The best road cycling routes around Glengomna

There are 8 road cycling routes in Glengomna, catering to various fitness levels. These routes range from moderate to very difficult, offering significant challenges for experienced cyclists.

Glengomna offers diverse and challenging terrain, characterized by significant elevation gains. You'll encounter hilly to mountainous landscapes, with some routes reaching over 1,700 meters in elevation. The region features a mix of well-paved roads and some unpaved segments, providing varied scenery from rugged coastlines to mountainous backdrops.

Yes, Glengomna is known for its challenging climbs. For instance, the Lough Lark – Goles Stone Row loop from Feeny Road Bus Stop is a difficult 109.1 km route with over 1,700 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Let the Dance Begin Sculptures – Bench Under a Large Tree loop from Maghera, which covers 133.9 km with over 1,600 meters of climbing.

While cycling, you can discover several natural monuments and viewpoints. Consider visiting Sawel Mountain Summit for panoramic views, or the ancient Beaghmore Stone Circles. The View of the Gallion Mountains and County Londonderry also offers a stunning vista.

Yes, while many routes are challenging, there is a moderate option. The Goles Stone Row loop from Glenelly is a 53.4 km trail through hilly terrain, typically completed in about 2 hours 38 minutes, offering a less strenuous yet scenic experience.

The changing seasons, particularly autumn, bring a kaleidoscope of colors to the landscapes, enhancing the visual experience for cyclists. However, the region's diverse terrain and often challenging conditions mean that spring and summer generally offer more predictable weather for road cycling.

Glengomna offers routes exceeding 100 km, providing potential for longer rides. For example, the Auld Bank Coffee Shop – Bench Under a Large Tree loop from Magherafelt is 103.5 km, and the Let the Dance Begin Sculptures – Bench Under a Large Tree loop from Maghera is 133.9 km, making them suitable for extended cycling adventures.

Beyond road cycling, the region offers a wealth of outdoor activities. You can enjoy water-based activities like sea kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, particularly in coastal and lake areas. There are also extensive networks of footpaths for hiking and walking, and for adrenaline seekers, options like abseiling, gorge walking, and rock climbing are available.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Glengomna are designed as loops. Examples include the Lough Lark – Goles Stone Row loop from Feeny Road Bus Stop, the Auld Bank Coffee Shop – Bench Under a Large Tree loop from Magherafelt, and the Goles Stone Row loop from Glenelly, all offering circular journeys.

The area boasts several natural attractions. You can find Blanket Bog and Turf Information Boards Near Crockmore Peak, explore the serene Altnaheglish Reservoir, or visit Lough Fea. These natural wonders provide beautiful backdrops and points of interest during your rides.

The duration of road cycling routes in Glengomna varies significantly based on length and difficulty. For example, the moderate Goles Stone Row loop from Glenelly typically takes around 2 hours 38 minutes, while more difficult and longer routes like the Lough Lark – Goles Stone Row loop from Feeny Road Bus Stop can take approximately 5 hours 46 minutes.