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United Kingdom
Northern Ireland
Limavady

Ballydonegan

The best running trails around Ballydonegan

21

runners

3

runs

Jogging around Ballydonegan offers routes through a landscape characterized by rugged coastline, dramatic mountain scenery, and unique geological features. The region features a distinctive beach with crushed quartz sand, a result of historical mining operations. Jogging routes often traverse minor roads, coastal paths, and hillside tracks, providing varied terrain. Remnants of old copper mine buildings are visible along some trails, adding a historical dimension to the natural environment.

Best jogging routes around Ballydonegan

  • The most popular jogging route is Banagher…

Last updated: April 30, 2026

18

runners

#1.

Banagher Glen Forest Trail

11.9km

01:28

260m

260m

Jog the moderate 7.4-mile Banagher Glen Forest Trail through ancient oak woodlands to Altnaheglish Reservoir, with Sperrin Mountain views.

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Moderate

Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard
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Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

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Popular around Ballydonegan

Hiking around Ballydonegan

Road Cycling Routes around Ballydonegan

Cycling around Ballydonegan

Tips from the Community

Feargal McEneaney
June 23, 2025, Sawel Mountain Summit

Wear waterproof shoes/boots because even on the longest day of the year it's still wet underfoot

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Banagher Forest is a large coniferous woodland featuring beautiful sitka spruce and peat covered slopes. It is one of the oldest ancient woodlands in the whole of Ireland and a real hidden gem. The tracks around the forest are paved and undulating, making this a wonderful location for a jog.

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Enjoy some peace and serenity as you jog along the shores of the beautiful and calm Altnaheglish Reservoir, situated in the Sperring Area of Natural Beauty. The reservoir is located in the Banagher Forest, which is home to some of the oldest ancient oak woodlands in Ireland. It's a true place of beauty!

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Sawel Mountain stands at 678m and is the highest peak in the Sperrins range, and the 8th highest in Northern Ireland. The vegetation around the summit consists of montane heathland, featuring a medley of plant life including heather, bilberries and cowberries. From the summit, you can enjoy uninterrupted views across the countryside of County Londonderry and Tyrone. It's all downhill from this point on, so you can enjoy a scenic descent back to the carpark.

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The beautiful winding road of Tamnagh takes you through the heart of Sperrins AONB. You can enjoy views toward the Sperrins ridge including mountains Sawel, Dart, and Mullaghdoo. It's a tough climb up in this section, but the views at the top will make it all worthwhile.

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Sawel Mountain stands at 678m and is the highest peak in the Sperrins range, and the 8th highest in Northern Ireland. The vegetation around the summit consists of montane heathland, featuring a medley of plant life including heather, bilberries and cowberries. From the summit, you can enjoy uninterrupted views across the countryside of County Londonderry and Tyrone.

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Enjoy some peace and serenity as you walk along the shores of the beautiful and calm Altnaheglish Reservoir, situated in the Sperring Area of Natural Beauty. The reservoir is located in the Banagher Forest, which is home to some of the oldest ancient oak woodlands in Ireland. It's a true place of beauty!

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many running routes are available around Ballydonegan?

There are currently 3 dedicated running routes around Ballydonegan on komoot, offering a range of difficulties from moderate to difficult. These trails allow you to explore the region's rugged coastline and mountain scenery.

Are there any easy running trails for beginners in Ballydonegan?

While the listed routes tend towards moderate and difficult, the region's extensive network of minor roads and coastal paths offers opportunities for easier, self-guided runs. For a moderate option, the Banagher Glen Forest Trail is a good starting point, covering 11.9 km through a forest setting.

What kind of terrain can I expect on Ballydonegan's jogging routes?

Jogging routes around Ballydonegan feature a diverse mix of terrain. You'll encounter minor roads, picturesque coastal paths, and challenging hillside tracks. The landscape is characterized by rugged coastlines, dramatic mountain backdrops, and even unique quartz sand beaches, offering a varied experience for runners.

Are there any circular running routes in the Ballydonegan area?

Yes, Ballydonegan offers circular running options. For example, the Standing Stone – Rath loop from Straidarran is a 10 km trail that leads through varied landscapes, providing a complete loop experience.

What historical sights or landmarks can I see while running in Ballydonegan?

As you run through Ballydonegan, you'll encounter remnants of the area's rich history, particularly its copper mining past. Disused mine sites and old mine buildings are visible along some routes, adding a unique historical dimension to the natural beauty. Additionally, you might pass by natural monuments like Blanket Bog and Turf Information Boards Near Crockmore Peak.

Are there any challenging mountain running loops in Ballydonegan?

For experienced runners seeking a challenge, the Dart and Sawel Mountain running loop β€” Sperrins is a difficult 20.1 km path. This route features significant elevation changes across mountain terrain, offering a demanding workout with rewarding views.

What are some natural attractions or points of interest near the running trails?

The Ballydonegan area is rich in natural beauty. Runners can explore the unique Banagher Forest, or discover the serene Altnaheglish Reservoir. For panoramic views, the Sawel Mountain Summit is a prominent natural monument in the vicinity.

What makes Ballydonegan's coastal running unique?

Ballydonegan's coastal running is unique due to its distinctive Ballydonegan Beach, which features near-white sand composed of crushed quartz from historical copper mining. The bay is wild and unspoiled, sheltered by mountains, offering a peaceful escape with rugged cliffs and panoramic ocean views, particularly of Ballydonegan Bay and Cod Head.

What do other runners say about the trails in Ballydonegan?

More than 20 runners have used komoot to explore Ballydonegan's varied terrain. They often praise the region's rugged coastlines, dramatic mountain backdrops, and the unique quartz sand beaches that define the running experience here.

Are there any forest trails suitable for jogging in Ballydonegan?

Yes, the Banagher Glen Forest Trail is a popular 11.9 km moderate route that leads through a beautiful forest setting, offering a different kind of scenery compared to the coastal and mountain paths.

Is the Allihies-Ballydonegan Loop suitable for jogging?

Yes, the Allihies-Ballydonegan Loop, which is part of the longer Beara Way, is ideal for joggers seeking varied terrain. This significant looped trail incorporates minor roads, picturesque coastline, and challenging hillside tracks, providing a diverse workout with constantly changing scenery. It's a great way to experience the region's natural beauty and historical context.

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