The best cycling routes around Derrygonigan
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Touring cycling around Derrygonigan, located in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, offers routes through a landscape characterized by tranquil lakes, dense forests, and unique geological formations. The region provides a mix of serene lakeside paths and more challenging forest trails, with varied elevation changes. Cyclists can explore areas featuring limestone features and panoramic viewpoints, making for diverse Derrygonigan cycling terrain.
Best touring cycling routes around Derrygonigan
- The most popular touring cycling route is Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop, an easy 17.4…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
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riders
28.1km
01:43
140m
140m
Cycle the easy 17.4-mile Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop, enjoying Lough Neagh views and the ancient Ardboe High Cross.
20.8km
01:15
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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53.9km
04:03
560m
560m
This difficult 33.5-mile touring cycling loop from Cookstown offers challenging climbs and stunning Sperrins scenery, including ancient ston
72.0km
04:22
540m
530m
This difficult 44.7-mile touring bicycle loop from Cookstown offers 1756 feet of elevation gain around Lough Neagh, taking about 4 hours 22
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riders
45.2km
02:43
330m
330m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Derrygonigan
Tips from the Community
The Maghery Footbridge on the edge of Lough Neagh offers a small moment of peace in the midst of the expansive landscape. As you cross the bridge, your gaze glides over the gentle waters of the largest lake in the British Isles. In good weather, the clouds are impressively reflected on the surface of the water, making the scene look almost like a painting. Even when the sky is cloudy, the lake has a special atmosphere that invites you to linger rather than to quickly pass by. The paths around the bridge are mostly flat, but you should be prepared for occasional sections with unpaved surfaces. This could be a bit slippery, especially in wet weather, but this is not a problem. The connection to the National Cycle Network, Route 94, also offers you many other opportunities to explore the area. A little tip: Maghery itself does not have much to offer apart from the bridge, but a short detour to the nearby Oxford Island nature reserve is definitely worth it. This means you can easily combine a visit to the bridge with a larger circular tour.
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Beaghmore (Bheitheach Mhór), meaning ‘big place of birch trees’. The stones speak of ancient rituals and to a people who understood astronomy. When you visit this ancient site look up in wonder at the sky and reflect, that the people that built these monuments observed the same sky, sun, moon and stars.
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The church ruins date from the early 16th century but include stones from a much earlier pre 11th century church. After a new church was built, this one fell into disrepair, but the graveyard remains in use.
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An important historic site, Tullyhogue Fort is where the O'Neills were crowned the Chiefs of Ulster. It is now planted with trees and you can enjoy views across the countryside of County Tyrone.
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Built in 1802, Killymoon Castle was built to replace a 17th century castle which was destroyed by fire in 1801. James Nash was the designer, who also designed Buckingham Palace in London. Tours are available but must be pre-booked, as is afternoon tea in the castle tea rooms. See the website for more details https://killymooncastle.com/
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Near the banks of Lough Neagh stands Ardboe High Cross. Take a close look at the carvings on the cross which represent both the Old and New Testament. A monastery was founded here in the 6th century by St Colman and legend has it that it was created by the milk of a magic cow. Ardboe means hill of the cow, so who knows!
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A little waterside detour will take you to visit The Battery, a marina on Lough Neagh. You can grab at drink at the Battery Bar or take a seat on one of the many picnic benches and breathe in the peace and calm.
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There are 7 stone circles, 12 cairns and 10 rows of stones here at Beaghamore. In total 1269 stones were discovered under the peat during the 1930s. The site dates back to 2900 - 2600 BC.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Derrygonigan?
There are currently 5 touring cycling routes detailed around Derrygonigan, offering a diverse range of experiences from easy lakeside rides to more challenging forest trails.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families around Derrygonigan?
Yes, Derrygonigan offers several easy touring cycling routes. For a gentle ride with scenic views, consider the Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop, which is 17.4 miles (28.1 km) long and provides picturesque lough shore views. Another accessible option is the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort, an easy 12.9 miles (20.8 km) path exploring historical sites and rural scenery.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes near Derrygonigan?
The touring cycling routes around Derrygonigan feature a varied terrain. You'll find serene lakeside paths, dense forest tracks, and rolling countryside. Some routes incorporate paved surfaces, while others include unpaved segments. Expect a mix of gentle rides and more challenging ascents, particularly in areas like Lough Navar Forest.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, routes like The Sperrins loop from Cookstown offer a demanding 33.5 miles (53.9 km) journey through the foothills of the Sperrin Mountains. Another difficult option is the Maghery loop from Cookstown, which covers over 70 km with significant elevation changes.
What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints I can see while cycling around Derrygonigan?
The region around Derrygonigan is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. While cycling, you might encounter areas offering panoramic views, such as those from the Magho Cliffs viewpoint in Lough Navar Forest, which overlooks Lower Lough Erne. Historical landmarks like Tullyhogue Fort and the Drum Manor House Ruins are also accessible and add historical context to your ride.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Derrygonigan area?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Derrygonigan are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop and the Bike loop from Cookstown, which is a moderate 45.2 km route.
What natural features can I expect to see on a touring cycling trip near Derrygonigan?
Derrygonigan is situated amidst a captivating natural environment. Cyclists can expect to see tranquil lakes, dense forests like Lough Navar Forest Park and Carrigan Forest, and unique geological formations characteristic of the Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark. The region is also known for its bog, heath, and native woodlands, offering diverse scenery.
Are there any waterfalls along the cycling routes or nearby attractions?
While specific waterfalls directly on the listed cycling routes are not highlighted, the nearby Correl Glen, situated close to Lough Navar Forest, features small waterfalls near its entrance. This designated nature reserve is dominated by native woodland and the fast-flowing Sillees River, making it a pleasant spot to visit if you're in the area.
What are some historical sites or attractions near Derrygonigan that I can visit?
Beyond the natural beauty, Derrygonigan and its surroundings offer several historical points of interest. You can explore the Drum Manor House Ruins, the ancient Tullyhogue Fort, or the Derryloran Old Church Ruins and Cemetery. These sites can be integrated into your cycling tours for a blend of history and outdoor activity.
Is Derrygonigan a good base for exploring longer-distance cycling trails?
Yes, Derrygonigan serves as an excellent base for exploring longer-distance cycling trails. The region is part of the Fermanagh Lakelands, which features routes like the Kingfisher Cycle Trail and the challenging West Fermanagh Loop. The Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark also offers extensive routes, including the Scarplands Cycle Trail, a 60km linear gravel track with options for shorter loops.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling around Derrygonigan?
The Fermanagh Lakelands, including the area around Derrygonigan, are generally best enjoyed during the milder months, typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During this period, the weather is more favorable for cycling, with longer daylight hours and less rainfall, allowing you to fully appreciate the natural landscapes.
Are there options for public transport to access cycling routes near Derrygonigan?
While Derrygonigan is a rural area, public transport options might be limited directly to trailheads. It's advisable to check local bus services for connections to Derrygonnelly village. For accessing specific routes, especially those within forest parks or more remote areas, personal transport or a combination of public transport and cycling to the starting point is often the most practical approach.
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