The best cycling routes around Dowland
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Touring cycling around Dowland offers routes through a landscape characterized by coastal stretches, river valleys, and gentle rolling hills. The area features a mix of rural roads and paths, providing varied terrain for cyclists. Routes often pass through small towns and offer views of the surrounding countryside. Elevation gains are generally moderate, with some longer routes including more significant climbs.
Best touring cycling routes around Dowland
- The most popular touring cycling route is Peace Bridge β GreencastleβMagilligan Ferry loop fromβ¦
Last updated: June 25, 2026
11
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
15
riders
21.5km
01:17
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3
riders
14.0km
00:54
30m
30m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
52.8km
03:13
440m
440m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
50.4km
03:10
450m
450m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Dowland
Tips from the Community
Muff, derived from the Irish word 'Magh' (meaning 'plain') is a village near the mouth of the River Foyle as it converges into Lough Foyle. It's close to the border separating the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Due to its humorous name, the village gets frequent smirks from passersby and visitors. Despite recent proposals to rename it, such suggestions have been consistently rejected. Now, residents are embracing its double entendre fame, with merchandise like T-shirts, keyrings, and baseballs featuring the slogan 'I love Muff' being sold online. Since the early 17th century, the small town has celebrated summer with the annual 'Muff Festival'.
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In this stretch of the road, if you look to the north, you can easily spot a beautiful building. It's the church of Tamlaghtard. Did you know that it is said to have been founded by St. Patrick?
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If you're lucky enough to reach this viewpoint on a clear day, you'll have stunning views of the Inishowen Peninsula, Lough Foyle stretching down to Londonderry, or even Scotland!
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This statue is located right next to the parking area and is easily accessible. The statue represents this sea god from Irish mythology overlooking the channel toward Greencastle, and from here, you can observe the beautiful countryside that surrounds you.
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Gortmore is a fascinating place with an atmosphere all of its own. On clear days you can get stunning views. To the west is Lough Foyle stretching down to Londonderry and beyond; to the north is the Inishowen Peninsula and to the east you can see as far as Scotland.
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This is a spectacular viewpoint looking across Lough Foyle to Binevenagh and Magilligan Point in County Derry. On a clear day you can see for miles into Northern Ireland and even Scotland.
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Manannan Mac Lir is mythical Irish sea god, said to be a warrior and king of the otherworld. The statue of this king is situated on a hill in the Binevenagh AONB, overlooking the channel toward Greencastle, providing some absoloutely breathtaking views across the surrounding countryside. After your energy-consuming journey up this hill you'll definitely need a rest, so take a seat and take it all in before heading back to your starting point.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Dowland?
There are over 10 touring cycling routes in the Dowland area, offering a variety of experiences from easy loops to more challenging long-distance rides. The komoot community has explored these routes over 40 times.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Dowland?
Yes, Dowland offers several easy touring routes. A good option is the Graffiti Art loop from Limavady, which is 13.7 miles (22.0 km) long and takes about 1 hour 18 minutes. Other easy routes include the Bike loop from Carrowclare and the Bike loop from Ballykelly.
What kind of scenery can I expect on touring cycling routes in Dowland?
Touring cycling around Dowland features a diverse landscape, including coastal stretches, river valleys, and gentle rolling hills. Routes often pass through rural roads and paths, offering views of the surrounding countryside and occasionally urban settings.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the Peace Bridge β GreencastleβMagilligan Ferry loop from Limavady is a difficult route. It spans 62.2 miles (100.2 km) with significant elevation gain and includes a ferry crossing, offering coastal views and a longer adventure.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions to see along the touring routes?
While cycling, you can explore various points of interest. The Castlerock Beach β Mussenden Temple loop from Limavady passes by notable coastal scenery and landmarks. Other attractions in the wider area include Binevenagh Lake, the ManannΓ‘n Mac Lir Statue and Bishop's View, and various viewpoints like Gortmore Viewpoint and View from Binevenagh Summit.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Dowland?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Dowland are designed as loops. Examples include the Graffiti Art loop from Limavady, the Bike loop from Carrowclare, and the Bike loop from Ballykelly, all offering convenient circular journeys.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Dowland?
The touring cycling routes in Dowland are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.0 stars from over 1 review. Cyclists appreciate the varied terrain, from coastal paths to rural roads, and the options available for different ability levels.
What is the best season for touring cycling in Dowland?
Given the mix of coastal and rural routes, touring cycling in Dowland is generally enjoyable from spring through autumn when the weather is milder. Coastal areas can be exposed, so checking local weather forecasts is always recommended.
Are there any routes that offer good viewpoints?
Yes, the region around Dowland features several excellent viewpoints. While cycling, you might encounter views similar to those found at Gortmore Viewpoint, View from Binevenagh Summit, and View of the North Coast from Binevenagh AONB, offering panoramic vistas of the landscape.
Are there any less crowded cycling routes in Dowland?
While specific crowd levels can vary, many of the routes in Dowland utilize rural roads and paths, which tend to be less busy than major thoroughfares. Exploring some of the shorter, local loops like the Bike loop from Carrowclare or the Bike loop from Ballykelly might offer a more tranquil experience.
Can I find routes that pass through towns or offer opportunities for pub stops?
Many touring routes in Dowland pass through or near small towns and villages, especially those starting from locations like Limavady. These areas often provide opportunities for refreshment stops, including pubs or cafes. The Graffiti Art loop from Limavady, for instance, leads through both urban and rural settings where such stops could be found.
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