The best road cycling routes around Altnagore

There are over 25 road cycling routes available around Altnagore. The majority, about 22 routes, are classified as moderate, offering a balanced challenge. For those seeking a more relaxed ride, there are 3 easy routes, and for experienced cyclists looking for a significant challenge, there is 1 difficult route.

Road cycling around Altnagore offers a diverse topography. You'll find a mix of lowlands and more rugged areas, with the Sperrin Mountains forming part of the boundary. This means routes can feature varied gradients, from gentle stretches along minor roads to challenging ascents and descents, particularly as you approach the Sperrin foothills.

Yes, the proximity to the Sperrin Mountains, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, means there are challenging climbs. The region is known for its 'steep ascents' and 'winding lanes', offering a rewarding terrain for experienced road cyclists. For example, the Parkanaur House – Ballysaggart Lough loop from Coolhill is a difficult route with over 1100 meters of elevation gain.

While many routes offer varied terrain, the region does provide options suitable for families. The Parkanaur House – Castle Caulfield Ruins loop from Ballygawley is an easy 41 km path, offering a shorter ride through historical areas. Additionally, flatter sections like the Omagh Riverside Path, which follows the Camowen River, can be good for a more relaxed family outing.

County Tyrone offers numerous scenic viewpoints and historical landmarks. You can cycle past archaeological sites like the Beaghmore Stone Circles or the Creggandevesky Court Tomb. The Sperrin Mountains themselves provide 'unspoiled panoramas'. Routes like the Branny Ramble offer 'spectacular views' across several counties from Branny Hill Rath. The Caledon Beam Engine – Navan Fort (Emain Macha) loop from Ballygawley also takes you past significant historical sites.

The best time for road cycling in Altnagore and County Tyrone is generally during the warmer, drier months, typically from late spring through early autumn (May to September). During this period, you'll experience more favorable weather conditions, making the varied terrain and scenic routes more enjoyable. Winter conditions can bring colder temperatures and increased rainfall, which may make some routes more challenging.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Altnagore are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Caledon Beam Engine – Navan Fort (Emain Macha) loop from Ballygawley, the Parkanaur House – Castle Caulfield Ruins loop from Ballygawley, and the Martray Lough loop from Ballygawley. These circular routes are convenient for exploring the region.

While specific parking details for every route start point are not provided, many routes begin or pass through towns like Ballygawley or Omagh, where public parking facilities are typically available. For routes venturing into forest parks like Gortin Glen or Davagh Forest, dedicated car parks are usually provided for visitors accessing the trails.

Public transport options in County Tyrone, particularly to smaller areas like Altnagore, might be limited. However, larger towns such as Omagh and Ballygawley, which serve as starting points for several routes, are generally better connected by bus services. It's advisable to check local bus timetables for connections to your desired starting point. For more general travel information about the region, you might find resources on Wikivoyage: County Tyrone helpful.

Many road cycling routes in County Tyrone utilize 'small and minor roads' that often lead through rural villages and towns. While specific establishments are not listed for every route, you can expect to find cafes and pubs in the larger towns like Omagh, Ballygawley, or Carrickmore, and potentially in smaller settlements along the way. Planning your route to pass through these areas can provide opportunities for refreshments.

The longest road cycling route currently available around Altnagore is the Parkanaur House – Ballysaggart Lough loop from Coolhill. This challenging route spans approximately 128.2 kilometers (79.7 miles) and typically takes around 5 hours and 37 minutes to complete, offering an extensive ride through varied terrain.

Road cyclists using komoot to explore Altnagore often praise the region's varied topography and the network of minor roads that allow for diverse cycling experiences. The proximity to the Sperrin Mountains is a significant draw for those seeking challenging ascents and scenic views, while the rural landscapes offer a peaceful backdrop for rides of all difficulty levels.