The best road cycling routes around Bradkeel

Road cycling around Bradkeel primarily takes you through the scenic foothills of the Sperrin Mountains, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You'll encounter rugged mountains, sweeping moorland vistas, and lush glens, providing a varied and often challenging terrain. The broader Sperrin Mountains are known for circuits with steep gradients, rewarding climbs, and descents.

While there are no routes specifically classified as 'easy' in the immediate Bradkeel area, there are two moderate routes that might be suitable for cyclists with some experience. These include the Newtownstewart Stone Bridge – Let the Dance Begin Sculptures loop from Derry and Strabane District, a 34.3-mile path, and the Goles Stone Row loop from Glenelly, which is 33.2 miles long.

For experienced road cyclists seeking a challenge, Bradkeel serves as an excellent base for exploring difficult routes within the Sperrin Mountains. Two notable difficult routes are the Draperstown, Gortin and Plumbridge loop — Sperrins, a 63.6-mile trail with significant elevation, and the Gortin Town Centre – Learmount Wood loop from Gortin, which covers 85.7 km with over 1000 meters of ascent.

Yes, all the featured road cycling routes around Bradkeel are designed as loops, offering circular journeys. Examples include the challenging Draperstown, Gortin and Plumbridge loop — Sperrins and the moderate Newtownstewart Stone Bridge – Let the Dance Begin Sculptures loop from Derry and Strabane District.

The region offers numerous scenic spots. You can encounter natural monuments like Barnes Gap, or enjoy views of Sperrins Ridgeline. The area also features several beautiful lakes, such as Moor Lough, Oak Lough, and New Lough, which are part of the unique wetlands and raised bogs in the area.

Yes, some routes incorporate cultural points of interest. For example, the Newtownstewart Stone Bridge – Let the Dance Begin Sculptures loop from Derry and Strabane District winds through scenic landscapes with cultural highlights. Additionally, the Goles Stone Row loop from Glenelly leads through the scenic Glenelly Valley, featuring ancient stone rows. You might also pass by historic sites like Learmount Castle.

The Sperrin Mountains, including the Bradkeel area, are best enjoyed during the warmer and drier months, typically from late spring through early autumn. This period offers more predictable weather conditions, making for more comfortable and scenic rides through the rugged landscapes and glens.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Road cyclists often praise the challenging yet rewarding terrain, the stunning natural beauty of the Sperrin Mountains, and the peaceful country roads that allow for immersive cycling experiences away from heavy traffic.

Bradkeel Forest is a 140-hectare upland coniferous forest. While it welcomes visitors on foot and is managed for commercial timber production, the primary focus for cycling in the Bradkeel area is on the extensive network of small and minor roads that traverse the broader Sperrin Mountains. For more information on the forest, you can visit nidirect.gov.uk.

Yes, the Bradkeel Social Farm, a working sheep farm, offers a unique eco-tourism experience. It's explicitly part of the 'Cycle Sperrins' route, making it a potential cultural and leisurely stop for cyclists exploring the region. Here, you can engage in mindfulness walks, learn about farm life, and explore local folklore and native plants.

There are four distinct road cycling routes featured directly around Bradkeel, offering a range of moderate to difficult challenges. These routes provide a great starting point for exploring the wider Sperrin Mountains region.