The best cycling routes around Carrowcowan

There are 8 touring cycling routes documented around Carrowcowan, offering a range of experiences across County Antrim's diverse landscapes.

The routes around Carrowcowan feature varied terrain, from the dramatic coastline and basalt cliffs of the Antrim Coast to the sheltered, wooded valleys of the Glens of Antrim. You'll encounter gradients ranging from moderate to steep, with some gentler options available around Lough Neagh. Expect a mix of open coastal sections, forest trails, and scenic glen roads.

Yes, many routes in the Carrowcowan area are rated as difficult, featuring significant elevation gains. For example, the Broughshane to Waterfoot loop — Antrim Coast & Glens covers over 65 km with more than 770 meters of ascent, and the Broughshane to Slemish Mountain loop also presents a demanding ride with similar elevation.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can explore the stunning Antrim Coast and Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Specific highlights include the dramatic waterfalls within Glenariff Forest Park, such as Inver River Waterfall and Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall. The Sallagh Braes offer unique geological formations and scenic views.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Carrowcowan are designed as loops. Examples include the Glennariff Forest Park to Dooey's Cairn loop — Antrim Coast & Glens and the View of Glenariff Valley – Glenariff Forest loop from Cargan, allowing you to start and finish in the same location.

The best time for touring cycling in County Antrim is generally from spring through early autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. However, with appropriate gear, cycling is possible year-round, offering different scenic perspectives in each season.

Yes, as you cycle through the quaint towns and villages along the Antrim Coast, such as Glenarm, Carnlough, Cushendall, and Ballycastle, you'll find opportunities to stop for refreshments, experience local culture, and enjoy the charming coastal atmosphere.

The touring cycling routes around Carrowcowan vary in length and duration. You can find routes ranging from approximately 25 km, like the Glenariff Forest – Inver River Waterfall loop from Antrim Coast & Glens AONB which takes around 2 hours 15 minutes, to longer rides over 65 km, such as the Broughshane to Waterfoot loop — Antrim Coast & Glens, typically completed in just over 4 hours.

While many routes in the immediate Carrowcowan area feature significant elevation, for more gentle and potentially family-friendly cycling, consider exploring sections of the Loughshore Trail (National Cycle Network Route 94) around Lough Neagh. These paths often offer traffic-free sections and scenic views, suitable for a more relaxed pace.

Specific parking information for individual trailheads is often available on local tourism websites or detailed route descriptions. For general information on cycling in the wider Antrim area, you might find resources on sites like visitantrimandnewtownabbey.com, which may include details on access points and parking facilities.

Touring cyclists frequently praise the region's dramatic coastal scenery, the challenging climbs through the Glens of Antrim, and the opportunity to explore diverse landscapes from open coastlines to sheltered forests. The varied terrain and stunning views are often highlighted as key attractions.

County Antrim is rich in history. While cycling, you can make stops at historic sites like Carrickfergus Castle, a well-preserved 12th-century Norman castle. The region also has potential archaeological sites such as stone circles or passage graves in the hills above the Antrim Coast, near Ballyboley Forest.