The best road cycling routes around Gortacloghan
21
riders
9
rides
Road cycling routes around Gortacloghan traverse a landscape characterized by rolling terrain and a mix of open countryside and forested areas. The region features historical landmarks such as St Lurach's Church Ruins and natural elements like Pollan Burn. Elevation gains on these routes are moderate, indicating a varied profile suitable for road cycling. The area offers a network of paths that connect local villages and points of interest.
Best road cycling routes around Gortacloghan
- The most popular road cycling route…
Last updated: July 9, 2026
9
riders
53.9km
02:20
430m
430m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4
riders
34.8km
01:29
260m
260m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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3
riders
43.4km
01:53
300m
300m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
3
riders
45.8km
02:02
370m
370m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
2
riders
32.7km
01:34
210m
210m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Popular around Gortacloghan
Tips from the Community
Contained within the ruins is a sculpture of the crucifixion, which is thought to date from the 10th Century, making it one of the oldest in Ireland. St Lurach founded an important church here in the 6th century. It was plundered by Vikings in 832 and burned in 1135. Following the 12th-century ecclesiastical reforms this was the seat of a bishop from the mid 12th to the mid 13th century, then served as parish church until the new church across the road was built in the early 19th century. This long history is reflected in the much patched and altered fabric, and the big uneven graveyard.
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It's quite an unusual experience stumbling into a pyramid in the middle of an Irish forest! This pyramid was built in the 19th century as a burial chamber for Lord Garvagh and is a lovelly feature to the forest today.
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If there's a good bench out in the wild then it's always a good idea to take a rest. You never know when you'll fund another bench.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Gortacloghan?
There are nearly 10 dedicated road cycling routes around Gortacloghan, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels to explore the region's unique landscape.
Are there any easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Gortacloghan?
Yes, Gortacloghan offers routes suitable for beginners. An excellent option is the St Lurach's Church Ruins loop from Pollan Burn, which is 34.7 km long and classified as easy, guiding you through historical sites and along natural waterways.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Gortacloghan?
Road cycling routes in Gortacloghan traverse a landscape characterized by rolling terrain, with a mix of open countryside and forested areas. You'll encounter moderate elevation gains, making for a varied and engaging ride.
Are there any circular road cycling routes in the Gortacloghan area?
Many routes around Gortacloghan are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the popular St Lurach's Church Ruins – Bench Under a Large Tree loop from Pollan Burn is a 53.8 km circular route that includes historical sites and scenic viewpoints.
What are some notable landmarks or scenic stops along the road cycling routes?
Cyclists can enjoy historical landmarks such as St Lurach's Church Ruins and the unique Garvagh Pyramid. Routes like the Garvagh Pyramid – Garvagh Forest Trails loop from Kilrea will take you past these points of interest, offering scenic breaks.
Are there challenging road cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
While Gortacloghan's routes are generally moderate, the longer loops offer a good challenge. The St Lurach's Church Ruins – Bench Under a Large Tree loop from Pollan Burn, at 53.8 km with over 400 meters of elevation gain, provides a substantial ride for those looking for a longer endurance test.
What do other road cyclists say about the routes in Gortacloghan?
The komoot community frequently explores Gortacloghan, with over 20 road cyclists having used the platform to discover the area. They often praise the varied terrain, which includes historical landmarks, forest trails, and open countryside, offering options for different ability levels.
Are there routes that explore forested areas in Gortacloghan?
Yes, several routes guide you through forested areas. The Garvagh Pyramid – Garvagh Forest Trails loop from Pollan Burn is a great example, taking you through the Garvagh Forest trails for a refreshing ride amidst nature.
What is the typical duration for road cycling routes in Gortacloghan?
Route durations vary depending on length and difficulty. An easy route like the St Lurach's Church Ruins loop from Pollan Burn can be completed in about 1 hour 28 minutes, while longer moderate routes may take over 2 hours, such as the St Lurach's Church Ruins – Bench Under a Large Tree loop from Pollan Burn.
Can I find routes that connect local villages around Gortacloghan?
The road cycling network around Gortacloghan is designed to connect local villages and points of interest. Routes often start from or pass through places like Pollan Burn, Kilrea, and Garvagh, allowing you to experience the local charm.
Are there any shorter road cycling routes for a quick ride?
For a quicker ride, consider the Garvagh Pyramid – Garvagh Forest Trails loop from Garvagh. This moderate route is 32.7 km long and can typically be completed in under 1 hour 40 minutes, offering a good workout without committing to a very long day.
Most popular routes around Gortacloghan
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