The best road cycling routes around Corickmore

There are 4 road cycling routes detailed in this guide for the Corickmore area, offering a range of experiences within the Sperrins Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Road cycling routes around Corickmore feature diverse terrain, from rolling hills and scenic valleys to open heathland. Many routes include significant climbs, especially those traversing the Sperrins, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience. Surfaces are mostly paved, but some segments might be unpaved.

Yes, Corickmore offers routes for various fitness levels. While many routes involve substantial climbs and require good fitness, such as the Gortin Town Centre – Learmount Wood loop from Gortin (difficult, 85.7 km), there are also moderate options like the Sperrins Route 3 - Struel Valley Cycle Route (moderate, 53.8 km) that still offer engaging rides through the landscape.

The routes often pass through the stunning Sperrins AONB, offering views of rolling hills, forests, rivers, and lakes. You might encounter serene spots like Oak Lough and New Lough, or cycle alongside the tranquil Camowen River. Gortin Glen Forest Park is also a notable attraction with scenic drives and waterfalls, such as the Waterfall in Gortin Glen Forest Park.

Yes, the region is rich in archaeological heritage. Some routes, like the White Hare Cycle Route mentioned in regional research, pass ancient historical sites, stone circles, standing stones, and court tombs, including the remarkable Creggandevesky Court Tomb. You can also find landmarks like the Darach the Guardian Sculpture and the Newtownstewart Stone Bridge.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Corickmore are designed as loops. Examples include the Sacred Heart Church, Omagh – Omagh Town Centre loop from Strule and the Ulster American Folk Park – Gortin Glen Lakes loop from Knockmoyle, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.

The Sperrins region offers beautiful cycling conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and summer generally provide the most pleasant weather for road cycling, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. Autumn can also be stunning with vibrant foliage, though conditions may be cooler and wetter.

Absolutely. The entire Sperrins AONB provides a breathtaking backdrop. Routes often offer rewarding views from climbs and along valleys. For panoramic vistas, consider routes that pass near the Mullaghcarn Summit or through areas like Barnes Gap, which is a natural monument.

Road cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to scenic valleys, and the challenging climbs that offer rewarding views. The presence of ancient historical sites along the routes also adds a unique cultural dimension to the rides.

Yes, for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Corickmore offers several longer and more arduous routes with significant elevation gain. Examples include the Ulster American Folk Park – Newtownstewart Stone Bridge loop from Knockmoyle, which covers 63.2 km with substantial climbing, and the 85.7 km Gortin Town Centre – Learmount Wood loop from Gortin.