The best road cycling routes around Harpurs Hill

There are over 70 road cycling routes in the Harpurs Hill area, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.

Yes, Harpurs Hill offers a good selection of easy routes, with 33 trails categorized as easy. A great option for a gentle ride is the Causeway Coast Cycle Route: Coleraine to Bushmills Loop, which is 20.4 miles (32.8 km) long.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 6 difficult routes available. The View of Torr Head – Dunluce Castle loop from Coleraine is a demanding 74.2 miles (119.5 km) route with significant elevation changes, perfect for a long-distance ride.

While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't always available, many of the easy routes with minimal elevation gain are suitable for families. Consider the Portstewart Promenade – View of Portrush Harbour loop from Coleraine, an 18.6 miles (29.9 km) path that follows the coastline, offering scenic views without excessive difficulty.

Route distances vary significantly. You can find shorter loops like the Causeway Coast Cycle Route: Coleraine to Bushmills Loop at 20.4 miles (32.8 km), up to longer, more challenging rides such as the View of Torr Head – Dunluce Castle loop from Coleraine, which spans 74.2 miles (119.5 km).

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Causeway Coast Cycle Route: Coleraine to Bushmills Loop and the Dunluce Castle – Magheracross Viewing Point loop from Coleraine.

The routes often pass by significant landmarks and scenic viewpoints. You might cycle past historical sites like Dunluce Castle Ruins or enjoy stunning coastal vistas from Magheracross Viewpoint. The Sea Shed Coffee & Fruit – Mussenden Temple loop from Coleraine, for instance, leads past historical sites.

The Causeway Coast region, including Harpurs Hill, is generally best for road cycling from late spring through early autumn (May to September). During these months, you can expect milder temperatures and less rainfall, making for more enjoyable rides along the coast and through rural areas.

Given the popularity of the coastal routes, you'll find various towns and villages along the way that offer cafes and pubs. For example, the Sea Shed Coffee & Fruit – Mussenden Temple loop from Coleraine explicitly mentions a coffee stop in its name, indicating such amenities are available on many routes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from open coastal views to paths winding through rural areas, and the opportunity to pass by historical landmarks like Dunluce Castle.

Given the coastal location, weather can be changeable. It's advisable to wear layers, including a windproof and waterproof jacket, even on sunny days. Cycling shorts, a jersey, and appropriate footwear are standard. Don't forget a helmet and sunglasses for sun protection and glare.

While the main routes are well-loved, exploring some of the less-trafficked rural roads connecting the coastal towns can reveal quieter, scenic stretches. Komoot's route planner can help you discover these local favorites and create your own unique loops away from the busiest sections.