The best cycling routes around Ballywierd
5.0
(4)
68
riders
11
rides
Touring cycling routes around Ballywierd are primarily situated along the coastal areas of Northern Ireland, offering views of the sea and various harbours. The terrain generally features gentle undulations suitable for cycling, with routes often traversing peninsulas and connecting small coastal towns. The region's landscape is characterized by its proximity to the water, providing a mix of open stretches and scenic village passages.
Best touring cycling routes around Ballywierd
- The most popular touring cycling route is Kilclief to Ardglass Harbour…
Last updated: May 15, 2026
4
riders
29.2km
01:46
150m
150m
Embark on the Kilclief to Ardglass Harbour loop, a moderate touring cycling route that takes you along the scenic coast of Strangford & Lecale. This 18.1-mile (29.2 km) journey offers…
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 Ballywierd
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 Ballywierd?
There are 12 touring cycling routes documented around Ballywierd on komoot, offering a variety of options for cyclists.
What types of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Ballywierd?
The touring cycling routes around Ballywierd are primarily situated along coastal areas, featuring gentle undulations. You can expect views of the sea and various harbours, with routes often traversing peninsulas and connecting small coastal towns.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Ballywierd?
Yes, Ballywierd offers several easy touring cycling routes. For instance, the Portaferry to Quintin Castle loop is an easy 9.8-mile (15.8 km) path that provides a shorter ride through coastal scenery, passing by Quintin Castle.
What are the options for longer touring cycling routes in Ballywierd?
For longer rides, consider the Ards Peninsula half loop from Portaferry — Strangford & Lecale, which is a 35.5-mile (57.1 km) trail. This route leads through the Ards Peninsula and typically takes about 3 hours 20 minutes to complete.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Ballywierd?
Yes, many routes are designed as loops. A popular circular route is the Kilclief to Ardglass Harbour loop —Strangford & Lecale, an 18.1-mile (29.2 km) trail connecting two coastal points.
What kind of views can I expect on Ballywierd's cycling routes?
The routes offer scenic coastal views, often overlooking the sea and various harbours. You'll experience a mix of open stretches and passages through charming villages, characteristic of Northern Ireland's coastal landscape.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Ballywierd?
The touring cycling routes in Ballywierd are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 5 reviews. Over 100 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, indicating a positive experience among users.
Are there any castles or historical sites to see along the touring cycling routes?
Yes, you can encounter historical sites. For example, the Portaferry to Quintin Castle loop passes by Quintin Castle. Other nearby attractions include Castle Ward Tower (Winterfell Filming Location) and Audley's Castle.
Are there any routes that offer views of Quintin Castle?
Yes, the Portaferry to Quintin Castle loop is an excellent option for seeing Quintin Castle. Another route, View of Quintin Castle – View of Portaferry Harbor loop from Strangford, also features views of the castle.
What is the average duration for touring cycling routes in Ballywierd?
The duration varies depending on the route length and your pace. For example, the Kilclief to Ardglass Harbour loop typically takes about 1 hour 46 minutes, while the longer Ards Peninsula half loop can take around 3 hours 20 minutes.
Are there any routes that pass by Kirkistown Castle?
Yes, the Portaferry to Kirkistown Castle loop — Strangford & Lecale is a moderate 18.8-mile (30.3 km) route that will take you past Kirkistown Castle.
Are there any routes that explore the Ards Peninsula?
Absolutely. The Ards Peninsula half loop from Portaferry — Strangford & Lecale is a significant route that allows you to experience the landscape of the Ards Peninsula.
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