The best cycling routes around Crossmary
3.8
(20)
245
riders
35
rides
Touring cycling around Crossmary features a landscape characterized by coastal stretches, river towpaths, and varied elevations. The region includes routes along beaches with sea views, historical landmarks, and paths beside waterways. Terrain ranges from relatively flat sections to areas with moderate climbs, offering diverse cycling experiences.
Best touring cycling routes around Crossmary
- The most popular touring cycling route is Beach with View of Bangor – Carrickfergus Castle loop from Downshire, an easy 13.6 miles (21.9 km) trail that takes…
Last updated: July 3, 2026
4.4
(5)
23
riders
26.5km
01:38
260m
260m
The Islandmagee loop from Ballycarry offers a moderate touring bicycle ride, covering 16.4 miles (26.5 km) with 852 feet (260 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this…
3.0
(1)
5
riders
23.4km
01:35
280m
280m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1.0
(1)
2
riders
54.0km
03:32
570m
570m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
51.8km
03:35
790m
790m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
33
riders
145km
08:48
1,110m
1,110m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Crossmary
Tips from the Community
Impressive, massive fortress in an ideal waterfront location.
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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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Affectionately known as ‘The Pencil’ 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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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.
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Browns Bay Beach is a popular sandy, safe beach at the northern tip of Islandmagee, nestling between Skenaghan Point and Barrs Point in a horse shoe shaped bay. It is 600m long with rocks and loose boulders around the edge. Access is via a set of steps at one end and a gentle ramp at the other. The view across the horizon is beautiful showing five headlands all the way up the Antrim coast. This beach is popular for swimming. A sizeable car park is on the other side of the road. There is a wide grassy area that is suitable for wheelchairs. There are also public toilets onsite and at Ballylumford Harbour. Skenaghan point, on the east of the bay, is a National Trust property and features a short walking route past the “rocking stone”. Looking to the north one gets a clear view of the “Maidens rocks” far out in the North Channel, and their two lighthouses, only one of which is now in operation.
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Islandmagee is steeped in history and features rolling hills, quiet villages and a dramatic coastline. Its great cycling, for such a small wee Island it packs a punch, with vistas at every turn. You can walk the spectacular limestone cliffs of the Gobbins or stroll along the sandy beach at Brown’s Bay. Spot seals and seabirds by the harbour of Portmuck. And take in the views across the Irish Sea at Skernaghan, Islandmagee’s northernmost point.
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Carved from the rock. Steeped in history. Teeming with wildlife. The Gobbins Cliff Path in a unique and dreamlike experience, its primal beauty tamed by Edwardian engineering. Step through a portal in the rock and onto a pathway over the sea. Peer into the ever-changing waters of the North Passage from the railings of a tubular bridge. Venture between outcrops and across the mouths of yawning caves.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Crossmary?
There are over 40 touring cycling routes recorded in Crossmary on komoot, offering a wide range of experiences for all skill levels. These include 5 easy routes, 21 moderate routes, and 17 difficult routes.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Crossmary?
Yes, Crossmary offers several easy touring cycling routes. A great option for beginners or families is the Beach with View of Bangor – Carrickfergus Castle loop from Downshire. This 13.6-mile (21.9 km) route is relatively flat with only 106 meters of elevation gain, offering scenic coastal views and passing by historic Carrickfergus Castle.
Can I find routes with significant elevation gain for a more challenging touring cycling experience?
Absolutely. For a more challenging ride with substantial elevation gain, consider the Gleno Waterfall – Heart Attack Hill loop from Downshire. This difficult 38.3-mile (61.6 km) route features over 670 meters of ascent, providing a demanding workout and rewarding views.
Are there any touring cycling routes that follow river paths or towpaths in Crossmary?
Yes, Crossmary features routes that utilize river towpaths for a gentler cycling experience. The Shaw's Bridge – Lagan Towpath loop from Downshire is a popular moderate route that follows the Lagan Towpath, offering a relatively flat ride alongside the river.
What kind of viewpoints or scenic spots can I expect on touring cycling routes in Crossmary?
Crossmary's touring cycling routes offer diverse scenic spots, from coastal vistas to historical landmarks. You can enjoy sea views and historic sites like Carrickfergus Castle, or coastal scenery along routes that pass by the Gobbins Cliff Path. The View of Whitehead Lighthouse loop from Downshire also offers picturesque coastal views.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Crossmary?
Many of the touring cycling routes in Crossmary are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the View of the Gobbins Cliff Path – Islandmagee Dolmen loop from Downshire, which takes you through coastal areas and past a dolmen, and the Beach with View of Bangor – Carrickfergus Castle loop from Downshire.
What are some notable attractions or landmarks I might see along touring cycling routes in Crossmary?
Crossmary's routes often pass by significant attractions. You could cycle past historical sites like Grey Point Fort or Carrickfergus Castle. Coastal routes might offer views of Blackhead Lighthouse or the dramatic Gobbins Coastal Walk. Some routes also lead to natural features like Gleno Waterfall.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Crossmary?
The touring cycling routes in Crossmary are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.9 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscape, which includes scenic coastal stretches, tranquil river towpaths, and varied elevations, catering to different preferences and skill levels.
Are there any routes that pass by beaches in Crossmary?
Yes, several routes in Crossmary offer coastal cycling experiences that include beaches. For instance, the Beach with View of Bangor – Carrickfergus Castle loop from Downshire provides views of the coast and is near Helen's Bay Beach.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Crossmary?
The best time for touring cycling in Crossmary is generally from late spring through early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is typically milder and drier, making for more pleasant riding conditions along the coast and inland paths. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Are there any routes that include waterfalls?
Yes, the region offers routes that feature natural attractions like waterfalls. The Gleno Waterfall – Heart Attack Hill loop from Downshire specifically includes Gleno Waterfall, providing a scenic stop on a more challenging ride.
Most popular routes around Crossmary
Most popular attractions around Crossmary
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