The best road cycling routes around Straw

There are over 20 road cycling routes around Straw, catering to various skill levels. The network includes 4 easy, 14 moderate, and 3 difficult routes, offering a diverse range of experiences from coastal paths to rolling hills.

Yes, Straw offers 4 easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed ride. These routes typically feature less elevation gain and shorter distances, allowing you to enjoy the scenery at a comfortable pace.

Road cycling routes around Straw feature a diverse landscape, including rolling hills, scenic coastal stretches, and routes that traverse agricultural land. You'll find sections near large loughs and areas with more significant elevation changes, particularly towards the Sperrins, providing varied terrain for all riders.

Yes, Straw offers several longer routes for endurance cyclists. For example, the Lough Lark – Goles Stone Row loop from Feeny Road Bus Stop is a challenging 67.8 miles (109 km) trail, often completed in about 5 hours 46 minutes, leading through scenic landscapes and historical sites.

Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the Lough Neagh loop from Dungiven - Sperrins are ideal. This difficult 59.9 miles (96 km) trail features extensive views and significant elevation changes through the Sperrins, making it a demanding ride.

Yes, the region boasts beautiful coastal and waterfront routes. A popular choice is the View of Malin Head – Moville Waterfront loop from Limavady, a moderate 50.8 miles (82 km) path that showcases stunning coastal scenery and runs along waterfront sections.

Many routes in the Straw area are designed as loops, offering convenient circular rides. Besides the Lough Neagh loop, another popular option is the Mussenden Temple – Sea Shed Coffee & Fruit loop from Limavady, a moderate 73.3 km route that takes you past notable landmarks.

Yes, several routes combine cycling with cultural exploration. The Lough Lark – Goles Stone Row loop from Feeny Road Bus Stop, for instance, guides you through scenic landscapes that include historical sites, offering a blend of activity and discovery.

The duration varies significantly depending on the route's length and difficulty. For example, a moderate route like the Sea Shed Coffee & Fruit – Mussenden Temple loop from Limavady, which is 51.4 km, typically takes around 2 hours 20 minutes to complete. Longer, more difficult routes can take upwards of 4-5 hours.

The road cycling routes around Straw are highly regarded by the komoot community. Over 221 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the diverse landscapes, from tranquil lough-side roads to challenging climbs in the Sperrins, and the well-planned routes that showcase the best of the region.

Intermediate road cyclists will find plenty of options, as 14 of the routes around Straw are classified as moderate. These routes offer a good balance of distance and elevation, providing a satisfying challenge without being overly strenuous. They often feature a mix of terrain, including rolling hills and scenic stretches.