The best road cycling routes around Racavan
4.5
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57
riders
6
rides
Road cycling around Racavan offers varied terrain suitable for exploring the region's natural features. The area is characterized by a mix of rolling landscapes, historical sites like castle gardens, and prominent hills such as Slemish Mountain. Routes often traverse open countryside, providing diverse options for different skill levels. The Antrim Hills and Glens provide varied topography, from undulating hills to more level stretches.
Best road cycling routes around Racavan
- The most popular road cycling route is Antrim Castle Gardens ββ¦
Last updated: July 9, 2026
9
riders
53.5km
02:21
390m
390m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
8
riders
73.0km
03:32
770m
770m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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5
riders
35.2km
01:32
340m
340m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3
riders
34.0km
01:36
320m
330m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
1
riders
50.3km
02:21
600m
600m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Racavan
Tips from the Community
Legend has it that this was the first known Irish home of Saint Patrick. The Mountain juts out of the surrounding plain, and is visible for miles around. The dramatic Slemish is actually the central core of a long extinct volcano. The legend goes that following his capture and being brought as a slave to Ireland, St Patrick worked as a shepherd at Slemish Mountain for about six years.
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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.
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Here you can walk through the forest instead of avoiding cars on the Coast Road. Either for about half like me or you continue to follow the International Appalachian Trail. But I don't know where it comes from.
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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.
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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.
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Start your walk off in the picturesque seaside village of Glenarm in County Antrim. There are a number of enjoyable things to do here such as visit the mighty Glenarm Castle, discover one of the many fantastic small eateries and bars, or take a walk down the marina.
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Castle gardens including various buildings and ruins on the river. Plenty to look at and explore in the gardens.
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Ruins of Antrim castle set in green grounds next to the river. A great place to stop for a breather.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Racavan?
There are over 6 road cycling routes around Racavan, offering diverse options for exploring the region's varied terrain.
What are the typical difficulty levels for road cycling routes in Racavan?
The road cycling routes in Racavan primarily feature moderate difficulty. There are also some easier options available, such as the Roadbike loop from Ballymena, which is 21.7 miles long.
Are there any road cycling routes with significant elevation gain?
Yes, some routes in Racavan feature significant elevation gain. For example, the Straidkilly Trail β Glenarm Castle loop from Ballymena includes over 770 meters of ascent, offering a challenging ride with rewarding views.
What landmarks or viewpoints can I see along Racavan's road cycling routes?
Road cycling routes in Racavan often pass by notable landmarks and offer scenic viewpoints. You can explore historical sites like Antrim Castle Gardens and Glenarm Castle. For natural beauty, routes may offer views of Slemish Mountain and Killylane Reservoir.
When is the best time of year for road cycling in Racavan?
Racavan's picturesque environment is suitable for outdoor enthusiasts, making spring and summer generally the best times for road cycling when the weather is milder and the scenery is at its most vibrant.
Are there family-friendly road cycling routes in Racavan?
While most routes are moderate, some shorter options like the Roadbike loop from Ballymena (21.7 miles) could be suitable for families with older children or those looking for a less strenuous ride.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Racavan?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the mix of open countryside, and the historical sites encountered along the routes.
Are there circular road cycling routes available in Racavan?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Racavan are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Antrim Castle Gardens β Antrim Castle Ruins loop from Ballymena and the Roadbike loop from St Patrick's Church, Crebilly.
Can I find routes that pass by Slemish Mountain?
Yes, road cycling routes in Racavan often feature views of prominent hills like Slemish Mountain. The Slemish Summit β Slemish Mountain loop from Buckna is a specific route that takes you around this iconic landmark.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while road cycling in Racavan?
Racavan offers a diverse cycling landscape, characterized by rolling countryside, open rural areas, and routes that pass through historical castle grounds. You'll experience a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
How long do road cycling routes in Racavan typically take to complete?
The duration varies depending on the route and your pace. For instance, the Antrim Castle Gardens β Antrim Castle Ruins loop typically takes around 2 hours 19 minutes, while longer routes like the Straidkilly Trail β Glenarm Castle loop can take over 3.5 hours.
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