The best cycling routes around Ballycultra
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2,410
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Touring cycling around Ballycultra offers diverse landscapes, ranging from the flat, scenic Belfast Lough shore to the rolling Craigantlet hills. The region, situated in County Down, provides a mix of coastal paths and more challenging inland terrain. Woodlands are also present, offering peaceful routes for cyclists. This variety ensures options for different skill levels, from leisurely rides along the lough to routes with moderate climbs.
Best touring cycling routes around Ballycultra
- The most popular touring cycling route is Holywood to…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
3.0
(1)
5
riders
44.1km
02:43
340m
340m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
61.3km
04:01
430m
430m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1
riders
16.6km
01:07
170m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
33.6km
02:16
410m
410m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
24.7km
01:52
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Carrowdore Castle Gate is one of the original 19th-century entrance lodges to the Carrowdore Castle estate in County Down. Built in a Gothic style, it features a castellated parapet and turret-like details that echo the look of the main house. Today it stands as one of the most distinctive remnants of the castle complex, marking the historic gateway to the estate.
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There is a special calmness to the airport road - hardly any traffic, the asphalt smooth under the tires. Trees and green areas line the path on the left and right, giving the route a calming atmosphere, despite the proximity to the hustle and bustle of the airport. A pleasant, fast roll here - perfect for the last leg of the day or a quick boost of energy.
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The route runs along Strangford Lough and offers impressive views of the water and the surrounding landscape. The colourful rows of houses along the esplanade are particularly attractive and give the place a special charm. The route is suitable for different types of bikes.
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Decent climb to the top of Scrabo Hill. If you fancy a challenge keep on going to the tower, enjoying the interest of locals and tourists alike as you cycle on past. Your reward is stunning views overlooking Strangford Lough and the whole of North Down. Sunsets pretty special too. - The tower, which was built in 1857, is one of Northern Ireland’s best known landmarks and the views from the top are spectacular. Inside the tower you can see an exhibition and short video detailing its history. There are plenty of paths through the fine beech woodlands of Killynether Wood and around the disused quarries allowing visitors many opportunities to enjoy the quiet and peaceful countryside.
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Plenty of room, and amazingly very little traffic most evenings. Get out to Holywood for a bit of sea air, or connect to the Connswater Greenway cycle path via Victoria Park. Great training road, and if you happen to catch a sunset you are in for a real treat.
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Helen's Bay Beach is one of two excellent beaches found in Crawfordsburn Country Park. These beautiful sandy beaches are by far the best within the Belfast area and as such are exceptionally popular and well used. Helen's Bay Beach is gently shelving and has excellent water quality making it ideal for bathing. The country park provides an excellent back drop to the beach, with wooded headlands, meadows, quality walks and good facilities. There are disabled toilets and disabled parking a short distance from the beach. A path suitable for wheelchair users leads from the car park to a path running adjacent to it. Nearby Crawfordsburn Country Park has a Cafe / Restaurant, Car Parking, Picnic Sites,Toilets, and a Visitor Centre.
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From Donaghadee visitors can enjoy spectacular views across the Irish Sea, where on a clear day you can see all the way to Scotland, only 20 miles away by sea. It was the province’s principle port before Belfast developed. The Harbour was built in 1820's to the design of John Rennie and is part built of limestone from Wales known as "Anglesea marble". On the harbour is Donaghadee's impressive lighthouse, which was built in 1836 and was the first lighthouse in Ireland to be lit by electricity. Sit and rest in the harbour with a bag of chips from Rainy's on the High Street ( on the hill as you roll in to town from Millisle ) Best fryers in the town. Perfect recovery after a long cycle, Irelands oldest Pub - Grace Neills, is only around the corner.
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A real gem of a coastal route considering just how close it is to Belfast. You can ride on through past the logistics base ( its just vehicles that cant ), and on to Holywood. At the beginning of the Coastal route, just after the Airport Road entrance there are wetlands, popular with migrating birds, and an inlet to the left where you will find the best collection of intact seashells I have seen. Perfect spot for a sunset too. And the row of different coloured Houses on the Esplanade are a real charm. You can continue on to Bangor via the North Down coastal path. That route is perhaps more suited to a Bike with at least 8 Gears, and Tyres no smaller than 25s. I have completed it on a Track Bike, but it was a bit of a bone shaker.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Ballycultra?
There are over 200 touring cycling routes in the Ballycultra area, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored more than 2,900 touring cycling tours here.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Ballycultra?
Yes, Ballycultra offers 56 easy touring cycling routes. These often follow the flat, scenic Belfast Lough shore, providing gentle rides ideal for beginners or those seeking a relaxed pace. Many of these routes are part of the North Down Coastal Path.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Ballycultra?
The terrain around Ballycultra is quite diverse. You can expect flat, scenic stretches along the Belfast Lough shore, as well as rolling hills in the Craigantlet area, which offer more challenging ascents and descents. There are also peaceful routes through wooded areas.
Are there any longer touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For those looking for a longer ride, the North Down and Ards Peninsula Loop is a moderate 38.1-mile (61.35 km) path featuring extensive coastal scenery. There are 45 difficult routes available for advanced cyclists seeking more challenging terrain.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Ballycultra?
The touring cycling routes in Ballycultra are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 180 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from coastal paths with lough views to the peaceful woodlands and rolling hills, catering to different abilities.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Ballycultra area?
Yes, many routes in Ballycultra are designed as loops. For example, the Holywood to Islandhill loop — Strangford & Lecale is a popular 27.4-mile (44.07 km) circular trail offering varied terrain and lough views. Another option is the Scrabo Tower loop from Seahill.
What are some scenic viewpoints or attractions I can see along the touring cycling routes?
While cycling, you can enjoy views across Belfast Lough and potentially spot various birdlife along the shore. Nearby attractions include the historic Belfast City Hall, the iconic Albert Memorial Clock, and various lakes such as Victoria Park Lake, which can be found near some routes.
Are there any routes that pass through wooded areas?
Yes, Ballycultra features routes that lead through peaceful woodlands. The Cairn Wood to Helen's Bay loop, for instance, is a 10.3-mile (16.61 km) trail that takes you through wooded sections before reaching coastal stretches.
Is public transport available to access touring cycling routes in Ballycultra?
Ballycultra is situated in County Down, and public transport options like trains and buses serve the wider Belfast area and surrounding towns. Many routes start or pass through towns like Holywood or Helen's Bay, which often have public transport links, making them accessible for cyclists.
Are there any moderate difficulty touring cycling routes in Ballycultra?
Yes, the majority of touring cycling routes in Ballycultra are of moderate difficulty, with 112 such routes available. These routes often combine coastal paths with some rolling hills, providing a good balance for cyclists looking for a bit more challenge than an easy ride without being overly strenuous.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Ballycultra?
The best time for touring cycling in Ballycultra is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is typically milder and drier, making for more enjoyable rides along the coast and through the hills. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
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