The best cycling routes around Tyrone

Tyrone offers a diverse range of touring cycling experiences. You'll find challenging mountain passes and scenic valleys within the Sperrin Mountains, tranquil lakeside paths around Lough Neagh, and extensive forest trails in areas like Gortin Glen Forest Park. The routes cater to various fitness levels, from gentle rides on quiet country lanes to more demanding climbs.

Yes, Tyrone has options suitable for families. The Loughshore Trail Cycle Route around Lough Neagh, for example, offers an 80-mile path designed for leisurely rides on mostly flat, quiet country lanes. Gortin Glen Forest Park also features scenic forest drives that can be enjoyed by families.

The most prominent natural features for touring cyclists are the Sperrin Mountains, offering dramatic landscapes and challenging climbs, and Lough Neagh, providing serene lakeside cycling. Gortin Glen Forest Park is another key attraction with its extensive forest trails and scenic viewpoints like Ladies Viewpoint.

Many routes in Tyrone are designed as loops or can be adapted for circular journeys. For instance, the 'Park & Barnes Gap loop from Plumbridge' offers a challenging circular route through the Sperrins. The 'Lap the Lough' event, while a sportive, traces a 144km loop around Lough Neagh, and smaller sections of the Loughshore Trail can be ridden as circular routes.

Tyrone is rich in history. You can explore ancient sites like the Beaghmore Stone Circles, visit the Ulster American Folk Park to learn about emigration, or see Tullyhogue Fort, a historic O'Neill inauguration site. Other notable places include Lissan House, Benburb Valley Park and Castle, and the Ardboe Cross near Lough Neagh.

While specific routes may vary, areas popular with cyclists like Davagh Forest, Gortin Glen Forest Park, and An Creagán often have visitor centers or are located near towns that offer cafes, pubs, and accommodation. It's advisable to check local amenities for your chosen route in advance.

The best time for touring cycling in Tyrone is generally during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. This allows for more comfortable riding and better enjoyment of the scenic landscapes, especially in the Sperrin Mountains.

Absolutely. The Sperrin Mountains offer several challenging routes. The 'Park & Barnes Gap loop from Plumbridge' is a demanding 54.4km route with significant elevation gain. The 'Sawel Cycle Route' also traverses scenic valleys and hill passes, including Sawel Pass at 320 meters, providing a good test for experienced cyclists.

The touring cycling routes in Tyrone are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 54 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from the dramatic uplands of the Sperrins to the tranquil lakeside paths, and the opportunity to explore the region's natural beauty and historical sites.

Generally, public roads and designated cycle paths in Tyrone do not require special permits for touring cycling. However, for specific mountain biking trails within forest parks like Gortin Glen or Davagh Forest, it's always good practice to check the park's official website for any specific access rules or fees. For general information on cycling in the region, you might find resources at Visit Mid Ulster.

Many popular cycling areas in Tyrone, such as Gortin Glen Forest Park, Davagh Forest, and An Creagán, offer dedicated parking facilities for visitors. For routes starting in towns or villages, public car parks are usually available. It's recommended to check the starting point of your chosen route for specific parking information.