Easy hikes and walks around Altaghoney
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hikers
5
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Altaghoney are situated within the mountainous landscape of the Sperrins, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical interest. The region is characterized by its moorland-covered terrain, with features like Learmount Castle and Moor Lough providing points of interest. These easy routes navigate through forest paths and around tranquil loughs, showcasing the area's varied topography.
Best easy hiking trails around Altaghoney
- The most popular easy hiking route is Learmount Forest Walk via Learmount Castle β Sperrins, a 1.7 miles (2.8 km) trail that takes about 45 minutes to complete, leading through forest paths and past the historic castle.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Ness Country Park loop from River Ness, an easy 2.2 miles (3.6 km) path. This route offers a pleasant loop through the country park, following the River Ness.
- Local hikers also love the Moor Lough β Moor Lough loop from Altishane, a 1.1 miles (1.8 km) trail leading around Moor Lough, often completed in about 30 minutes.
- Hiking around Altaghoney is defined by mountainous and moorland terrain, tranquil loughs, and forest paths. The network offers options for different ability levels, with a focus on easy hiking trails.
- The routes in Altaghoney are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 5 reviews. More than 70 hikers have used komoot to explore Altaghoney's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
2
hikers
2.82km
00:45
30m
30m
Embark on the Learmount Forest Walk via Learmount Castle, an easy hike through varied woodland scenery in the foothills of the Sperrin Mountains. This route covers 1.8 miles (2.8 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 82 feet (25 metres), taking approximately 44 minutes to complete. You will follow the River Faughan, enjoying views of ancient trees and the intriguing ruins of Learmount Castle, an abandoned Tudor-Gothic mansion from 1830.
To begin your adventure, you can park your car conveniently at the Learmount Community Centre, which serves as the starting point for this circular route. While the trail is generally easy, be aware that some sections can be slippery and uneven, with exposed roots, narrow gates, stiles, and steps. The diverse terrain adds to the experience, but it's wise to wear appropriate footwear.
The forest itself is a tranquil haven, home to over 15 different tree species, some more than a century old. As you hike along the River Faughan, which originates on Sawel Mountain, keep an eye out for diverse wildlife such as otter prints, dippers, herons, grey wagtails, and even kingfishers. The trail's location on the northern face of the Sperrin Mountains provides a unique and scenic backdrop for your walk.
5.0
(1)
26
hikers
3.57km
00:58
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
4
hikers
1.85km
00:28
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
5.06km
01:23
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
*UPDATE* there are no longer public toilets at this spot
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Learmount Wood is located at the foothills of the northern face of the Sperrins in Northern Ireland. The forest features a wonderful diversity of tree species, including some that have been there for over 100 years. It's a beautiful place for a stroll, featuring a stream and an abandoned mansion dating back to the 1830s.
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Learmount Castle is a stunning Tudor-Gothic mansion that was built in the 1830s by Henry BarrΓ© Beresford. The house is now abandoned, but you can still use your imagination to picture its grandeur when it was in all its glory.
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Moor Lough is a beautiful lake situated in the Sperrins Area of Natural Beauty. The lough is fit with public toilets, several beaches, and a segregated paddleboarding area. The fisheries are well stocked with takeable trout making it popular amongst fishermen. It's worth bringing a picnic and spending an afternoon lazing around the river with friends or family.
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Tudor-Gothic house, built in 1830 by Henry BarrΓ© Beresford. Situated in Learmont Park there are some good gravel and mixed terrain tracks to explore.
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Popular spot for fishing, the Lough has a great gravel track around the edge. The views are great all the way around.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Altaghoney?
There are several easy hiking trails around Altaghoney, with four specifically highlighted in this guide. These routes offer a great way to explore the region's natural beauty.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on easy hikes in Altaghoney?
Easy hikes in Altaghoney traverse a variety of landscapes, including tranquil forest paths and routes around picturesque loughs. The region is part of the Sperrins Area of Natural Beauty, characterized by its mountainous and moorland-covered terrain, offering a blend of rugged beauty and serene spots.
Are there any easy loop trails in Altaghoney?
Yes, Altaghoney offers several easy loop trails. For instance, the Ness Country Park loop from River Ness is a pleasant 3.6 km path, and the Moor Lough β Moor Lough loop from Altishane is a shorter 1.8 km option around the lough.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see on an easy hike?
Many easy hikes offer views of local attractions. For example, the Learmount Forest Walk takes you past the historic Learmount Castle. You can also enjoy the scenic Moor Lough on its namesake loop trail.
How long do easy hikes around Altaghoney typically take?
The duration of easy hikes varies. Shorter routes like the Moor Lough β Moor Lough loop from Altishane can be completed in about 30 minutes, while others, such as the Learmount Forest Walk, take around 45 minutes. Longer easy trails, like the Rath loop from Altishane, might take closer to an hour and a half.
Are there any easy hikes with good viewpoints in Altaghoney?
While the easy trails generally stick to lower elevations, the region itself is known for its panoramic vistas. The Moor Lough area offers picturesque views, and the broader Sperrins landscape, including the Sperrins Ridgeline, provides expansive scenery, though some of the highest points like Sawel Mountain Summit are part of more challenging routes.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in Altaghoney?
The easy trails in Altaghoney are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Hikers often praise the tranquil atmosphere of the forest paths and the scenic beauty of the loughs, making for a relaxing outdoor experience.
Are there any opportunities for wild swimming near easy hiking trails?
The picturesque Moor Lough, which features in the Moor Lough β Moor Lough loop from Altishane, is a tranquil spot for recreation. It's known for paddleboarding and fishing, and has amenities like public toilets and beaches, making it suitable for a relaxing afternoon by the water.
Is parking available at the trailheads for easy hikes?
While specific parking details for each trailhead are best checked on the individual route pages, many popular hiking areas in the Sperrins, including those near loughs and country parks, typically offer designated parking facilities for visitors.
What is the best season for easy hikes in Altaghoney?
The Sperrins region, where Altaghoney is located, offers beautiful scenery throughout the year. Spring and summer provide lush greenery and milder weather, while autumn brings vibrant colors. Even in winter, easy trails can be enjoyable, though conditions may require appropriate gear due to the mountainous and moorland terrain.
Are the easy hiking trails in Altaghoney suitable for families?
Yes, many of the easy hiking trails are well-suited for families. Routes like the Learmount Forest Walk and the Moor Lough loop are relatively short and have minimal elevation gain, making them enjoyable for all ages.
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