards elevated points like Slemish Mountain.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Old Freehold?
The touring cycling routes in Old Freehold are generally geared towards more experienced cyclists. Out of the 15 available routes, 3 are classified as moderate and 12 as difficult, with no easy routes currently listed. This region is known for its challenging ascents and longer distances.
What are some of the longer touring cycling routes available?
For those seeking a longer challenge, the Waterfoot loop from Larne - Antrim Coast & Glens is a substantial 66.8 miles (107.5 km) trail. Another option is the Cushendun Harbour β Torr Head Coastal Road loop from Larne Town, which spans 133.6 km and typically takes over 8 hours to complete.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Old Freehold area?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Old Freehold are designed as loops. Examples include the challenging Larne to Slemish Mountain loop β Antrim Coast & Glens and the scenic Glenarm Castle β Carnlough Harbour loop from Larne Town.
What kind of scenic viewpoints can I find along the cycling routes?
The region offers numerous scenic viewpoints, often from elevated positions. Slemish Mountain is a prominent feature, offering expansive views of the Antrim coastline. Other notable viewpoints include Black Hill and Slemish Mountain itself, which are accessible from various routes.
What are some interesting places to explore near the touring cycling routes?
Beyond the cycling, you can explore natural attractions like Browns Bay Beach, the tranquil Killylane Reservoir, and the serene Ballyboley Forest. Many routes also connect various towns and villages along the Antrim Coast & Glens, offering opportunities to stop and explore local culture.
What is the best season for touring cycling in Old Freehold?
Given the coastal and mountainous nature of Old Freehold, late spring to early autumn (May to September) generally offers the most favorable weather conditions for touring cycling. During these months, you're more likely to experience milder temperatures and less rainfall, though coastal weather can be unpredictable.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Old Freehold?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 4 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the challenging ascents, the stunning coastal scenery, and the rewarding views from elevated points like Slemish Mountain.
Are there any routes that pass through coastal villages?
Yes, several routes are designed to take you through charming coastal villages. For instance, the Waterfoot loop from Larne - Antrim Coast & Glens leads through various coastal settlements and glens, offering a chance to experience the local atmosphere.
What kind of elevation gain can I expect on these routes?
The touring cycling routes in Old Freehold are known for significant elevation changes. For example, the Larne to Waterfoot loop β Antrim coast & Glens involves over 1300 meters of ascent, making it a challenging ride suitable for those prepared for substantial climbs.
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