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United Kingdom
Northern Ireland
Strabane

Backfence

The best cycling routes around Backfence

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Touring cycling around Backfence offers a diverse landscape for riders. The region features a mix of rolling terrain and more challenging ascents, with elevations ranging from gentle rises to significant climbs of over 900 meters. Routes often traverse varied landscapes, providing different experiences for touring cyclists. The area's network of routes caters to various skill levels, from easy, flat paths to demanding, hilly circuits.

Best touring cycling routes around Backfence

  • The most popular touring cycling route is Grianan of Aileach…

Last updated: June 25, 2026

#1.

Grianan of Aileach loop from Londonderry

84.5km

05:25

920m

920m

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

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Popular around Backfence

Road Cycling Routes around Backfence

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Tips from the Community

Willem VS
April 11, 2026, Let the Dance Begin Sculptures

The "Let the Dance Begin" sculptures are an imposing tribute to peace and culture on the border of Lifford and Strabane. These five giant steel figures – musicians and dancers – symbolize the connection between North and South. Locally, they are known as The Tinnies and form an indispensable modern landmark for any cyclist crossing the River Foyle.

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Yummy
November 2, 2025, Grianán of Aileach

The view from here is great

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Puffin
November 2, 2025, Grianán of Aileach

It is a 19th-century reconstruction of a fort believed to have been built by the Northern Uí Néill in the sixth or seventh century AD. Evidence suggests the site was in use before the fort's construction. It has been identified as the seat of the Kingdom of Ailech and as one of the royal sites of Gaelic Ireland.

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Situated on a site adjacent to the Strabane bypass, the 'Let the Dance Begin' sculpture by Maurice Harron is an ensemble of five stainless steel and bronze figures. Commissioned by the former Strabane District Council in collaboration with the Strabane Lifford Development Commission, this artwork symbolises the transition to the new millennium. The statues, standing at an impressive height of approximately 30 foot (10 m) have affectionately been named "The Tinnies" by the locals.

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Natalie
September 6, 2023, Castlederg Sculpture

There is plenty to see in Castlederg for history lovers. On the pilgrim's route to Station Island on Lough Derg, it boasts monastic ruins as well as the impressive Castlederg Castle which is set in beautiful parklands accompanied by a sculpture trail.

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Wikipedia (Grianan of Aileach (Irish: Grianán Ailigh), 2023-07-08): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grianan_of_Aileach YouTube (Drone Video, National Monuments Service, 2022-12-22): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1bg3NJFB75U TheIrishRoadTrip ("Grianan Of Aileach In Donegal: History, Parking + Views Galore”, 2023-07-08): https://www.theirishroadtrip.com/grianan-of-aileach-donegal/

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There is plenty to see in Castlederg for history lovers. On the pilgrim's route to Station Island on Lough Derg, it boasts monastic ruins as well as the impressive Castlederg Castle which is set in beautiful parklands accompanied by a sculpture trail.

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Pretty and quiet road that travels adjacent to the River Finn where you can see views of Carricklee Hill to the south of the road.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many touring cycling routes are available in Backfence?

Backfence offers a selection of 5 touring cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find options ranging from easy, gentle rides to more challenging, long-distance routes.

Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, Backfence has an easy touring cycling route perfect for beginners or a relaxed family outing. The Let the Dance Begin Sculptures loop from Strabane is a gentle 16.2 km path with minimal elevation gain, offering a pleasant ride through local scenery.

What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Backfence?

The touring cycling routes in Backfence feature a diverse landscape. You can expect a mix of rolling hills and varied elevations. Some routes offer gentle rises, while others include more significant climbs, with the most challenging ascents reaching over 900 meters.

Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Backfence?

Many of the touring cycling routes in Backfence are designed as loops. For example, the challenging Grianan of Aileach loop from Londonderry and the easier Let the Dance Begin Sculptures loop from Strabane are both circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point.

What are some interesting landmarks or attractions I can see along the touring cycling routes?

Several routes pass by notable attractions. You can cycle past the intriguing Let the Dance Begin Sculptures, which are featured on two popular loops. For those interested in history, the ancient Beltany Stone Circle is another point of interest in the region. You might also encounter scenic views of Moor Lough.

Are there any challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?

Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the Grianan of Aileach loop from Londonderry is a difficult 84.5 km route with over 900 meters of elevation gain, offering expansive views and a demanding ride.

What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Backfence?

The touring cycling experience in Backfence is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, which includes both rolling hills and more challenging ascents, as well as the local points of interest found along the routes.

What is a good moderate-difficulty touring cycling route in Backfence?

For a moderate challenge, consider the Let the Dance Begin Sculptures – Castlederg Sculpture loop from Sion Mills. This 42.1 km route leads through varied terrain and is typically completed in about 2 hours 34 minutes, offering a balanced ride.

Are there any routes that offer good viewpoints in Backfence?

Yes, the region's varied elevations often provide scenic vistas. The challenging Grianan of Aileach loop from Londonderry, for instance, is known for its expansive views due to its significant elevation gain. Additionally, areas around Moor Lough are recognized for their scenic outlooks.

What is the typical distance for touring cycling routes in Backfence?

The touring cycling routes in Backfence vary significantly in distance. You can find shorter, easy paths like the 16.2 km Let the Dance Begin Sculptures loop from Strabane, as well as much longer, more demanding routes such as the 84.5 km Grianan of Aileach loop from Londonderry.

Most popular routes around Backfence

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