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Road cycling routes
United Kingdom
Northern Ireland
Moyle

Ballyness

The best road cycling routes around Ballyness

5.0

(1)

256

riders

30

rides

Road cycling around Ballyness offers diverse terrain, from challenging coastal ascents to more leisurely routes. The region is characterized by its dramatic coastline, including the renowned Causeway Coastal Route, and features unique geological formations like the basalt columns of the Giant's Causeway. Cyclists encounter a mix of rugged clifftops, historic sites such as Dunluce Castle, and areas with varied elevation, providing options for different skill levels.

Best road cycling routes around Ballyness

  • The most popular road cycling route is View of Torr Head – The Old Bushmills Distillery loop from Portballintrae, a 58.7 miles (94.5 km) trail that takes 4 hours 31 minutes to complete. This route offers challenging coastal riding with significant elevation gain.
  • Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Old Bushmills Distillery – Portballintrae Bay loop from Bushmills, an easy 13.9 miles (22.4 km) path. This route provides gentle terrain with views of Portballintrae Bay.
  • Local road cyclists also love the The Old Bushmills Distillery – Dunluce Castle loop from Portballintrae, a 38.0 miles (61.2 km) trail leading through coastal scenery and past historic landmarks, often completed in about 2 hours 34 minutes.
  • Road cycling around Ballyness is defined by coastal paths, historic castles, and varied terrain. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy bay loops to more challenging coastal ascents.
  • The routes in Ballyness are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars. More than 300 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Ballyness's varied terrain.

Last updated: May 4, 2026

38

riders

#1.

Ursa Minor – Cushendun Harbour loop from Portballintrae

94.2km

04:31

1,260m

1,260m

Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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Hard

Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Easy
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Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

Moderate

Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Easy

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Moderate
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Popular around Ballyness

Running Trails around Ballyness

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Cycling around Ballyness

Tips from the Community

Puffin
October 31, 2025, Old Bushmills Distillery

Shop with a good selection of whiskeys

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The world's first whisky factory

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Absolutely overrated. Many trees have been broken or cut down. Completely overcrowded during normal daytime. You really don't have to go there...only if it's on your way.

Translated by Google

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sm milligan
February 13, 2024, The Dark Hedges

This iconic moody avenue of beech trees was planted by the Stuart family in the eighteenth century. Two centuries later, the trees remain a treat and are one of the most photographed natural phenomena in Northern Ireland. Most recently used as a film location in Game of Thrones.

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Bushmills is home to the oldest licenced whiskey distillery in the world. Four Centuries later, they’re still making whiskey in Bushmills with Irish barley, and the water from their own stream. Bushmills whiskeys are amongst the most savoured in the world. Visitors can experience a tour of the Distillery.

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Beautiful Portballintrae. Originally a fishing village, nestled around the perfect horse shoe shaped Ballintrae Bay, If you are lucky enough to catch a mid Summer sunset here you will be blessed. The Giant’s Causeway Tramway takes you from Giant's Causeway to Bushmills, and runs through the sand dunes above the largest beach, commonly known as Runkerry Strand. There are walks and trails throughout.

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Beautiful little harbour located in the seaside village of Cushendun. The Mary McBrides across the road from here sells delicious food and real ales. There is also a café and convenience store nearby where you can pick up some snacks and take a respite on the sandy shore nearby.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What types of road cycling routes are available around Ballyness?

Ballyness offers a diverse range of road cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find everything from challenging coastal ascents along the Causeway Coastal Route to more leisurely, flatter sections. The region features dramatic clifftops, historic sites, and varied elevation, ensuring options for every cyclist.

How many road cycling routes can I explore in the Ballyness area?

There are over 35 road cycling routes available around Ballyness. These routes are categorized by difficulty, with 15 easy, 18 moderate, and 4 difficult options, providing a wide selection for all abilities.

What kind of terrain should I expect when road cycling near Ballyness?

The terrain around Ballyness is quite varied. You can expect dramatic coastal roads with significant climbs and descents, particularly around areas like Ballintoy. However, there are also relatively flat and traffic-free sections, especially in nearby areas like Coleraine and Ballymoney, making it suitable for different preferences.

Are there any family-friendly road cycling routes in Ballyness?

Yes, Ballyness offers several family-friendly options. Routes like the Old Bushmills Distillery – Portballintrae Bay loop from Bushmills are classified as easy, providing gentle terrain and scenic views suitable for a more relaxed ride with the family.

What are the most scenic points of interest along the road cycling routes?

Road cycling routes around Ballyness are rich with scenic points and landmarks. You can cycle past the iconic Giant's Causeway, the impressive ruins of Dunluce Castle perched on a cliff, and Dunseverick Castle. The Causeway Coastal Route itself offers breathtaking vistas of the Northern Irish coastline.

Are there challenging road cycling routes for experienced cyclists?

Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the View of Torr Head – The Old Bushmills Distillery loop from Portballintrae offer significant elevation gain and demanding coastal riding. The hilly terrain around Ballintoy also provides rigorous climbs and descents.

Can I find circular road cycling routes in the Ballyness area?

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Ballyness are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the The Old Bushmills Distillery – Dunluce Castle loop from Portballintrae and the The Old Bushmills Distillery – The Dark Hedges loop from Bushmills.

What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Ballyness?

The road cycling routes in Ballyness are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists frequently praise the dramatic coastal scenery, the unique geological formations, and the blend of historic sites with varied terrain that offers something for every ability.

Are there any cultural attractions or places to visit near the cycling routes?

Beyond the natural beauty, you can visit the famous Bushmills whiskey distillery and museum, located conveniently near many routes. Historic sites like Dunluce Castle and Dunseverick Castle also offer a glimpse into the region's rich past.

What is the best time of year to go road cycling in Ballyness?

While Ballyness offers cycling opportunities year-round, the spring and summer months (May to September) generally provide the most favorable weather conditions for road cycling, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. However, the coastal routes can be exposed, so checking local weather forecasts is always recommended.

Are there options for long-distance road cycling routes?

Yes, Ballyness is an excellent base for longer rides. Routes such as the View of Torr Head – The Old Bushmills Distillery loop from Portballintrae cover nearly 95 kilometers, offering an extensive journey through the region's stunning landscapes.

Where can I find parking for road cycling routes in Ballyness?

Many routes around Ballyness start from towns like Portballintrae or Bushmills, where public parking facilities are typically available. It's advisable to check specific starting points for designated parking areas or local car parks.

Most popular routes around Ballyness

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