The best walks and hikes around Cloghan

This guide focuses on the area around Cloghan in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland. The hikes featured are primarily centered around the River Roe valley, Roe Valley Country Park, and nearby woodlands like Cam Forest, close to towns such as Limavady.

Yes, the area is well-suited for families and casual walkers. A great option is the Cam Forest loop from Garvagh, which is a gentle 4.8 km walk through the woods. Many of the riverside paths are also flat and accessible.

Absolutely. Most of the popular routes in this area are designed as loops, so you can easily return to your starting point. For a short and scenic option, the River Walk loop from Whitehill is a 4 km circular path that follows the riverbank.

The River Roe is the main feature of many local trails. For an immersive experience, consider the Dogleap – Roe Valley Country Park loop from Limavady. This route offers excellent views as it winds through the country park alongside the river.

Many of the trails in public parks and forests, such as those in Roe Valley Country Park and Cam Forest, are suitable for walking with dogs. However, you should always keep your dog on a lead, especially near farmland or sensitive wildlife habitats, and follow any local signage.

The landscape is defined by gentle, rolling terrain. You can expect serene walks along the banks of the River Roe, paths through mature woodlands, and open parkland scenery within the Roe Valley Country Park. The routes generally feature minimal elevation change.

The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere of the riverside walks and the well-maintained paths through the forests.

This guide details a curated selection of the top hikes, but there are nearly 10 official trails to discover around Cloghan. They range from short, easy walks to more challenging routes.

The trails offer a good mix for different fitness levels. The majority are rated as easy, making them accessible to most people. There are also several moderate and a few difficult options for those seeking more of a challenge, often involving slightly more varied terrain or distance.

Yes, the Roe Valley Country Park is rich in history. The O Cahan's Rock loop from Whitehill takes you to a viewpoint named after the O'Cahan clan who once ruled the area. The park itself contains remnants of the linen industry, including old weirs and mill buildings.

After exploring the trails, the nearby town of Limavady offers a variety of pubs, cafes, and restaurants. It's a short drive from most trailheads in the Roe Valley Country Park and is the perfect place to relax and refuel.