The best cycling routes around Craignageeragh

The region around Craignageeragh offers a diverse range of landscapes. You'll encounter the picturesque Glens of Antrim with their woodlands and waterfalls, the distinctive Slemish Mountain offering panoramic views, and the dramatic basalt cliffs of the Antrim Coast, part of the renowned Causeway Coastal Route. Routes also venture into rolling hills and, further west, towards the Lough Neagh shoreline.

Yes, while many routes in the area are moderate to difficult, there is at least one easy touring cycling route available. For a less strenuous option, consider exploring routes closer to Lough Neagh, which tend to be flatter. The guide lists 1 easy route and 9 moderate routes, offering options for varying skill levels.

For those seeking a longer challenge, the Beaghmore Stone Circles loop from Cullybackey — Sperrins is a substantial 74.3 miles (119.5 km) trail, typically taking over 7 hours to complete. Another extensive option is the Cullybackey to Waterfoot loop — Antrim Coast & Glens, which covers 50.7 miles (81.6 km).

Absolutely. The Glens of Antrim are known for their cascading waterfalls and lush woodlands. The Glennariff Forest and Carnlough Harbour loop from Ballymena – Antrim Forest & Glens specifically explores Glenariff Forest Park, often referred to as the 'Queen of the Glens,' which is famous for its waterfall walk and scenic beauty.

The terrain around Craignageeragh includes rolling hills and glens, so you can expect significant elevation changes on many routes. For example, the Beaghmore Stone Circles loop from Cullybackey — Sperrins involves over 1000 meters of ascent, while the Cullybackey to Waterfoot loop — Antrim Coast & Glens has nearly 900 meters of climbing. Routes around Slemish Mountain also offer challenging climbs and rewarding vistas.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Glennariff Forest and Carnlough Harbour loop, the Cullybackey to Waterfoot loop, and the Glenarm Castle – Carnlough Harbour loop from Ballymena.

Cycling routes in the area offer access to several notable landmarks and viewpoints. You can cycle towards Slemish Mountain for panoramic views across County Antrim and the Braid River valley. The Antrim Coast & Glens routes provide stunning coastal vistas, and you might pass historic sites like Glenarm Castle or the ancient Beaghmore Stone Circles, depending on your chosen route.

The best time for touring cycling in Craignageeragh is generally during the warmer, drier months, typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During this period, you'll experience more favorable weather conditions, longer daylight hours, and the full beauty of the Glens and coastline. However, weather in Northern Ireland can be unpredictable, so always be prepared for changing conditions.

The region is dotted with charming villages and towns that offer opportunities for refreshments. Coastal villages like Glenarm and Carnlough, often featured in loop routes, provide interesting stopping points with cafes and pubs. Larger towns like Ballymena, which serve as starting points for several routes, also have a good selection of amenities for cyclists.

There are 18 touring cycling routes documented in the Craignageeragh area, offering a wide variety of distances and difficulty levels. These include 1 easy, 9 moderate, and 8 difficult routes, ensuring options for every type of touring cyclist.

The Antrim Coast & Glens region, easily accessible from Craignageeragh, is renowned for its dramatic blend of coastal roads with awe-inspiring ocean views, rolling hills, and challenging mountain ascents within the glens. It offers a dynamic and engaging experience, showcasing geological marvels, picturesque valleys, and historic sites, making it a truly memorable destination for touring cyclists.

Yes, the touring cycling routes around Craignageeragh are characterized by a diverse mix of terrain. You'll find mostly paved surfaces suitable for touring bikes, but these will take you through coastal roads, undulating hills, and the varied landscapes of the Glens of Antrim, including woodlands and areas near rivers and waterfalls. This blend ensures a constantly changing and engaging ride.