The best cycling routes around Moorlough

The Moorlough area, nestled within County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, features a distinctive glacial landscape. Cyclists will encounter a mix of undulating hills, valleys, and serene lough shorelines. Routes often combine paved roads with gravel sections, offering varied surfaces. The wider Sperrin Mountains, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, provide wild, untouched beauty with heather-covered hills and ice-carved valleys.

Yes, there are routes suitable for various skill levels. For an easier ride, consider the Old Crom Castle Ruins – Crom Estate Castle Ruins loop from Old Crom Castle (Ruins), which is 7.7 km long and has minimal elevation gain. Another accessible option is the Clones 'Wee' Abbey – Clones Round Tower loop from Newtownbutler, a 21.6 km trail with gentle gradients.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the region offers routes with significant elevation changes. The most difficult route available is The Crom Estate & Newtownbutler loop from Lisnaskea, which spans 52.4 km and features over 550 meters of ascent, traversing challenging terrain.

Many of the touring cycling routes in the Moorlough area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Lough Barry – Rath loop from Lisnaskea and the Scottsborough Lough – Cloghagaddy Stone loop from Lisnaskea, both offering moderate challenges and scenic views.

Cyclists can enjoy fantastic views across the Sperrin Mountains, known for their wild beauty and ice-carved valleys. The routes also pass by serene natural features like Moorlough itself. Historically, the wider Sperrins region is rich in ancient history, featuring over 90 sets of stone circles and other ancient constructions. You might also encounter historical sites such as Clogherny Wedge Tomb and Newtownstewart Castle in the vicinity.

There are 7 touring cycling routes available on komoot for the Moorlough area. These routes cater to various difficulty levels, including 2 easy, 4 moderate, and 1 difficult option.

The Sperrins region, encompassing Moorlough, is an 'undiscovered gem' for cycling, offering serene solitude. While specific seasonal closures are not common, the best time to cycle is generally during the warmer, drier months to fully enjoy the varied terrain and breathtaking vistas of the glacial landscapes and Sperrin Mountains.

While specific parking areas for each route are not detailed, Moorlough is near towns like Strabane, Plumbridge, and Donemana, which typically offer amenities and parking facilities. It's advisable to check local information for parking options at your chosen starting point.

Yes, for those looking for longer rides, a 'Moorlough run' is noted as a 71 km route, predominantly paved, with elevation changes, originating from Londonderry/Derry. Within the komoot guide, the longest route is The Crom Estate & Newtownbutler loop from Lisnaskea, at 52.4 km.

Touring cycling in Moorlough offers a unique experience due to its distinctive glacial landscapes and the stunning backdrop of the Sperrin Mountains, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region provides a rare chance for serene solitude amidst vast, wild landscapes, with a mix of challenging climbs and tranquil valleys, making it an 'undiscovered gem' for cyclists.

Yes, there are several moderate touring cycling routes available. For example, the Lough Barry – Rath loop from Lisnaskea is a 36.8 km path with varied elevation, and the Scottsborough Lough – Cloghagaddy Stone loop from Lisnaskea covers 30.8 km, both offering a balanced challenge for touring cyclists.