The best cycling routes around Coolkeeragh
4.6
(61)
252
riders
38
rides
Touring cycling around Coolkeeragh, County Londonderry, offers diverse landscapes ranging from urban riverfronts to natural peatlands. The region is characterized by the River Foyle and its surrounding areas, providing varied terrain for cyclists. Routes often incorporate landmarks within Derry/Londonderry and extend into the broader natural environment, including areas like the Altikeeragh Nature Reserve. The area provides a mix of flat paths and routes with moderate elevation changes.
Best touring cycling routes around Coolkeeragh
- The most popular touring cycling route is…
Last updated: October 5, 2026
84.5km
05:25
920m
920m
Cycle the challenging 52.5-mile Grianan of Aileach loop from Londonderry, featuring significant climbs and panoramic views.
4.6
(8)
29
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(23)
31
riders
19.5km
01:13
90m
90m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
17
riders
21.1km
01:21
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
riders
52.0km
03:05
290m
290m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Very well-preserved city wall. Definitely worth a visit.
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Meeting house opened in 1890 for the elected members of the Derry City and Strabane District Councils.
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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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The city wall can be walked all the way around the city and offers interesting views. You can see the churches, down to the Bogside, the main street with the bunkered court, and the beautiful Guildhall. You can also see the curbs of the different districts, which are colored according to their affiliation. While the scenery seemed a bit threatening on our first visit in the 1990s, this seems to have given way to a peaceful openness, the architectural expression of which has become the beautiful, curved, connecting Peace Bridge.
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Built during the Great Famine of the mid-19th century, it bears witness to the great devotion of the Catholic population of Derry. Impressive church that dominates the Bogside district.
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From Belfast International Airport, Derry is reached after a change in Antrim (15 min by bus) and 90 min by train. Right on the river, on the Waterside but close to a bridge that takes you to the other side, close to the center.
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It's worth taking a walk here, a relaxing evening stroll along the city wall!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Coolkeeragh?
There are over 45 touring cycling routes around Coolkeeragh, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. These routes have been explored by more than 290 touring cyclists using komoot.
What types of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes near Coolkeeragh?
Touring cycling routes around Coolkeeragh feature diverse landscapes, from urban riverfronts along the River Foyle to natural peatlands. You'll find a mix of flat paths and routes with moderate elevation changes, catering to various cycling experiences.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Coolkeeragh offers several easy touring cycling routes. For instance, the Derry Girls Mural – Guildhall Derry–Londonderry loop from Derry/Londonderry is an easy 27.1 km path exploring urban landmarks. Another gentle option is the Peace Bridge – River Foyle Cycle Path loop from Derry/Londonderry, which is 19.7 km and leads through urban riverfronts.
What are some challenging touring cycling routes in the Coolkeeragh area?
For those seeking a challenge, the Grianan of Aileach loop from Londonderry is a difficult 84.5 km trail featuring significant elevation gain and panoramic views, taking approximately 5 hours 24 minutes to complete.
What landmarks or points of interest can I see along the cycling routes?
Many routes incorporate significant landmarks within Derry/Londonderry and the surrounding natural environment. You can cycle past the iconic Peace Bridge, explore the historic Guildhall Derry–Londonderry, or visit Ebrington Square. The Bloody Sunday Murals, Bogside are also accessible on some urban routes.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Coolkeeragh?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Coolkeeragh are designed as loops. Examples include the Derry Girls Mural – Guildhall Derry–Londonderry loop from Derry/Londonderry and the Peace Bridge – River Foyle Cycle Path loop from Derry/Londonderry, both offering convenient circular journeys.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Coolkeeragh?
The touring cycling routes in Coolkeeragh are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from urban river paths to natural landscapes, and the accessibility of significant landmarks.
Can I find routes that explore the natural environment, like nature reserves?
Yes, some routes extend into the broader natural environment. The region includes areas like the Altikeeragh Nature Reserve, an important intact peatland area. While specific routes directly through the reserve may be limited, the surrounding areas offer opportunities to experience the natural beauty of the region. For more information on the reserve, you can visit daera-ni.gov.uk.
Are there routes that connect to the Peace Bridge?
Absolutely. The Peace Bridge in Derry/Londonderry is a central feature for many cycling routes. For example, the Bloody Sunday Murals, Bogside – Peace Bridge loop from Derry/Londonderry is an easy 21.6 km route that incorporates this iconic landmark.
Are there any moderate difficulty touring cycling routes?
Yes, there are 23 moderate difficulty routes available. One such route is the River Foyle Cycle Path – Bloody Sunday Murals, Bogside loop from BBC Radio Foyle, which is a 51.4 km journey with moderate elevation, offering a good balance for intermediate cyclists.
What is the general character of touring cycling in Coolkeeragh?
Touring cycling around Coolkeeragh is defined by its mix of river paths along the Foyle, urban routes through Derry/Londonderry, and access to broader natural landscapes. The network provides options for various ability levels, from easy city loops to more challenging long-distance routes, often incorporating historical and cultural sites.
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