The best walks and hikes around Strabane

The Vinegar Hill Loop offers a moderate hiking experience through the Sperrins Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, covering 7.3 miles (11.7 km) with an elevation gain of 905 feet (276 metres) over approximately 3 hours and 19 minutes. You will journey through rolling hills and lush green valleys, experiencing a taste of rural life in County Tyrone. The varied terrain includes gravel tracks, farm paths, and natural surfaces that can be uneven or slippery when wet. Keep an eye out for Barnes Gap, a dramatic glacial overflow channel, and enjoy views towards Mullaghbolig peak as you descend into the Owenkillew Valley.

To begin your hike, head to the Barnes Gap car park in Glenelly Valley, where accessible toilet facilities are available. The route is well-marked with waymarked posts and directional arrows, making navigation straightforward. Be prepared for potentially slippery sections, especially after rain, and watch for obstacles like exposed roots and uneven stiles. While Komoot classifies this as moderate, some sources suggest it can be strenuous due to varied terrain and climbs, so good fitness is recommended.

This trail provides a fantastic introduction to the Sperrins, showcasing the wild fells and landscapes shaped by glacial activity. You will pass Vinegar Hill itself and observe abandoned farmsteads, offering glimpses into the region's past. Barnes Gap, the starting point, is a significant geological feature formed by meltwater during the last Ice Age, adding a layer of natural history to your adventure. The route also shares sections with the longer Craignamaddy Circuit and the Ulster Way.

Embark on the Craignamaddy Circuit, a difficult hiking route that spans 12.9 miles (20.7 km) and challenges you with 1607 feet (490 metres) of elevation gain. This journey through the Sperrin Mountains takes approximately 5 hours and 55 minutes to complete, offering expansive views from Craignamaddy Hill. You will experience heather-clad hills and tranquil valleys, with magnificent vistas stretching across Glenelly and the Owenkillew Valley. The terrain includes both minor roads and off-road tracks, providing a varied and engaging experience for seasoned hikers.

To plan your visit, the Craignamaddy Circuit conveniently starts and finishes at Barnes car park in Glenelly, making access straightforward. While the route is generally well-marked, it is wise to carry a map for certain sections, as some parts might require careful navigation. Be prepared for rough ground underfoot due to the mix of road and track surfaces. This trail is best enjoyed when you are ready for a challenging day out in nature, so ensure you allocate sufficient time and energy.

This circuit is a highlight within the Sperrins Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, showcasing the region's raw, untamed beauty. As you traverse the landscape, you will pass through the notable Barnes Gap, a distinctive feature of the area. The route provides a deep immersion into the natural environment, allowing you to appreciate the unique geology and ecosystem of this part of Northern Ireland. It is a rewarding experience for anyone seeking a substantial hike with stunning natural backdrops.

Embark on a difficult 12.5 miles (20.1 km) hike up Dart and Sawel Mountain, gaining 2108 feet (643 metres) in elevation over approximately 6 hours and 5 minutes. This challenging route takes you through the wild, untouched landscapes of the Sperrins, encompassing its two highest peaks. You will traverse rugged, often boggy terrain and montane heathland, where heather and bilberries grow. From the summits, especially Sawel, the highest point in the range, you can enjoy panoramic views across County Londonderry and Tyrone, with distant glimpses of the Foyle Estuary and Lough Neagh on clear days.

This demanding hike requires good fitness and proper walking boots, as the terrain can be quite wet and boggy, particularly after rain. While a faint path exists over the mountains, much of your navigation will rely on following wire fences, which are especially helpful if visibility is poor. Be prepared for steep slopes and a lack of distinct trail markers, adding to the adventure of this remote area.

The Dart and Sawel Mountain trail offers a unique experience in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Sawel Mountain stands as the highest peak in the Sperrins, and the region is also a designated Dark Sky area, perfect for stargazing on clear nights. The wild, untouched quality of the landscape provides a sense of remoteness, where you can hike for hours without encountering many people, surrounded by diverse habitats and wildlife like kestrels and hares.

Hike 7.1 miles (11.4 km) through the Sperrins to Moor Lough, experiencing moderate terrain and wild, untouched landscapes.