The best traffic-free bike rides around Kilmakee

There are 5 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Kilmakee featured in this guide. These routes offer a variety of distances and elevations, ensuring options for different skill levels.

The routes around Kilmakee vary significantly in length and challenge. You'll find options ranging from approximately 33 km to over 85 km. Difficulty levels include moderate, such as the Lagan Towpath – Drumbo Round Tower loop from Derriaghy (37 km), and more difficult routes like the Dree Hill Viewpoint – Finnis Road loop from Derriaghy, which covers 85 km with significant elevation gain.

While the routes in this guide are primarily for road cycling and are rated moderate to difficult, the wider County Antrim area offers family-friendly options. For instance, sections of the Loughshore Trail around Lough Neagh are known for being flat and suitable for families. Additionally, the Crew stone loop from Derriaghy is one of the shorter moderate routes at 33 km, which might be more manageable for those seeking a less strenuous ride.

The terrain around Kilmakee and County Antrim is diverse. You can expect a mix of rolling hills, some significant climbs, and scenic coastal stretches. Routes like the Redhill Climb – Lisnamintry Rath Entrance loop from Derriaghy feature notable elevation changes, while other areas might offer flatter sections, particularly along greenways or lough shores.

The komoot community rates the cycling experience around Kilmakee highly, with an average score of 4.0 out of 5 stars. Cyclists often appreciate the quiet roads and the varied landscapes, from challenging climbs to scenic loops, making for a rewarding ride.

Yes, County Antrim features several greenways and dedicated cycle paths. While the routes in this guide focus on quiet roads, the broader region includes options like the Lagan and Lough Cycle Way, Comber Greenway, and sections of the Causeway Coast Cycle Route (NCN 93), which offer traffic-free or low-traffic cycling experiences. These are excellent for those specifically seeking paths away from cars.

While the specific routes in this guide focus on the cycling experience, the Kilmakee area is a gateway to many attractions. You might pass by historical sites like Shaw's Bridge, or be within reach of Belfast's city center attractions such as Belfast City Hall or the Albert Memorial Clock. The wider County Antrim region is famous for its dramatic coastlines and glens, offering breathtaking views.

As the routes typically start from Derriaghy, which is a townland near Kilmakee, you would generally look for local parking options within or near Derriaghy. Many routes in the region utilize minor roads, and parking availability can vary. It's advisable to check specific starting points for designated parking areas or suitable on-street parking.

Kilmakee and Derriaghy are located within County Antrim, which has public transport links. Depending on your starting point, you may be able to reach the vicinity of these routes by bus or train services that connect to Belfast and surrounding towns. However, direct access to the exact starting points of some rural routes might require a short cycle from a public transport stop.

The best time to enjoy road cycling in County Antrim, including the areas around Kilmakee, is typically during the spring and summer months (April to September). During this period, the weather is generally milder, with longer daylight hours and less rainfall, making for more pleasant cycling conditions and better visibility of the scenic landscapes.

Yes, all the routes featured in this guide are circular loops, starting and ending in Derriaghy. This includes routes like the Barnett Demesne Stone Bridge loop from Derriaghy, ensuring you return to your starting point without needing to retrace your steps.