Wild coastlines, quiet countryside, and some of the most scenic cycling routes in the UK. Here are some of the best roads to cycle in Northern Ireland.
Northern Ireland is one of the most underrated cycling destinations in the United Kingdom. With dramatic coastlines, rolling countryside, historic castles, and quiet rural roads, it offers an incredible variety of cycling terrain within a relatively compact region.
From the famous Causeway Coastal Route to remote mountain roads in the Mourne Mountains, Northern Ireland provides spectacular rides for road cyclists who enjoy scenery as much as distance.
Whether you’re planning a cycling holiday or simply looking for your next adventure ride, here are some of the best roads to cycle in Northern Ireland.
The Causeway Coastal Route
The Causeway Coastal Route is widely regarded as one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world — and it’s just as spectacular by bike.
Stretching roughly 200 km between Belfast and Derry/Londonderry, the route follows the rugged Antrim coastline with incredible views of cliffs, beaches, and the Atlantic Ocean.
Highlights along the ride include:
- The famous Giant’s Causeway
- Dramatic cliffside roads
- The historic Dunluce Castle
- The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
The terrain is constantly rolling, with short climbs and sweeping descents that make for exciting road riding.
The Mourne Mountains
Located in County Down, the Mourne Mountains offer some of the best climbing terrain in Northern Ireland.
The roads here wind through dramatic mountain landscapes with incredible views across valleys and lakes.
One of the most famous cycling roads is Spelga Pass, a beautiful mountain route that climbs steadily through the heart of the Mournes.
Why cyclists love it:
- Quiet mountain roads
- Challenging climbs
- Dramatic scenery
- Very little traffic
For riders who enjoy climbing, the Mourne Mountains are a must-visit.
The Antrim Coast Road
The Antrim Coast Road forms part of the Causeway Coastal Route but deserves special mention.
This stretch between Larne and Ballycastle features dramatic coastal riding with the road carved directly into the cliffs.
Cyclists can enjoy:
- Stunning views of the North Channel
- Rolling terrain perfect for endurance rides
- Quiet stretches of road away from towns
- Beautiful coastal villages
On clear days, you can even see the coast of Scotland across the water.
Lough Erne Loop (County Fermanagh)
For a more relaxed ride, the roads around Lough Erne in County Fermanagh offer peaceful countryside cycling.
This region is known for its beautiful lakes, rolling farmland, and quiet rural roads.
Highlights include:
- Scenic lakeside riding
- Low traffic levels
- Gentle rolling hills
- Historic villages and countryside views
It’s perfect for cyclists who enjoy longer endurance rides in calm surroundings.
The Sperrin Mountains
The Sperrin Mountains are one of Northern Ireland’s most remote and untouched regions.
This area offers fantastic cycling for riders who enjoy quiet roads and rugged landscapes.
Expect:
- Long open roads through hills and valleys
- Very little traffic
- Beautiful panoramic views
- A sense of complete wilderness
It’s one of the best places in Northern Ireland for cyclists looking to escape busy roads.
Why Northern Ireland Is Great for Road Cycling
Northern Ireland offers a unique cycling experience thanks to several factors.
Quiet rural roads
Outside major towns, many roads are peaceful and ideal for cycling.
Varied terrain
Cyclists can enjoy coastal riding, mountain climbs, and rolling countryside.
Spectacular scenery
From rugged cliffs to green valleys, the landscapes are incredibly diverse.
Compact geography
Many great routes are within short distances of each other, making it easy to plan multi-day rides.
Best Time to Cycle in Northern Ireland
The most popular months for cycling are:
May to September
During this period, the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. Spring and early autumn often provide particularly beautiful scenery.
However, riders should always be prepared for quick weather changes, especially along the coast.
Final Thoughts
Northern Ireland may be small, but it offers some of the most beautiful and varied cycling in the UK.
From the dramatic cliffs of the Causeway Coast to the quiet mountain roads of the Mournes and Sperrin Mountains, every ride delivers incredible scenery and memorable roads.
For cyclists looking for adventure, stunning landscapes, and quiet routes away from crowds, Northern Ireland is a destination that truly deserves more attention.
Once you ride these roads, it’s easy to see why they’re among the best cycling routes on the island of Ireland. You can check out the best roads to cycle in Ireland here.
