The best road cycling routes around Ballynabarnish
4.7
(10)
884
riders
109
rides
Road cycling routes around Ballynabarnish offer varied terrain suitable for different skill levels. The region is characterized by rolling hills, rural landscapes, and quiet country lanes, providing an ideal environment for road cyclists. Cyclists can expect undulating terrain with moderate elevation gains, traversing areas rich in natural beauty such as forests and tranquil reservoirs. The area's road network supports diverse cycling experiences.
Best road cycling routes around Ballynabarnish
- The most popular road cycling route is View of Slemish – Glenarm…
Last updated: July 10, 2026
22
riders
82.7km
03:57
860m
860m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
19
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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8
riders
52.3km
02:19
440m
440m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
8
riders
70.6km
03:20
720m
720m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4
riders
32.3km
01:24
240m
240m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Ballynabarnish
Tips from the Community
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 Ladyship’s 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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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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This is a challenging climb along a tarmacked road with a gradual 6% gradient. The road snakes towards the Knockagh Monument, a war memorial perched atop Knockagh Hill. Located at 1,230 feet (390 m) above sea level, the memorial has wonderful views over Belfast. The tall basalt obelisk is the largest war memorial in Northern Ireland.
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Slemish, historically called Slieve Mish (from Irish: Sliabh Mis, meaning 'Mis's mountain') is a small mountain in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. It lies a few miles east of Ballymena, in the townland of Carnstroan. Tradition holds that Saint Patrick, enslaved as a youth, was brought to this area and tended sheep herds on Slemish, and that during this time he found God. Slemish is the remains of the plug of an extinct volcano. The plug is made of olivine dolerite and was formed during the Palaeogene period of the Earth's geological history. Its distinctive appearance —its upper reaches are very steep and rugged, in contrast to the tidy fields on its lower westward-facing slopes and the relatively flat bogland to the east— causes it to dominate the landscape for miles around. Slemish is within an Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) and, therefore, helps to protect and manage the fragile animal and plant communities that inhabit its slopes. An ideal location for bird watchers, large black ravens, buzzards, wheatears and meadow pipits can be seen regularly.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain and scenery can I expect while road cycling around Ballynabarnish?
Road cycling around Ballynabarnish, and the broader County Clare region, offers a diverse and dramatic landscape. You'll encounter a mix of rolling hills and scenic rural roads. The area is known for its breathtaking coastal views, unique karst landscapes like The Burren, and iconic sea cliffs such as the Cliffs of Moher. Routes often traverse picturesque villages and offer expansive river vistas, providing a varied and engaging cycling experience.
How many road cycling routes are available in the Ballynabarnish area?
There are over 130 road cycling routes available around Ballynabarnish, catering to various skill levels. This includes a good mix of easy, moderate, and challenging options for exploration.
Are there routes suitable for beginners or families looking for an easy ride?
Yes, Ballynabarnish offers several easy road cycling routes. For instance, the Antrim Castle Ruins – Antrim Castle Gardens loop from Templepatrick Park & Share is an easy 24.9-mile trail that leads through historical sites and parklands, perfect for a more relaxed ride.
Are there any challenging routes with significant climbs for experienced cyclists?
Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, routes like the Bernice Road Hill Climb loop from Ballyrobert offer a notable hill climb and significant elevation gain, providing a test of endurance with rewarding views. The region features 11 difficult routes, ensuring plenty of options for experienced riders.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Ballynabarnish?
The road cycling routes around Ballynabarnish are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 9 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, scenic loops, and the mix of rural roads that cater to different ability levels.
What are some notable attractions or landmarks I can see along the cycling routes?
While cycling around Ballynabarnish, you can explore several interesting landmarks. Routes may pass near historical sites such as Belfast Castle or the Belfast Peace Wall Murals. The broader County Clare region also features natural wonders like the Cliffs of Moher and the unique landscape of The Burren.
Are there loop routes available for road cycling in Ballynabarnish?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Ballynabarnish are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular View of Slemish – Descent Into Glenarm loop from Templepatrick and the Roadbike loop from Templepatrick Park & Share.
What is the best season for road cycling in County Clare?
County Clare, including the Ballynabarnish area, offers good cycling conditions for much of the year. However, the spring and summer months (April to September) generally provide the most favorable weather with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, making it ideal for exploring the coastal and inland routes.
Are there options for parking or public transport access to the cycling routes?
Yes, some routes offer convenient access points with parking. For example, the Antrim Castle Ruins – Antrim Castle Gardens loop starts from Templepatrick Park & Share, and there's also a Roadbike loop from Ballymartin Park & Ride, indicating designated areas for parking and potentially public transport connections.
Can I find cafes or pubs along the road cycling routes in the region?
Many road cycling routes in County Clare pass through charming villages and towns such as Ballyvaughan, Lahinch, and Doolin. These locations often provide opportunities to stop at local cafes, pubs, and restaurants, allowing you to refuel and experience local culture during your ride.
Are there any long-distance cycling routes that pass through or near Ballynabarnish?
While Ballynabarnish itself is a smaller locality, the broader County Clare region is part of the EuroVelo 1 Atlantic Coast Route. This long-distance route spans over 270 km within County Clare, primarily using quiet rural roads and connecting various natural and cultural attractions, offering extensive options for longer rides.
Where can I find more information about the natural attractions in County Clare?
For more detailed information on the natural attractions that define the stunning landscape of County Clare, you can visit visitclare.ie. This resource provides insights into features like the Cliffs of Moher, The Burren, and other scenic spots you might encounter on your rides.
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