The best cycling routes around Dunouragan

There are over 10 touring cycling routes around Dunouragan, offering a variety of experiences from easy coastal rides to more challenging inland loops. The komoot community has explored these routes over 70 times.

Yes, Dunouragan offers a couple of easy touring cycling routes. For a gentler ride, consider the Waterfoot Beach – Carnlough Harbour loop from Cushendall, which is approximately 32.3 km (20 miles) long and features minimal elevation gain, making it ideal for a relaxed outing.

Experienced touring cyclists looking for a challenge will find several difficult routes. The Cushendun to The Dark Hedges Loop is a demanding 63.7 km (39.6 miles) ride with significant elevation gain, connecting coastal areas with an iconic inland landmark. Another option is the Cushendun Village and Harbour – Ballycastle Harbour loop from Cushendall, a 68.7 km (42.7 miles) trail through coastal villages.

Yes, the Waterfoot Beach – Glenariff Waterfall loop from Waterfoot is a popular moderate route that explores coastal scenery and leads directly to a notable waterfall, offering a refreshing stop during your ride.

Touring cycling around Dunouragan offers a diverse landscape. You can expect routes that traverse stunning coastal landscapes, rural paths, and the scenic Antrim Coast and Glens. Many routes connect charming seaside villages and natural attractions, providing a mix of sea views and inland features.

Many of the touring cycling routes in Dunouragan are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Cushendun to The Dark Hedges Loop and the Waterfoot Beach – Cushendun Village and Harbour loop from Cushendall, which offer varied distances and difficulties.

Along the touring cycling routes, you can discover several interesting landmarks and attractions. Highlights include the dramatic Torr Head Coastal Road, the unique Cushendun Caves, and the picturesque Cushendun Harbour. You might also pass by Waterfoot Beach or the historic Hidden Village of Galboly.

The best season for touring cycling in Dunouragan is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is typically milder and drier, offering more pleasant conditions for exploring the coastal and inland routes. However, be prepared for changeable weather, as is common in the region.

Many touring cycling routes in Dunouragan connect various villages and towns along the Antrim Coast and Glens, such as Cushendun, Waterfoot, and Cushendall. These villages typically offer local cafes, pubs, and shops where you can stop for refreshments, meals, or to resupply during your ride.

The duration of touring cycling routes in Dunouragan varies significantly based on distance and difficulty. Shorter, easier routes like the Waterfoot Beach – Carnlough Harbour loop from Cushendall can take around 1 hour 54 minutes. Longer, more challenging routes, such as the Cushendun to The Dark Hedges Loop, may require over 4 hours to complete.

The elevation gain on touring cycling routes in Dunouragan can vary from relatively flat coastal sections to significant climbs in the glens. Easy routes might have around 140 meters (460 feet) of ascent, while difficult routes, such as the Cushendun to The Dark Hedges Loop, can feature over 900 meters (2,950 feet) of climbing.