The best cycling routes around Bovevagh

Bovevagh offers a variety of touring cycling routes, ranging from easy, relatively flat loops to more challenging long-distance rides with significant elevation gain. The landscape features serene riverside environments, varied rural terrain, and proximity to extensive woodlands like Garvagh Forest. You can find routes suitable for different ability levels, with options for both leisurely rides and more demanding adventures.

Yes, Bovevagh has easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. For instance, the Graffiti Art loop from Limavady is an easy 13.7-mile (22.0 km) path offering a relatively flat ride through local surroundings. Another gentle option is the Bike loop from Ballykelly, an 8.7-mile (14.1 km) trail through local roads and countryside.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the Bovevagh area offers routes with considerable distance and elevation. The Peace Bridge – Greencastle–Magilligan Ferry loop from Limavady is a difficult 62.2-mile (100.2 km) trail with significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Downhill Beach – Gortmore Viewpoint loop from Ballykelly, a difficult 49-mile (79 km) route.

The Bovevagh area is rich in natural beauty. You'll cycle alongside the scenic River Roe and Bovevagh River, which are part of an Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) known for its diverse riverine flora and fauna, including Atlantic salmon, and extensive upland oakwood. The landscape transitions from fertile river plains to more varied terrain, with opportunities to explore woodlands, especially near Garvagh Forest.

Yes, the region has historical significance. A notable attraction is the Old Church and Mortuary House in Bovevagh, dating back to the late Middle Ages and believed to be on the site of an early monastery founded in 557 AD. The mortuary house, associated with St. Ringan, is a significant medieval tomb shrine overlooking the Bovevagh River. While specific routes may not pass directly by all sites, they are within the broader area for exploration.

Garvagh Forest, located just a few miles from Bovevagh, is an excellent hub for cycling. It offers a range of trails suitable for various skill levels, including four different grades of cycle trails. These include multi-use trails for leisurely rides, skills loops, and longer routes that wind through 200 hectares of woodland. You can observe diverse tree species, wildlife, and even a pyramid within the forest. For more details on the trails, you can visit Garvagh Forest Cycling Trails.

The best time for touring cycling in Bovevagh is generally during the warmer and drier months, typically from late spring through early autumn (May to September). During this period, you can expect more pleasant weather conditions, making it ideal for enjoying the scenic routes and natural landscapes. However, the varied terrain and woodlands offer beauty in all seasons, with autumn providing vibrant foliage.

Many of the touring cycling routes around Bovevagh are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. Examples include the Peace Bridge – Greencastle–Magilligan Ferry loop from Limavady, the Graffiti Art loop from Limavady, and the Bike loop from Ballykelly. These circular routes allow you to start and end at the same point without needing return transport.

The Bovevagh area has been explored by over 40 touring cyclists using komoot. While specific reviews are limited, the region is appreciated for its diverse terrain, offering both serene riverside paths and more challenging routes through rural landscapes and woodlands. Cyclists often enjoy the blend of natural beauty and the opportunity to connect with historical sites in the wider County Londonderry area.

Yes, some routes in the broader Bovevagh area extend towards the coast, offering scenic sea views. For example, the Downhill Beach – Gortmore Viewpoint loop from Ballykelly takes you towards the coast, providing stunning vistas including Downhill Beach and the Gortmore Viewpoint. Another route, the ALS Coffee Bar – Mussenden Temple loop from Limavady, also brings you close to coastal landmarks like Mussenden Temple.

There are several touring cycling routes available around Bovevagh, with komoot featuring 6 distinct tours. These routes cater to various preferences, including easy, moderate, and difficult options, allowing cyclists to choose an adventure that matches their skill level and desired challenge.