Top 6 Natural Monuments around Ligatraght
Best natural monuments around Ligatraght include a diverse range of geological formations and historical sites. The region is characterized by the Sperrin Mountains, featuring glaciated valleys, mountain passes, and prominent summits. These natural features are complemented by ancient megalithic structures and ogham stones, reflecting a rich historical landscape. The area offers opportunities to explore varied terrain and significant natural landmarks.
Best natural monuments around Ligatraght
- The most popular natural monuments is Sawel Mountain Summit, a natural monument that stands…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Sawel Mountain Summit
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Beaghmore Stone Circles
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Barnes Gap
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Aghascrebagh Ogham Stone
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It is one of the few ogham stones still to be …
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Mullaghclogha Summit
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The hilltop produces views all over the incredible mountain range of the Sperrins including the nearby Mullaghdoo, Sawel & Dart peaks.
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High above Cookstown, at the foot of the impressive Sperrin Mountains, you will find the Beaghmore Stone Circles. This is one of Ireland's most fascinating archaeological sites. Only rediscovered in the 1940s during peat cutting, the bog revealed a complex of seven stone circles, ten stone rows, and numerous Bronze Age burial mounds. For a cyclist, the road to Beaghmore is an experience in itself. The route takes you away from the inhabited world into a vast, quiet landscape where the wind has free rein. The complex itself exudes an enormous sense of peace and is the perfect place to get off your bike and soak up the prehistoric atmosphere.
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Wear waterproof shoes/boots because even on the longest day of the year it's still wet underfoot
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Mullaghclogha is a 635m high summit located in the beautiful Sperrins mountains of Northern Ireland. The hilltop produces views all over the incredible mountain range of the Sperrins including the nearby Mullaghdoo, Sawel & Dart peaks.
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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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Formed from a glacial overflow, Barnes Gap is truly breathtaking. On your way up, don't forget to take in the spectacular views. The gap cuts through the east-west crest line of the southern Sperrin Mountains ridge, between the hills of Mullaghbane and Mullaghbolig.
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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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Ogham Stones are rare in Northern Ireland and this is the only one in County Tyrone. It is marked with an ancient alphabet, thought to be the earliest form of the Irish language. It reads; 'Do Te Tto Maqi Maglant'. This refers to two males. 'Maqi' means 'son of'.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most prominent natural features to explore around Ligatraght?
The region around Ligatraght is dominated by the Sperrin Mountains, offering a diverse landscape of glaciated valleys, mountain passes, and prominent summits. Notable features include Sawel Mountain Summit, the highest peak in the range, and Barnes Gap, a striking glacial overflow formation.
Are there any historical or ancient sites among the natural monuments near Ligatraght?
Yes, the area features significant historical sites. You can visit Beaghmore Stone Circles, an early Bronze Age complex with multiple stone circles, cairns, and rows. Another unique historical monument is the Aghascrebagh Ogham Stone, a rare example of ancient Irish script in County Tyrone.
What is the highest peak in the Sperrin Mountains that can be explored near Ligatraght?
The highest peak in the Sperrin Mountains is Sawel Mountain Summit, standing at 678m. From its summit, you can enjoy extensive views across County Londonderry and Tyrone.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments or sites suitable for children around Ligatraght?
Yes, Beaghmore Stone Circles is considered family-friendly. Its intriguing collection of ancient stones and cairns offers an engaging historical experience for visitors of all ages.
What kind of terrain can I expect when visiting the natural monuments in the Sperrin Mountains?
The terrain in the Sperrin Mountains, particularly around summits like Sawel Mountain and Mullaghclogha, often consists of montane heathland. This includes vegetation like heather, bilberries, and cowberries. It can be wet underfoot, so waterproof footwear is recommended.
What outdoor activities can I do near the natural monuments around Ligatraght?
The area around Ligatraght is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including routes like 'Davagh Forest via Beaghmore Stone Circle' and 'Dart and Sawel Mountain'. For more options, explore the hiking guide for Ligatraght.
Are there cycling routes that pass by or near these natural monuments?
Yes, there are cycling routes in the vicinity. For example, the 'Barnes Gap loop from Glenelly' offers a challenging ride through the landscape. You can find more cycling options in the cycling guide for Ligatraght.
What views can I expect from the mountain summits near Ligatraght?
From summits like Sawel Mountain and Mullaghclogha, you can expect uninterrupted panoramic views across the countryside of County Londonderry and Tyrone, as well as other peaks within the Sperrin range, such as Mullaghdoo and Dart.
What is the significance of the Beaghmore Stone Circles?
The Beaghmore Stone Circles are an early Bronze Age complex, dating back to 2900-2600 BC. They consist of seven low stone circles, twelve cairns, and ten stone rows, with over 1200 stones discovered. These monuments are believed to be related to ancient rituals and astronomy.
What is the best way to access Barnes Gap?
Barnes Gap cuts through the east-west crest line of the southern Sperrin Mountains ridge, between the hills of Mullaghbane and Mullaghbolig. It is accessible via routes that traverse this part of the Sperrins, offering breathtaking views as you approach.
Can I find running trails near the natural monuments in Ligatraght?
Yes, there are running trails available. A notable route is the 'Dart and Sawel Mountain running loop'. For more detailed information and additional routes, refer to the running trails guide for Ligatraght.
What makes the Aghascrebagh Ogham Stone unique?
The Aghascrebagh Ogham Stone is unique as it is one of the few ogham stones found in Ulster and the only one in County Tyrone. It features an ancient alphabet, thought to be the earliest form of the Irish language, with an inscription that translates to 'Dotetto son of Maglani'.
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