The best road cycling routes around Ballynulto

There are over 50 road cycling routes in the Ballynulto area, offering a diverse range of experiences for different skill levels. This includes 11 easy routes, 43 moderate routes, and 2 challenging routes.

Yes, Ballynulto offers 11 easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed ride. An example is the Motte loop from Ballymena, which is 28.5 km long with a manageable elevation gain of 187 meters.

Road cycling around Ballynulto features a diverse landscape, characterized by rolling hills and coastal stretches. You'll find routes traversing forested areas, such as Glenariff Forest, and paths leading through charming villages and along the coastline. Expect varied terrain, including significant elevation gains on some routes, providing a range of challenges.

Absolutely. For experienced road cyclists seeking a challenge, Ballynulto offers 2 difficult routes. A notable option is the Cushendun Village – Waterfoot Beach loop from Ballymena, a demanding 121.1 km ride with over 1,000 meters of elevation gain, exploring coastal villages and beach areas.

Many of the road cycling routes around Ballynulto are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For instance, the popular Glenariff Forest loop from Ballymena is a circular route winding through scenic forest landscapes.

While cycling, you can enjoy views of natural landmarks like Slemish Mountain, a distinctive volcanic plug, or the serene Killylane Reservoir. There's also a specific View of Slemish Mountain from Colin Road that cyclists might appreciate.

The road cycling routes in Ballynulto are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars from over 3 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from coastal paths to forested hills, and the options available for different ability levels.

Yes, some routes offer a blend of natural beauty and historical interest. The Glenarm Castle – Larne Town Centre loop from Ballymena is a 84.2 km trail that leads through historical sites like Glenarm Castle and urban centers, providing a different cycling experience.

The routes vary significantly in length. You can find shorter rides like the Motte loop from Ballymena at 28.5 km, up to longer, more challenging routes such as the Cushendun Village – Waterfoot Beach loop from Ballymena, which spans over 121 km.

Many routes in Ballynulto offer a mix of natural scenery and cultural highlights. For example, the Antrim Castle Gardens – Antrim Castle Ruins loop from Ballymena takes you through beautiful gardens and past historical ruins, offering both scenic beauty and a glimpse into the region's heritage.

Elevation gain varies greatly depending on the route's difficulty. Easy routes like the Motte loop from Ballymena have around 187 meters of ascent. Moderate routes, such as the Glenariff Forest loop, can feature around 692 meters, while difficult routes like the Cushendun Village – Waterfoot Beach loop can exceed 1,000 meters of climbing.