Cycling

 

Blessingbourne Mountain Bike Trails

The 6km of exhilarating mountain bike trails are set in the beautiful grounds of the scenic Blessingbourne Country Estate. The trails at Blessingbourne are designed in such a way that they appeal to seasoned mountain bikers as well as families and those looking to have a go for the first time. The trail meanders through pretty woodlands, skirting the edge of private lakes and nature reserve, offering fabulous views across the lake of the majestic Victorian Manor House. Then head deep into the woods again, with beautiful views over the scenic Clogher Valley.

Carleton Cycle Trail, Clogher Valley

The green cycle trail begins at the Rural Centre in Clogher. The route has long straight stretches and only one off-road section through Fardross Forest. Clear views of Brackenridge’s Folly can be seen before passing through heather-clad blanket bog and Fardross Forest. The route continues past Carnagat Forest before returning back to the village of Clogher.  Points of interest along the way include: St Maccartan Cathedral, Rathmore Hillfort, Brackenridge’s Folly, Fardross Forest, Brown Hill Forest and Carnagat Forest.

Omagh Riverside Path to Gortnagarn

This 5.5 mile flat cycle route samples part of National Cycle Network 92 and takes in some of Tyrone’s most tranquil scenery. Starting from Cranney Fields this 5.5 mile, flat linear cycle route uses a section of National Cycle Network 92 long distance route. Pedaling along the Camowen River, you pass through Lover’s Retreat, onto Privet Road, the leisure centre grounds and continue out of Omagh, alongside Grange Park. The path continues off-road all the way out to Gortnagarn in the foothills of the Sperrins. From here it’s only a short distance to the Ulster American Folk Park, documenting Irish Emigration and celebrating our Ulster American connections, set within a unique village recreating 19th Century life. From here you can retrace your tracks back to Omagh town or the more adventurous can use this as a warm-up to a number of the Sperrins Cycle Routes.

White Hare Cycle Route, Carrickmore

The route starts by heading north and east, over towards the seven stone circles at Beaghmore. From Beaghmore climb in the direction of Gortin, crossing the Owenkillew River and passing standing stones and cairns strewn in the surrounding fields. Turn south towards Greencastle where the road rises before dropping down into Mountfield. Swing right, climb once again to Loughmacrory and then into the small town of Carrickmore, take a breather here before the tough return leg. The route then climbs around Cregganconroe up to the remarkable Creggandevesky Court Tomb. It was revealed when the blanket bog was removed in the 80s. Back in the saddle pull yourself to the top of the climb and get a well deserved descent, finishing at An Creagán.

Branny Ramble, Dergenagh, Dungannon

The Branny Ramble route begins at U.S. Grants Ancestral Homestead between Ballygawley & Aughnacloy. This walk is entirely on minor roads and winds through the countryside. The route passes Branny Hill Rath where there are spectacular views of counties Tyrone, Derry, Donegal, Antrim, Armagh, Monaghan, Down, Fermanagh & Letrim. The circular route finishes back at U.S. Grants Ancestral Homestead. Facilities onsite at U.S. Grants Ancestral Homestead include Parking, wildlife garden, toilets, playpark, picnic & BBQ area and the Ancestral Cottage.

Lough Fea

Set in wild mountain scenery, Lough Fea is a delightful lake in the Cookstown Region. Covering 180 acres the 4.15km (approx 1 hour) walkway around Lough Fea has a mix of panoramic scenery and calming waters making this the ideal place for an idyllic evening walk. Children’s play area and toilet facilities are provided on site.

The Sperrin Mountains

The variety of walking trails in the Sperrins area of outstanding natural beauty is one of Northern Ireland’s gems. The Sperrin Mountains, stretching along the border of counties Tyrone and Derry, can best be described as wild, untouched and beautiful.  Walkers can expect undulating hills covered in heather, quiet valleys, boggy uplands and a land teeming with wildlife. There are 10 summits above 500m with the highest of the range, Sawel Mountain, peaking at 678m.