Things to Do around Ballykeel

Ballykeel offers a range of outdoor activities including touring cycling, hiking, road cycling, and jogging. The region features diverse landscapes such as ancient woodlands, serene lakes, and varied terrain. More than 2,900 visitors have explored routes in Ballykeel.

Ballykeel has more than 2,900 visitors who have explored routes in the area. The available routes have an average rating of 4.73 out of 5 stars, based on 140 ratings.

Ballykeel offers various hiking trails, from easy strolls to challenging ascents. Notable options include the "Black Hill loop" (8.1 miles [13.0 km], moderate) and routes within Carnfunnock Country Park (1.7 miles [2.69 km], easy). The Gobbins Coastal Walk provides a unique cliff-face experience. For more options, explore the Hiking around Ballykeel guide.

Yes, Ballykeel provides options for touring cycling. The ecos Cycle Trail is a 17-mile route between Ballymena and Glenarm, traversing the Antrim Plateau with both on-road and traffic-free sections. This trail offers views of Slemish. More touring routes can be found in the Cycling around Ballykeel guide.

Ballykeel is noted for road cycling with several identified routes. The Kilkeel Cycle Route, near Ballykeel, offers a 28-mile exploration passing Carlingford Lough and Silent Valley Reservoir. This route includes some hilly sections with rewarding views. Detailed information is available in the Road Cycling Routes around Ballykeel guide.

The ecos Cycle Trail includes traffic-free sections suitable for families. Carnfunnock Country Park also offers easy walking trails that can be suitable for family cycling. For more options, consult the Cycling around Ballykeel guide.

Ballykeel offers diverse natural landscapes ideal for jogging. Routes include the Running loop from Eskragh (2.9 miles [4.7 km], gentle path) and the Running loop from Dunbiggan (3.1 miles [5.0 km], varied terrain). Hillsborough Forest Park also provides serene running environments. Find more options in the Running Trails around Ballykeel guide.

Ballykeel features several natural landmarks. Slemish is a distinctive volcanic plug offering panoramic views. The Ring of Gullion is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty formed from an ancient volcano. Belfast Lough provides expansive views along certain routes.

The Ballykeel Dolmen and Cairn are significant historical monuments located within the Ring of Gullion. Blackhead Lighthouse also stands as a man-made monument marking the northern edge of Belfast Lough. The region combines natural beauty with historical significance.

Komoot offers several guides for Ballykeel, including Cycling around Ballykeel, Hiking around Ballykeel, Road Cycling Routes around Ballykeel, Running Trails around Ballykeel, and Easy hikes around Ballykeel.

For general information about the Mid and East Antrim area, which includes parts of Ballykeel, the official website is midandeastantrim.gov.uk. The phone number for inquiries is +443001245000. Specific outdoor activity details are available on komoot guides.

Yes, Ballykeel offers several natural areas for exploration. Hillsborough Forest Park features ancient woodlands and picturesque lakes. Ballyboley Forest contains 70 different native tree species. Carnfunnock Country Park blends natural beauty with sprawling gardens and walking trails.