The best cycling routes around Ballynease-Helton
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Touring cycling around Ballynease-Helton offers a diverse landscape for cyclists. The region features routes along the Antrim Coast & Glens, through the Sperrin Mountains, and beside the River Bann. Terrain varies from coastal roads with sea views to inland paths with significant elevation gains, providing a range of experiences for touring cyclists.
Best touring cycling routes around Ballynease-Helton
- The most popular touring cycling route is Cullybackey to Waterfoot loop β Antrim Coast & Glens, a 50.7 miles (81.6 km)β¦
Last updated: May 13, 2026
4
riders
81.6km
05:10
880m
870m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
120km
07:18
1,030m
1,030m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3
riders
49.1km
02:56
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Ballynease-Helton
Tips from the Community
A row of terraced houses just outside the town of Randalstown. An important military location, these houses could've been used as barracks or staff housing. The symmetry of these houses is very pleasing as you ride past.
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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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Beaghmore (Bheitheach MhΓ³r), meaning βbig place of birch treesβ. The stones speak of ancient rituals and to a people who understood astronomy. When you visit this ancient site look up in wonder at the sky and reflect, that the people that built these monuments observed the same sky, sun, moon and stars.
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Contained within the ruins is a sculpture of the crucifixion, which is thought to date from the 10th Century, making it one of the oldest in Ireland. St Lurach founded an important church here in the 6th century. It was plundered by Vikings in 832 and burned in 1135. Following the 12th-century ecclesiastical reforms this was the seat of a bishop from the mid 12th to the mid 13th century, then served as parish church until the new church across the road was built in the early 19th century. This long history is reflected in the much patched and altered fabric, and the big uneven graveyard.
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Nice small town to walk around and some great history of Randalstown
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There are 7 stone circles, 12 cairns and 10 rows of stones here at Beaghamore. In total 1269 stones were discovered under the peat during the 1930s. The site dates back to 2900 - 2600 BC.
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If you cycle along the beautiful coast road you will inevitably come through Carnlough. Carnlough Harbor is also central to the filming of Game of Thrones. On the screen, it turned into the free city of Braavos.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Ballynease-Helton?
There are several touring cycling routes around Ballynease-Helton, with this guide featuring 5 distinct paths. These routes cater to various skill levels, from moderate to difficult, offering diverse landscapes across the region.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes in Ballynease-Helton?
Yes, Ballynease-Helton offers challenging routes, particularly those traversing the Sperrin Mountains. For instance, the Beaghmore Stone Circles loop from Cullybackey β Sperrins is a difficult 74.3-mile (119.5 km) path with significant climbs, reaching over 1000 meters in elevation gain.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Ballynease-Helton?
The terrain around Ballynease-Helton is diverse. You can expect coastal roads with scenic sea views along the Antrim Coast & Glens, riverine landscapes beside the River Bann, and inland paths through the Sperrin Mountains which feature rolling hills and significant elevation gains.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, many routes in the region are designed as loops. Examples include the Cullybackey to Waterfoot loop β Antrim Coast & Glens, which offers coastal scenery, and the View of the River Bann β Toome Lock loop from Magherafelt, which explores riverine landscapes.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Ballynease-Helton?
While cycling is possible year-round, the spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most favorable weather conditions with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures, ideal for enjoying both coastal and mountain routes.
Are there any routes that follow the River Bann?
Yes, the region features routes that follow the River Bann. A notable option is the View of the River Bann β Toome Lock loop from Magherafelt, which is a moderate 30.5-mile (49.1 km) trail leading through picturesque riverine landscapes.
What is the average duration for a touring cycling route in this area?
Route durations vary significantly based on distance and elevation. For example, the moderate View of the River Bann β Toome Lock loop from Magherafelt typically takes around 2 hours 56 minutes, while the more challenging Cullybackey to Waterfoot loop β Antrim Coast & Glens can take over 5 hours.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy about the routes in Ballynease-Helton?
The komoot community frequently praises the diverse landscapes, from the stunning coastal views of the Antrim Coast & Glens to the challenging climbs and historical sites within the Sperrin Mountains. The variety of terrain ensures there's something for every touring cyclist.
Are there any routes suitable for a moderate level of fitness?
Yes, several routes are suitable for cyclists with a moderate level of fitness. The Randalstown Heritage Houses β View of the River Bann loop from Ballymena is a moderate 42-mile (67.5 km) route, offering a balanced experience without extreme difficulty.
What are some less-traveled routes for touring cyclists seeking a hidden gem?
For a less-traveled experience, consider the View of the River Bann β Randalstown Heritage Houses loop from Cullybackey. This moderate 38.6-mile (62 km) route offers a blend of river views and historical interest, providing a quieter exploration of the region.
What are the main geographical features explored by touring cycling routes in Ballynease-Helton?
Touring cycling routes in Ballynease-Helton primarily explore three distinct geographical areas: the scenic Antrim Coast & Glens, the rolling hills and historical sites of the Sperrin Mountains, and the tranquil river valleys along the River Bann.
Most popular routes around Ballynease-Helton
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