The best cycling routes around Ballydonnelly
4.6
(6)
13
riders
4
rides
Touring cycling around Ballydonnelly features a landscape characterized by gentle elevations and a mix of natural and historical settings. The region includes routes through established parklands like Antrim Castle Gardens and forested areas such as Randalstown Forest. Terrain is generally flat to gently rolling, with minimal significant climbs, making it accessible for various cycling abilities.
Best touring cycling routes around Ballydonnelly
- The most popular touring cycling route is Antrim Castle Gardens β Randalstown Heritage Houses loop from Randalstown, aβ¦
Last updated: July 9, 2026
4.2
(5)
6
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
4.28km
00:24
20m
20m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
2
riders
8.65km
00:31
40m
40m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
49.9km
03:03
360m
360m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Ballydonnelly
Tips from the Community
A row of terraced houses just outside the town of Randalstown. An important military location, these houses could've been used as barracks or staff housing. The symmetry of these houses is very pleasing as you ride past.
0
0
The Protector of the Lough statue shows the mythological giant Finn McCool standing guard at Antrim Marina on the shores of Lough Neagh. It's an eight-metre-tall sculpture created by Spanish artist Casto Solan to celebrate the local folklore of the Lough.
0
0
A 430 acre mixed conifer forest that contains an owl conservation centre, deer park and several walking routes. Within the deer enclosure, there is the opportunity to quietly observe up to 25 resident fallow deer. There are also two small adjacent nature reserves at the forest edge on the shores of Lough Neagh.
0
0
Antrim Castle Gardens are an absolute historical gem. You will find nothing like these 400 year old gardens anywhere else in Northern Ireland. Walk into the past as you stroll around this magnificent setting, visiting beautiful features such as the Large Parterre, Her Ladyshipβs Pleasure Garden and Yew Tree Pond. Within the heart of the Gardens is a unique visitor experience, the refurbished Clotworthy House. Visit the Garden Heritage Exhibition where you can read about the history of the Gardens and the story of the Massereene family. It provides a fantastic opportunity to come and learn about garden history how the lives of the key family members intertwine with the development of Antrim town and the surrounding areas.
1
0
Nice small town to walk around and some great history of Randalstown
1
0
Antrim Castle Gardens is the perfect place for a jog. It has flat gravel paths throughout as well as a wonderful medley of landmarks to discover such as Large Parterre, Her Ladyship's Pleasure Garden and Yew Tree Pond. Admission to the castle is free and is open 24 hours.
2
0
Here you can discover the beauty of Antrim Castle Gardens & Clotworthy House. There's many beautiful landmarks along the way such as Large Parterre, Her Ladyship's Pleasure Garden and Yew Tree Pond. Admission to the castle is free and is open 24 hours.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Ballydonnelly?
There are 4 touring cycling routes detailed around Ballydonnelly, offering a variety of experiences from short, easy loops to longer, moderate rides.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Ballydonnelly?
Yes, Ballydonnelly offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners. A great option is the Randalstown Forest loop from Randalstown, which is a tranquil 2.7-mile (4.3 km) path through forested areas, ideal for a relaxed ride.
What are some family-friendly touring cycling options in Ballydonnelly?
For families, the easy routes are highly recommended due to their gentle terrain. The Randalstown Forest loop from Randalstown is particularly suitable, offering a safe and pleasant environment for all ages. Another good choice is the Randalstown Heritage Houses loop from Randalstown, which is 5.4 miles (8.7 km) and explores local history.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes in Ballydonnelly?
Yes, all the touring cycling routes around Ballydonnelly are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. This includes popular options like the Antrim Castle Gardens β Randalstown Heritage Houses loop from Randalstown and the Antrim Castle Gardens β Randalstown Heritage Houses loop from Antrim.
What is the typical terrain like for touring cycling in Ballydonnelly?
The terrain for touring cycling in Ballydonnelly is generally flat to gently rolling, with minimal significant climbs. You'll encounter routes through established parklands like Antrim Castle Gardens, forested areas such as Randalstown Forest, and quiet country roads.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Ballydonnelly?
The touring cycling routes in Ballydonnelly are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 6 reviews. Cyclists often praise the blend of natural beauty and historical sites, as well as the accessibility for various skill levels.
Are there any longer touring cycling routes for more experienced riders?
For those seeking a longer ride, the Antrim Castle Gardens β Randalstown Heritage Houses loop from Antrim is a moderate 31.0-mile (49.9 km) trail. This route leads through varied rural and parkland scenery, typically taking around 3 hours to complete.
What kind of scenery can I expect on a touring bike ride in Ballydonnelly?
You can expect a diverse landscape featuring established parklands, tranquil forested areas, and quiet country roads. Routes often pass by historical sites and offer a mix of natural beauty and cultural interest, such as the Antrim Castle Gardens and Randalstown Heritage Houses.
What is the average distance and duration for touring bike trails in Ballydonnelly?
The routes vary in length and duration. For instance, the Antrim Castle Gardens β Randalstown Heritage Houses loop from Randalstown is 12.2 miles (19.6 km) and takes about 1 hour 10 minutes, while the Randalstown Forest loop from Randalstown is a shorter 2.7 miles (4.3 km) and can be completed in about 24 minutes.
Are there specific points of interest or landmarks along the touring routes?
Many routes incorporate significant local landmarks. For example, the loops often feature the historic Antrim Castle Gardens and the Randalstown Heritage Houses, offering cultural and scenic points of interest during your ride.
Is Ballydonnelly suitable for touring cyclists looking for a mix of nature and history?
Absolutely. Ballydonnelly's touring cycling routes are characterized by a unique blend of natural environments, such as Randalstown Forest, and historical settings, including Antrim Castle Gardens and various heritage houses. This makes it an excellent destination for cyclists who appreciate both scenic beauty and cultural exploration.
Most popular routes around Ballydonnelly
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
