The best cycling routes around Aghaboy Upper

There are 7 touring cycling routes documented in Aghaboy Upper, offering a range of experiences from easy loops to more challenging climbs within the Sperrins Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Yes, Aghaboy Upper offers easy routes perfect for beginners or families. The Bike loop from Loughmacrory is an easy 6.2-mile (9.9 km) trail that takes about 35 minutes to complete, leading through varied local terrain with minimal elevation gain.

The Sperrins Route 3 - Struel Valley Cycle Route is highly recommended for its scenic views of rivers and lakes. This 8.1-mile (13.1 km) route primarily uses paved surfaces, making for a smooth and picturesque ride through Gortin Glen Forest Park.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the region offers routes with significant elevation gain. The Gravel Path to Mullaghcarn – Campsite in Sperrins AONB loop from Tirmurty Hill is a moderate 8.4-mile (13.5 km) path that includes some unpaved segments and substantial climbing, providing a more strenuous touring option.

Yes, several routes in Aghaboy Upper are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Bike loop from Loughmacrory and the Campsite in Sperrins AONB – Gravel Path to Mullaghcarn loop from Tirmurty Hill, which is a moderate 9.5-mile (15.4 km) route.

Aghaboy Upper's touring cycling routes traverse diverse landscapes, including Gortin Glen Forest Park, which features rivers, lakes, hills, forests, and heathland. You might encounter captivating waterfalls, such as the Waterfall in Gortin Glen Forest Park, and potentially spot resident sika deer. Routes also pass between scenic bodies of water like Oak Lough and New Lough.

Yes, the region offers several notable landmarks and viewpoints. Cyclists can aim for the Mullaghcarn Summit for panoramic views or visit the unique Darach the Guardian Sculpture. Natural features like Barnes Gap also provide interesting sights along the way.

The terrain in Aghaboy Upper is varied, ranging from mostly paved surfaces on routes like the Sperrins Route 3 to routes that include some unpaved segments, particularly those with higher elevation gains. You'll encounter a mix of forest paths, lough-side trails, and rolling hills within the Sperrins AONB.

Touring cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes of Aghaboy Upper, particularly the combination of forest parks, loughs, and rolling hills within the Sperrins AONB. The variety of routes, from easy loops to more challenging climbs, is also frequently highlighted, catering to different ability levels.

Absolutely. Gortin Glen Forest Park is a central feature of the region's cycling. The Sperrins Route 3 - Struel Valley Cycle Route is a prime example, offering a scenic 5-mile forest drive that showcases the park's best views, including rivers, lakes, and waterfalls.

The longest touring cycling route is the Gravel Path to Mullaghcarn – Campsite in Sperrins AONB loop from Tirmurty Hill, which spans 8.4 miles (13.5 km) and typically takes around 1 hour 30 minutes to complete, offering a significant elevation gain.