The best traffic-free bike rides around Ards Forest

There are 5 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes around Ards Forest featured in this guide. These routes offer a mix of moderate and difficult options, allowing you to explore the diverse landscapes of the park and its surroundings.

The routes in and around Ards Forest offer a varied terrain. You'll encounter ancient woodlands, coastal paths with views of the Atlantic Ocean and Sheep Haven Bay, and sections through sand dunes and salt marshes. While some trails are paved, others may have unpaved segments, requiring a touring bike suitable for mixed surfaces. Expect both level ground along the seashore and more challenging elevated sections, particularly on longer loops.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the View of Doagh Bay – Rossguill Peninsula loop from Hotel offers a moderate 17.6 km ride, while the Croaghnamaddy loop from Dunfanaghy Electoral Division is a shorter, moderate 9.4 km option. These circular routes are excellent for exploring without needing to retrace your steps.

Ards Forest Park is rich in both natural beauty and historical significance. Along the routes, you can discover features like Lough Lilly with its white and yellow water lilies, stunning coastal views, and unique natural sculptures. Historically, you might encounter the remains of four ring forts, a holy well, and a mass rock. The Dermot & Grania's Bed – Sandhill Mass Rock loop from Dunfanaghy specifically passes a site associated with the myth of Diarmuid and Grainne's bed and a mass rock.

Ards Forest Park is generally family-friendly, with many trails suitable for various ages and abilities. While some routes in this guide are rated 'difficult', there are also 'moderate' options that could be suitable for families with some cycling experience. The park itself offers amenities like picnic areas and a children's playground near a sandy beach, making it a great destination for a day out. Always check the specific route details for distance and elevation to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.

Ards Forest Park is generally dog-friendly, allowing dogs on many of its trails. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with wildlife or other visitors. Please be mindful of local signage and regulations within the park to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

Ards Forest Park offers a visually appealing environment throughout the year due to its mix of coniferous and deciduous woodlands. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer is popular, with a coffee shop often open in the park. While cycling is possible in winter, be prepared for potentially wet and windy conditions, especially along coastal sections. Always check local weather forecasts before you go.

Ards Forest Park is accessible from the N56 and provides parking facilities for visitors. Specific access points for the no traffic touring cycling routes may vary, but the main park entrance typically offers ample parking. It's advisable to check the park's official website or local information for the most current parking details and any potential fees.

During the summer months, Ards Forest Park often has a coffee shop available within the park itself, providing refreshments. Additionally, the nearby towns, such as Dunfanaghy and Creeslough, offer various cafes, pubs, and restaurants where you can refuel after your ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal scenery, the tranquility of the ancient woodlands, and the well-maintained trails that offer a true escape from traffic. The diverse habitats and historical features also add to the unique appeal for touring cyclists.

The longest route featured in this guide is the Dermot & Grania's Bed – Sandhill Mass Rock loop from Dunfanaghy, covering approximately 30.5 km. This moderate route offers a substantial ride through varied landscapes.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, this guide includes routes rated as 'difficult'. The Horn Head Cliffs – Croaghnamaddy loop from Dunfanaghy and the Lough Nambraddan loop from Dunfanaghy are both approximately 21 km long and feature significant elevation gains, providing a more strenuous touring cycling experience.