The best road cycling routes around Barmeen

There are over 30 road cycling routes documented around Barmeen on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 2 easy, 17 moderate, and 11 difficult options available.

Road cycling in Barmeen features a mix of coastal roads and inland sections. You can expect varied elevation changes, from moderate coastal loops to routes with significant climbs through hilly landscapes.

Yes, Barmeen offers 11 difficult road cycling routes for experienced riders. These routes typically include substantial climbs and more demanding terrain. One such route is the Cushendun Village – Ballycastle Beach loop from Cushendun, which features significant climbs over its 36.3 miles (58.5 km).

The road cycling routes in Barmeen are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, scenic coastal views, and the options available for different ability levels.

While most routes are moderate to difficult, there are a couple of easier options available. For families looking for a less strenuous ride, it's advisable to check the difficulty ratings and elevation profiles of routes like the Waterfoot Beach – Waterfoot Beach Boardwalk loop from Cushendall, which is a moderate 24.9 km ride with less elevation.

Along the road cycling routes, you can encounter several notable landmarks and viewpoints. These include the scenic Torr Head Coastal Road, the unique Cushendun Caves, and the picturesque Cushendun Harbour. Many routes also pass by Waterfoot Beach.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Barmeen are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the popular Cushendun Harbour – Carnlough Harbour loop from Cushendun and the Glenariff Descent – Waterfoot Beach loop from Cushendall.

Given the coastal and hilly nature of the region, spring and summer generally offer the most favorable weather conditions for road cycling, with milder temperatures and potentially less rain. However, specific weather conditions can vary, so checking local forecasts before your ride is always recommended.

While specific information on cafes and pubs directly on every route isn't detailed, routes often pass through or near villages and towns where you can find amenities. For example, the M. McBrides Pub – Cushendun Village loop from Cushendun suggests that such facilities are available in local settlements.

The elevation gain varies significantly across Barmeen's routes. Moderate coastal loops might have around 170-450 meters of ascent, while more challenging routes, such as the Cushendun Village – Ballycastle Beach loop from Cushendun, can feature over 700 meters of elevation gain.

While specific parking locations are not detailed for every route, it's common for routes starting from villages or popular attractions like harbours or beaches to have public parking facilities nearby. Cyclists should look for parking options in starting points such as Cushendun or Cushendall.