The best road cycling routes around Bushtown

Bushtown offers a diverse selection of road cycling routes, with over 35 options available. These include 15 easy routes, 19 moderate routes, and 3 more challenging trails, catering to various skill levels.

Yes, Bushtown has 15 easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. A great option is the Causeway Coast Cycle Route: Coleraine to Bushmills Loop, which is 20.4 miles (32.8 km) and takes about 1 hour 28 minutes to complete.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Bushtown offers 3 difficult routes. One notable option is the View of Torr Head – Dunluce Castle loop from Coleraine, a demanding 74.2-mile (119.5 km) ride with significant elevation gain, typically taking over 5 hours.

Many of the road cycling routes around Bushtown are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Portstewart Promenade – View of Portrush Harbour loop from Coleraine and the Dunluce Castle – Magheracross Viewing Point loop from Coleraine.

Road cycling routes in Bushtown often feature stunning coastal views and historic sites. You might pass by the Portstewart Promenade, enjoy the View of Portstewart, Benone Beach, and Donegal from Harbour Hill, or see historic buildings like Hezlett House. Many routes also offer expansive views of the Causeway Coast.

Many road cycling routes around Bushtown begin or pass through towns like Coleraine, Portstewart, and Portrush, where public parking is generally available. Specific parking areas, such as near Castlerock Beach, can serve as convenient starting points for coastal rides.

The main towns in the Bushtown area, such as Coleraine, are well-connected by public transport, including train and bus services. You can often start your ride directly from these towns, which serve as natural trailheads for many routes.

The best time for road cycling in Bushtown is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is milder and drier. This period offers the most pleasant conditions for enjoying the coastal scenery and open roads.

Winter road cycling in Bushtown can be challenging due to colder temperatures, increased rainfall, and stronger winds, especially along the exposed coastline. While some dedicated cyclists ride year-round, conditions are less predictable, and shorter daylight hours require careful planning.

Yes, many routes around Bushtown pass through or near seaside towns and villages like Portstewart, Portrush, and Bushmills, which offer numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops for refreshments. For example, the Sea Shed Coffee & Fruit – Mussenden Temple loop from Coleraine explicitly mentions a coffee stop in its name.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Bushtown, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists frequently praise the region's stunning coastal roads, the variety of terrain from flat sections to gentle climbs, and the opportunity to pass by historic landmarks and scenic viewpoints.