The best cycling routes in Altikeeragh National Nature Reserve

There are 5 touring cycling routes listed on komoot for the Altikeeragh National Nature Reserve area. These routes offer a mix of easy and difficult rides, catering to various skill levels.

While Altikeeragh National Nature Reserve itself is a significant peatland, the surrounding Binevenagh Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers diverse landscapes. You can expect to cycle through winding country roads, experience panoramic coastal views, and see prominent hills like Binevenagh. The region is known for its unique peatland ecology and scenic vistas.

Yes, there are easy routes available. For example, the Tamlaght Old Church loop from Keady is an 18.1 miles (29.2 km) trail leading through rural countryside. Another easy option is the Bellarena Station loop from Bellarena, covering 26.2 km.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the Malin Head – Mussenden Temple loop from Castlerock offer difficult ascents and expansive coastal views over 127.4 km. Another demanding option is the Castlerock Beach – Mussenden Temple loop from Castlerock, a 35.2 km difficult path with scenic coastal stretches.

The wider Binevenagh area offers several stunning viewpoints. You might encounter Binevenagh Hill, which provides panoramic coastal views, or Gortmore Viewpoint, offering expansive vistas towards Lough Foyle and the Inishowen Peninsula. The Manannán Mac Lir Statue and Bishop's View also provide breathtaking scenery across the countryside.

While the reserve itself is a delicate peatland not ideal for direct cycling, the surrounding Binevenagh AONB has routes that can be enjoyed by families. The easy routes mentioned, such as the Bellarena Station loop from Bellarena, are generally more suitable for a family outing.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in the area are designed as loops. Examples include the Tamlaght Old Church loop from Keady and the Tamlaghtard Church – Graffiti Art loop from Bellarena, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.

The best time for touring cycling in the Altikeeragh and Binevenagh area is generally during the warmer, drier months, typically from spring to early autumn. This period offers more pleasant weather conditions and better visibility for enjoying the panoramic views.

The routes in the Altikeeragh National Nature Reserve area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.0 stars. Cyclists often appreciate the unique peatland ecology, the panoramic coastal views, and the variety of winding country roads that cater to different skill levels.

While specific cycle hire facilities directly within the reserve are unlikely due to its protected nature, you may find bike rental services in nearby towns such as Limavady, which serves as a gateway to the wider Binevenagh AONB.

For detailed information about the Altikeeragh National Nature Reserve, including its ecological significance as a peatland and its status as an Area of Special Scientific Interest, you can visit the official DAERA website: daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/altikeeragh-nature-reserve.