The best cycling routes around Ballymarter
5.0
(4)
68
riders
13
rides
Touring cycling routes around Ballymarter traverse the scenic Ards Peninsula in County Down, Northern Ireland. The landscape is characterized by coastal roads, views of Strangford Lough, and a mix of open countryside. These bike trails offer relatively gentle gradients suitable for touring cyclists.
Best touring cycling routes around Ballymarter
- The most popular touring cycling route is Kilclief to Ardglass Harbour loop —Strangford & Lecale, a moderate 18.1 miles (29.2 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 45 minutes to…
Last updated: May 15, 2026
4
riders
29.2km
01:46
150m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
15.8km
00:57
80m
80m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3
riders
57.1km
03:21
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
30.3km
01:48
160m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
25
riders
36.7km
02:07
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Ballymarter
Tips from the Community
Burr Point marks the most easterly point on the island of Ireland. The spot is marked by a coastal sculpture by artist Ned Jackson Smyth. You can rest up in the sheltered cove which has a well-kept toilet and changing facilities close by.
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Built in 1622 by Roland Savage. The tower has had several alterations over its past. The neo gothic style was introduced in the early 19th century.
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Visitors to Corrog Wood will be greeted by a curious wooden sculpture of a Dryad. The sculpture has been affectionately named the ‘Frump in the Stump’. A dryad is a tree nymph in Greek mythology. The Dryad keeps a watchful, protective eye on the new wood standing at the entrance. Continue past the Dryad on through the little kissing gate and a loop pathway will be waiting to lead you around the 14-acre wood, where a mix of approximately 12,000 native trees and 400 metres of hedging have been planted.
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Quintin Castle is one of the few inhabited Anglo-Norman castles to be found in Ulster. The Castle was built in 1184 by John de Courcy, an Anglo-Norman Knight who had conquered substantial parts of Ireland from 1176. It is located in the Ards Peninsula, east of the village of Portaferry on the shore of the Irish Sea, The location hosts an unprecedented view of the surrounding landscape.
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Also known as Phennick Cove Marina, in Ardglass, County Down, one of three major fishing ports in Northern Ireland. Ardglass is now one of the safest small harbours on the east coast of Ireland, following improvements made in recent years.
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Ballyhornan is sandy beach surrounded by cliffs. Guns Island lies just in the bay. On the horizon it is possible to see the Isle of Man.
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The Marina is a nature reserve of unparalleled beauty, it is a good starting point on which to explore the Lough.
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Portaferry ( from Port an Pheire 'landing place of the ferry' ) is a small town in County down, at the southern end of the Ards Peninsula, near the Narrows at the entrance to Strangford Lough. It hosts its own small Marina, From where the The Ferry service operates daily at 30-minute intervals (7.45 am to 10.45 pm) between the villages of Portaferry and Strangford. The Lough being one of the world's most important marine sites with over 2,000 marine species. There are fine Georgian buildings in the town square, including a Market House, now used as a community centre. Portaferry Castle, a 16th-century townhouse ruin, sits atop a slope overlooking the Harbour.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Ballymarter?
There are 14 touring cycling routes around Ballymarter, offering a variety of options for exploring the scenic Ards Peninsula.
What is the general landscape like for touring cycling around Ballymarter?
The landscape for touring cycling around Ballymarter is characterized by coastal roads, picturesque views of Strangford Lough, and open countryside. The routes generally feature relatively gentle gradients, making them suitable for touring cyclists.
What are the difficulty levels of touring cycling routes near Ballymarter?
The touring cycling routes near Ballymarter are evenly split between easy and moderate difficulties. There are 7 easy routes and 7 moderate routes, with no difficult routes, ensuring options for various fitness levels.
What do other cyclists say about touring cycling in Ballymarter?
The touring cycling routes in Ballymarter are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 5 reviews. Over 130 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the coastal paths, views of Strangford Lough, and varied terrain.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for a relaxed ride?
Yes, for a relaxed ride, consider the Portaferry to Quintin Castle loop. This easy 9.8-mile (15.8 km) path offers coastal scenery and passes by the historic Quintin Castle.
Can I find longer touring cycling routes for a more extensive ride?
For a more extensive ride, the Ards Peninsula half loop from Portaferry — Strangford & Lecale is a great option. This moderate 35.5-mile (57.1 km) trail leads through varied coastal and rural landscapes.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Ballymarter?
Yes, many routes are designed as loops. For example, the popular Kilclief to Ardglass Harbour loop — Strangford & Lecale is a moderate 18.1-mile (29.2 km) circular trail offering coastal views and passing through local villages.
What attractions or landmarks can I see along the touring cycling routes?
While cycling, you can explore several interesting landmarks. Near some routes, you might find Castle Ward Tower (a Game of Thrones filming location), Audley's Castle, and the Strangford Ferry Terminal. Many routes also offer views of Strangford Lough.
Is there parking available for cyclists near the routes?
Yes, parking is generally available. For instance, Castle Ward Shore Car Park is a known parking spot that can serve as a starting point for some routes in the wider Ards Peninsula area.
Are there any touring cycling routes that pass by historic castles?
Absolutely. The Portaferry to Quintin Castle loop takes you directly past historic Quintin Castle. Another route, Portaferry to Kirkistown Castle loop — Strangford & Lecale, also offers views of Kirkistown Castle.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling around Ballymarter?
The Ards Peninsula, like much of Northern Ireland, experiences mild weather. Spring and summer (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling, with longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures. However, coastal routes can be enjoyed year-round, with appropriate gear.
Are there any routes that offer views of Strangford Lough?
Many of the touring cycling routes around Ballymarter offer fantastic views of Strangford Lough, as the area is defined by its coastal proximity to the lough. The View of Quintin Castle – View of Portaferry Harbor loop from Strangford is one such route that provides excellent vistas.
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