The best cycling routes around Slievenaghy
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riders
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Touring cycling around Slievenaghy, located in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, offers access to diverse landscapes. The region is characterized by a mix of country roads and varied terrain, including gentle, mostly paved surfaces and segments with elevation gains. Slievenaghy's proximity to the Binevenagh Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) provides opportunities for routes with dramatic cliffs, coastal lowlands, and extensive forest trails. Cyclists can experience panoramic views over Lough Foyle and the Roe Valley.
Best touring cycling routes around Slievenaghy
…Last updated: May 13, 2026
1
riders
47.1km
02:51
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
32.7km
02:03
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2
riders
48.9km
03:09
600m
600m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
30.6km
01:57
390m
390m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
54.5km
03:10
290m
290m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Slievenaghy
Tips from the Community
Dunluce Castle in Northern Ireland is an impressive ruin perched on a cliff above the sea. Its dramatic location and rugged rocky landscape lend the castle a special atmosphere. The remains tell a rich history and offer fascinating insights into medieval defensive architecture. The views of the sea and the surrounding nature make a visit an unforgettable experience. Dunluce Castle is a place that combines both history and nature in a striking way.
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De Burgh's castle was primarily a military fortress, notable for its robust defensive features typical of Norman architecture. The design included impressive walls and strategic positioning to take advantage of the natural defensive advantages of the clifftop location.
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A very impressive castle, part of which has collapsed into the sea along with the cliff. The visit can easily be combined with a visit to the Giant's Causeway.
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This is the best preserved court tomb in the Causeway Coast area. A Neolithic tomb dating from c.4000 to 2000 BC. It was excavated twice, in 1935 and 1975. It consists of a horse shoe shaped forecourt that leads into a small chamber. There is a cremation passage behind the chamber containing three pits, one of these pits held the remains of several people. This form of cremation passage is the only one of its type found in Ireland.
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Brilliant example of a Neolithic passage tomb, consisting of a single oval chamber, formed by upright stones that support a capstone. The tomb was previously almost covered with earth, with only the capstone visible. When it was later exposed a cinerary urn was discovered in the burial chamber. An archaeological excavation discovered cremated bone and more pottery. The Broadstone is also close by. Roughly a mile to the north east. Also well worth a look.
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Dunluce Castle to the east White Rocks, White Rock Beach and Portrush to the west Causeway Coast Community (Minister’s visit marks the completion of world-class development at spectacular coastal locations, 2021-07-28): https://www.causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk/news/ministers-visit-marks-the-completion-of-world-class-development-at-spectacu YouTube (Drone Video, Magheracross Viewing Point - Causeway Coast Way, 2021-07-28): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jD4CBeULIbY Tripadvisor (Magheracross Viewing Point): https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g209952-d23660060-Reviews-Magheracross_Viewing_Point-Portrush_County_Antrim_Northern_Ireland.html
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The Blue Flag awarded beach is extremely popular with surfers, body boarders and kayakers. If you fancy a go there is a seasonal outlet shop that provides equipment for hire.
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Dunluce is one of the most picturesque and romantic of Irish Castles. With evidence of settlement from the first millennium, the present castle ruins date mainly from the 16th and 17th centuries. A really perfect place to take a rest, or dodge a Rain shower is the 'Mermaids Cave' underneath the Castle Ruins. It has an amazing atmosphere. Just sit for a while, and enjoy the special ambience as the sound of the Sea reverberates throughout. You don't have to enter the Castle to reach it, so this is a treat that can be enjoyed anytime for free.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when touring cycling around Slievenaghy?
Touring cycling around Slievenaghy offers a diverse mix of landscapes. You'll find routes that traverse country roads, providing glimpses of the pastoral Irish countryside. The terrain can vary from gentle, mostly paved surfaces ideal for leisurely rides, to more challenging segments with significant elevation gains for experienced cyclists. The region's proximity to the Binevenagh Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) also means opportunities for routes with dramatic cliffs and coastal lowlands.
Are there routes suitable for different fitness levels?
Yes, the Slievenaghy area caters to various fitness levels. While there are no easy-rated routes, you'll find several moderate options perfect for a good day out, such as the Whiterocks Beach and Dunluce Castle loop from Ballymoney. For those seeking a greater challenge, there are routes with significant elevation changes, like the difficult-rated Altnahinch Reservoir loop from Cloughmills.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see while cycling?
The region around Slievenaghy offers several points of interest. The Whiterocks Beach and Dunluce Castle loop from Ballymoney, for instance, offers coastal views and passes historical landmarks. You can also explore routes that take you through areas with impressive geological features, such as the basalt escarpment of Binevenagh, offering stunning vistas from viewpoints like Gortmore.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Slievenaghy area?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Slievenaghy are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Ballymoney to Dooey's Cairn loop, which traverses pastoral countryside, and the Altnahinch Reservoir – Clough Castle loop from Cloughmills, offering rural roads and historical sights.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Slievenaghy?
The best time to cycle in Slievenaghy generally aligns with milder weather conditions, typically from late spring through early autumn (May to September). During these months, you can expect more pleasant temperatures and less rainfall, making for more enjoyable rides through the varied terrain and along the coast. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Are there opportunities for coastal views on these cycling routes?
Absolutely. Slievenaghy's proximity to the coast, including areas like Magilligan and the Causeway Coastal Route, means touring cyclists can enjoy spectacular coastal scenery and refreshing sea air. The Whiterocks Beach and Dunluce Castle loop from Ballymoney is a prime example of a route offering beautiful coastal vistas.
How long do the touring cycling routes typically take to complete?
The duration of the routes varies depending on their length and difficulty. For example, the moderate Whiterocks Beach and Dunluce Castle loop from Ballymoney, at 47.1 km, typically takes around 2 hours 50 minutes. A longer, more challenging route like the Altnahinch Reservoir loop from Cloughmills (48.9 km) might take approximately 3 hours 9 minutes due to significant elevation gains.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see in the Slievenaghy area?
The region is rich in natural beauty. You can expect to see pastoral Irish countryside, and if you venture towards the Binevenagh AONB, dramatic cliffs, coastal lowlands, and extensive forest trails. Areas like Roe Valley Country Park, within reach, offer beautiful gorges, rivers, and mature woodlands, providing scenic detours for cyclists.
Are there any routes that offer significant elevation gains for a more challenging ride?
Yes, for cyclists looking for a more strenuous workout, there are routes with significant elevation gains. The Altnahinch Reservoir loop from Cloughmills is a difficult-rated route that features substantial climbs, making it a good choice for experienced riders seeking a challenge.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Slievenaghy?
The touring cycling routes around Slievenaghy are appreciated by the komoot community for their varied terrain and scenic beauty. More than 6 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the mix of country roads, coastal views, and the opportunities to experience the tranquil rural setting of County Antrim.
Are there any routes that pass through forest areas?
While Slievenaghy itself is rural, the broader area, particularly within the Binevenagh AONB, features forest roads and coniferous forests. These areas offer a different cycling experience, providing shaded paths and a sense of immersion in nature. Nearby attractions like Roe Valley Country Park also boast mature woodlands.
Where can I find routes that offer panoramic views?
For panoramic views, consider routes that take you towards the Binevenagh AONB. This area is known for its stunning vistas over Lough Foyle, the Roe Valley, and on clear days, even glimpses of Scotland. Viewpoints such as Gortmore, located within Binevenagh, offer particularly impressive perspectives.
Most popular routes around Slievenaghy
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