The best road cycling routes around Upper Alla
3.5
(2)
26
riders
5
rides
Road cycling routes around Upper Alla offer a range of experiences across varied terrain. The region features routes with significant elevation gains, suitable for cyclists seeking challenging climbs, alongside more moderate options. Distances vary, providing options for both shorter rides and longer excursions.
Best road cycling routes around Upper Alla
- The most popular road cycling route is Donemana to Derry loop, a 28.8 miles (46.4 km) trail that takes 2 hours 13 minutes to complete. This moderate route featuresβ¦
Last updated: June 29, 2026
3.0
(1)
9
riders
46.4km
02:13
490m
490m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.0
(1)
1
riders
102km
05:08
1,350m
1,340m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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6
riders
34.7km
01:40
350m
350m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3
riders
31.3km
01:24
310m
310m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Popular around Upper Alla
Tips from the Community
The Newtownstewart Stone Bridge is an elegant 18th-century monument that spans the River Mourne with six characteristic arches. This robust stone structure not only forms an important link on the route south, but also offers one of the most beautiful photo opportunities in the region, with a picturesque view of the babbling water and the nearby Stewart Castle.
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The "Let the Dance Begin" sculptures are an imposing tribute to peace and culture on the border of Lifford and Strabane. These five giant steel figures β musicians and dancers β symbolize the connection between North and South. Locally, they are known as The Tinnies and form an indispensable modern landmark for any cyclist crossing the River Foyle.
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Situated on a site adjacent to the Strabane bypass, the 'Let the Dance Begin' sculpture by Maurice Harron is an ensemble of five stainless steel and bronze figures. Commissioned by the former Strabane District Council in collaboration with the Strabane Lifford Development Commission, this artwork symbolises the transition to the new millennium. The statues, standing at an impressive height of approximately 30 foot (10 m) have affectionately been named "The Tinnies" by the locals.
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Learmount Wood is located at the foothills of the northern face of the Sperrins in Northern Ireland. The forest features a wonderful diversity of tree species, including some that have been there for over 100 years. It's a beautiful place for a stroll, featuring a stream and an abandoned mansion dating back to the 1830s.
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Newtownstewart is a historic village with Baronscourt Castle as a notable attraction. Nestled in the scenic Sperrin Mountains, it offers outdoor activities like hiking and boasts a heritage-rich atmosphere with well-preserved architecture.
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Altinaghree Castle is also known as Liscloon House and it thought to have been built in 1860 by William Ogilby
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Newtownstewart Bridge spans the Strule River on its way north to meet Fairy Water and Owenkillew.
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A great place to stop and refuel. Take a few moments to enjoy the peace
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Upper Alla?
There are 5 road cycling routes around Upper Alla, offering a range of experiences for different skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Upper Alla?
The road cycling routes around Upper Alla feature varied terrain, including significant elevation gains for those seeking challenging climbs, as well as more moderate options. You'll encounter diverse landscapes throughout the region.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly road cycling routes in Upper Alla?
While there are no routes specifically graded as 'easy' in the current selection, several routes are classified as 'moderate'. These include the Donemana to Derry loop (46.4 km with 488 meters elevation gain) and the Gosheden Wood loop from Legaghory (34.5 km with 351 meters elevation gain), which might be suitable for cyclists looking for less strenuous options compared to the more difficult routes.
What are some of the more challenging road cycling routes in Upper Alla?
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the Draperstown, Gortin and Plumbridge loop β Sperrins is a difficult route spanning 102.3 km with a substantial 1,346 meters of elevation gain.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Upper Alla?
The komoot community highly rates the routes in Upper Alla, with an average score of 3.5 stars. Cyclists often appreciate the varied terrain and the options available for different ability levels, from moderate rides to more difficult challenges.
Are there any circular road cycling routes in Upper Alla?
Yes, several routes are designed as loops. Examples include the Donemana to Derry loop, the Draperstown, Gortin and Plumbridge loop β Sperrins, and the Newtownstewart Stone Bridge β Let the Dance Begin Sculptures loop from Derry and Strabane District.
What landmarks or natural features can I see along the road cycling routes?
While cycling, you might encounter various points of interest. Nearby attractions include historical sites like Learmount Castle, scenic viewpoints such as Moor Lough, and natural monuments like Mullaghclogha Summit. The Draperstown, Gortin and Plumbridge loop, for instance, takes you through the Sperrins region, known for its natural beauty.
Are there any routes that pass through or near specific natural features?
Yes, the Draperstown, Gortin and Plumbridge loop traverses the Sperrins, an area renowned for its scenic landscapes and natural trails, including the Sperrins Ridgeline. Additionally, the Gosheden Wood loop from Legaghory and Learmount Wood loop from Claudy offer routes through wooded areas.
What is the typical duration for road cycling routes in Upper Alla?
Route durations vary significantly. For example, the Donemana to Derry loop typically takes around 2 hours 13 minutes, while the longer Draperstown, Gortin and Plumbridge loop can take over 5 hours.
Are there any road cycling routes that offer scenic viewpoints?
Many routes in the region offer scenic views due to the varied terrain and elevation. For instance, the Sperrins area, which is part of the Draperstown, Gortin and Plumbridge loop, is known for its expansive vistas. Keep an eye out for highlights like Moor Lough, which offers picturesque views.
Are there any road cycling routes that pass by historical sites?
Yes, some routes are in proximity to historical sites. For example, the area around Upper Alla features Learmount Castle, which could be a point of interest during your ride.
Most popular routes around Upper Alla
Most popular attractions around Upper Alla
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