Highlight • Forest
Lagan Towpath
Cycling
5.0
(47)
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Lagan Valley AONB
Tips
September 24, 2023
Cycling
January 30, 2023
Cycling
September 9, 2022
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Lagan Towpath
3.5
(2)
6
riders
39.4km
02:40
480m
480m
Embark on a challenging touring bicycle adventure with the Hilden to the Black Mountain loop, a difficult 24.5-mile (39.4 km) route that takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes to complete. You will gain 1563 feet (477 metres) in elevation as you cycle through peaceful riverbank environments, extensive woodlands, and varied meadows. The trail offers diverse scenery, winding alongside the River Lagan before ascending towards Black Mountain, where you can enjoy elevated views across the valley.
This loop is rated as a hard bike ride, requiring very good fitness due to its significant ascents, especially the climb to Black Mountain. While the route features mostly paved surfaces, making it generally suitable for touring bikes, be prepared for some unpaved segments where you might need to push your bike. Plan your ride to account for these challenging sections.
The Hilden to Black Mountain loop is a popular and highly-rated touring cycling route within the Lagan Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It forms part of the larger Lagan and Lough National Cycle Network Route 9, providing a traffic-free link. As you ride, you will pass through the Lagan Valley Regional Park, known for its rich flora and fauna, and historical sites like the Giant's Ring archaeological site.
3.5
(2)
3
riders
37.7km
02:33
460m
470m
Embark on a difficult touring bicycle adventure with the Divis & Black Mountain loop, a challenging 23.5 miles (37.7 km) ride that climbs 1523 feet (464 metres) and takes around 2 hours and 32 minutes to complete. Starting from Lanyon Place in Belfast, you will quickly transition from urban streets to rugged landscapes. The terrain varies greatly, featuring gravel paths, stony roadways, and sections of heathland and blanket bog. As you ascend Divis and Black Mountain, you'll be rewarded with expansive panoramic views stretching across Belfast, Lough Neagh, and even as far as Scotland on a clear day. Be prepared for steep ascents and varied surfaces, making this route best suited for experienced touring cyclists seeking a strenuous ride. You will encounter grassland and heathland bog, which can be muddy, especially on the northern slope of Divis Mountain.
This loop begins conveniently from Lanyon Place in Belfast, offering good accessibility from the city centre. While the route is challenging, it is also multi-use, so you will share the trails with walkers. Ensure you have appropriate cycling equipment and a good level of fitness for the significant elevation gain and demanding terrain. Some sections include roughly-stoned and stepped ascents, so plan your visit during dry conditions to avoid overly muddy paths.
Beyond the physical challenge, this route offers a rich historical and natural experience. From the summit of Divis, you can see the trigonometry pillar, which was the first point used in mapping Ireland in 1825. The area also holds archaeological significance, with remains of a Bronze Age homestead, and was used as a rifle range during the Second World War. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife as you traverse the varied landscape of grassland and heathland bog.
4.0
(1)
1
riders
32.4km
02:09
410m
410m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Elevation 20 m
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