Attractions and places to see around Backan are characterized by a diverse landscape, featuring mountainous terrain, rivers, and forests. The region offers a mix of natural wonders and historical significance. Visitors can explore various viewpoints, natural monuments, and trails. The area provides opportunities for outdoor activities amidst its scenic beauty.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Highlight β’ Viewpoint
Translated by Google β’
Tip by
Highlight β’ Monument
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight β’ Natural Monument
Tip by
Highlight β’ Trail
Tip by
Highlight β’ Forest
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Backan.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Breathtaking view of the Sperrins after a steady climb.
0
0
Steep but short stretch. Nice for photography
1
0
Sculpture of a giant made from wood, great fun for the kids, but itβs pretty steep getting up there for little ones.
0
0
Formed from a glacial overflow, Barnes Gap is truly breathtaking. On your way up, don't forget to take in the spectacular views. The gap cuts through the east-west crest line of the southern Sperrin Mountains ridge, between the hills of Mullaghbane and Mullaghbolig.
1
0
Formed from a glacial overflow, Barnes Gap is truly breathtaking. On your way up, don't forget to take in the spectacular views. The gap cuts through the east-west crest line of the southern Sperrin Mountains ridge, between the hills of Mullaghbane and Mullaghbolig.
1
0
Gortin Glen Forest Park is full of good trails and beautiful trees. There is a 5 mile scenic forest drive which is signposted and takes in all of the best views. With waterfalls, resident sika deer and a cafe at the centre of the park it makes an ideal detour from the road.
1
1
Make sure to pause for a moment at Barnes Gap to take in the exceptional natural beauty this area has to offer. The gap was formed from a glacial overflow and cuts through the east-west crest line of the southern Sperrin Mountains ridge, between the hills of Mullaghbane and Mullaghbolig.
2
0
The Creggan Wood Walk talks you on a meandering course through a unique bogland featuring a fantastic array of plantlife including sphagnum moss, cranberry, crowberry, and bilberry amongst many others. A gravel path and raised boardwalk will lead you around the area so you can get in and amongst this fantastic landscape without getting your feet wet.
2
0
The Backan area, particularly within the Sperrin Mountains, offers stunning natural beauty. You can visit Barnes Gap, a breathtaking natural monument formed by a glacial overflow, offering exceptional views. Another highlight is the Waterfall in Gortin Glen Forest Park, where you can enjoy scenic forest drives and spot resident sika deer.
Yes, there are several family-friendly options. The Waterfall in Gortin Glen Forest Park features good trails suitable for families, and a cafe. The Creggan Wood Walk is also family-friendly, offering a meandering course through a unique bogland with a gravel path and raised boardwalk, perfect for exploring without getting wet.
For panoramic vistas, head to Mullaghcarn Summit, which offers rewarding views of the Sperrin Mountains after a round trip hike. Another spot with breathtaking views of the Sperrins is from Darach the Guardian Sculpture, though it involves a steady climb.
The region offers a variety of hiking trails. You can find easy hikes like the 'Gortin Glen Lakes loop' or 'An CreagΓ‘n, Forest and River Trail'. For more options, explore the Easy hikes around Backan guide, which includes routes like the 'Darach the Guardian Sculpture β Mullaghcarn Summit loop'.
Yes, you can visit Darach the Guardian Sculpture, a large wooden sculpture of a giant. It's a unique point of interest that also provides great views of the Sperrins, though the path up can be steep for small children.
Backan offers diverse cycling routes. You can find options for touring bicycles, including the 'Sperrins Route 4 - White Hare Cycle Route' for a more challenging ride, or easier loops like 'Bike loop from Loughmacrory'. For more details, check the Cycling around Backan guide. Road cyclists can also find routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Backan guide.
Visitors appreciate the stunning views from summits like Mullaghcarn Summit and the unique experience of seeing Darach the Guardian Sculpture. The natural beauty of places like Barnes Gap and the well-maintained trails and scenic drives in Gortin Glen Forest Park are also highly rated by the komoot community.
Yes, Gortin Glen Forest Park is a popular choice. It features good trails, beautiful trees, a scenic five-mile forest drive, waterfalls, and resident sika deer. There's also a cafe at the center of the park, making it an ideal stop.
When planning a trip to Mullaghcarn Summit, it's recommended to park in Gortin Forest Park and walk up to the start of the round trip hike. The effort is well worth it for the panoramic views of the Sperrin Mountains from the top.
The Creggan Wood Walk takes you through a unique bogland environment. It features a fantastic array of plant life, including sphagnum moss, cranberry, and bilberry. A gravel path and raised boardwalk ensure you can explore this landscape without getting your feet wet.


Still not found the Highlight youβre looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: