The best cycling routes around Loughloughan

Touring cycling around Loughloughan offers routes through a landscape characterized by views of Slemish Mountain and lush farming areas. The wider County Antrim region features diverse terrain, including deep glens, exposed moorland, and coastal sections within the Antrim Coast and Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You'll also find expansive waterscapes around Lough Neagh.

Yes, the Loughloughan area, particularly within County Antrim, offers several challenging touring cycling routes. Out of the 7 routes listed, 6 are rated as difficult. For example, the Broughshane to Waterfoot loop — Antrim Coast & Glens is a difficult 65.2 km route with significant elevation gain.

While many routes directly around Loughloughan are rated as difficult, the broader County Antrim region offers more accessible options. The Broughshane to Waterfoot loop — Antrim Coast & Glens is the only moderate route listed in this guide. For very easy, traffic-free options, consider the Lagan and Lough Cycle Way or the Loughshore Trail around Lough Neagh, which are suitable for novice and family cyclists, though they are further afield.

Many routes offer stunning views. For instance, the Broughshane to Slemish Mountain loop provides scenic views of Slemish Mountain and the surrounding farming landscape. The View of Glenariff Valley – Glenariff Forest loop from Cargan leads through the picturesque Glenariff Valley and forest.

Yes, County Antrim is home to several beautiful waterfalls. You might encounter Inver River Waterfall, Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall, or the Waterfall in Antrim Coast & Glens AONB. The Waterfall and Bridge on the Glenariff River is another notable spot.

Yes, several routes in the Loughloughan area are circular. Examples include the Broughshane to Waterfoot loop — Antrim Coast & Glens, the Broughshane to Slemish Mountain loop, and the View of Glenariff Valley – Glenariff Forest loop from Cargan.

The longest touring cycling route featured in this guide is the Carnlough Harbour – Waterfoot Beach loop from Cargan, which spans approximately 105.4 km (65.5 miles) and typically takes over 6 hours to complete.

Beyond the cycling routes, County Antrim offers a wealth of attractions. You can explore the Antrim Castle Gardens, nature reserves like Breen Oakwood and Randalstown Forest Lough Neagh, or engage in water-based activities on Lough Neagh. Historical sites such as Glenarm Castle and Carrickfergus Castle are also within reach, as are the famous Giant's Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge along the Causeway Coastal Route.

While specific public transport links directly to the start points of all routes around Loughloughan may vary, the wider Ballymena and Broughshane areas are served by local bus networks. For routes further afield like the Lagan and Lough Cycle Way, public transport options connecting to Lisburn, Belfast, and Jordanstown are more readily available. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for specific route access.

The best time for touring cycling in Loughloughan and County Antrim is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, you can expect milder weather, longer daylight hours, and less rainfall, making for more enjoyable cycling conditions. However, the region's weather can be unpredictable, so it's always wise to check the forecast before heading out.

While specific cafes and pubs directly on every route are not detailed, the towns and villages near the routes, such as Broughshane, Waterfoot, Cargan, and Carnlough, offer various options for refreshments. Planning your route to pass through these settlements will provide opportunities for breaks and meals.

The Antrim Coast and Glens AONB is special for its diverse and dramatic landscape. Touring cyclists can experience deep glens opening to the sea, gentle bays, exposed moorland, and sheltered valleys. The coastline features geological wonders like basalt cliffs, offering a truly unique and scenic backdrop for rides such as the Broughshane to Waterfoot loop — Antrim Coast & Glens. More information can be found on the DAERA NI website.