The best cycling routes around Drumgavenny Upper

Touring cycling routes around Drumgavenny Upper offer a diverse range of landscapes. You'll experience stunning coastal scenery, including views of the Causeway Coast, and the majestic presence of Binevenagh mountain, which marks the western edge of the Antrim Plateau. The terrain varies from flat coastal stretches to more challenging climbs inland, with a mix of paved and some unpaved segments.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the region offers routes with significant elevation gain. A notable option is the Peace Bridge – Greencastle–Magilligan Ferry loop from Limavady. This route spans over 100 km (62 miles) and features substantial climbing, making it a demanding yet rewarding experience for experienced touring cyclists.

While many routes offer moderate challenges, there are options suitable for a more relaxed pace. The Tamlaght Old Church loop from Keady is an easy route, covering about 29 km (18 miles) with a modest elevation gain, making it a good choice for families or those new to touring cycling.

Several routes incorporate significant local attractions. The Castlerock Beach – Mussenden Temple loop from Limavady takes you past the spectacular Mussenden Temple, perched on a cliff edge, and the scenic Castlerock Beach. The wider region also features the Binevenagh Scenic Route with its impressive vistas and the Manannán Mac Lir Statue.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Peace Bridge – Greencastle–Magilligan Ferry loop from Limavady and the ALS Coffee Bar – Mussenden Temple loop from Limavady, providing convenient options for your ride.

Route lengths vary significantly, catering to different preferences. You can find shorter routes like the Tamlaght Old Church loop from Keady, which is about 29 km (18 miles) and takes around 1 hour 50 minutes. Longer, more challenging routes, such as the Peace Bridge – Greencastle–Magilligan Ferry loop, can extend over 100 km (62 miles) and require around 6 hours to complete.

The area is generally suitable for touring cycling throughout the warmer months, typically from spring to early autumn. During these seasons, you can expect more favorable weather conditions, making coastal rides and mountain views more enjoyable. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

While specific amenities directly on every trail segment are not guaranteed, the region around Drumgavenny Upper, including towns like Limavady, offers various cafes and pubs. Routes originating from Limavady, such as the ALS Coffee Bar – Mussenden Temple loop, often start or pass through areas where refreshments are available.

Elevation gains vary from gentle undulations to significant climbs. For example, an easy route like the Tamlaght Old Church loop from Keady has an elevation gain of around 143 meters. In contrast, a more difficult route such as the Peace Bridge – Greencastle–Magilligan Ferry loop involves over 685 meters of ascent, providing a substantial workout.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal scenery, the diverse terrain that caters to various skill levels, and the opportunity to visit iconic landmarks like Mussenden Temple. The mix of challenging rides and scenic beauty makes it a popular choice.

While Drumgavenny Upper itself is a townland, the broader County Londonderry area, including nearby towns like Limavady, offers public transport connections. It's advisable to check local bus or train schedules to see if they align with your chosen route's starting points, especially for routes that begin in more accessible towns.

Yes, for a unique experience, the Peace Bridge – Greencastle–Magilligan Ferry loop from Limavady incorporates a ferry crossing. This adds an interesting dimension to the ride, connecting different parts of the scenic coastline and offering a different perspective of the region.